In the annals of Christian history, the establishment of liturgical feasts and holy days has been a pivotal moment, shaping the rhythm of worship and devotion for millions of believers worldwide. Yet, as we reflect on the decisions made by Christian leaders regarding the timing and observance of these sacred occasions, it becomes evident that there are missed opportunities for a richer, more inclusive expression of faith.
One cannot help but wonder: What if Christian leaders had chosen to incorporate the biblical Feasts of the LORD into the liturgical calendar?
These feasts, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, bear profound significance for Christians who embrace Jesus (Yeshua) as the Messiah. Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Firstfruits, Pentecost, and other holy days are not mere relics of a bygone era but rather timeless reminders of God's faithfulness and redemptive plan for humanity.
I feel a sense of cognitive dissonance every year when "Holy Week" and Passover come around, especially when they don't fall in the same month or week. I can't help but feel that something is off when Passover and "Holy Week" don't occur at the same time. This dissonance arises from a deep longing for Christianity's timing when liturgical feasts are observed to be more rooted, aligned, and in sync with what is written in the Holy Scripture.
Imagine a Holy Week that aligns seamlessly with the Spring Holy Days, weaving together the tapestry of Jewish and Christian heritage. Passover, with its commemoration of liberation from bondage, takes on new depth when viewed through the lens of Jesus as the ultimate Passover Lamb. The Feast of Unleavened Bread, following Passover, serves as a poignant reminder of Jesus's sinlessness and purity, as symbolized by the unleavened bread (matzo) eaten during this time. Jesus Christ was in His tomb during the Feasts of Unleavened Bread. The Feast of Firstfruits (not “Easter”) becomes a celebration of His resurrection, the firstfruits of a new creation. Pentecost, traditionally marking the giving of the Law, becomes a powerful symbol of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon believers.
Yet, in the establishment of a separate "Holy Week" with its own set of days and terminology, early Christian leaders deliberately sidelined the rich tapestry of Jewish identity and heritage within Christianity. Unfortunately, most Christian leaders and churches today continue to do the same. By divorcing these sacred observances from their biblical context and relegating them to the periphery of Christian worship, we have missed an opportunity for deeper theological reflection and spiritual growth.
What if we were to reclaim our Jewish roots and embrace a Messianic perspective in our observance of these feasts? What if we were to recognize the profound interconnectedness of Judaism and Christianity, acknowledging that we serve the same God and share a common spiritual heritage? By doing so, we not only honor the faith of our forebears but also enrich our own worship and understanding of God's redemptive plan.
The incorporation of the biblical Feasts of the LORD as a central part of Christian worship could serve as a powerful tool to provoke unbelieving Jews to jealousy, as mentioned in Romans 11:11. This is not about legalistic adherence to rules but about the deeply relational aspect of faith. It is the living relationship with the Father, the peace in His love, and the rich connection that Yeshua has brought for all believers that can provoke curiosity and jealousy among Jewish people. Seeing Gentile believers with a close connection to the God of Israel through Jesus can stir a desire in many Jewish hearts to discover more about Yeshua, the One through whom this connection is possible. By incorporating these Feasts into Christian worship, we create opportunities for Jews to encounter the truth of Jesus as the Messiah and experience the richness of relationship with God.
It is time for a paradigm shift in how we approach Christian liturgical feasts. Let us reclaim the biblical Feasts of the LORD as a central part of our worship, infusing our traditions with renewed vitality and meaning. Let us embrace a Messianic perspective, interpreting these feasts in light of the life, teachings, and significance of Jesus. And let us strive to maintain a distinction between Judaism and Christianity while affirming the deep bonds that unite us as children of the same God.
In doing so, we honor the richness of our shared heritage and pave the way for a more inclusive and vibrant expression of faith. As we embark on this journey of rediscovery and renewal, may we find ourselves drawn ever closer to the heart of God and the timeless truths contained within His Word.