The covenant between God and the Israelites seems sealed when Moses and other leaders climb Mt Sinai, see God, then eat and drink together.

The other leaders retreat and God begins to give intricate instructions to Moses on how to build the tabernacle and the ark of the covenant. God includes some instructions on what to do if someone accidentally violates his worship instructions, which made me feel good that He realises that we sometimes make honest mistakes in our attempts to worship Him.

Also, I was pleased to see lots of reference to putting decorative almond blossoms on the ark. The almond was my grandmother’s favorite tree.

Dear God, I often worry that I make mistakes when I try to worship you and come into your presence. Please forgive me these mistakes, and help me to do things to be pleasing to you. In the name of the one who has restored your children to you, Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.