Exodus 27 Devotional

An Altar at the Entrance

Anyone approaching God's dwelling would first meet a courtyard of linen curtains with a single embroidered gate on the east (27:9-18), and inside it a large bronze altar with a horn at each corner and poles for carrying it (27:1-8). Moses later sets that altar directly in front of the tabernacle's entrance (40:6). No one could come to the tent where God dwelt without passing the altar where sacrifices burned.

The chapter closes with the people bringing pure olive oil so the lamps can burn continually, tended by Aaron and his sons from evening until morning before the LORD (27:20-21). Together these details show that drawing near to God was never casual. It involved sacrifice, and it was kept up by faithful, daily service. Hebrews says that under the law, forgiveness required the shedding of blood (Hebrews 9:22). The way to God ran through sacrifice, and in Jesus God has provided the sacrifice himself. You are not left to find your own way in.

To think about: Do you approach God as if you had to find your own way in, or through the sacrifice he has provided?