How does observing biblical feasts strengthen our relationship with God today? Opening verse Exodus 34:18: “You are to keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread for seven days in the month of Abib.” Why feasts still matter • God Himself instituted them; that makes them timeless reminders, not mere cultural relics (Leviticus 23). • They rehearse the gospel before our eyes—each feast pictures some facet of Christ’s work (1 Corinthians 5:7; Colossians 2:16-17). • Observing them invites us into God’s calendar, aligning our routines with His story rather than the world’s. Four ways celebrating the feasts deepens our walk with God 1. Remembrance fuels gratitude – Passover and Unleavened Bread recall deliverance from Egypt and, ultimately, the cross. – “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). Meditating on that event keeps our worship fresh. 2. Rhythm builds relationship – Regular, scheduled encounters with God counter spiritual drift. – Like weekly Sabbath rest, annual feasts create anticipated appointments with the Lord (Exodus 23:14-17). 3. Symbols teach truth experientially – Removing leaven drives home the call to holiness (1 Corinthians 5:8). – Waving firstfruits fosters trust in God’s ongoing provision (Proverbs 3:9-10). 4. Prophecy sparks hope – Spring feasts point to Messiah’s first coming; fall feasts hint at His return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 21:3). – Observing them keeps our hearts watchful and expectant. Practical ideas for believers today • Read each feast’s passage together as a family (e.g., Exodus 12; Leviticus 23) and discuss how Christ fulfills it. • Bake unleavened bread during the week of Unleavened Bread; let the simplicity prompt reflection on purity. • At Pentecost (Shavuot), thank God for both the harvest and the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2). • During Tabernacles, share a meal outdoors or in a temporary shelter to remember that we are pilgrims on earth (Hebrews 13:14). • Use these moments to invite friends—feasts are celebrations meant to be shared, making them natural evangelistic bridges. Final encouragement When we intentionally mark God’s appointed times, we step into a conversation He began millennia ago. Each feast retells His faithfulness, renews our devotion, and refocuses our hope until the day we celebrate with Him in the fullness of His kingdom. |
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