I know in a few months we will be hectically preparing in our communities, homes and families around the world to celebrate the fact that a Savior was born to us. Don’t get me wrong I am glad that the world at least sets aside a day each year to recognize the coming of our Savior, even if it is only for “filthy lucre”, for it gives us an opportunity to share and spread the joy that He was willing to leave heaven, empty Himself to become Emmanuel, God with us. As Christmas Carols are echoing throughout malls and stores, even perhaps for the wrong reason, I am pleased to hear the gospel being preached through the words of those carols.
But at this October harvest season of the Jewish holy feast of Tabernacles, as believers, let us celebrate His birth in our hearts where He is now tabernacled by faith, as we meditate on John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and was tabernacled among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
All important events of God’s plan of redemption occurred on a Jewish feast day.
During the Jewish Feast of Passover He was slain for us as the Lamb of God
During the Jewish Feast of First Fruits He rose again as the first fruits of those that slept.
During the Jewish Feast of Pentecost He sent the Holy Spirit.
You may ask, “Is the date really that important?
The accuracy of the details in God’s prophetic plan of redemption for the world through His people Israel is not only important but also amazing!
So surely the most important event of all, the birth of the Jewish Messiah, would not be fulfilled on a Gentile holiday but rather fulfilled on a Jewish Feast day, the Feast of Tabernacles, which inspired the apostle John to write“ and He was tabernacled among us”. During this feast Jewish believers dwell in booths representing temporary dwelling places. So isn’t it interesting that the long awaited Jewish Messiah was born in a temporary dwelling place in a stable during the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles.
The ultimate fulfillment of this great feast will be according to Revelation 21:3-4 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain:for the former things are passed away.
CHALLENGE: This week celebrate and rejoice during “Sukkot” as you meditate on the detailed accuracy of God’s plan of redemption while still sharing during the December Christmas season with neighbors, family and friends the joy that a Savior was born and the hope of HIs second advent.
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