I'm sure you're all groaning to see the word "give" in the title of this evening's sermon. "Not another round of begging for money! It's not PBS fundraiser week again, is it?" Thankfully not. I am indeed going to encourage you to give, but I'm mostly going to do so in terms of ancient history and in light of the God who never changes. Yes, our passage this evening talks about seven different materials that God's people needed to bring, and we're going to talk briefly about each of them. But the key points tonight are very much the willing heart, that giving is always and only voluntary, and then the reason that our giving should be willing, which is that we get to participate in God's dwelling with us. His residence with His people does not take place apart from our willingness to host Him. As incredible as that is, it is true, and it is wonderful. God dwells with His people on His terms, yes — but also with our heartfelt participation in His plans for us and His holiness.
