As we delve into Exodus 35:15, where the Lord prescribes the elements of the tabernacle—the incense altar, his staves, the anointing oil, sweet incense, and the hanging for the door—we are reminded of the very essence of worship that transcends time and space.

The specific mention of the incense altar in this verse speaks volumes about the pivotal role it played in the tabernacle worship. The incense altar, a small yet significant structure, symbolized the prayers and worship of the people ascending to God like sweet-smelling incense. Throughout Scripture, incense is often associated with prayer (Psalm 141:2: "Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense"). In a world filled with daily distractions and noise, the incense altar encourages us to elevate our thoughts, prayers, and worship to a level that is pleasing to the Almighty.

The staves, or poles, associated with the altar were essential for its movement, as the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness. This speaks to the notion of flexibility and readiness in our worship. Just as the altar was designed for easy transport, our worship should not be confined to a building or a time of service. In fact, true worship goes beyond Sunday mornings; it must be a lifestyle. It challenges us to engage in constant communion with God, reminding ourselves that His glory follows us wherever we go, much like the tabernacle followed the Israelites on their journey.

Then we encounter the anointing oil, a symbol of the Holy Spirit. This sacred oil was used to consecrate the holy elements and set them apart for divine purposes. In our own lives, we are called to be anointed with the Holy Spirit, set apart for God's purpose (1 Peter 2:9: "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people..."). The oil signifies not only empowerment but also a divine connection that enables us to carry out God’s command and purpose. Without this anointing, our worship may become mere ritual devoid of the life-transforming power that comes from an authentic relationship with Christ.

The sweet incense itself speaks of a pleasing aroma, representing the magnificence of our faith and reverence for God. In our modern lives, we must reflect on the aroma of our worship. Is it sweet? Is it pleasing to God? Worship is more than just singing songs or reciting prayers; it is the posture of our hearts. In Philippians 4:18, Paul mentions how the gifts of the Philippians were a “sweet-smelling savor” unto God, illustrating that our sacrifices—be it time, resources, or praise—must come from a pure, grateful heart, echoing God’s goodness and glory.

Lastly, the hanging for the door at the entering into the tabernacle represents the boundary and reverence for entering into God’s presence. It illustrates how sacred our approach to God is. In the new covenant, we have the privilege of entering into His presence through Jesus’ sacrifice (Hebrews 10:19-20: "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way..."), but we should never take this for granted. Our approach must always be marked by humility and wonder—recognizing the privilege we have and the price that has been paid.

In conclusion, Exodus 35:15 invites us into an understanding of worship that is multi-faceted: it is the elevation of our prayers to God, the anointing of our lives by His Spirit, the sweet aroma of our devotion, and the sanctity with which we enter His presence. May we cultivate a heart of worship that is intentional and sacred, reminding ourselves that we are part of a divine interaction unfolding in our lives, much like the worship in the tabernacle did so many years ago.