In today's reading, I see more specific instructions for different parts of the sanctuary furniture, specifically for the Ark of the Covenant. Reading Patriarchs and Prophets really gives a deeper depth and understanding to how significant this Ark of the Covenant was.
"Beyond the inner veil was the holy of holies, where centered the symbolic service of atonement and intercession, and which formed the connecting link between heaven and earth. In this apartment was the ark, a chest of acacia wood, overlaid within and without with gold, and having a crown of gold about the top. It was made as a depository for the tables of stone, upon which God Himself had inscribed the Ten Commandments. Hence it was called the ark of God’s testament, or the ark of the covenant, since the Ten Commandments were the basis of the covenant made between God and Israel.
The cover of the sacred chest was called the mercy seat. This was wrought of one solid piece of gold, and was surmounted by golden cherubim, one standing on each end. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other was folded over the body (see Ezekiel 1:11) in token of reverence and humility. The position of the cherubim, with their faces turned toward each other, and looking reverently downward toward the ark, represented the reverence with which the heavenly host regard the law of God and their interest in the plan of redemption.
Above the mercy seat was the Shekinah, the manifestation of the divine Presence; and from between the cherubim, God made known His will. (Above reading was from Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 348-349)
I love how God met the children of Israel at the Mercy Seat. His is a throne of Mercy! Praise the Lord!
Tomorrow's Reading: Ex. 39-40 and Acts 4
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