“The chiefs of Israel ... approached and brought their offerings before the Lord” (7:1-3). On the day when the tabernacle was completed, the first to approach with offerings and sacrifices were the “chiefs” of each tribe. These leaders demonstrated to everyone what it looked like to belong to God’s community. While the Levites served in place of Israel’s first-born (8:11,18), the chiefs led in generous giving. They offered resources (wagons and oxen), gifts for the sanctuary (silver, gold, incense, 7:13), and sacrifices (7:15-16). Their example inspired others.

As God’s holy people in Christ, we too possess roles and gifts for everyone’s sake. Serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, showing mercy: when we step out in faith as God empowers us, the whole community benefits (Rom 12:6-7).