Tabernacle

Where do you feel the Lord’s presence most on your journey as a pilgrim?  The word Tabernacle literally means “place of dwelling and was so called in the belief that God literally lived within its sacred confines.”  Wherever the Israelites made camp on their journey, the tabernacle was set up in the precise center of their camp, “which symbolized the idea that God was to be the center of His people’s lives.”  Reading the Old Testament, I realize even more how sacred they took those words to heart.  Through all the many perils, celebrations or sorrows, the Israelites physically carried God on their journey.  They were Pilgrims, travelling to the Promised Land and His true presence reminded them to keep moving forward.  Again, where do you feel God’s presence most, since we’re not able to carry a Tabernacle around in our purse or in the car?  Maybe we should think outside of the box.  A tabernacle doesn’t necessarily have to be a flashback to the Old Testament.  I am in His presence every Sunday at church, but is that enough?  I would have to choose that my Sunroom in my home in Maryland was a Tabernacle.  It was at the other end of our home, quiet, and surrounded by all of God’s beauty – the trees, birds, and, to me, very peaceful.  I felt surrounded by His presence.  But my journey as a pilgrim has changed and taken me to a new “land.”  There are so many different places to create a space that reminds me that God is the center of my life.  Whether it’s in walking a labyrinth to calm and focus us or writing down on paper our Litany of Thanks, these are all little ways to help us honor and appreciate God’s gifts.  However, the most important tabernacle is in our hearts.  We just need to remind ourselves during this year’s Thanksgiving journey as pilgrims that God is always with us.  In fact, many times we find God when and where our destination seems most unreachable.  We may think He has abandoned us, but, in fact, it is just the opposite.  We need reminders – Tabernacles – all around us – that keep us centered and focused on Him and all our blessings.   So, my fellow pilgrims, this week let’s take time to think of the many tabernacles around us, especially the one that holds our sweet Jesus.  We must continue bravely on our journey, clinging only to what is most important – our Lord, our God, our Jesus Christ.

Dear God – You have always been a companion on my journey.  Forgive me for the times that I try to walk ahead of you and not allow you to be my guide.  I am committed to you being the center of my life.  Amen