Category Archives: Traditions / Holidays

Interceding for Others, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Honoring Our Veterans: A Christian Reflection on Veterans Day

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As Veterans Day approaches, let us reflect on the profound sacrifices made by our military veterans and explore how our faith calls us to honor and support them.

Introduction:

Veterans Day, observed every November 11th, offers a sacred opportunity to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day provides a moment to reflect on the virtues of courage, sacrifice, and loyalty—qualities deeply rooted in Christian values.

Body:

Gratitude for Service:

  • Sacrifice and Commitment: Recognizing the immense sacrifices made by veterans is crucial in understanding the depth of their service. These men and women have put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms and rights that we cherish, mirroring Christ’s sacrifice for humanity.
  • Prayers for Peace and Strength: As Christians, it’s our duty to pray for peace and to ask for God’s strength and healing for those who have served. Just as Christ sought peace and healed those who were hurt, we too should pray for the healing of veterans’ physical and emotional wounds.

Christian Values in Action:

  • Service and Selflessness: The service rendered by veterans is a powerful example of selflessness. They put the needs of their country and fellow citizens above their own, reflecting Christ’s call to serve and love one another.
  • Community Support: Veterans Day is an opportunity to strengthen community ties by coming together to support those who have served. Whether through volunteer work at veterans’ homes, participating in local parades, or simply reaching out to veterans in your community, every act of kindness is an expression of Christ’s love.

Conclusion:

Veterans Day serves as a poignant reminder of the costs of freedom and the value of service. As Christians, we are called to show unwavering support and gratitude to our veterans, recognizing their bravery and sacrifices as reflections of Christ’s teachings.

Call to Action:

Consider how you might honor our veterans on this Veterans Day. Attend a local event, visit a veterans’ hospital, or write thank-you cards to those who have served. Commit to ongoing prayer for their wellbeing and for peace, honoring their service not just on this day but throughout the year.

Prayer:

Lord, we lift up our veterans to You as Veterans Day approaches, thanking You for their bravery, their service, and their sacrifice. Bless them with Your love and peace, heal their wounds, and strengthen them with Your grace. May we, as a community, never forget their sacrifices and always express our gratitude not only through our words but also through our actions. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Submitted / Servant, Traditions / Holidays

Reconsidering Halloween: Aligning Celebrations with Faith

When it comes to celebrating Halloween, many Christians find themselves at a crossroads between cultural participation and spiritual integrity. But what does the Bible really say about engaging with holidays that have pagan origins?

It’s easy to follow the crowd, especially when it comes to widely embraced holidays like Halloween. Often dismissed as harmless fun, its celebration poses deeper questions for those committed to living out biblical principles. Today, let’s explore why a follower of Christ might reconsider participating in Halloween and seek alternatives that honor God.

Halloween’s origins are deeply rooted in paganism and have historically been associated with practices that glorify the occult rather than the principles of Christianity. This holiday, while mainstream in modern society, typically emphasizes themes that are in stark contrast to the teachings of Jesus Christ—focusing on darkness, fear, and the macabre.

Key Considerations:

  • Scriptural Alignment: Does celebrating Halloween honor God or does it potentially lead others astray about what it means to live as a follower of Christ? Ephesians 5:11 encourages us not to participate in the fruitless deeds of darkness but rather expose them.
  • Cultural Reflection: How have Halloween’s customs evolved? Today’s celebrations often include increasingly gruesome and horrific elements that celebrate death rather than life.
  • Spiritual Discernment: Can we genuinely justify Halloween celebrations through the scriptures? Or are we trying to fit a square peg into a round hole by aligning this holiday with Christian values?

Alternative Approaches:

Many churches and Christian families opt for “Harvest Festivals” or “Reformation Parties” on October 31st as wholesome alternatives that focus on gratitude, the harvest season, or celebrating the Protestant Reformation, which coincidentally shares the date.

However, even these well-intentioned festivities can inadvertently signal that something is “missing” if we don’t provide a Christianized version of Halloween. Instead, consider completely different ways to engage the community, like organizing service projects or prayer nights that align more closely with Christian values or just skip Halloween entirely.

