Moedim

The Torah tells us that God has established moedim - appointed times - for his people. These appointed times include Shabbat (sabbath), Rosh Chodesh (first of each lunar month), Pesach (passover), Hag Hamatzot (unleavened bread), Yom Habikkurim (first fruits) and Shavuot (Pentecost) in the spring, and Yom Teruah (Day of Trumpets), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and Sukkot (booths) in the fall.

I was reminded this morning that we, as individuals, also have appointed times; for example, "it is appointed to man once to die." In the long (sometimes dark) years since I last posted on this blog, I have lost a wife, gained a wife, moved, retired, changed roles, and moved through several birthdays. These are all my "appointed times." Anyone who lives long enough will have similar milestones in their life. Appointed times.

My wife and I are attempting to make wise decisions for the time we may have left. We are doing things we enjoy while also planning for the future - whatever that may look like. We've come to the conclusion that it is important to experience life, not just exist.

We especially enjoy times we can "come away" - whether hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, or spending time with those that are important to us, these times help us connect, recharge, and be refreshed in our journey. We make time for each other and for those who are important to us.

In a similar way, the Father calls us to "come away." He has established appointed times - moedim - to give us a rhythm and to ensure that we are regularly in touch with Him. 2 hours of prayer a day, one day a week, one day a month, and then the feast days, ensure that we are regularly called to fellowship with our heavenly Father. In the Christian Tradition, of course, Sunday, Easter, Christmas, and other "appointed times" are intended to fill this role (although I confess I'm more drawn to keep the days and times actually enumerated by God Himself at this point in my spiritual journey.)

Some appointed times are joyful, some are somber, and all mark the passage of time. Both as individuals and corporately, we mark time as we await the return of the One True King. May it be soon and in our day!

As you keep the moedim of your life, may your days be a blessing and may you experience life, and your heavenly Father, in new and exciting ways. Amen.