Shout For Joy

I Chronicles 15:25–29

“So David and the elders of Israel and the commanders of units of a thousand went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD from the house of Obed-Edom, with rejoicing. Because God had helped the Levites who were carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD, seven bulls and seven rams were sacrificed. Now David was clothed in a robe of fine linen, as were all the Levites who were carrying the ark, and as were the musicians, and Kenaniah, who was in charge of the singing of the choirs. David also wore a linen ephod. So all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouts, with the sounding of rams’ horns and trumpets, and of cymbals, and the playing of lyres and harps. As the ark of the covenant of the LORD was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David dancing and celebrating, she despised him in her heart.”

The LORD delights in our unrestrained joyous praise and worship whether in or out of church and whether or not people are looking, and they may spurn us and our message because we are ‘Jesus-freaks’ (The Newsboys) (v. 29). The Living Life writer reminds us though that whilst “many people do not understand the reason for our rejoicing; others find our expressions of worship extreme or offensive, this should never discourage us from worshiping in ways that show our enthusiasm. God’s character and works are more than worthy of all praise, and He delights in our exuberant and even undignified expressions of affection for Him.” There’s this Filipino song (in English) that was popular in the 90s it’s called Shout for Joy: “Shout for joy, Sing His praises, Lift your voice unto the Lord…” https://youtu.be/R_-rP6lM8bw a very danceable song, so in moments where we find ourselves filled with feelings of awe and wonder and gratitude towards God, we can dance like King David, celebrating the presence of the LORD in Israel’s midst represented by the ark. God loves us and His favour is upon us today, sisters and brothers, may this wonderful truth, this great news cause us to sing and dance and celebrate Jesus. A psalm of Mary: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior! For He has looked with favor on the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed. For the Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His name. His mercy extends to those who fear Him,

from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who are proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones, but has exalted the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things, but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, remembering to be merciful, as He promised to our fathers,

to Abraham and his descendants forever (Luke 1:46–55).”