Observing Holidays

 

    Holidays are a special time where people tend to come together and celebrate.  Even introverts like myself will get up and go out if the opportunity is given.  It is a time of joy and excitement, but every single holiday has a purpose for celebrating.  It is important to take the time to remember why the holiday exist.  

    I wish we would observe holidays like they did in the Bible.  It was a period of rest, rejuvenation, and fun.  It is where nations would come together in one place.  It was more than a day where when you return to work you are more tired than if you had not taken the day off from work.

    King Josiah understood the importance and purpose of God's holidays.  He observed the Passover which was the most important holiday until Jesus and then it just transformed a little and became more impactful.  Josiah had God's ark placed in Solomon's temple (it had been hidden away somewhere).  The Levites went over the purpose of the holiday.

    The people observed the holiday like they did when Moses was alive.  Remember, they had just found God's word, so it was fresh on all their hearts.  It was celebrated like no king ever celebrated.  

    After the holiday was over, life went back to normal.  They had to face their normal stressors.  One of Josiah's was the Egyptian King Neco.  Josiah was determined to have it out with Neco and insisted on a battle.  He disguised himself, but was still shot by an arrow.  He was taken back to Jerusalem where he died.  

    Josiah may had been the most beloved king and it was shown by how his nation mourned him.  He would be remembered as the faithful and loving king.

2 Chronicles 35