Today's Reading: Exodus 38
This verse
describes the making of the basin and its stand. The basin (also known as the
"bronze basin" or "laver") was a large bowl made of bronze
or brass that was used for washing by the priests in the Tabernacle. It was
filled with water and used for washing the hands and feet of the priests before
performing certain duties, such as offering sacrifices or entering the holy
place. The basin measured 7½ feet in diameter and was 4½ feet high. This practice emphasized the importance of
spiritual cleanliness and purity in approaching God.
What is
particularly interesting about this verse is that it mentions the source of the
material used for making the basin and its stand: mirrors donated by the
ministering women who served at the entrance of the tent of meeting.
In ancient
times, mirrors were typically made from highly reflective and polished metals,
as the technology to create glass mirrors did not exist. These mirrors would
have provided a dimmer and less clear reflection than modern mirrors, but would
still have been useful for personal grooming and other purposes. It is likely
that the mirrors donated by the ministering women were highly valued
possessions, as mirrors were considered a luxury item in ancient times.
The fact
that the ministering women were willing to donate their mirrors for the
construction of the Tabernacle suggests that they placed a high value on their
worship of God and on contributing to the construction of the holy place. It
also demonstrates their generosity and willingness to sacrifice for the greater
good.
Are you
willing to give up your “mirror” (any highly valued possession) for the greater
cause of worshiping and serving your Creator? He is looking for men and women willing
to demonstrate the same generosity and readiness to sacrifice for His kingdom.