Read: 1 Chronicles 13:1-14; Hebrews 10:31
The anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah. (1 Chron. 13:10)
I have a good friend who is an advocate for CPR training in our community. When he demonstrates the AED (defibrillator) machine, a recorded message plays before the electrical shock is administered: “Shock Advisor—Stand Clear.” An electrical shock powerful enough to restart the patient’s heart is also powerful enough to harm someone touching the patient. Respect for the power of the shock keeps everyone safe.
Today’s reading recounts the return of the ark to Jerusalem. The ark was a symbol for the visible presence of God in the midst of the people. The Chronicler focuses on some important themes from Israel’s earlier history for the exiles who have returned to Jerusalem four centuries before the birth of Christ. First, the unity of the leaders of Israel to recover the ark of the Lord. Second, when the ark of the Lord was brought in procession, all Israel danced before God with song and instruments. Israel’s worship was filled with joy. Third, worship is in the presence of a holy God. That was when Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark of the Lord; and Uzzah died there before God.
David was angry (v. 11)! Perhaps David and Israel had become overfamiliar with God. Yes, there should be joy in our worship. But our worship should also be reverent and recognize the holiness of God. As the writer of Hebrews states, “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Heb. 10:31).
As you pray, ask that prayer and worship be both intimate and personal but also reverent.
About the Author
Kent Fry is a retired pastor and visiting research fellow at the Van Raalte Institute in Holland Michigan.
