The Lodestar

This is part of the song that King David sang when he brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. Though the Ark was an integral part of Israelite worship from the days of Moses to its capture by the Philistines in Shiloh (1 Sam 4:1-22), it was in private custody for a long time.

This sacred artefact represented the power and the presence of the Lord. The earthly throne of the Lord, who was “enthroned on the Cherubim” (Psa 99:1), covered the ark with their wings. Until it fell into the hands of the Philistines, ancient Israelites used to take it to the battlefields, believing that the Lord leads their battles.

The Lord chose David, the shepherd, to lead his people and re-institute proper worship in Israel. He first brought the Ark, symbolising the Lord’s power and presence in the lives of the people he led. Then, he planned to build a temple for worship. But the Lord did not allow him to do it, leaving that mammoth task for his successor. Still, David amassed the wealth for the building and gave orders for the worship of the future temple by appointing choirs and composing worship songs.

Besides all the physical arrangements for authentic worship, David emphasised that the spiritual experience of the Lord is paramount. The people should continue their quest for the Lord's strength and presence.

However, the Old Testament bears witness that ancient Israel failed miserably to rely on God’s power and to experience his presence. They sought idols of the nations and relied on their strength.

However, Jesus Christ invites us, who trust him for our salvation, to draw from his power to live. He said, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, they will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh” (John 6:51). Moreover, his promise to stay with us remains: “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matt 28:20).

Let us aim to abide in the Lord and experience his presence and power every moment.