This afternoon the children and I, along with our friends, went to visit a life size replica of the Jewish tabernacle.  A group out of Oklahoma have been taking this replica across the U.S. and Canada for the past fifteen years to show others what the tabernacle looked like and God's purpose behind the set up, function, and purpose of the tabernacle.

Our tour started with a brief history of the tabernacle and the temples that eventually replaced the portable tabernacle.  At this stop we can see a model of the tabernacle.

We then entered the courtyard of the tabernacle.  Here we find the various pieces of furniture that would be there. 

The altar of sacrifice is where you would bring you lamb to be slain in payment for your sins.

Good thing they were using a fake lamb.  I don't know if Bonnie will make a good surgeon.

Inside the Tabernacle

 Holy of Holies

 Ark of the Covenant

Our guide did a great job describing everything in the tabernacle and its significance.  She also did a wonderful job applying it to our lives today.  Next year, we will be back in the Biblical/ancient times and I look forward to reading Exodus again with the children and discussing how God had Moses set up the tabernacle.  I have always wanted to make a model at home for the kids to see.  This same group sells the tabernacle models and I am praying that I will be able to purchase this for ourselves next fall.  If not, I am so glad we had this opportunity to see this replica.