I'll be the first to admit that I'm a gentile, but there is something inside me (can we say, Holy Spirit?) that loves the festivals. Especially the ones in Autumn. Take Sukkot: the leaves are changing and falling, we've had our windows open for weeks and it's time to eat! This year I'm engaging in the Feast of Tabernacles at a different level.
Cassidy and I ate lunch in the sukkah today. I brought the iTouch and played some Paul Wilbur, and we ate and talked and danced. It was marvelous. I shared with her how exciting it is to prepare for the Real Deal, when Jesus returns and we get to eat a rich, delicious meal with the Messiah, and our boys. As we wait for that time I can feel the anticipation grow in my chest. It's not just a story I tell her, or myself, but it's true. Part of the portion for this week is Zechariah 14:1-21 which tells of His return. He will stand on the Mount of Olives and He will be the physical Light of the World. It's a powerful passage and I recommend you read it. Perhaps read it in the sukkah, knowing that one day we'll all build booths to eat and rejoice in together.
Ours is a bit sparse, but every year it gets better and this year I am especially excited about the Japanese Maple branches on the top and the decoration Cassidy and I made together for the front.
In Hebrew it says Moadim L'Simcha, Times of Joy. This is a time when we no longer dwell on our sin and shame but rejoice that He has redeemed us. One day we will be united with Him, and those that have gone before us, for the Wedding Feast of the Lamb. I pray you won't miss it.
If you're interested in the portion readings, I post them weekly on www.remember-jerusalem.org on the left sidebar. We are finishing out the year so next week starts a whole new cycle. Join us, and people all over the world, who study the same portion of scripture every week, like Jesus did!