As Was His Custom: The Feasts of Adonai
As women, understanding the Feasts of Adonai from a Messianic perspective enriches our spiritual lives and enhances our lives. These sacred times, celebrated by Jesus, offer profound insights into His life and mission. By exploring these feasts, we can find practical applications that empower us to lead with wisdom and grace, following in His footsteps.
Pesach (Passover)
Passover commemorates the deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage, symbolized by the sacrificial lamb whose blood spared the Israelites from the plague of death (Exodus 12:13). Jesus, during His final Passover meal (the Last Supper), revealed Himself as the ultimate Passover Lamb. "For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed" (1 Corinthians 5:7). He was crucified during Passover, fulfilling the prophecy as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).
Practical Application:
As leaders and caregivers, we often find ourselves exhausted from the demands of ministry and family responsibilities. Emulating Jesus' sacrificial love can be particularly challenging when we are physically and emotionally drained. Yet it is in these moments of exhaustion that we can truly demonstrate His love. By prioritizing self-care and setting healthy boundaries, we can ensure that we have the strength to serve others. Additionally, embracing a spirit of humility and seeking God’s guidance in our daily tasks can help us to love sacrificially. Remembering that Jesus' ultimate sacrifice came from a place of deep love for humanity, we can ask for His strength to show that same love to our families and those we lead, even when we feel depleted.
Matzot (Unleavened Bread)
The Feast of Unleavened Bread begins immediately after Passover and lasts for seven days. Leaven, representing sin and corruption, is removed from households (Exodus 12:15). Jesus, sinless and pure, was buried during this feast. "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin" (Hebrews 4:15).
Practical Application:
As leaders, we can strive to live out our faith with integrity, removing anything from our lives that is not in alignment with our calling and purpose. This might include letting go of habits, commitments, or relationships that drain our energy and distract us from our mission. By living out loud and authentically, we set an example for others to follow. Matzot reminds us to continually examine our lives, removing the “leaven” that wears us out and hinders our effectiveness in ministry. In doing so, we become more effective and aligned with God’s will for our lives.
Bikkurim (First Fruits)
The Feast of First Fruits celebrates the early harvest and the promise of more to come (Leviticus 23:10-11). Jesus rose from the dead on this day, becoming the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15:20).
Practical Application:
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. The Feast of First Fruits reminds us that this life is temporary and calls us to focus on eternal things. As leaders, we can inspire others to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on the hope we have in Christ. This feast encourages us to prioritize what is important, remembering that our ultimate hope and future are secure in Him.
Shavuot (Pentecost)
Shavuot commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:22). On this day, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the believers in Jerusalem, marking the birth of the Messianic community. "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting" (Acts 2:1-2).
Practical Application:
As leaders, it's crucial to remember that we cannot walk in our own might and power but by His Spirit. Shavuot reminds us of our need for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength in our ministry. We are not meant to be isolated islands, feeling alone and overwhelmed. Surround yourself with other women who empower and uplift you. Find a community of like-minded believers who can provide support and encouragement. Together, we can fulfill God’s calling with the strength that comes from the Holy Spirit.
Yom Teruah (Feast of Trumpets)
Yom Teruah, or Rosh Hashanah, is a time of awakening, heralded by the blast of the shofar (Leviticus 23:24). It calls the people to repentance and prepares them for the coming judgment. "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first" (1 Thessalonians 4:16).
Practical Application:
Yeshua is coming for a bride without spot or wrinkle. This time of reflection and repentance is not just another task to add to our to-do list but an opportunity to remove the spots in our lives. Ask God to show you what needs to be removed and what activities are exhausting rather than life-giving. Yom Teruah encourages us to prepare our hearts and lives for His return, focusing on what is pleasing to Him and letting go of what drains us.
Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)
Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year, a day of fasting, repentance, and atonement (Leviticus 23:27-28). You may have heard it as the “Day of Judgement”. Jesus, our High Priest, entered the heavenly Holy of Holies with His own blood, securing eternal redemption. "He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption" (Hebrews 9:12). Each year we practice repenting so that we are ready for that ultimate day of judgement when we stand before our King.
Practical Application:
Unforgiveness weighs us down, hindering our ability to lead effectively. Yom Kippur is a time to release all hard feelings and bitter roots that have crept into our hearts. As leaders, we must model forgiveness and cultivate a culture of grace and mercy. By letting go of unforgiveness, we free ourselves to walk in the fullness of God’s love and purpose.
Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles)
Sukkot celebrates God’s provision and presence among His people (Leviticus 23:34-43). During this time, Jesus declared Himself the source of living water and the light of the world. "On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, 'Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink'" (John 7:37). "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life'" (John 8:12).
Practical Application:
In our busy lives, hospitality can feel overwhelming, but Sukkot invites us to set aside time to dwell with God. Focus on enjoying your family, spending time in gratitude, and engaging in gratitude projects to celebrate His provision. This feast reminds us to pause and recognize God’s faithfulness, nurturing a spirit of joy and thanksgiving.
Walking As He Walked
Yeshua’s observance of these feasts was not merely traditional but profoundly prophetic. By walking in His footsteps and celebrating these appointed times, we not only honor His example but also deepen our understanding of His redemptive work. Each feast invites us to reflect on His past fulfillment, recognize His present work in our lives, and anticipate His future return.
These are not just Jewish holidays and feasts; they are God’s calendar and gifts to us, helping us walk as He walked. In “As Was His Custom,” we see the beauty and continuity of God’s plan through the feasts. They are divine appointments that point us to Yeshua, the One who embodies their significance and fulfills their promises. As we align our lives with these sacred times, we join in the timeless rhythm of God’s redemptive story, drawing closer to Him and His purposes for our lives.
We invite you to walk as He walked, embracing the Feasts of Adonai with hearts full of gratitude and anticipation for the fullness of His Kingdom. By doing so, we can lead others into deeper relationship with Him, fostering communities that reflect His love, grace, and truth.
