Our scripture this morning is Acts 7:44-50.
Our fathers had the tent of witness in the wilderness, just as he who spoke to Moses directed him to make it, according to the pattern that he had seen. Our fathers in turn brought it in with Joshua when they dispossessed the nations that God drove out before our fathers. So it was until the days of David, who found favor in the sight of God and asked to find a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who built a house for him. Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made by hands, as the prophet says, “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord, or what is the place of my rest? Did not my hand make all these things?”
This passage is part of Stephen the martyr’s testimony before he is stoned by the mob outside Jerusalem. He recounts the history of the tabernacle or tent of meeting which was the place of worship and the building of the temple as God’s dwelling place. However, he reminds them that “the Most High does not dwell in houses made by hands, as the prophet says” (v. 48), quoting Isaiah 66.
We need to be reminded that everything we have, right down to the subatomic particles that all matter contains, is made by God, not us. Sometimes we get wrapped up in how amazing our technology is and feel we’ve accomplished something wonderful. We have done great things, but only through the providence of God.
Our own strength and knowledge is feeble without God. Nothing we make or do exists outside His creation. Let’s give thanks for everything we have been given, realizing these gifts are to be used wisely for the good of all His children.
Loving Lord, we are ashamed of our foolish pride, thinking we can do anything without You. Bless us to use what we have been given well, sharing Your love with everyone. Amen.