Facts about the Mercy Seat [Ark of the Covenant]. It was made from Acacia wood, which was extremely hard and resistant to decay, insects, and rot. This made it perfect for something meant to last generations. It was strong enough to hold heavy gold overlays and resist warping over time. There were Acacia wood poles overlaid with gold, inserted through gold rings on the sides, used to carry the Ark. It was 45 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 27 inches high. Made of pure gold with two cherubim at the ends, wings outstretched and facing each other.

Inside the Ark were the two stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod that budded (Numbers 17:10), and the manna from heaven. Also, the Ark represented the Throne of God on earth. The Mercy Seat was where God met and spoke to Moses. Touching the Ark could bring death. It was carried ahead of Israel in battles symbolizing God's presence and power.

The Mercy seat on top of the Ark was the place where God's presence dwelt and where atonement for Israel's sins was made once a year by the high priest on Yom Kippur. Jesus' sacrifice opens the way for all believers to approach the Mercy Seat directly, not through the blood of animals, but through His own blood. Amen.