Exodus 30:6 Put the altar in front of the curtain that shields the ark of the covenant law…where I will meet with you.
I have been writing some version of this morning reflection for well over five years. Anything good that has ever or will ever come from it is a gift from and to the glory of my Maker. One of the biggest things I’ve always felt Him calling me to do is to be honest about where I am, admitting my fears and struggles in the hopes that anyone else struggling similarly, feeling shame or guilt about not being able to get it all together, will see they are not alone, that their Maker loves them deeply and can use the struggles to bring glory to Himself, to give others hope, to draw the struggler closer to Him. He’s certainly done that for me.
Exodus 30:7 Aaron must burn fragrant incense on the alter every morning when he tends the lamps.
Make no mistake—it’s not easy or fun to struggle. It can be frustrating, agonizing, but God can use it all. And no matter how intelligent, how powerful, how eloquent, how thoughtful you are on your best days, God loves you just as much, just as deeply, just as fiercely on your worst days, when all you have to offer Him is yourself, and that certainly doesn’t seem like much. While it’s a hard thing to live, it’s a beautiful assurance to have.
Exodus 30:36 Grind some of it to powder and place it in front of the ark of the covenant law in the tent of meeting, where I will meet with you.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this insight. Thank You that Your love is not conditional, not contingent on my thoughts, my abilities, or my contributions. You want my heart, Lord, and even when I feel that’s the only thing of value I have to give and it doesn’t feel like much, You still love me deeply. I’m not worthy, Lord, but I am eternally grateful. Draw me closer. Amen.
Exodus 30:37 Do not make any incense with this formula for yourselves; consider it holy to the LORD.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.