Spiritually Synchronizing to the Holidays
Spiritually Synchronizing to the Holidays
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1
It’s the season where our senses will be swamped, and our spirits will be smitten with the sights and sounds of Christmas. In addition, there will also be a proliferation of phrases pertinent to the holiday season that points us to the reality that Christmas time is here.
For instance, “It’s the best time of the year;” “Seasons greetings,” “All is calm, all is bright;” “Let it snow;” “Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night;” and “There's no place like home for the holidays.” For our blog this week I invite you to consider with me the phrase
“Happy Holidays”
Are you aware that the phrase “Happy Holidays" has been used in the United States since the mid-1800s? The word "holiday" dates to earlier than 950 A.D. and originates from the Old English word "hāligdæg", meaning "holy day." The phrase has been employed as a Christmastime greeting since 1937.
Furthermore, “Happy Holidays” and other common greetings have been used in the United States for over 150 years. For example, an 1863 Philadelphia Inquirer advertisement for children’s holiday gifts proclaimed, “Happy holidays are coming!” to publicize its “presents for children and adults.”
Holidays are times for celebration, but what does scripture have to say about them? Some holidays are fixed in faith, while others have secular origins. The Holy Scriptures extend eternal principles on what and how to celebrate. Let’s examine what Scripture says about the holidays we considerably celebrate.
Romans 14:5-6 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. 6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 prompts us to process and park (mentally and spiritually) with regard to seasons and every activity in life, including celebrating and rejoicing. It concedes that there are moments elected for expressing joy and happiness through celebrations and holidays.
Celebrating holidays encourages us to embrace the diverse seasons of life, traveling around through both times of sorrow and times of joy. It is throughout these times of celebration that we can discover relief, encouragement, and renewed hope, as we experience the fullness of God’s love and provision.
Psalms 100:1-2 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing.
This passage promotes praise worship and celebration with attitudes that advances joy and gladness. It also redirects us from our preoccupation with self and things and turns us to recognizing His greatness and faithfulness.
Spiritually Synchronizing to the Holidays is cementing your celebration with Christ in you the HOPE OF GLORY! HAPPY HOLY DAYS!!!
Not a sermon just some thoughts...