The Spiritual Practice of Celebration

My husband and I had the joy of officiating our eldest son's wedding this summer. The reception was filled with laughter, food, and fellowship under a tent in our yard. Similarly, our town celebrated its 300th birthday with a parade and fireworks, leaving us feeling spiritually and physically fulfilled. These celebrations serve as more than just distractions; they are invitations to experience God’s joy and remember His faithfulness.

The Ancient Art of Celebration

Celebrating God’s provision has deep roots in history. In Exodus 12:14-20, God commanded His people to commemorate their deliverance annually. Jewish festivals like Purim, Passover, and Chanukah are all rooted in God's instructions to remember His faithfulness. Despite God's constant faithfulness, our memories are often short-lived. Life's challenges can overshadow our gratitude, making it easier to question God rather than celebrate His goodness.

Celebrations anchor us in God’s greater narrative, reminding us of His continuous work in our lives. From creation in the Garden of Eden to Jesus' sacrificial love, and ultimately to the future wedding feast of Christ and His Church, God's story is intertwined with joyous gatherings. These events are opportunities to reflect on past blessings and anticipate future grace.

God’s Great Story

Weddings and celebratory meals are central to God’s narrative. They embody looking back with gratitude and looking forward with hope. My friend William in Liberia, despite the Ebola crisis, shared how church celebrations have been a source of strength and joy. In the midst of hardship, the act of celebrating God's presence brings spiritual strength and community connection.

Joy Is a Spiritual Discipline

The act of celebrating doesn’t erase our troubles but offers a reprieve and a reminder of God’s goodness. The Irish band Rend Collective emphasizes that joy is a spiritual discipline. Gareth Gilkeson explains, "Joy is a spiritual discipline. We as a people are much more inclined toward negativity and cynicism. We don’t find it easy or natural to pursue joy. And that’s why God in His Word actually commands us to celebrate. We come by a Gospel worth celebrating before a celebrating king. We need to get down to the serious business of joy."

You don't need a significant event to celebrate; small victories and moments of restoration are ample reasons to gather with friends, celebrate, and remember God's faithfulness. In doing so, we cultivate gratitude and align ourselves with God's joyous plan.

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