CELEBRATION

I Was Just Thinking About – CELEBRATION.

Celebration is a time that is set aside to commemorate a special event. Some synonyms for the word include: anniversary; ceremony; gala; observance. The Scriptures indicate special times when celebration is to occur. The Gospel/Salvation/Deliverance is most often the focus for any celebration. Luke 15 is a time to celebrate when a lost coin is found; a lost sheep is retrieved; and a prodigal son returns home. The idea of celebration is indicated in Luke 15:7 where Jesus has stated: “I tell you, in the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents…” The “joy in heaven” is a time of celebration because that which was lost has been found.  

A text in Exodus 12:14 (AMP) has reference to the Passover and how it is to be remembered. We note: “Now this day will be a memorial to you, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations you are to celebrate it as an ordinance forever.” The idea conveyed is that it is a time/day of memorial. It is to be observed as a solemn observance but also a joyous celebration that is to be remembered through all generations. 

For the Hermeneutic and Homiletic purists, I confess to taking liberty with the text by applying the principle to physical marriage. I know I could’ve used the marriage feast of the Lamb reference. Using the Passover, my idea is to convey that there is to be an observance annually of a very special event that occurred. That being said, tomorrow – June 9th – my Peggy and I will celebrate our 62nd Wedding Anniversary. We first met in January 1955 at Columbia Bible College in Columbia, SC and our first date was March 1955. Our relationship grew and we were married on June 9, 1956 in Westminster Presbyterian Church, Chattanooga, TN. We rejoice in God’s faithfulness and presence with us throughout the years. We have been blest with four children; sixteen grandchildren and soon to be eighteen great-grandchildren. A worship chorus written by Don Moen that is very meaningful for us is: Celebrate Jesus, Celebrate. The Scripture verse that was part of our Engagement and Wedding is: Hebrews 12:2, “Keep Looking to Jesus…”

Revelation gives a description of a great celebration in Heaven. A verse that is part of one’s focus is Revelation 19:7,  “Let us rejoice and celebrate and give Him the glory. For the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.

Prayerfully – consider these things with me.

Our Wedding Picture - June 9, 1956