Read Leviticus 23:1-44
God likes a party, having an intentional time to remember, surrender, and worship. Now we’re familiar with the holy days on Israel’s religious calendar. Elsewhere in Scripture we learn more about each of these festivals in terms of details not given here.
These feasts are rich in prophetic significance, and the LORD wanted his people to have them. The major theme we see is gratitude for all that God has given and continues to provide. When we celebrate Thanksgiving, our thankful hearts are but a glimmer of the state of mind of these festivals. Today there are no more sacrifices, we just offer ourselves before God.
Again, the people are commanded to take Sabbath rest. God commanded this in the first creation story, as well as being on the of Ten Commandments. God’s desire for our rest and devotion seems to be way more than a suggestion. It’s for our own good, not to harm us. Do you have a day of rest as God requires?
In Hebrews 4:9-11, the author speaks of another rest. “So there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. For all who have entered into God’s rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world. So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall.” We do our best to rest lest we fall. Being in that place of rest sounds so good. If we are honest with ourselves, we crave that sabbath with God.
These feasts aren’t often celebrated by Christians, unless we have Jewish Christians in our midst. To learn more about the first Passover and what is commemorates, you can find that story in Exodus 12. The New Testament identifies Jesus as our Passover lamb. Accordingly, we are drawn into this festival by the blood of Jesus which was shed. The evil one’s attacks are shielded by Jesus’ protection. It’s our job to remember and call on his power.
The Festival of the Harvest, as it is called here, is also known as Pentecost. You may recall that it was during this required festival that Jesus’ followers were filled with the Holy Spirit and started speaking in tongues when Israelites from all over the region were in town as God commanded. Do you think God knew the added significance this day would hold centuries after setting this command?
We may not celebrate these festivals in our tradition but understanding them a little sheds light on God’s character. He put these festivals in place to stay connected with his people. I’m not going to get stuck on the logistics of having so many animals roaming about waiting their turn to be slaughtered. Instead, I’m focusing on the obedience of the people who were doing what God wanted to bring honor to him.
Let’s pray. Father, I pray that my life and all I say and do bring honor to you. Thank you for desiring to have a relationship with me. Help me shut out the world’s temptations and lies and give me the clarity of mind to discern. Open my eyes to the truth of your word and understand how old traditions may fit into my life. Wash me clean again from the sin that holds me in bondage. May I feel your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
