Exodus 37-38 Ark of the Covenant
Luke 18:1-14 Parable of Persistent Widow
There is a fascinating juxtaposition in these passages. We have Jesus’ story of the persistent widow in Luke… But isn’t that also our father in heaven in Exodus 37 and 38 knocking on the doors of our hearts?
We see the beauty, careful craftsmanship, and hope that went into the Ark of the covenant. Topped by the Mercy Seat, this comes forward to the New testament as ‘Propitiation for our sins.’ Even today, the Ark of the Covenant sparks our imaginations.
Imitation is the ultimate flattery but this one leads to the Deception that is to come:
In early September of 2001, a celebration of the Earth Charter was held at Shelburne Farms, Vermont. In preparation for that celebration, an "Ark of Hope" was built from a single plank of English Sycamore, "a tree harvested from a sustainable forest in Germany." The five panels of the box - top and four sides - were painted with pictures that represent a variety of the earth's vegetation and animals. According to the Ark of Hope web site, "Each panel visualizes a season, a direction, an element, and a universal symbol. Symbols of faith from traditional religions and indigenous societies surround the top panel of "Spirit" that honors the children and young animals of the world. The 96" carrying poles are unicorn horns which render evil ineffective." In other words, concepts boldly pulled directly from pagan religions cover this sycamore box.
This makes the phrase, ‘going to hell in a handbasket’ grimly visualized in the modern day false version.
Take a look at Chuck Missler’s article at Koinonia House:
The Earth Charter 2; The Ark of Hope - eNews for December 17, 2002 (khouse.org)