Some churches celebrate paying off their mortgage by burning the loan papers. They are so glad to be out of debt they hold a special service to offer thanks to God for that major achievement. Long ago, King David led his nation in a very special celebration—the return of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark, which symbolized the presence of God in their midst, had been captured by the Philistines during the time of King Saul. It proved to be such a curse upon the Philistines that they sent it back. But it remained at the house of Obed-edom until David was installed as king and arranged to return it to its proper place in Jerusalem. We read about it in 1 Chronicles CH 15. “David and the elders of Israel and the generals of the army went to the house of Obed-edom to bring the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant up to Jerusalem with a great celebration.” David was so thrilled to have the Ark back that he led the nation in a parade to thank God for its return. We know from Scripture that expressing gratitude to God for His blessings prepares the way for us to receive greater blessings. That’s why people of God give thanks to Him daily, gather with God’s people weekly, and show gratitude by their kindness to others often.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
