Flagon of wine— Draught of wine. Hiller. 332.
REFLECTIONS.—The blessing of the ark on Obed-edom and his house soon reached the ears of David; and now his fears are removed, and his desires return to have the ark with him at Jerusalem. Hereupon once more he attempts to remove it, and through the Divine blessing succeeds. Note; Though we are sore let and hindered in our race, we must not despair; success shall at last crown our labours.
1. David saw and rectified his former mistake: the Levites, according to Divine prescription, are appointed to carry the ark; and when they had gone six paces, David caused oxen and fatlings to be offered as an atonement for former errors, and in thankfulness for present help. Note; (1.) When God by his correction has led us to repentance, we need not doubt that we shall inherit a blessing. (2.) The blood of the one great Sacrifice must be regarded in all our undertakings, as the sole foundation for our dependance on God's favour and regard.
2. David in all humility, with every demonstration of joy, preceded the ark. He laid his royal robes aside, and, in an ephod like that which the ministers of the sanctuary wore, with exultation leaped and praised God with all his might: his heart was engaged in the blessed service, and his body spoke the transport of his soul.
3. The people joined their king in these lively expressions of joy: with shouts of triumph, and the trumpet's cheerful voice, they brought up the ark to the tabernacle. David had provided for it, according to the former usage; and there before it David offered burnt-offerings and peace-offerings, expressive of his gratitude and thankfulness for the success he had met with.
4. David dismissed the people. He blessed them in the name of God; prayed for them and over them, that they might thus ever delight in God and his ways; and gave each of them a cake, and meat (probably part of the sacrifices, which were always eaten as a sacred feast), and wine. And thus the people returned to their houses, highly satisfied. Note; (1.) All God's people are called to feast on the one great Sacrifice, and to eat that bread, and drink of that cup, which the Saviour, the Son of David, has provided for us. (2.) A generous and munificent spirit naturally engages our regard. (3.) When we have the blessing of the King of kings upon us, then may we well depart in peace.