Jesus Tabernacled Among Us

And the word became flesh and dwelt among us

John 1:14

Martin Luther said this: 'we must both think and meditate on the Nativity. If the meditation does not reach the heart, we shall sense no sweetness, nor shall we know what solace for humankind lies in such contemplation. The heart will not laugh nor be merry. As spray does not touch the deep, so mere meditation will no quiet the heart. There is such richness and goodness in this nativity that if we should see it and deeply understand, we should be dissolved in perpetual joy.'

Think about Jesus as the tabernacle.

The Tabernacle was for use in the wilderness. Jesus was lead up by the Spirit into the wilderness. Matthew 4:1

The Tabernacle was outwardly humble and unattractive. (Jesus) has not stately form or majesty that we should look upon Him, nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him. Isaiah 53:2

The Tabernacle was where God met with men. I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

The Tabernacle was the centre of God's camp a gathering place for God's people. And I, if i be lifted up from the earth will draw all men to myself. John 12:32

The Tabernacle was where the sacrifices for the sins of God's people were made. But He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, sat down at the right hand of God. Hebrews 10:12

The Tabernacle was a place of worship. My Lord and My God. (John 20:28)

We do not understand the teaching of the Old Testament in all it's fullness unless we read it through Jesus Christ- His incarnation, life death and resurrection. The Tabernacle has absolutely no meaning apart from Jesus.

Taken from 'Come Thou Long Expected Jesus' Pages 18-19, 26.