NOTES for Exo 30:1-38
Today's reading contains several important messages. Throughout the whole chapter our attention is fixed on words about the eternity and immovability of the Covenant that has been made - even the fragrant spices and anointing oil mentioned there, which were symbols of preservation and strength, direct our attention to this very fact. God's blessing is always at work. All the materials and symbols used for worship are meant to remind us of this.
No less important is the mention of the census. The very recording of names and the ransom for a life granted by the Lord were unusual. But in this case what draws attention is that the same ransom is required for every life. The Law establishes the equality of all before God: every life is equally precious in His eyes. This position of God toward the human person was astonishing not only in those days, but even now often finds no understanding among people.