Educational Moment:

Teaching our children about the origins and implications of Halloween can be an opportunity to reinforce the values of being set apart for Christ (1 Peter 2:9). This doesn’t mean isolation but rather choosing to celebrate in ways that genuinely reflect our faith.

Conclusion:

Choosing not to celebrate Halloween isn’t about fear or judgment of those who do; it’s about aligning our practices with our beliefs. As we aim to be in the world but not of it, let’s use this time to reflect deeply on how our actions represent our faith.

Prayer:

Lord, guide us to honor You in all that we do, especially in how we choose to celebrate. Give us the wisdom to discern the influences that shape our decisions and the courage to stand apart where necessary. Strengthen us to be lights in the darkness, reflecting Your love and truth in every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Further Reading:

For those interested in exploring this topic more deeply, visit ChristianAnswers.net – Should Christians participate in Halloween? for a comprehensive look at Halloween’s history and its impact on Christian life.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Traditions / Holidays

Dive Into Scripture to Embrace the Meaning of Sukkot

Imagine a celebration that connects us directly to our biblical heritage, one that Jesus Himself honored amidst great peril. Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, invites us into a vibrant tradition that is as joyful as it is profound.

Today, rather than offering new insights, I encourage you to engage deeply with existing resources that explore the rich layers of Sukkot. This feast isn’t just a historical observance but a lively invitation to understand our roots and the continuity of faith from Moses to Messiah.

 

Sukkot stands out as a testament to God’s provision and faithfulness, commemorating Israel’s wilderness journey and pointing forward to the ultimate gathering when Yeshua returns to dwell among His people. The scriptures and traditions associated with Sukkot offer a tapestry of worship and profound theological insights, reflecting our journey towards redemption.

  • Sukkot Overview: Explore the core elements of Sukkot, from the gathering of branches to the symbolism of the sukkah.
  • Finding Messiah in Sukkot: Delve into how Yeshua fulfills and embodies this festival’s themes.
  • The Traditions of Sukkot: Understand how traditions can enrich your celebration, helping connect scriptural mandates to contemporary practices.

Each of these topics is covered extensively at TheMoedim.com (Sukkot (also Tabernacles or Booths) ) among other resources. While I may not align perfectly with all interpretations presented, the scriptural foundation provided is invaluable for a thorough understanding of the feast.

Study and Reflect:

  • Scriptural Foundations: Leviticus 23 serves as our primary guide, detailed very well at Bible.org (The Lord’s Appointed Times (Leviticus 23))
  • Messiah’s Example: Yeshua’s observance of Sukkot, despite the threats against Him, underscores its importance (John 7). This passage is not just historical; it’s instructional, revealing the depth of commitment to God’s commands.

Multimedia Exploration:

Engage with Sukkot through various formats to enrich your experience:

  • Music and Songs: Search online for Sukkot music that ranges from traditional hymns to modern worship songs celebrating this festival.
  • Video Series: Sites like 119Ministries.com and Hebrew4Christians.com offer detailed video explanations of Sukkot and its significance.

Community Engagement:

  • Join a Fellowship: Consider connecting with communities like
  • JacobsTent.org that observe Sukkot and other Biblical feasts, offering live streams and interactive sessions that bring the celebration to life wherever you are.

Closing:

As you embark on this journey of discovery, remember that the goal is not just knowledge but transformation. Let these studies draw you closer to God, enhancing your faith through the profound legacy of His appointed times.

Prayer:

Father, as I delve into the study of Sukkot, I thank You for the joy and depth it brings to my faith. Help me to embrace Your teachings and celebrate this time with a heart of gratitude and worship. Guide me through Your Scriptures and let the Holy Spirit illuminate the truths that will draw me closer to You and to the community of believers worldwide. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Seeking God, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Embracing Sukkot: Dwelling with God from the Wilderness to the Kingdom

Imagine a celebration that not only reminisces about God’s past miracles but also joyously anticipates the glorious return of Yeshua. Sukkot is just that—a divine festival that combines profound gratitude with holy anticipation.”

Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths, invites us into a vivid scriptural experience that celebrates God’s past providence and anticipates the future kingdom. This festival is not merely a historical observance but a vibrant, living event that draws us nearer to the heart of God, reminding us of His constant presence and His ultimate plan for humanity.

Historical and Prophetic Significance: Sukkot serves as a dual memorial: first, it commemorates the Israelites’ wandering in the desert, living in temporary shelters, and second, it looks forward to the Messianic age, when Yeshua will dwell among us once again. As described in Leviticus 23:37-44, this festival is deeply rooted in both gratitude for harvest and remembrance of dependence on God during the Israelites’ wilderness journey.

Practical Observance: While we may not all construct booths or dwell in tents as ancient Israel did, embracing this festival can take many forms. Starting as simply as camping out in our living rooms to setting up tents in our backyards, each act revives the essence of Sukkot—recognizing our transient journey on earth and God’s continual provision.

Future Fulfillment: Sukkot also points us toward the future kingdom when Yeshua returns to establish His reign. Revelation 20 offers a prophetic glimpse into this era, painting a picture of a time when God will dwell physically among His people, wiping away every tear and ushering in an era of unmatched peace and joy.

Deepening Our Understanding: As we prepare for Sukkot, delving into the Scriptures enriches our understanding and celebration. Reflect on these passages and consider how they speak to both the historical context of Sukkot and its future fulfillment in Christ:

  • Leviticus 23:37-44 – Details the observance of Sukkot as a time of joy and rest, highlighting its significance in the Jewish liturgical year.
  • John 7 – Chronicles Yeshua’s own observance of the Feast of Booths, emphasizing its importance and prophetic fulfillment in His ministry.
  • Several passages in the Book of Revelation describe Jesus’ return to dwell among us, each highlighting different aspects of His Second Coming and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. Here are a few key scriptures:
    1. Revelation 19:11-16 – This passage describes the appearance of Jesus Christ returning as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. It depicts Him riding a white horse, symbolizing victory and justice, coming to defeat the forces of evil in a final battle.
    2. Revelation 20:1-6 – This section discusses the binding of Satan and the reign of Christ for a thousand years, often referred to as the Millennium. This period is characterized by peace and righteousness, with Jesus ruling directly over the earth.
    3. Revelation 21:1-4 – This passage provides a vision of the new heaven and new earth after the final judgment. Here, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and He will live among them. This portrays a restored relationship between God and His people, with no more death, mourning, crying, or pain.
    4. Revelation 22:1-5 – The final chapter of Revelation describes the river of life and the tree of life in the New Jerusalem. It emphasizes the eternal presence of God and the Lamb among their people, and how His servants will serve Him and reign forever.

    These scriptures collectively paint a picture of Jesus’ return and His eternal reign, providing a foundational hope for Christian eschatology and worship practices related to the anticipation of His coming.

Resources for Further Study:

Conclusion: As you step into the celebration of Sukkot this year, let it be more than just a ritual; let it be a renewal of your heart and mind as you dwell in the temporary shelters of this world, looking forward to the eternal dwelling place prepared by Yeshua.

Call to Action: Begin this Sukkot by setting up a space that reflects both humility and celebration. Engage with the provided resources, share insights with your community, and let every aspect of your observance draw you closer to the heart of God.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, as we observe Sukkot, we thank You for Your everlasting presence and providence. Inspire us to truly dwell in Your presence, reflecting on our journey with You and anticipating the glorious return of Yeshua. May our celebrations honor You and deepen our faith as we await Your kingdom. In the name of Yeshua, we pray, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Traditions / Holidays

In Yeshua We Have More Reason to Celebrate God’s Appointed Times

Most Christians today are taught that the appointed times, or Moedim, of Yahweh, are obsolete in Christ… that is if they are taught about them at all. What is interesting is that these same people cling tightly to man-made holidays like Christmas which were never called for biblically and are mixed and mingled with pagan beliefs over a long history in which the holidays evolved. Christ actually lived out the Moedim as an example for us. In Messiah, these are not made irrelevant but actually take on more meaning than before.

