“But we had to celebrate and be glad….” — Luke 15:32a
This past weekend, we celebrated our twenty-year anniversary! We sang songs, honored people, heard stories, looked back, laughed, cried, ate good food, listened to jazz, bounced, climbed, rejoiced and thanked God for His amazing goodness. It was a fantastic weekend — God was honored!
All of this celebration reminded me of an amazing story that I recently read in the Old Testament. It made me realize the importance of throwing a party. Really. Listen to this:
“So Solomon observed the festival at that time, and all Israel with him-a vast assembly … celebrated it before the LORD our God for seven days and seven days more, fourteen days in all. On the following day he sent the people away. They blessed the king and then went home, joyful and glad in heart for all the good things the LORD had done for his servant David and his people Israel.” — 1 Kings 8:65-66 (NIV)
Wow! That’s a huge party. Solomon’s example reminded me of three things: First, I should take time to celebrate God’s goodness. Second, it’s appropriate to bless spiritual leaders. Finally, it’s important to remember all of God’s blessings!
Here are some ideas that can help you celebrate more with God. First, make a list of all the good things God has done for you — spend time thanking God daily. The Bible says in Psalms 100:4, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” This is a fantastic way to start your day. It helps you focus on the goodness of God.
Additionally, thank God for His character. Try not to ask Him for anything – just thank Him that He is good, holy, pure, righteous, loving, kind, compassionate, caring, lovely, faithful, patient, forgiving, gracious, etc. Thank Him for your spiritual leaders and think of practical ways to bless them. Thank Him for the salvations of so many people through our ministry. Thank Him for Creation and for the very breath in your lungs. By thanking Him, we create an atmosphere of celebration that will be a pleasing aroma to God.
I love what it says in Psalms 50:23, “He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me, and he prepares the way so that I may show him the salvation of God.”
I think it would be appropriate to celebrate more — even before our 40-Year Anniversary — to honor God, bless our leaders and to remember God’s goodness!
Celebrating with you,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor