“And he left Zadok the priest and his brothers the priests before the tabernacle of the LORD in the high place that was at Gibeon to offer burnt offerings to the LORD on the altar” (1 Chronicles 16:39–40 ESV).
For over a century, from the days of Eli until Solomon’s temple, the Ark of the Covenant and the tabernacle with its altar were separated. After the Ark was captured by the Philistines and later returned, it remained in Kiriath-Jearim (1 Sam. 7:2–3), while the tabernacle that Moses built was apparently moved from Shiloh to Nob (1 Sam. 21:1), and later from Nob to Gibeon. When David became king, he brought the Ark from Kiriath-Jearim to Jerusalem with great rejoicing (2 Sam. 6), placing it in a tent he had prepared. Yet Scripture is silent on why he left the tabernacle and its altar in Gibeon. What we do know is that David ensured Zadok and the priests continued the sacrificial system faithfully at Gibeon (1 Chron. 16:39–40). However, because the Ark was absent from the tabernacle, the high priest could not fully keep the Day of Atonement as prescribed in the Law. Worship during this time was incomplete and divided between Jerusalem and Gibeon.
This period of separation might be considered a foreshadowing of Christ, who perfectly united both the Ark and the Altar. For Jesus is our true Ark—God dwelling among us (John 1:14)—and the perfect sacrifice for sin. He entered the greater and more perfect tent, not made with hands, and offered His own blood, securing eternal redemption (Heb. 9:12). Through Christ, the veil has been torn (Matt. 27:51), and we have boldness to enter the Most Holy Place by His blood (Heb. 10:19–22). He not only brings us near to God, He dwells within us by His Spirit (Rom. 8:11). These truths invites us to draw near with confidence and full assurance of faith, knowing that Jesus is our all in all.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for Jesus. Help us to worship You in spirit and truth, drawing near to You through Christ our perfect Mediator. May our lives bring praise and glory to You in all things as we abide in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.