In 2 Chronicles, Chapter 3 & 4 we can read about Solomon's construction of the House of the Lord - God's Temple in Jerusalem. In stark contrast to the temple's architectural splendor we discover that the primary purpose of this structural metaphor is rooted in the basic elements of life: water, blood, bread, and light. It is our creator's blueprint for His kingdom. It is His "devine design" for the hearts and homes that make up the body of Christ.
Do our hearts and homes embrace these essential elements?
a) "Water" was poured into the temple lavers which served as wash basins. It is a symbol of cleansing, forgiveness, and spiritual refreshment that truly quenches our thirst for love and meaning. In 1 John, Chapter 3 it states how wonderfully our heavenly Father lavishes His love and forgiveness upon His children. Chapter 2 of Nahum shows that Niviveh rejected God's love and forgiveness which led to it's eventual downfall.
b) "Blood" was the end result of the animal sacrifices made in the temple. It is a clear symbol of life given up for the sake of others. The blood within us distributes all that is required for every part of the body. It delivers the necessary elements for growth and health. It provides protection against outside threats or intrusions. Blood gives life. Wine is used in worship as a reminder of Christ's blood that was shed for us.
c) "Bread" or "Show Bread", as it was called, served as a symbol of God's presence in the temple. It also symbolizes spiritual nourishment or sustenance - the Word of God. Broken bread is used in worship to represent Christ's body that was broken for us. It reminds us of His sacrificial love. He is referred to as the Bread from Heaven or God's presence on earth.
d) "Light" was provided by burning oil in the temple lampstands. "God-the-Father" is pure light. There is no darkness in Him. "God-the-Son" is the light of the world exposing the darkness of our hearts and lighting the way back to the Father. The lamp oil and flame were symbols of "God-the-Spirit" - His eternal flame burning in the hearts of those who welcome the Son as their savior. The light of God is the only cure for spiritual blindness. In Luke 18 blind Bartemaeus receives his sight because of his faith in Jesus who is the light of the world.
In my imagination I see the Father clothed in sparkling blue light - crisp and cool. The Son has brilliant raiments of yellow light - brighter than a sky full of suns, and the Spirit is dressed in flowing garments of rich crimson light - hot and glowing. Then I see the primary blue, yellow, and red spinning into a oneness of white. They dance together in never-ending circles of selfless love and mutual support. They are "one being" of pure white light - the one and only God whose brightness surpasses imagination.
Do our hearts and homes embrace: (a) a willingness to seek and offer forgiveness, (b) the desire for a sacrificial life - sharing each others burdens, (c) a deep hunger for spiritual bread - an appetite for knowing God through His Word, and (d) a passion for reflecting the light and love of God to those around us?
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