The Moedim help us remember what Yahweh has done for us. He is our Creator and Lord. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and present at all times in all places. Still, He takes time to know each one of us and He loves each one of us as a father. They also point us forward to what is to come.

This time of year is an exciting time to learn about and celebrate the fall Moedim, Yom Teruah (Day of Trumpets), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), and Sukkot (aka Tabernacles or Festival of Booths).  I will not attempt to discuss all the details in this post, but I will point out at a high level some quick observations how these have more meaning to remind us what is coming.

The day of trumpets reminds us that Christ will return and we should prepare ourselves. Yom Kippur reminds us to make atonement, recognizing that we are sinners and need Christ to be reconciled with the Father. Sukkot celebrates the return of the King, that Yeshua will come back and He will dwell among us.

I will post more about each appointed time as we get closer, but I would encourage each of you to start studying now and commit to learn more and celebrate.

You may find yourself asking, “Why are appointed times so important to God? The church has not taught me to celebrate it.” God tells us why it is important to Him in an example pertaining to Passover.

Exodus 13:1-16

8“You shall tell your son on that day, saying, ‘It is because of what the LORD did for me when I came out of Egypt.’ 9“And it shall serve as a sign to you on your hand, and as a reminder on your forehead, that the law of the LORD may be in your mouth; for with a powerful hand the LORD brought you out of Egypt. 10“Therefore, you shall keep this ordinance at its appointed time from year to year.

and again…

14“And it shall be when your son asks you in time to come, saying, ‘What is this?’ then you shall say to him, ‘With a powerful hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, from the house of slavery. 15‘It came about, when Pharaoh was stubborn about letting us go, that the LORD killed every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man and the firstborn of beast. Therefore, I sacrifice to the LORD the males, the first offspring of every womb, but every firstborn of my sons I redeem.’ 16“So it shall serve as a sign on your hand and as phylacteries on your forehead, for with a powerful hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt.”

The appointed times are not just for Jewish people who don’t believe in Christ as Messiah. They take on even more meaning through Messiah and help us draw nearer to the Lord. We could have a longer discussion on how to celebrate today, but for today I am really focused on encouraging you to read and study more, to embrace God’s holy days and learn more about them. God said we should, and he has great ideas. Once we make the decision to do it, then we take the next step and begin to study how… that is the journey my family and I are on today. We find joy in seeking to better understand our relationship with YHWH through studying and celebrating his appointed times.

Do take care that you don’t celebrate the Moedim because it is “required”. As the temple and the priests are not available, we can not celebrate in a fully biblical manner. Rather, let us use this as an opportunity simply to glorify Yahweh, grow our relationship with Him, and delight in Him.

Here are a few resources where you can learn more about the Moedim, the Creator’s calendar (often called the “Jewish” calendar), and given this time of year, Yom Teruah, Yom Kippurim, and Sukkot in particular.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please lead me in understanding and embracing Your ways. open my eyes to the wonderful ways of Your law and to Your appointed times. Let me not rely on the teaching of man or traditions of my family in prior generations, but rather on Your word. Lead others to celebrate Your appointed times across our country and let it draw us closer to You. Amen. 

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Traditions / Holidays

Yom Kippur Reflections: Scriptural Depths for Atonement and Repentance

As Yom Kippur approaches, it’s vital to embrace the profound spiritual significance this day holds. This sacred occasion is more than a day of fasting; it is a day of introspection, repentance, and seeking reconciliation with our Creator through the atonement provided by Yeshua.

Beyond the fast lies a deeper calling on Yom Kippur: to humble ourselves wholly before God, reflecting deeply on our lives through His Word.”

Heartfelt Repentance: Yom Kippur offers us a chance to reflect on our spiritual journey, acknowledging our sins and turning away from them. This day isn’t about external rituals like avoiding leather shoes or perfume; it’s about an internal transformation—a genuine humbling of our hearts before God.

Scriptural Guidance: A friend recently shared how scripture profoundly impacts her family’s observance of Yom Kippur, and I am compelled to pass on that wisdom. Each scripture not only guides us but also molds our understanding of true repentance and divine forgiveness.

