Most of us celebrate and enjoy feasting at some point during the year, but I suspect that oftentimes we don’t consider celebration as being an integral part of worship. Preparing the food, setting the table, lighting the candles, gathering, praying, and enjoying the delicious flavors of the meal and the conversation—all this is part of the overflow of goodness for Christ followers.
“He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts” (Psalm 104:14,15).
Our triune God is joyful. Our God loves celebration. Our God gave us taste buds and a sense of smell and hunger that can be satisfied by good things. God planted the capacity for celebration in our hearts. Yes, there is a time for fasting and silence in worship, and there are feasting seasons.
God gave this instruction to the people of Israel for one of their yearly celebrations: “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice” (Deuteronomy 14:26).
Following Jesus guarantees us a full life. Will there be deep sadness? Of course. But goodness, wisdom, and celebration are part of our inheritance. When will you have a meal to celebrate all God’s blessings to you?
