I can’t help but think of the movie, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” when I read Biblical accounts about the Ark. I know that movie was only someone’s imagination, but the power of the Ark of the Covenant should never be forgotten. God’s laws were contained in the Ark.
Recall from our last reading that Moses demolished the first stone tablets out of his anger at the people’s disobedience. God was gracious enough to give him a second chance with new tablets, now securely placed in the Ark. God’s grace was also extended to the people as a result of Moses’ begging and pleading. God’s grace is all sufficient.
The Ark was such a powerful, tangible sign of God’s might, strength, and intention–it needed to be protected. We hear in today’s reading how the tribe of Levi would take charge. “At that time the Lord set apart the tribe of Levi to carry the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant, and to stand before the Lord as his ministers, and to pronounce blessings in his name. These are their duties to this day. That is why the Levites have no share of property or possession of land among the other Israelite tribes. The Lord himself is their special possession, as the Lord your God told them.)”
Just as the Ark of the Covenant contained a treasure made by God’s own hand, our lives are a treasure made by God. He has placed his Spirit inside us and given us a job to do. Not only are we to protect ourselves from harm and destruction, we are to go forth into the world as God’s ambassadors demonstrating peace and love. With God inside us, we can feel the confidence we need to face any situation. Psalm 139:14: “Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.”
When we are feeling weak or unsure, we should remember God’s words to Moses. “Get up and resume the journey.” Is it time to get right with God? Is the baggage you carry getting heavy and burdensome? Take some time today to think through those doubts or fears that are holding you back or delaying your own journey of faith. Ask God to remove the barriers in your way.
Let’s pray … Lord, I’m feeling a bit stronger today, and yet I am still unclear of how you want me to proceed. Are there people you’d like me to touch? Are there things you’d like me to do? Thank you for the freedom to share about you, to worship and adore you, to take joy in knowing you are my rock and salvation. Bless each step I take. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
