Real Hope: A Study in ExodusNäide

The Final Scene

We have reached the final words of the final chapter of the book of Exodus. What were you expecting? A taste of the Promised Land, perhaps? Like a book series or TV episode that winds up without concluding the overall story, the finale to Exodus ends on a cliffhanger. While the assembly of the tabernacle is welcome progress after so much build-up, there is something disappointing about where Exodus 40 leaves the Lord God and His people. Despite now being led by God’s presence in the transportable tabernacle, the Israelites remain on their journey to the land of milk and honey. As they themselves often complained: Will we ever get there?

God is dwelling with His people but there is a mournful note of separation underscoring Exodus 40. Notably, Moses being unable to enter the tent of meeting (v 35) – something he previously had done. This strikes me as a distinction between God’s glory and holiness, and the sinful stuff we have seen go on in the wilderness.

Will God’s people follow where God leads, or keep stumbling over their sin? Tune in to the rest of the Bible to find out.

Written by BEN MCEACHEN