“So the men of Kiriath Jearim came and took up the ark of the Lord. They brought it to Abinadab’s house on the hill and consecrated Eleazar his son to guard the ark of the Lord. 2 The ark remained at Kiriath Jearim a long time—twenty years in all. Then all the people of Israel turned back to the Lord.” 1 Samuel 7.1-2
After seven months, the ark of the Lord not only returned to the people of Israel but was placed under the care of a Levite named Abinadab, who consecrated his son to guard it. There it remained for twenty years.
Then, at the end of these verses, this statement is included: “Then all the people of Israel turned back to the Lord.” This is significant because, after the people had turned away from God, treated His presence in the ark with disrespect, and failed to trust Him to lead them in defeating their enemies, they were now returning. As we know, the history of God’s people, including us, is one of running away and returning. The fact that the ark not only returned but remained for twenty years without incident indicates that the people were in a right relationship with God.
What does it mean to return to the Lord and be in a right relationship with Him? Initially, it means we submit to and serve Jesus. We give Him our lives, trust in His goodness, and receive the gift of salvation and forgiveness. This establishes our relationship and secures our place in God’s Kingdom.
Yet, on a day-to-day basis, it is easy to move in and out of relationship with Him, depending on our moods, actions, and devotion. To be in a right relationship means we fully love God and love others. We are called to be reconciled to God and to others. Even when others may not want to be reconciled to us, we must offer love, forgiveness, and kindness.
Walking with God is a daily activity. The Spirit of God moves in and through us and allows us to be His witnesses in this world. It requires obedience, submission, sacrifice, and commitment. Sometimes I get it right, and other days I fail miserably. But, overall, the rightness of my relationship depends more on God than on me. I can respond to His call, but His initiation to draw me in, redeem my soul, and love me even while I am a sinner is His doing. And I am so glad He does not give up on me!
The return of the ark to Israel signifies our return to the Lord each and every day. Draw near to the Lord, and He will draw near to you. Find comfort in His arms and security in His grace.
“O Lord God, thank you for loving me. When my love fails, your love remains steadfast. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with your power. Help me be the person you have called me to be. Help me love fully and know the love of the Savior. For you are good, and your love endures forever.” Amen.