Having instructed Moses to build him a tent - the "tabernacle", so he can be present with his people, God now orders a census.
A census is a sensitive thing in the ancient world. Some people use census numbers to boast of military might. Some are forced into military service or slavery.
Here God says unless each person pays a "tax", they are in danger of falling ill to a plaque. The tax is flat - everyone pays the same regardless of their wealth. And the money collect goes towards the activity in the tabernacle.
Perhaps the tax is a reminder that God freedom them from slavery - a token gift which signifies them as free people.
Write
Think about your faith story: what are the ways you show God your appreciation for his grace and mercy?
Presently, how grateful are you of your friendship with God? What is something you might give or do this Christmas season as a gesture of your gratitude?
Who do you know would be blessed by your gesture of gratitude?
Pray
What
is God saying to you today? What's Good News to you?
Talk to God about the ways you express your gratitude to him. Thank God for his unconditional grace and mercy for you, which he does not demand repayment.
Pray about your plan to do something as a gesture of gratitude. Ask God for the wisdom and support to give meaningfully.
Pray for the recipients of your kind gesture. Pray for the wisdom and opportunity to bless meaningfully.
Pray for an experience of God's love, grace and mercy in the way he rescues you from bondage into freedom, and they way his blessings overflows in your life to others.