Holidays

Good Morning,

As we approach the holidays, I wanted to mention the unique theme of this year.

Exodus 23:14 “Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year.”

vs. 15 “Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:)"

vs. 16 “And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field."

vs. 17 “Three times in the year all thy males shall appear before the Lord GOD.”

Three times in the year, Jewish folks gathered in Jerusalem for something similar to our “Holidays.”  They were religious in nature, but all the accompanying events are similar:  lots of people, food, and some attention given to the Lord.  

Allow me to make a few observations:

Regular gatherings with our family and friends are healthy for a society.  They remind us that there is more to life than work, money, and troubles.  People and the Lord are the main object of our lives.  

“…for in it thou camest out from Egypt…” (vs. 15)  Gatherings are a good time to remind ourselves and our children where we came from, what God has done for us, and how much we owe the Lord.  Do not let this be a holiday from God, but rather a holiday with God. Consider a game or some planned situation that causes us to stop and remember how good God has been.

Notice it says, “all thy males” (vs. 17).  Men are a vital part of family, and godly men need to be visible, vocal, and influential on their family gatherings.   Do not just send the ladies and kids; men, accept the role of “godly man” and be a big part of family events.  

Not from the passage, but from my thoughts, do not allow the holidays to become a frustration, a necessity you wish to get through soon.  Do not allow the planning and production to be so frustrating that you do not enjoy eating, drinking, and playing with those who are dear to you.  

Holidays ought to be a spiritual, relaxing, enjoyable time of fellowship and memories.  Protect them and use them for good.

Pastor