Read today’s texts first: Exodus 35 & 36; Acts 10
From preachers to painters and everyone in between, God’s Spirit anoints everyone He appoints.
When reading the Old and New Testament accounts this morning I was first drawn to the familiar story of Peter and Cornelius in Acts 10. Here was the man of faith and power speaking such anointed words that the entire audience was filled with the Spirit of God and spoke in tongues spontaneously.
Now compare that exciting story with the details of building the furnishings of the tabernacle – boring stuff, right? Then it hit me, around 35:31. I’d never really noticed Bezalel, Oholiab and company, but God included them in His inspired Word. He says, He has filled them with the Spirit of God, with skills, abilities, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts. That theme is repeated over and over again as each piece of furniture is described in glorious detail. Apparently this stuff and these people really matter to God.
As I read this, I recalled a time at the college when I was checking in on a student named Teina, who was painting a mural for an upcoming Valentine’s dinner. I first recognized Teina’s talent from her creative doodling on paper and on her arms (she would tattoo herself) during my classes. At first I was offended, wondering why her attention wasn’t fully on my captivating lessons. Then it dawned on me – this is a talent from God. When I stood back and looked at her spectacular mural, it suddenly made sense why God was impressed with the craftsmen who built the holy furniture of His tabernacle.
The same appreciation settled over me when we moved into the new PLBC Learning Centre. I’m a purist, and I like to point out that the church is people, not buildings. However, as I watched the difference this beautiful building made in our school spirit, I began to realize that it’s the Spirit of God. His Spirit anoints our words and the works of our hands when that work is dedicated for His purpose.
“Lord, continue to expand my appreciation for Your people and the wide array of talents and gifts You express through them. May I never hold one gift higher than another - they matter equally to You!”
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