The Festival of Booths

(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)

Leviticus 23:40 …gather branches from magnificent trees—palm fronds…and willows that grow by the streams. Then celebrate with joy before the LORD your God for seven days.

Yesterday provided a brief overview of some Old Testament passages regarding God as “living water” for His people. Today, we’re reviewing another event which will ultimately connect to Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. 

In the Old Testament book of Leviticus, God provided His people a number of festivals in which various sacrifices and/or celebrations were to occur. One of these was the Festival of Booths (other translations may read the Festival of Tabernacles, or the Festival of Shelters.) 

In Jesus’ day, the Festival of Booths was a major celebration. People from all over Israel would pilgrimage into Jerusalem for this event. On the final day of the festival, a priest would ‘pour’ an empty pitcher. He would then fill the pitcher in a spring and the people would all shout things like, “God save us! God bless us! God give us rain for another good harvest!” The crowd would then be completely silent, but as the priest poured out the water, the people would erupt in celebration.

READING & PRAYERS:

     LEVITICUS 23:33-43, JOHN 7:37-52 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)

QUESTION: The Festival of Booths was a major celebration for which occurred after the completion of the year’s harvest. In all, God commanded His people to have at least 5 major celebrations each year. When is the last time you scheduled a day or event to really celebrate what God has done for you and within you? 

REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Are you doing too much?Practice slowing down and living life at the pace of your soul by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess there are times when I worship you, but I find myself really celebrating a sports event, movie, or other activity in my life more than I celebrate You. Nevertheless, I really do desire to live a life that celebrates You often. May I begin to be more intentional in this regard, so that others can see the glory of You within me. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)