“And their anointing shall admit them to a perpetual priesthood throughout their generations” (40:15). Although all of Israel was called to be a “kingdom of priests,” representing God to the world and the world to God, Aaron’s descendants were chosen to offer sacrifices. The priests were anointed to represent everyone, and their garments included twelve gems engraved with the names of tribes, so that all the people were carried together into God’s holy presence (39:14). 

“Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle” (40:34). In Christ, God’s glory took on flesh and came to dwell among us. As our permanent high priest, Jesus carries us, his redeemed brothers and sisters, into God’s holy presence (Hebrews 6:19-20).