Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Exodus 25:8

Devotion

I'm currently reading through the Bible in a year—chronologically—and let me tell you, there is a lot going on. From God creating the world, to the plagues in Egypt, to the parting of the Red Sea … then stories of kings and kingdoms, prophets, and more, it’s full of drama, laws, miracles, and rich history. But in the middle of all that, one clear theme keeps standing out to me: God wants to be with his people.

From the very beginning, in the Garden of Eden, we see God walking with Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8). Then sin entered the world, and that perfect relationship was broken. Still, even in that moment, God covered them with garments—already showing his love and desire to restore the relationship.

Later, God sent Moses to rescue his people from slavery in Egypt. He led them by a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night. His presence was constantly with them as they wandered. They could look up at anytime and know he was in their midst. He gave them laws and set them apart—not to control them, but because they were his people, he was with them. Then God came even closer. He met with Moses in the tent of meeting. He dwelled in the tabernacle as they wandered in the desert (Exodus 25:8). 

Eventually, Solomon built the temple, a more permanent place for God's presence to rest with his people (1 Kings 6:13). Yet even then, sin was still a barrier. Only one man—the high priest—could enter the Holy of Holies once a year to make atonement for the people. The priest had to enter through a thick curtain separating everyone else from the Holy of Holies—the very place where God's presence dwelled. The priest also had to wear a rope around his ankle in case he died while in the Holy of Holies, so his body could be removed. If anyone else entered the Holy of Holies, even to retrieve the priest, that person would die. 

In his deep love, he came even closer—this time in the flesh. Jesus. Emmanuel—God with us. He walked with people. He touched the sick, healed the broken, and raised the dead. Through his death and resurrection, he removed the barrier of sin forever. When Jesus died, that curtain separating the Holy of Holies was literally ripped apart. No more ropes on priests. No more separation. The way to God was open (Matthew 27:51).

Because of Jesus, we’re no longer cut off. We are covered by his blood. We are welcomed into a relationship with God. But it doesn’t stop there. In Acts 2, the Holy Spirit comes down and fills the believers (John 14:23). Now, God doesn’t just dwell with his people—he dwells within his people. You. Me. Not in a cloud. Not in a tent. Not behind a curtain. In us. 

It makes me wonder if I desire to be with God as much as he desires to be with me? Do I take the time to slow down and simply be in his presence? Wherever you are today, remember this: God wants to be with you. Take time to sit in his presence, read his Word, and talk to him through prayer. The God of the universe loved you so much that he destroyed every obstacle separating you from him. What good news! What great love! 

PRAYER

God, thank you for your love. Thank you for making a way for me to be in relationship with you. Help me take the time to rest in that love and be with you today.

Paige Adams
Middle School Pastor - Students - OKC

Resources

• Watch The Friend You Need from Pastor Bill Search.
• Listen to All Sufficient Merit by Crossings Venue Worship.

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