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^{Wednesday 8 July}
 The cloud of fire   

Read Numbers 9:15–23
On the day the tabernacle was set up, the cloud covered the tabernacle, the tent of the covenant; and from evening until morning it was over the tabernacle, having the appearance of fire. (verse 15)

The cloud of glory over the tabernacle was a sign of the Divine Presence that travelled with Israel as they wandered throughout the wilderness. Not only did God rescue them from death and slavery, but he also promised that he would dwell at the heart of their community. That glory is described as cloud and fire that rested on the tabernacle where God dwelt.

The images of cloud and fire call to mind the mystery of who God is and how he can be represented in the physical world. Clouds obscure our view and fire is something that is both beautiful and terrifying at the same time. The biblical authors knew that no one could fully describe the presence of God, but the most critical thing was that his Divine Presence remained with them as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

The Divine Presence of the tabernacle will ultimately become the glory of God that dwells in the Incarnate Jesus Christ. John writes that Jesus ‘tabernacled’ among us (John 1:14), alluding to the images seen in Numbers. The God who came to dwell in the midst of people in the Old Testament came again in the Son to dwell with us and live with us in the flesh. After Christ ascended he left us the gift of his presence in the Holy Spirit that he might dwell with us for eternity.

† God of Glory, you dwelled in the tabernacle and were revealed through the Son. Dwell in us now through the Holy Spirit. Amen