Feasts

O. T. #2336  "Feasts"

Dec. 9, 2022

Summary of Zechariah

There is a memory which I share with my siblings and children-Christmas dinner feast at Mom's house. She took pride in providing everything on a beautifully set table for her loved ones to enjoy. There would be a golden, juicy turkey and dressing, cranberry sauce, all sorts of vegetables, not to forget mashed potatoes and gravy, plus homemade rolls. The desserts were spectacular-pies and cakes, not to forget the homemade assortment of candies on the freezer in the laundry room. I can't compare with her feasts, but I can still share her love that flowed from her heart to her family and others.

Looking back over this book of prophecy, we find Zechariah received 8 visions in the night, 4 messages, and 2 burdens from the Lord God. The 4 messages are found in chapters 7-8:

• Obedience is better than fasting. (7:1-7)
• Disobedience leads to severe judgment. (7:8-14)
• God's jealousy over His people will lead to their repentance and blessing. (8:1-17)
• The fasts will become feasts. (8:18-23) [Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

Because the Lord desires a relationship with us, He also wants obedience from us. When we pull away, He becomes jealous toward whatever has become more important in our life than He. Especially during this time of the year, do we not tend to have this problem? We get caught up in the decorating, buying of gifts, send out cards, and cooking, that we lose sight of the meaning of Christmas-worshiping Jesus as our Savior every day? 

So let us draw near to God and He will draw near to us. Encourage others to remember the reason for the season. Sing His praises throughout the day. 

Glory to God in the Highest and on earth, peace, goodwill toward men..