  • Daniel 9:4-19 (Daniel): Daniel’s heartfelt prayer and confession reveal the intensity of true repentance and the earnest seeking of God’s mercy and forgiveness.
  • 1 Chronicles 16:8-38 (David): This Psalm of Thanksgiving reminds us of the joy and gratitude that accompanies the acknowledgment of God’s ongoing works and promises.
  • 1 Samuel 2:1-10 (Hannah): Hannah’s song exalts God’s holiness and sovereignty, emphasizing that true strength and victories in life come from Him.
  • Luke 1:46-55 (Mary): Mary’s song reflects deep spiritual insight into God’s care for the humble and His mighty deeds for those who fear Him.

Additional scriptures you may find enriching:

Embracing the Days of Awe: As we live out the ten Days of Awe leading up to Yom Kippur, let these scriptures not just be read but deeply pondered. Allow them to stir a renewal within, guiding each of us closer to the heart of God.

Additional Resources: For those eager to delve deeper into the meaning of Yom Kippur and how it interlinks with other scriptural teachings, here are some resources:

 

  • JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for Moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study, but brings you in to be part of a fellowship worshipping and learning together.

Conclusion: Yom Kippur is a divine invitation to come closer to our Creator, to examine our lives through the lens of His Word, and to embrace His forgiveness and grace fully. Let’s use this time to reflect, repent, and rejoice in the redemption Yeshua offers.

Call to Action: Begin your preparations for Yom Kippur by selecting one or two of the suggested scriptures to study each day. Share these insights with family or a study group, discussing how these truths affect your spiritual walk.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, as we approach Yom Kippur, we seek to humble ourselves truly before You. Thank You for the gift of atonement through Yeshua, allowing us to come boldly yet humbly before Your throne. May Your Word light our paths, and may our spirits be aligned with Your will. Help us to live out the repentance You desire, transforming our lives to reflect Your holiness. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Traditions / Holidays

Preparing Our Hearts for Yom Kippur: Reflective Scripture Readings

The period from Yom Teruah to Yom Kippur, often referred to as the Days of Awe, is a sacred time intended for deep reflection and repentance. As we approach Yom Kippur, it’s essential to come before God with a humble and contrite heart, acknowledging our sins and recognizing the profound gift of forgiveness offered through Yeshua.

“In these Days of Awe, let’s turn our hearts to Scripture, allowing God’s word to mold us and draw us nearer to Him.”

The Importance of Reflection:
Yom Kippur is not just about seeking forgiveness; it’s about recognizing the immense sacrifice Yeshua made on our behalf. It’s a day to celebrate the grace we’ve received—grace we could never earn. This holy day calls us to humility and gratitude, reminding us of the cost of our redemption.

Scripture Readings for Yom Kippur Preparation:
To enrich your observance of Yom Kippur, consider the following Scripture readings leading up to the day. These passages help set our minds on the themes of atonement, repentance, and God’s unfailing mercy:

Using Resources Wisely:
As you explore these scriptures, remember to discern between biblical instruction and traditional practices. While tradition can enrich our understanding, Scripture should always guide our observance:

 

  • JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for Moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study, but brings you in to be part of a fellowship worshipping and learning together.

Conclusion:
As we engage with these scriptures, let us approach Yom Kippur not with a spirit of fear but with a heart filled with gratitude for the grace and forgiveness that Yeshua has extended to us. Let this time be one of genuine reflection, leading to real change in our lives as we align more closely with God’s will.

Call to Action:
Begin your preparation for Yom Kippur today by choosing one or more scriptures from the list to study each day. Share insights with your family or study group, and come together to discuss how these truths impact your walk with Christ.

