Celebrate!! Remember!! God designated specific times for Israel as times of celebration and remembrance throughout the year. God knew that Israel had a short memory, needing frequent reminders or they would forget all he had done for them. Even though we are not Jewish, how true is this of us as well? How often I need to remember his blessings and how quickly I forget being distracted by the things of this world. These days were key not only for that generation, but perhaps even more important for future generations to understand and remember how they came to be. This was and is their history and their legacy. Each feat or celebration listed in this chapter had a specific purpose or reason for it. They were meant to teach a lifelong lesson and not to be taken lightly.

One Scripture God gave to help them remember is in Deuteronomy 6:5-9. God commanded the Israelites to love him heart, soul and strength. To talk about his commandments all the time, not just on special occasions. To wear them on their heads and hands and to post them on their doorposts. God knows that the more we hear something, the more we remember. The more we remember, the more understand and appreciate these blessings and truths. The more we remember the more we have to celebrate. A clear understanding makes it easier to pass along the truths. 

I believe we have failed to obey God’s commands to remember and to testify diligently about him, teaching and training up others. I believe that is why the church is so unhealthy. I believe this is why young people today have rejected the church, seeking unhealthy options and lifestyles outside in the world. How do we write our legacy going forward to be one of celebration as we remember and share all God has done?

As believers, God gave us communion to remember his blessings. God knew we have short memories, quickly forgetting. As we continue this year, let’s make time to obediently teach the unsaved and in doing so, truly honor and celebrate Jesus.

Let’s celebrate, Jesus, celebrate and remember all of the goodness and mercy he has blessed us with. 

Eleanor Chew, Fairhaven, Mass.

Extended Scripture: Leviticus 20–22 (NKJV)