말보다 말씀! 빚보다 빛!

[Key Verse]

“So David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the Lord from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. Because God had helped the Levites who were carrying the ark of the covenant of the Lord, seven bulls and seven rams were sacrificed. Now David was clothed in a robe of fine linen, as were all the Levites who were carrying the ark, and as were the musicians, and Kenaniah, who was in charge of the singing of the choirs. David also wore a linen ephod.” (1 Chronicles 15:25–27)

[Our Story]

The Indiana Jones series has always been a fan favorite. Among them, the first film, Raiders of the Lost Ark, remains the most memorable. It follows the adventure of uncovering the biblical Ark of the Covenant. Indiana Jones, a university professor of archaeology, is commissioned by the government to find the Ark. The task is nearly impossible, with only a legend that Pharaoh Shishak once moved the Ark from Solomon’s temple to a place called Tanis in Egypt. German archaeologists uncover the location of Tanis, and the Nazis begin a race to find the Ark, believing in its mysterious power. The United States, also believing in the Ark’s mystical influence, cannot let it fall into enemy hands—thus, Dr. Jones is sent. Although he finds the Ark first, a high-stakes battle with the Nazis unfolds. Due to betrayal by fellow archaeologist Belloq, who has allied with the Nazis, Jones is captured and the Ark is taken.

After a daring escape and the recovery of the Ark, Jones is once again overpowered by the Nazis, who take both him and the Ark to a hidden cave. When they open the Ark, everyone inside is killed—except for Jones and one companion who had their eyes shut. The film teaches a lesson: no matter how powerful the Ark may be, when used as an object of human desire, it brings destruction. It reminded me of the Israelites in scripture who treated the Ark like a good-luck charm—and paid a heavy price.

[Bible Story]

1 Chronicles 10–16 deals in depth with the Ark of the Covenant. Until then, the chronicler summarizes Israel’s history through genealogies. But now, the narrative slows down to focus on the Ark. The story begins with King Saul, who dies in battle against the Philistines because he disobeyed God's word (1 Chron. 10:13–14). In contrast, David centers his reign around the covenant (1 Chron. 11).

David becomes king in Hebron, conquers Jerusalem and makes it his capital (1 Chron. 11:1–9). He honors his mighty men (11:10–47), emphasizing that God, not David, is the true king (v. 9). David gains legitimacy both from God and from the people. His intention to bring the Ark to Jerusalem announces that God reigns over Israel. Even the tribe of Benjamin, Saul’s own family line, pledges loyalty to David (1 Chron. 12). However, when Uzzah touches the Ark to steady it, he is struck dead (1 Chron. 13), a sobering reminder that God's work must be done according to His instructions (cf. Num. 4:15). David’s kingdom grows stronger as the covenant unfolds (1 Chron. 14). Tyre’s king sends materials and craftsmen to build David’s palace; David’s family grows; he defeats the Philistines.

At last, the Ark is moved to Jerusalem—but this time, David learns from the previous failure. He carefully follows the Law, involving the Levites in every step. A choir is formed, and the procession is marked by joyful worship. Once the Ark is placed in Jerusalem, David offers burnt and fellowship offerings and leads the people in praise. To David, the Ark was not a magical object—it was a bridge into God’s presence.

[Your Story]

Do you experience the presence of God? Where—or when—do you sense it most? You may experience God's presence while working, doing business, or at home. Perhaps you feel His nearness while walking, driving, or gathering for Sunday worship. And of course, through meditating on God’s Word. Whether in quiet moments or powerful encounters, God’s presence can be experienced anywhere, at any time. The more we open our lives to His presence, the deeper our spirituality becomes. This is the spirituality of everyday life.

“I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”
(Genesis 28:15)

With joy and blessing,
Pastor Hyung Joong Kim
Copyrightⓒ 2025 by Hyung Joong Kim