Exodus 27

“You shall make the court of the tabernacle …” (v9).  The whole earth was supposed to be God’s dwelling place, in fellowship with humans who were in His image, but sin broke the communion between God and people.  The tabernacle (tent of worship) provided a way for God dwell with the Israelites, while preserving separateness due to sin.  Inside the large court was the altar (v1), where priests offered sacrifices that honored God, acknowledged human sin, and invited God’s mercy.

“A lamp may regularly be set up to burn” (v20).  The always-burning flame in the Holy Place symbolized God’s promise: despite our unworthiness, our holy God finds a way to be present with us.