The reading today (1 Chron. 14-16) celebrates the ark of the covenant as it is finally placed in Jerusalem. King David leads the charge to move the symbol of Divine presence into the Holy City. The celebration is well planned, with the Levites serving as worship directors and musicians to herald God’s coming. The ark rests in the holy of holies, safe and secure. All the people rejoiced and gave thanks to God.
The structure of the services proved intentional and full of purpose, to celebrate the deliverance of the Almighty for His specially called people on earth. Not one action described proved unnecessary and not part of the more extensive expression of thanks to our God. Every act of worship complimented the other. Each job, each phrase, each note raised praises to heaven.
Liturgy helps us to keep focus and direct everything to the Creator. Let us bring all of who we are, with one thought in mind, to praise God. Leave out the stuff that may bog us down and stand in awe of the One, who saved us from a miserable future. For this moment, our hearts are filled with joy, and the expressions of gratitude ring through the heavens, finding a way to be heard in the darkness of our souls. May we take up the task of serving the Redeemer each and every day, getting rid of the things that stand in our way of complete and total worship.
Praise be to our God, who restores us. May we continue on as God’s children, fully embracing the joy found in our relationship, our worship. May our newfound strength miraculously turn our gaze to the Giver of All Gifts. And in the middle of holy mystery, we will forever raise up hymns of joy and be changed.
From a Pastor's Point of View 