5 February 2024

Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the Lord to its place, in the inner sanctuary of the house, in the most holy place, underneath the wings of the cherubim.

From 1 Kings 8:1-7,9-13, NRSV

In today’s reading we hear about the dedication of the new Temple in Jerusalem. King David had not been permitted by God to build this Temple and the honour of doing so fell to his son Solomon. The author describes the great solemnity with which the Ark of the Covenant was brought from the place where it had rested since David came to Jerusalem to the new Temple. Elaborate sacrifices were offered and great honour shown to the Ark. Solomon had clearly taken great care with the preparations and this was an event to remember. The Ark was carried by the priests and placed in the inner sanctuary – the holiest part of the Temple. Once this had been done, the presence of the Lord was felt in the form of a cloud which filled the Temple and meant that the priests could no longer continue their duties. Solomon took this to mean that the Lord now dwelt in the Temple and expressed the hope that this would be forever.

• • Why do you suppose Solomon saw the cloud as an indication of God’s presence?
  • When have you been aware of the power of God’s presence?

Spend some time today in silent contemplation of the Lord’s presence in your life – if possible, try to ensure that you are not interrupted during this time.