Everyone is created for a God-given mission, which may seem impossible at first, but is achievable with faith. The only thing that keeps you from accomplishing it is whether you accept the mission or not.

In this series, we have followed Nehemiah’s mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem from start to finish. He accepted the mission, gained permission to travel, secured needed construction materials, and rallied the people of Jerusalem to unite in rebuilding the walls. Even in the face of external opposition, the construction project was completed in only 52 days, a God-ordained miracle. After some time to rest and recover, Nehemiah moved to his next mission, calling the people of Jerusalem to unify as a community and to submit to God’s will and God’s laws by signing a covenant committing to put God first in everything.

All this now accomplished, Nehemiah organized a grand celebration. All the people came together for a party that was so loud it resonated beyond the walls of the city. All that had been accomplished no doubt stunned Israel’s rivals, striking fear in their hearts and causing them to wonder at the greatness of the God of Israel.

Celebration is important to God. Celebration lifts our hearts and increases our joy. In the Old Testament God mandates no fewer than 12 feasts/festivals annually. These were events where God’s people celebrated with music, dancing, laughing, great food and wine, no work, no business, just celebration. We know from Scripture that Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding feast. The Pharisees criticized Jesus for his association with sinners and called him “a glutton and a drunkard” in Mt 11:19. He was neither of those things, but His presence at parties and celebrations must have been quite prevalent for this criticism to arise. Jesus states in Mt 8 that we will join with the patriarchs at a great feast in Heaven. Heaven will be a celebration!

We read in Philippians to be cheerful, joyous, and to celebrate in every season of life. The idea that Christians are to be somber and generally no fun, didn’t come from the Scripture. When God’s people celebrate and live with joy in this world, it’s attractive and compelling to people outside the wall/outside the faith. When others see your joy, Christ-follower, they want to find out what’s going on. That creates a great opportunity to witness!

Scriptures – Matthew 19:26 (NLT); Nehemiah 6:16 (ERV); Matthew 11:19 (NIV), Matthew 8:11 (NIV); Philippians 4:4 (TPT); Nehemiah 12:43 (NLT)

Verses – “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” (Mt 19:26) “Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let your joy overflow!” (Ph 4:4)

Questions – Do you have annual celebrations in your family? How do you feel about celebrations? Are you excited to receive a party invitation, or does it strike dread in your heart? Do you have fond memories of celebrations during your childhood? What has influenced your attitude about celebrations? Is your attitude healthy or does it need adjustment?

Prayer – Dear God, I have so much to be thankful for and to celebrate. Help me to live with an attitude of joy and gratitude and to take time along life’s way to pause from all of life’s cares and simply and fully celebrate! Thank you for validating joy and celebration in the lives of your children. May our celebrating bring you honor and glory. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.