Two solid weeks!

1Kings 8:65b They started out celebrating for seven days – and then did it another seven days! Two solid weeks of celebration!

The temple has been finished, Solomon has prayed, sacrificed and blessed the people to dedicate the temple and the whole congregation of Israel is present to witness it. And so they celebrate. Two whole weeks!

There are times when it seems the Christian path is all about discipline, going through the narrow gate, self-denial and serious prayer – and we are in Lent, which is a serious time. But there is also a time to celebrate. When I celebrate God in my life, do I give it my all? Or does it feel self-indulgent? Jesus tells many stories where he likens the Kingdom of God to a feast, often a wedding banquet, which is a time of joy and celebration. I believe that is where this path goes: as I appreciate God’s presence in my life and give thanks for it, I discover a joy in living, a sense of celebration in the every day. Joy, celebration, these are the fruits of walking God’s path, not solemnity and seriousness. So have I had my joy today? Have I celebrated the Godhead and its many gifts in my life?

Prayer: Dear God, It’s easy to forget when life is difficult and we are walking in a serious time, that your will for us is joy and celebration, that they are the fruits of the heart’s discipline. Give me a heart of celebration today, and every day. Amen