Exodus 38, 39, and John 1

While reading about Bezalel in Exodus 38 and 39, the craftsman who directed and was involved in the construction of the Tabernacle, I learned that everything was included, from the tent pegs to the sacred altar. He’s Hur’s grandson, Hur, who helped Moses hold up the staff during the battle with the Amalekites. I think about how God works through the generations of people who follow him. As a parent, I try to be a good example, going to church, praying, and doing my best to help my kids stay on the right track. I wonder what the world would look like if we thought more about future generations when we are young. We know that the sins of the parents affect 3rd and 4th generations. When I was younger, I never thought about how my choices would affect future generations. And when you are poor, or in survival mode, it’s hard to even think about tomorrow.

Reading John 1 this morning, I love what John the Baptist calls Jesus.

‘The next day, John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! ‘
John 1:29

‘As Jesus walked by, John looked at him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!”‘
John 1:36

II’mso glad God doesn’t look at our sin, our past. He looks at the Lamb of God, who takes away our sins. Then, as we read further, we learn that Jesus is choosing his disciples. When Jesus meets Nathanael, he calls him a genuine son of Israel, a man of complete integrity. The ESV states “in whom there is no deceit!” Wouldn’t it be great if we all had the same level of integrity as Nathanael?

Heavenly Father, help us to be people of complete integrity and genuineness. In the Holy Lamb of God’s name we pray, Jesus. Amen.