THE TABERNACLE
Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38; Psalm 84; Matthew 13:47-53
In the first reading, we read about Moses building the first tabernacle. The Lord dwelled in the tabernacle. It was the place where heaven met earth, the place where the people of Israel went to meet God and the place where they encountered the glory of God. The tabernacle of the Church was built on this premise.
We know that God is present everywhere and that we have equally become the tabernacle of God by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. However, the Tabernacle in the Church represents a time and a place where God has localized his divine presence in a particularly intense way. It also represent our journey back to God’s presence.
The tabernacle that Moses built housed the Ark of the Covenant and the tablets of the Law. Today, the Blessed Sacrament is kept in the tabernacle for the sick, for those who couldn’t participate in mass and for adoration by those who visit the Church.
We cannot underestimate the presence of God in our midst. Thus, the response to the Psalm of today exclaims “How lovely is your dwelling-place, Lord, God of hosts.” In addition, the Psalmist says “My soul is longing and yearning, is yearning for the courts of the Lord. My heart and my soul ring out their joy to God, the living God” (Ps.84:3). Let us continue to Cherish the presence of God and behave accordingly.
Last but not least, Christ tells us in the gospel that the good and the bad will be sifted on judgment day, and only the good will be allowed into the Kingdom. We must allow the Gospel message to mould us each day into better Christians and true tabernacles of God’s dwelling.
LET US PRAY
Almighty Father, direct our actions and fill us with your Spirit and power that we may continue to express your presence wherever we go. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
