David was finally king over all Israel. He lived in fear and recognition of God. He was a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 14). David so desired the presence of God that he led thirty thousand men to go back and find the Ark of the Covenant. David knew that God’s presence was in the Ark. David put the Ark on a “new cart” and the oxen carrying it stumbled. Uzzah, trying to stabilize the Ark, put his hand on it and was struck dead by God. David became afraid and left the Ark with Obed-Edom. Later, when David saw that God blessed Obed-Edom for keeping the Ark, David decided to go back and find it (see 2 Samuel 6:6-15).

David had the right intention but the wrong approach. He rightly wanted the presence of God, but tried to carry it in a new cart - which didn’t work and caused him to go without it altogether. Sometimes the new cart looks nice but doesn't get the job done. The old cart may not be as easy, convenient, and comfortable. It may be old-fashioned. But, the old cart has survived the battles.

Like the cart, the church should be a vehicle for God’s presence. The truth is, church is about more than sermons, songs, and feeling fulfilled, as so many in this generation expect. It’s about honoring and revering a God that's bigger than perception. It’s about seeking the presence of God - the holy and divine presence where true joy and peace exist. It’s such a powerful presence that those in sin crave to repent and change lifestyles because God’s truth and love is revealed.

And, it’s about maintaining the presence of God through a daily walk with Him, maturing it with acts of love and charity towards others. Church is about the presence of God. If it’s not, like David, go back and find it.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for allowing me to follow Jesus and sending Your Holy Spirit. Help me to be an honorable vessel for Your Holy Spirit and to bear Your name and Your image without grieving Your Holy Spirit through sin, doubt, or bitterness. Keep me from the presumption of Uzzah. Help me act honorably toward holy things. Help me to love You and to love my neighbor. Keep me from evil and from sin, and when I am doing well in my walk, keep me especially from pride. Help me never to think that I am too good or two important or too mature to fail. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

There are a number of popular songs that use the phrase “church” to refer to a feeling of spirituality. Be careful. While God can and should be worshiped everywhere, when we pursue a spiritual feeling by our own definition instead of honoring God and seeking to become more like Jesus, we are in danger of derailing.