Fire & Cloud: The God Who Dwells | Aaron Hanson

At the heart of Exodus lies a stunning truth: God’s greatest desire is not only to rescue us from something, but to dwell with us. This message unpacks the deep meaning behind the tabernacle, the elaborate and detailed structure God commanded Moses to build in the wilderness. While it’s easy to get caught up in the gold, acacia wood, and scarlet yarn, the purpose becomes clear in one transformative verse: “Let them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.”

This is not about religious architecture; it is about relationship. From the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem, the entire biblical story tells of God’s pursuit to be present with His people. The tabernacle pointed to the temple, the temple to Jesus, and through Jesus, the church was born, declaring that each of us is now a temple of the Holy Spirit.

God did not just save us from darkness, addiction, or brokenness. He saved us to live in relationship with Him and for a greater purpose only He can reveal. When we understand that worship begins with sacrifice, offering our time, talents, and treasure, we join His mission and encounter His presence in ways that transform everything.