Moses assembled the people to remind them of the Lord's instructions after the Israelites were delivered from Egypt. On the first day of the week, he gathered them all together and discussed the sacred job that was ahead. Moses commanded, "Be mindful of the Sabbath day, for it is sacred to the Lord." You will work and complete all of your tasks for six days, but the seventh day is a day off and a sacred Sabbath for the Lord. Everyone who works on that day has to be executed.
Then Moses turned to the people and said, “The Lord has commanded us to build a sanctuary, a holy place where He may dwell among us. Everyone whose heart is willing is invited to bring offerings—gifts of gold, silver, bronze, fine linens, colorful yarns, and precious stones. Everything needed for the work of the tabernacle, from its framework to its furnishings, will come from your generosity.”
The people listened intently, and their hearts were moved. Skilled artisans, filled with the Spirit of God, stepped forward to offer their talents. Bezalel, from the tribe of Judah, was filled with wisdom and understanding, gifted in craftsmanship and artistry. Alongside him, Oholiab and other skilled workers prepared to transform the offerings into something beautiful and holy.
Moses gave careful instructions, reminding them to keep the Sabbath holy and to work only when it was right to do so. The people obeyed, bringing their contributions and dedicating their skills to the work.
As the sun set, the camp was alive with the spirit of unity and devotion. God’s presence was near, and the people knew that through their offerings and craftsmanship, they were building more than a structure—they were building a place where God would dwell with His people forever.
This story reflects the main themes of Exodus 35: the command to observe the Sabbath, the call for offerings for the tabernacle, and the skilled craftsmen empowered by God to carry out the work.

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