Each year as we approach the timing for the fall moedim, or appointed times, that YHWH specified for us to celebrate, I am reminded to reflect on my journey with Yeshua. I was raised in a Christian household. We went to church weekly, but we did not study the Bible to seek to apply it in our lives actively. We watched things on TV that we should not have. There were gaps in discernment about separating from the commonly accepted ways of the world to seek out the set-apart ways of YHWH. We embraced and celebrated every common cultural holiday, unaware of the significant pagan influence in shaping each of these holidays. Holidays like Christmas and Easter often have more pagan roots and traditions than Christian elements. We were completely unaware of YHWH’s Moedim. My story is common across Christian families.
As YHWH has continued to lead me, he has opened my eyes to his appointed times, or moedim. They are described in Leviticus 23 and other places in scripture. Do not get tied up into the traps of whether or not they are required and if required, how “must” they be celebrated. Start by learning about YHWH’s holy days and participating in them. They look back at the relationship he has with his people and looks forward to it as well. Each has meaning, not just from a “Jewish” perspective, but also from a Messianic perspective. Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of these celebrations, including looking forward to his second coming. They are not “Jewish” holidays, but rather YHWH’s holy days. We do not have to try to live them out perfectly to harvest value from celebrating them. (Actually, some elements can no longer be done as commanded because the temple and the priesthood are no longer in place.)
By seeking and studying and celebrating more according to the ways that our Father instructed, we will draw nearer in our relationship with our Father. Celebrate them as a great way to help teach your children as well. How much richer than just “book learning” alone!
Here are a few resources where you can learn more about the moedim, the Creator’s calendar (often called the “Jewish” calendar).
- Leviticus 23 article – Bible.org
- Hebrew4Christians.com
- Psalm 119 Ministries at TestEverything.net – video series “Mo’edim”
- Additional resource links are available on our page Focused Ministries – Understanding Hebrew Roots
- 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.
I hope you join me in a pursuit to know, love, and serve our Father more. Learning about and celebrating the moedim is a fun and meaningful way to continue together on this journey. I invite you to start with Yom Teruah, which takes place in the upcoming weeks.
Shalom.
Devotion by John in service to Christ
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