Just a Box

The cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. - Exodus 40:34

It is within the book of Exodus that we find the elaborate instructions concerning the construction of the first tabernacle, including the elements and implements of worship. In particular, we marvel at the intricate assembly of the ark of the covenant.

Recently, as I was reading this account, something occurred to me. During all of the delicate wood-carving, gold-hammering, and cloth-weaving not one person was struck dead by God in the process of construction. These were sacred objects being prepared for the worship of a holy God, but no one died or was cursed in the handling of them.

Why?

It is simple really. Prior to God's habitation of these things (ark, tabernacle, etc.) they were just a shiny box, pieces of wood, and an embroidered curtain. These things were not holy until God made them so, and neither are we. Let us therefore be careful not to set apart that which God has not and likewise be certain to set apart everything that He has.

He is holy and we must be sure that all we are is holy unto Him. Otherwise, it's just a box.

Let us never put confidence in man, or in any sanctity of position, office, or dress. If apostleship did not make Judas a saint, neither will position, office, nor dress make thee a saint. - Johann Ferus