Scripture:
2 Samuel 6:12b-15, 17-19
Mark 3:31-35
Reflection:
Then David, girt with a linen apron, came dancing before the Lord with abandon as he and all the house of Israel were bringing up the ark of the Lord with shouts of joy and to the sound of the horn. (2 Sam 6:12)
The Ark was a special place for God’s presence.
"There I will meet with you, and from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the testimony; I will speak with you about all that I will give you in commandment for the people of Israel." (Ex 25:22) David with Divine inspiration and political genius now made his capital both the civil and religious center of the land. With unbounded elation he dances, literally whirling and shouting war cries, at this great achievement. Indeed what an ecstasy it is to have God in our midst! God’s presence is the ultimate rapture!
Like David we also can twirl and shout in joy in God’s company. Today is feast of Francis de Sales. He spoke often of the excitement of God’s presence. "In the course of the day recollect as often as you can that you stand in the presence of God. You will find his eyes turned toward you and perpetually fixed upon you with an incomparable love." Francis had a great influence on our St Paul of the Cross. Paul time and time again urged us to live and pray in this exciting nearness of God.
Paul of the Cross put this electrifying truth in such simple words. "Keep yourself attached to the Divine Bosom." "Dwell within yourself in pure faith, without images, with a sweet, peaceful attention to God whom you have within you: you are more in God than in yourself." "In recollection of heart every good proceeds because this recollection binds the soul to God, the source of every good."
As with David of old we also have this stirring and exhilarating presence of God made real by the gift of faith. Jesus promised, "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." If only we beg for the realization of this wonderful truth, our life will be filled with joy. "In Your presence is fullness of joy." (Ps 16:11)
Fr. Bob Weiss, C.P. preaches Parish Missions and is a member of the Passionist Community in Detroit, Michigan.