Closing Prayer:
Father, as we enter the solemn Days of Awe and approach Yom Kippur, we thank You for the forgiveness and new life found in Yeshua. Help us to study Your Word with open hearts and minds, ready to be transformed. Let us hold fast to what is scriptural, using tradition wisely to enhance our understanding but not to overshadow Your truth. Guide us in true repentance and lead us into a more profound relationship with You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Repenting from Sin, Traditions / Holidays

Yom Kippur: A Day to Reflect, Repent, and Reconnect with God

“While many holidays today emphasize fun and festivity, Yom Kippur invites us to a profound solemnity and reflection on our spiritual state. It’s a day that strips away the distractions, calling us back to the heart of our faith.”

In the hustle of modern life, significant meanings behind many observances can become diluted. Thanksgiving, for example, has largely shifted from a solemn day of genuine gratitude to a day dominated by parades, football, and feasting. Similarly, Yom Kippur, a day set by God for atonement and humility, holds a crucial spiritual significance that often goes unappreciated.

The Essence of Yom Kippur:
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is one of the most sacred days in the biblical calendar, emphasized in Leviticus 23:25-32. It’s a day ordained by God for self-examination, repentance, and reconciliation with Him. Unlike any other holiday, Yom Kippur demands total cessation of work and complete focus on our spiritual state, offering a chance to align more closely with God’s desires for our lives.

  • Sabbath of Solemn Rest: Yom Kippur is a Sabbath of complete rest, where no work is done, and the soul is humbled through fasting and prayer.
  • Call to Atonement: It is a time to reflect deeply on our sins and seek God’s forgiveness, facilitated by the sacrifice Yeshua made on our behalf, fulfilling the atonement once symbolized by the temple rituals.

Yeshua’s Fulfillment of Yom Kippur: Yeshua, our Messiah, did not abolish these holy days but fulfilled them in a way that deepens their meaning. His sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate atonement for our sins, bridging the gap that no human effort could span, as highlighted in Romans 3:10, reminding us of our universal need for divine grace.

  • Bridge to Righteousness: Just as none could jump across the Grand Canyon, none of us can achieve righteousness on our own. Yeshua acts as our bridge, fulfilling the law and granting us access to the Father through His grace.

Practical Observance Tips:

  • Focus on Scripture: Always validate traditions and additional practices against the Scriptures. Begin with the biblical text and understand the foundation before exploring traditional observances.
  • Community and Fellowship: Engage with communities like JacobsTent.org that observe these days with understanding and reverence.
  • Embrace Spiritual Growth: Allow Yom Kippur to be a step in your spiritual journey. Don’t worry about mastering all practices at once but grow in your observance year by year.

Resources for Further Study:

Conclusion: As we approach Yom Kippur, let us embrace this opportunity not just as a tradition but as a meaningful reflection on our personal relationship with God. Let this day be a time to renew our commitment to live according to His ways, thankful for the grace provided through Yeshua.

Call to Action: Commit to observing Yom Kippur this year with a heart open to God’s refining work in your life. Take time away from the usual distractions to reflect on His Word, repent, and pray for deeper communion with Him.

Closing Prayer: Father, as I observe Yom Kippur, I humbly come before You acknowledging my sins and seeking Your forgiveness. Thank You for the gift of atonement through Yeshua, who has reconciled me to You. Guide me in living a life that reflects this grace and leads others to Your truth. Strengthen Your church to embrace Your appointed times with wisdom and reverence. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

Rediscovering Our Spiritual Seasons: Embracing YHWH’s Appointed Times

Have you ever paused to think about the holidays we celebrate and where they come from? As the leaves begin to turn and we enter the season of fall moedim, it’s a perfect time to explore the rich tapestry of God’s appointed festivals and what they truly signify.

Raised in a Christian household, we attended church regularly but didn’t delve deeply into the Bible’s teachings or question the cultural norms that shaped our celebrations. Like many, I grew up celebrating holidays that, unbeknownst to me, had more to do with pagan traditions than the commands of YHWH. It was only later that I discovered the moedim, the times appointed by God for special remembrance and celebration, which opened a new chapter in my spiritual journey.

Awakening to the Moedim: YHWH’s appointed times, detailed in Leviticus 23 and throughout Scripture, offer a profound connection to the past deeds and future promises of God. These are not just historical commemorations but are vibrant celebrations of what Christ has fulfilled and what He promises to complete upon His return. These appointed times are not exclusively Jewish; they are divine markers meant for all who follow YHWH, offering us a rhythm of worship distinct from the secular calendar.

