Today we are reading 1 Samuel 4. In this chapter we read about the tragic day when the Ark of the Covenant was captured by the Philistines. “And the man said to Eli, “I am he who has come from the battle; I fled from the battle today.” And he said, “How did it go, my son?” He who brought the news answered and said, “Israel has fled before the Philistines, and there has also been a great defeat among the people. Your two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God has been captured.” As soon as he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell over backward from his seat by the side of the gate, and his neck was broken and he died, for the man was old and heavy. He had judged Israel forty years. Now his daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, was pregnant, about to give birth. And when she heard the news that the ark of God was captured, and that her father-in-law and her husband were dead, she bowed and gave birth, for her pains came upon her. And about the time of her death the women attending her said to her, “Do not be afraid, for you have borne a son.” But she did not answer or pay attention. And she named the child Ichabod, saying, “The glory has departed from Israel!” because the ark of God had been captured and because of her father-in-law and her husband. And she said, “The glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured.”” 1 Samuel 4:16-22 ESV This was a horrible day of tragedy for the people of Israel. First, their king relies on his own ideas rather than consulting with God and His priest. Second, their fighting men suffer a devastating defeat in a battle against the Philistines. Third, the sons of their priest are killed and and the Ark is captured. And Fourth, their priest dies. Think of a day of national tragedy that we have gone through: The Great Depression, The attack on Pearl Harbor, 911, the Assassination of presidents, devastating Hurricanes and earthquakes. None of these had the same impact as this day of tragedy in Israel. How would Israel respond? Had God abandoned them? Were they beyond hope? Were they beyond God’s redemption? How do you respond to tragedy? Jesus tells us that “in this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 These words are for you. You are never beyond the reach of God’s love and mercy! Pastor Tim
