Text: Colossians 2:11-19

Today we begin advent and I am looking forward to a wonderful journey through the festivals or holy days. Rabbi Jack Reimer puts it this way, “On holidays we run from duties. On holy days we face up to them. On holidays we let ourselves go. On holy days we try to bring ourselves under control. On holidays we try to empty our minds. On holy days we attempt to replenish our spirits. On holidays we reach out for things we want. On holy days we reach up for things we need. Holidays bring change of scenery. Holy days bring change of heart.” I pray through this journey we will see the difference and be challenged to truly worship and celebrate the life God has given us by following His guidelines and standards. This is how we find true peace and rest in such a tumultuous world.

Let us look at the main seven feast days given in scripture. You have four in the spring and three in the fall. Today we are looking at the first three holy days or feasts. The Feast of Passover of course celebrates the protection and provision of God when He lead His people out of Egypt, Ex. 12; Lev. 23:4-14. Psalms 118 is traditionally read this day. In the upper room, Christ has His last passover meal with His disciples. Instead of the traditional washing of hands, Christ washes the disciples feet in an act of total humility and servitude. When He takes the third cup or the cup of redemption, Christ passes it around and tells them that this represents His blood and the blood of the new covenant. Everything about Passover points to Christ and His coming, His redemption of His people out of Egypt or this world, and His return to catch His bride away.

Then we have the Feast of Unleavened Bread. This begins the next day on a sabbath. It is a time to get the leaven or sin out of the house with haste and cleansing. A time to take inventory and worship the Lord. Lastly, you have the feast of First Fruits. Christ is the first and only one to self resurrect from the grave making Him the first fruits of all that come after. May we worship the Lord and reach up to Him this advent for all we need, Christ!