The Significance of Each Season: Each moed, from Passover to Sukkot, holds deep Messianic significance, pointing both to the first coming of Yeshua and His glorious return. These times are designed to draw us closer to God, enriching our understanding and appreciation of His sovereign plan.

  • Passover (Pesach): Celebrates Yeshua’s atoning death
  • Feast of Weeks (Shavuot): Commemorates the giving of the Torah and the Holy Spirit
  • Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah): Marks a time of reflection and renewal
  • Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur): A solemn day of atonement and reconciliation
  • Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot): Rejoices in God’s provision and foreshadows the coming Kingdom

Practical Steps to Celebrate: While the absence of the temple and priesthood changes how we can observe these feasts, their spiritual essence remains intact. Start by learning the historical and prophetic nuances of these days. Engage with them through prayer, scripture reading, and community fellowship.

Resources to Explore:

Call to Action: As we approach Yom Teruah and the rest of the fall appointed times, I encourage you to join me and countless others in rediscovering these divine appointments. Whether through online resources, community worship, or personal study, let’s embrace these celebrations as opportunities to grow closer to YHWH and each other.

Closing Prayer: Father, thank You for the beauty and depth of Your appointed times. As we learn and grow in understanding of these holy days, draw us nearer to Your heart and deeper into the rhythms of Your grace. Help us to celebrate Your moedim with joy and reverence, using these times to teach our families and strengthen our communities. In the name of Yeshua, we pray, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Holy / Set Apart, Is the Old Testament Relevant Today?, Traditions / Holidays

The Call of the Shofar: Rediscovering Yom Teruah

Have you ever considered that God’s calendar holds appointments most of us have never kept?

Growing up in a Christian household in the United States, the biblical holy days Yahweh established for His people were largely absent from our teachings. As Christians, we often overlook Old Testament instructions, deeming them outdated. Yet, these appointed times are not obsolete; they hold deep significance and can bring us closer to God.

Discovering Yom Teruah
Yom Teruah, often known as Rosh Hashanah in modern times, marks the beginning of the civil year on the Hebrew calendar. This day of shouting and blasting of trumpets is more than a cultural celebration; it’s a spiritual marker designed by God as outlined in Leviticus 23:23–32. Scripture gives us only a few direct instructions for Yom Teruah, inviting us to explore its meaning through the rest of the Word and in tradition.

Why It Matters Today

  1. A Call to Awareness: Yom Teruah serves as a spiritual alarm clock, awakening us to self-reflection and repentance in preparation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

  2. Prophetic Undertones: For followers of Christ, the trumpets symbolize not only historical observance but also the anticipation of Christ’s return. The blasts are a reminder to live in readiness, aligning our lives with God’s commandments.

  3. Symbolism of the Shofar: The shofar, or ram’s horn, has deep biblical roots. Its sound is a powerful call to action, a reminder to forsake sin and embrace God’s ways.

How to Begin Celebrating

  1. Begin with Scripture: Always measure traditions and interpretations against the Word of God.

  2. Join a Community: Participate in gatherings, whether online or in person, like those at JacobsTent.org, to experience communal worship and learning.

  3. Embrace Imperfection: God looks at the heart more than the checklist. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect at the start—choose a day to observe and refine your understanding each year. (Ecclesiastes 11:4)

Resources to Grow

Fellowship Opportunity
JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for the moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study—it invites you into genuine worship and community.

Conclusion
Yom Teruah is an invitation to reconnect with the roots of our faith, celebrating God’s sovereignty and our place in His plan. When you hear the sound of the shofar—or even imagine it—let it stir your heart to readiness. Begin observing Yom Teruah this year and allow God to awaken your spirit.

Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your appointed times that draw us closer to You. As we prepare to observe Yom Teruah, open our hearts to the lessons You have for us. Help us to hear Your call and respond with obedience and joy. May our observance be a testament to our desire to know You more and walk in Your ways. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda