The main theme of Scripture is redemption and the restoration of covenant with God that it makes possible. Accordingly, there are many different earthly pictures of redemption that God uses to communicate to us this spiritual reality. One of the most beautiful metaphors for redemption is the pervasive concept of covering. Covering is also one the most ancient pictures of redemption, dating back all the way to our first parents. In Genesis 3 we read the story known as The Fall. Adam and Eve reject the command of God and partake of the forbidden fruit, leading to a new awareness of their nakedness. After rebuking them for their crime, God covers them with clothing made from animal skins. He covers their nakedness. He hides their shame. The theme continues in Exodus 25 where we read of the construction of the Ark of the Covenant. Verse 17 records God's instruction to build a mercy seat. Now, mercy seat is an unusual transla...