Happy Holidays (Holy Days)

Colossians 2:16 - Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a Holy day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days.

Vocabulary

Holiday - Hearte (Greek), A religious festival day; a holy day; a day of freedom from labor, often set aside by Law or Tradition; a day of joy, happiness.

Holy Day - Hagag (Hebrew), A day set aside for religious use; a Sacred Day; a day deserving deep respect; a day of celebration, festival, joy, and dance.

December is here again. Many people have been waiting all year for this particular month to arrive. But is this anything new? Even during the times of Israel's great leader Moses, there were annual celebrations. These annual festivals were concerned with worshipping God, celebrations, confessions, and contriteness of hearts (Leviticus 24:44). But Israel, being Israel, their National Holidays were heavily favored toward celebrations. Our Great and Powerful God encourages joy among His people. But He also encourages repentance, reflection, meditation, and thankfulness. Therefore, a balance should always be made between Celebration of who God is and reflection of what He represents to His people. In other words, we should always keep the Christ in Christmas.

Christmas time is very special to the Lord's believers. It celebrates the Birth of Christ Jesus our Lord. It is a joyous time of fellowship, worship, and celebration. Family traditions are important during this season because they serve as a link between the generations. Special meal preparations are remembered for a lifetime. Travels, and readiness add to the excitement of the get together. The anticipation of being together and exchanging gifts sometimes just builds and builds. However, Our God has standards that must be followed in enjoying these Holiday Celebrations.

Celebration Norms

Prayer- Isaiah 56:7 - The Servants of the Lord must Honor Him in prayer before, during and after celebrations.

Christian Fellowship: Philippians 1:25 - The Lord wants His believers to care and share together when they celebrate.

Christian Giving: 2 Corinthians 8:2 - The Lord wants His believers to give liberally to those who have need.

Christian Comfort: 2 Corinthians 7:47-The Lord wants His believers to soothe the distress or the sorrow of His People; and also to console those that are going through something disagreeable.

All celebrations should keep these norms in mind. Amen.

Conclusion

December is Holiday Time. It is a time of celebration. It is also a time for Family, Friends, and Brethren. It is a time when all ages can learn about the significance of the Birth of Christ, and review all of the familiar Christmas stories. We can also go caroling in our neighborhoods singing Christmas songs to our neighbors. We can then all excitedly go to our places of Worship on that great Day and Praise, and Worship, and shout Hallelujah for Christ and Christmas!

Happy Holidays and I pray to see you all in the New Year!

Praise the Lord!