April 4, 2020
What does it say?
God instructed Moses regarding national days of worship, starting with the Sabbath. Spring and fall festivals commemorated God’s protection and forgiveness.
What does it mean?
Surrounding nations held festivals to honor false gods. The Lord, however, gave Israel special days to celebrate actual events and interaction with Him. The Sabbath was a weekly day of rest, in remembrance of God’s rest after creation. But it was also practical – the mind and body need rest from work. The spring feasts dedicated the upcoming harvest and commemorated God’s protection during Israel’s hurried exodus from Egypt (vv. 4-22). The fall festivals comprised a month-long national sabbatical to focus on God’s past protection and present forgiveness (vv. 23-44).
How should I respond?
Throughout our nation, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are quickly becoming non-religious holidays. There really is a difference between Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas. Followers of Christ have to decide individually what secular aspects of these special days to take part in while emphasizing the true meaning of the day. Easter is a time to remember the cost Jesus paid for our salvation and the power behind His resurrection. What plans can you make to focus your Easter on Christ this year? Don’t just celebrate a holiday – commemorate the greatest event in history!