Bringing the Ark of God to Jerusalem was not a matter of sitting it down and walking away. First, they presented burnt offerings and fellowship offerings before God.
A burnt offering was for sin. It was a somber occasion. The one bringing the offering was to lay a hand upon the animal so as to identify that the animal was taking the person’s place and then to kill it. The one who made this sacrifice did so to restore the relationship with God and to atone for some sin. Burnt offerings were made often.
A fellowship offering (peace offering) showed one’s desire to have fellowship with God. It was a celebration. As with the burnt offering, the individual laid a hand on the animal and killed it. The priest received the breast and the right thigh (Lev. 7:28-36), but the offerer was given much of the meat to have a meal of celebration. Various types of bread were offered and kept by the priest(s).
Jesus is the ultimate burnt and fellowship offering. (Heb. 7:27) He willingly laid down his life in place of animals. Like a burnt offering he is my offering for sin. Like a fellowship offering, he is my access to peace with God and the peace of God. The Lord’s Supper is a remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice laid down for me. (Matt. 26:26-29)
Second, David ensured that the people had food to eat on their journey back home (3). David took this from his own wealth. A good host ensured his guests are taken care of.
Lastly, David appointed priests to minister before the Ark of the Lord every day. They were to pray, give thanks, and praise the Lord (4). My relationship with Jesus is an ongoing effort on my part. I am to apply effort, time, and heart to daily commune with the Lord. I can sing and play instruments (5). I can set up reminders to minister before the Lord. This is why the priests blew trumpets (6), this is why churches use to ring bells. I can set up reminders in my house, in my car, at my place of employment.
