Strong Tower
A daily scripture exposition.
Friday, January 3, 2025
Leviticus 23:34 NLT
“Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. Begin celebrating the Festival of Shelters on the fifteenth day of the appointed month—five days after the Day of Atonement. This festival to the Lord will last for seven days.”
Begin celebrating
Some instructions are meant to be personal, while others are intended for the community. In the scripture referenced, the directive was inclusive, addressing the priesthood, the Levites, men and women, young and old, native Israelites, and any foreigners living among them, regardless of their social or economic standing. This call to the people of Israel implies that the Lord expected responsibility from them. He desired them to begin celebrating on the appointed day without anyone ringing a bell or blasting a trumpet. This was possible because the Lord didn’t keep this information concealed from anyone. Instead, the directive was made clear and accessible to all community members.
The fact that the Festival of Shelters is designed to last for seven days raises an important question: Since one of those days will inevitably coincide with the Sabbath, how should the people of Israel approach the celebration on that particular day? Should they proceed with the festivities as planned or pause the celebration out of reverence for the Sabbath? This dilemma challenges the worshippers to carefully consider honouring God’s instructions, even when they counter existing traditions or expectations. Friends, let us follow God’s guidance faithfully, even when it tests our understanding of established norms.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please help me accept Your instructions even when they challenge any standing order. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.
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