Scripture:
“Solomon set apart the central area of the courtyard in front of God’s Temple for sacred use and there sacrificed the Whole-Burnt-Offerings, Grain-Offerings, and fat from the Peace-Offerings—the Bronze Altar was too small to handle all these offerings. This is how Solomon kept the great autumn Feast of Booths. For seven days there were people there all the way from the far northeast (the Entrance to Hamath) to the far southwest (the Brook of Egypt)—a huge congregation. They started out celebrating for seven days, and then did it for another seven days, a week for dedicating the Altar and another for the Feast itself—two solid weeks of celebration! On the twenty-third day of the seventh month Solomon dismissed his congregation. They left rejoicing, exuberant over all the good God had done for David and Solomon and his people Israel.” 2 Chronicles 7:7-10 (MSG)
Perspective:
After King Solomon had finished building the Temple, they had a huge party to dedicate the Temple to God. It was in the days that priests sacrificed offerings on an altar to God. The people had lavish offerings, followed by a feast to commemorate the event. The building of the Temple was not a project that happened overnight. It took years of planning by Solomon’s father, King David, as well as years of work in constructing the structure. The people had contributed financially and physically to seeing the Temple be constructed. So, when the day finally came to celebrate the completion of the project, there was great participation in the celebration.
God also gives us opportunities in life to celebrate His favor and provision. Celebrating accomplishments, commemorating memorable occasions, and remembering how God has helped us are in alignment with His purposes. If He has helped you with something this week, month, or year, take time to reflect and celebrate His goodness. You may not dedicate two weeks to celebrating, but it is important that we don’t walk by significant milestones without recognizing God’s grace in helping us. It might require intentional effort on your part, but as you think back over the last year, identify one or two milestones worth celebrating. Don’t let the year end without thanking God and celebrating His goodness in your life.
Scripture taken from THE MESSAGE. Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group.
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About Hona Amer
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