Near the end of today's reading, we see the precious metals used in the construction of the tabernacle. When converting the measures used into modern-day ounces, we get the following amount of material used and the cost today:
Gold 2,000 lbs./32,000 oz. $43,570,240
Silver 7,500 lbs./120,000 oz. $3,670,800
Bronze, being an alloy, is not a precious metal, but a significant amount (around 5,000 lbs.) was used. As you take a moment to consider these values, think about what it was being used for.
The tabernacle was NOT a permanent dwelling, but a place that moved with the people. We're a little early to see the 38.5 years of wandering that is to come, but this was a structure that was never intended to stay in one place. I wouldn't even begin to make a guess as to how much it would cost to rebuild Trinity today or to relocate--I know it would be significant, but nowhere near $47 million. Also keep in mind, there is no masonry, no statues or other artwork (other than the Ark of the Covenant)--this place was made of basically tapestry and precious metal.
When we get to the building of the temple in Jerusalem, we will see a true place of opulence, but these are still amazing figures, and where did this precious metal come from? The obvious answer is the Israelites, but where did they get it? Essentially, this tabernacle was built with Egyptian materials.
I will expand this theme in my remarks next Sunday, but the real message I see in this reading is that nothing is too good for the Lord. One thing we need to remember--the Lord dictated how the tabernacle was to be built, not Moses. Valid arguments can be made that our places of worship shouldn't be fonts of luxury, but I clearly see God telling us that we should have no fear in creating a place that inspires awe and reverence and assist us in clearing our minds for worship.
Scott
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