Do You Remember?

Scripture: Exodus 34:23, "Three times in the year all your men shall appear before the Lord, the Lord God of Israel."

Observation: God was so wise to institute recurring reminders into the daily life of the Israelites.

These three reminders were specifically designed for the men. Men are the ordained leaders of mankind. God has never changed that. He has always elevated the value of women to a greater extent than do all of the surrounding societies (even in our American society, but that is a topic for another journal). They are, after all, made in God's image; they are God's image-bearers. However, men have been given the responsibility of primary leadership. Fortunately, God has not left us to carry that burden alone.

The constant reminders were put in place to bring the men back to God in order for them to recognize their need for aid, grace, mercy and wisdom, and for them to repent, offer sacrifices, and praise God. A nation led by men, who are at all levels of civil and religious life submitted to God, will be successful, secure, and sanctified.

There were three feasts to be observed and attended annually by all men: the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Ingathering. The Feast of Unleavened Bread is also Passover (Easter), the Feast of Weeks is also known as Pentecost, and the Feast of Ingathering, or Sukkot, takes place on the 15th of the Hebrew month Tishri, which usually occurs in late September or early October. Each of these feasts served to remind the nation of the deliverance from Egypt the people had received and the future coming of Messiah and the future and final deliverance from sin when Jesus returns again.

Application:
1. The importance of being reminded of my need for God, of His amazing works, and of His endless love for me cannot be underestimated. Continue daily Bible studies with my family. Continue consistent daily time with God. Meet with the Church to be reminded and to remind others.

2. The importance of men standing up before God and on behalf of their family and society cannot be underestimate. Do not shrink back. Get my confidence from God, and share that confidence with those needing it.

Prayer: Lord, please continue to remind me of my need for you. Please draw me closer to you. It's you that I need. You are in control and I trust your plans for my family and me. I love you. Amen.