The differences in the offerings given by the people of Israel with the Golden Calf Incident (as I like to refer to it) and the building of the Tabernacle are striking.  With the GCI, Aaron fashioned the idol with his own hands, and the people were told to bow down to it.  With the Tabernacle, people gave generously and joyfully not only of their material wealth, but they also gave of their spiritual gifts.  Many people worked together, and the Israelite nation came together to accomplish this important task.  The Israelites set an example for us that we need to give to the Lord both generously and joyfully just as they did.