July 16, 2006

Dancing With the Ark
 

by Rev. Dr. Jim Carlson

2 Samuel 6:1-19

Donation of Land for ABC College. Afraid of emotions?

Contrast to the scene in 2 Samuel 6 – This chapter may be the very reason why dancing is looked on so poorly by some.

Last week I talked about David becoming king. Vassal of Philistines. Philistines tried to squash new kingdom. David’s army defeated them.

Procession of soldiers accompanying ark. Symbol of God. Israelites believed God sat on ark. Was stored in Kiriath Jearim, not Baale-Judah.

Oxen carrying ark, driven by Uzzah. Uzzah’s brother Eleazar was put in charge of ark.

Scene of celebration – musical instruments: lyres, harps, tambourines, castanets, cymbals. Singing of songs.

Uzzah dies – verse unclear in Hebrew. Interpreted as God’s anger. Ark placed in house of Philistine named Obed-Edom for three months.

Obed-Edom begins to prosper. Interpreted as end of God’s anger.

Ark taken to Jerusalem – on Israel/Judah border. Neutral spot. Raises questions: David offers sacrifices – Where are priests?

Why is David allowed and Saul not allowed? Kings not allowed priestly functions until Samuel died.

David girded in linen Ephod – Apron. Dancing with all his might in public. (Slide)

David’s wife Michal – unhappy with his conduct. One of many wives, daughter of Saul. Later criticizes him.

Ark placed inside tabernacle. David offers more offerings.

Distribution of bread, meat and raisins to all who attended. Kind of communion meal.

What wisdom can we gain from this scene? Life must include celebration and happiness. Should not be afraid of string emotions. World Cup in Italy.

Evangelical tradition afraid of emotions – throwback to classical and Baroque era.

God created emotions – must be expressed properly. Cannot be squashed.

Celebration of community must include everyone. Food distributed to all who attended ceremony. Cannot exclude poor.

Community must acknowledge contributions of all members. Victory over Philistines took effort of all Israelites, not just soldiers.

Easy to credit leadership without acknowledging lay contributions. Baptist principle. (Slide of children dancing at Coffee House).

What kinds of celebrations are due? How do we express extreme emotions in this community? Come watch me at a baseball game!

God’s design of life includes celebration and joy. We must not be afraid of those. Must not be afraid of emotionally engaging worship and music.