First, the light and the bread (1-9). Outside the curtain of the Most Holy Place was a lampstand and an altar of bread and incense. The priests had to keep the oil lamps burning continually. Twelve loaves of bread represented Israel. Incense is a pleasing aroma and represents prayer. The light and the bread represent God's continued presence and his people's obligation to live before him always. Jesus said he is the Light and the Bread (Jn 6:35; 8:12). Second, a blasphemer put to death (10-23). An Israelite-Egyptian got in a fight with an Israelite and blasphemed the Name of the Lord. God's will was clear: he must be stoned to death. This seems extremely harsh to us, because we are so casual toward sin. Murder requires capital punishment. Any damage to someone requires restitution. The law of retribution (20) means the punishment fits the crime, no more, no less. These laws intend to instill proper respect for God and people.
Application: Lord, you are the all-present God, deserving of my constant devotion. Forgive my casual attitude toward sin and give me proper honor for God and respect for people.
One Word: Have proper respect for God and people