Exodus 38-40  "Now it came about in the first month of the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was erected." (40:17)

Everything was completed, exactly as the Lord commanded.  It took most of the year to do it as the people stayed in Sinai while the work was done. When it was all set up and Aaron and his sons prepared and anointed, the Lord filled the tabernacle with His glory.  The pillar of cloud by day and fire by night ... now inhabited the tabernacle.  When the cloud lifted they would move.. when it stayed, they stayed. 

God dwelled with His people in the wilderness and gave them a place to come to Him.. to worship Him.. to begin to know Him. The splendor and majesty of the Lord Most High came to earth to make Israel a holy and sacred nation, set apart as His people.. to bless them and to make them a blessing to all the nations.  Yet.. sadly, they were still obstinate and rebellious people with hearts of unbelief and selfishness.. .

In the New Testament we see the Lord do a brand new work, sending Jesus Christ, the Son of God to dwell among us.. " and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." ( John 1:14)  

The Lord had filled the tabernacle.. and later Solomon's temple.. but He had also departed from it because of the sins of Israel.  But, He sent His Son, who came in the flesh, to die on a cruel cross, shedding His blood as the ultimate sacrifice. When Jesus ascended into heaven He left a promise.. He would send the Spirit who would fill.. not a tabernacle or temple made with human hands.. but Who would fill us who believe in and belong to Jesus Christ the Lord.. who have become children of the Most High God. 

Hallelujah! What a Savior! Our God is gracious, compassionate, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth! Exalt His Name. Glory in His majesty and splendor! Give thanks with a most grateful heart.. 

Father, we do praise and worship You for You have come to dwell in us by Your Spirit.. How can we ever thank You enough?  We exalt You and give You all our praise. Amen.