Why is it important to remember and celebrate God's appointed times? Leviticus 23:41—God’s Standing Invitation “You are to celebrate this as a feast to the LORD for seven days each year. This is a permanent statute for the generations to come; you shall celebrate it in the seventh month.” (Leviticus 23:41) Obedience: Love in Action • God’s appointed times are commands, not suggestions. • “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Celebrating the feasts is a practical, joyful way to show that love. Remembering: Guarding Against Spiritual Amnesia • The human heart drifts; intentional remembrance keeps us anchored. • “Be careful that you do not forget the LORD who brought you out of Egypt.” (Deuteronomy 6:12) • The feasts rehearse His mighty acts—rescue, provision, faithfulness. Celebration: Tasting the Goodness of God • God links remembrance with rejoicing. • “Taste and see that the LORD is good.” (Psalm 34:8) • Feasting engages every sense, turning doctrine into delight. Prophetic Foreshadowing: Seeing Messiah in the Feasts Spring fulfillments • Passover—Christ our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). • Unleavened Bread—His sinless body in the tomb. • Firstfruits—His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20). • Pentecost—Spirit poured out (Acts 2). Fall expectations • Trumpets—announcement of the King. • Day of Atonement—national cleansing. • Tabernacles—Messiah dwelling with us (John 1:14; Revelation 21:3). “...a shadow of the things to come, but the body belongs to Christ.” (Colossians 2:17) Community and Identity: We Are One People • Gathering on God’s calendar strengthens unity (Acts 2:1). • Shared rhythms mark us as His covenant family (Hebrews 10:24-25). Generational Legacy: Passing the Torch • Parents retell salvation history during each feast. • “We will not hide them from their children, but will declare His praises.” (Psalm 78:4) • The stories become their stories. Hope-Filled Anticipation: Looking Ahead to the Kingdom • Feast of Tabernacles previews the coming age when “the LORD Almighty will be King over all the earth” (Zechariah 14:16-17). • Celebrating now stirs longing for that day. Practical Steps for Today • Mark the dates on the family calendar. • Read the relevant passages aloud. • Share a simple meal that ties to the feast’s theme. • Sing psalms and hymns that recount His works. • Invite others—let the joy overflow. Remembering and celebrating God’s appointed times roots hearts in His past faithfulness, present grace, and future glory. |
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