Devotion
Do as the Lord commands: feast!
David Jacobs
Everyone likes to celebrate from time to time: birthdays, vacations, holidays. We all need a chance to relax and enjoy God's gifts. Consider this, however: when was the last time you truly celebrated God? It happens too few and far between. "Twice a year Christians" celebrate on Christmas and Easter, forgetting the 363 other days of the year. Although some of the Old Testament may seem prohibitive and gloomy, these verses in Nehemiah are a stark contrast.
Nehemiah makes a proclamation that all people would love to hear: "Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared" (Nehemiah 8:10). Eat, drink, and be merry! Last but not least, give to those that do not have the means to celebrate. There are certainly many people that give back on the biggest Christian holidays in modern times, but our consumer culture has changed the meaning of Christmas. If the Jews living in the time of Nehemiah can learn to celebrate their love of God and share with the less fortunate during a turbulent and difficult time, certainly can we!
Prayer
When have you recently given back to society? It may sound like a Christmas cliché, but it truly is "better to give than to receive."
Night Prayer
Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.
Inspiration
We humble ourselves before the Lord when faced with the almighty power He possesses. Death is final to us, yet it has no command over the Maker of the heavens and earth. God has authority over all His creation; we feel small, yet mighty and honored, to be loved by Him. We are grateful that the One who holds the world in the palm of His hand also carries our spirits close to His heart and feels we are worthy to experience eternal life.
Prayer
Dear God, we humble ourselves before You. Thank You for considering us worthy of Your love. We devote our spirits to You and are proud to be Your children. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
