Thanksgiving Day has come and gone. Now the season for Christmas and the New Year are upon us. Many people across the land may not feel they have much to cheer about this year due to unemployment, serious ailments, depression, suicidal thoughts, and other circumstances that may plague their lives.. Many people are wondering what is there to celebrate.
Celebrate is defined as: To observe (a day or event) with ceremonies of respect, festivity or rejoicing; to praise publicly; honor; to take part in festivities.
Thanksgiving Day is an example of a celebration. It has been celebrated with a traditional turkey dinner. During the Thanksgiving season no gifts are exchanged. It is a time to gather and enjoy family, friends, and food. Question, does God want us to celebrate?
In Deuteronomy 16:9-17 (NLT) the word reads: . . . This festival will be a happy time of rejoicing with your family . . . to honor the LORD . . . for it is (He) who gives you bountiful harvests and blesses all your work. We celebrate to thank God for all He has done for us, to recall
His acts of goodness, and to enjoy each other’s company.
Then He said to them, “Go, eat of the fat, drink of the sweet, and send portions to him who has nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 (NASB) God’s intention as far as joy and fun are important parts of celebration because it lifts our spirits and helps us to see the beauty and meaning in life.
You shall not do any laborious work, but you shall present an offering by fire to the Lord. Leviticus 23:25 (NASB) Celebration allows us to rest and focus on what is good. It takes our minds off of our daily and routine activities.
So as the holidays draw near be encouraged and know that there is a reason to celebrate. Celebrate Jesus. You may not have material gifts to give but you do have the greatest gift of all, LOVE. Give the gift of love this season. God did it, for John 3:16 (NASB) says” For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”
PRAYER: Dear heavenly Father, may we remember to celebrate You daily. Father, we give honor to You that is due Your name. Lord, we offer up to You a praise of thanksgiving. Let our lives overflow with thanksgiving for all You have done. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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