Another thanksgiving feast mentioned in the Bible was celebrated when the ark of the covenant was brought back up to Jerusalem out of the house of Obededom. It was a celebration of joy and singing. Levites were appointed to carry the ark, singers were appointed, offerings were made, and musical instruments were played. Levites were chosen to minister before the Lord and to thank and praise the LORD God of Israel. David wrote a psalm especially for this occasion and gave it into the hands of Asaph and his brethren. This was sung and accompanied by psalteries, harps, cymbals, and trumpets. There was also food -- bread and meat and drink enough for everyone! What a triumphant occasion this must have been.
Here are just a few verses of this psalm. May it remind us of the greatness and goodness of God and bring our hearts rejoicing too.
“8) Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. 9) Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his wondrous works. 10) Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. 11) Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually. 12) Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth… 23) Sing unto the LORD, all the earth; shew forth from day to day his salvation. 24) Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvellous works among all nations. 25) For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. 26) For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. 27) Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. 28) Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. 29) Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. 30) Fear before him, all the earth… 34) O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever. 35) And say ye, Save us, O God of our salvation, and gather us together, and deliver us from the heathen, that we may give thanks to thy holy name, and glory in thy praise.”
(excerpts from David’s psalm found in I Chronicles 16:8-35)