Feb 6 Devotion: Feasting as Worship

4).  These are the feasts of the Lord, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons.  5).  In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the Lord's passover.  6).  And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast of the unleavened bread unto the Lord: seven days ye must eat unleavened bread.  7).  In the first day ye shall have an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein.  8).  But ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the Lord seven days: in the seventh day is a holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein. -LEVITICUS 23:4-8

When the Israelites entered the Promised Land after years of wandering in the desert, God issued a strange command: Feast.

Feasting and enjoying the bounty of the land were meant to tie the Israelites to different rhythms throughout the year—such as harvesting the first and last of the year’s crops. Festivals were also a way of commemorating the mighty acts of God on the people’s behalf, like the night of the Passover when God spared all who’d painted their doors with the blood of a lamb. Ultimately, these celebrations were an act of worship that reoriented God’s people to right relationship with Him. God was their provider and sustainer, so they feasted with gratitude. He was their rescuer and redeemer, so they feasted in holy remembrance.

Today we can learn healthy spiritual habits from these observances prescribed by God for the ancient Israelites. When we pause to give thanks for our blessings, we worship God with our time and attention. When we gather to simply enjoy His good gifts, we remember that “every good gift and every perfect gift is from above-” (James 1:17)—not from our own striving.

When was the last time you paused to savor God’s goodness, remember His faithfulness, and worship Him?  

Consider taking time to taste and see the goodness of God today.

-IBC