27 And the rulers brought onyx stones, and stones to be set, for the ephod, and for the breastplate;

28 And spice, and oil for the light, and for the anointing oil, and for the sweet incense.

Yesterday we saw how men and women came together, combining their different talents and expertise to create something greater than what they could have accomplished on their own. That pattern is now continued, as the efforts of the common men and women are now further adorned by the jewels, spices, and oils of the wealthy. We are seeing a synergy not only between the sexes, but also across the classes.

Also note how the giving of precious rarities to God allows for equal benefits to all. For the sparsest of resources, there literally may not be enough for everyone to have their own, but dedicating those to the Lord would allow all to share equally in the blessings of the Lord’s presence at the tabernacle.

When done intelligently, there is merit in the wealthy distributing their riches to the less fortunate. As theses verses illustrate, though, there is also the option for the wealthy to invest in infrastructure and beauty that elevates everyone together.