Greetings from Israel! Here in the Holy Land, the 2023 ICEJ Australian Branch Feast tour has not only gained insights and delight from touring the Land of Israel, but along with many other nations experienced the joy of the Feast of Tabernacles as written in Leviticus 23:34 “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘The fifteenth day of this seventh month shall be the Feast of Tabernacles for seven days to the LORD.” And Leviticus 23:42 “You shall dwell in booths(Tents) for seven days. All who are native Israelites shall dwell in booths(Tents).”
Today we come to the seventh and last day of the Feast.
The Feast of Tabernacles is a “Moedim” (appointed time) in which God commanded his people to dwell in Sukkahs, a small hut/tent in which meals are eaten and times of worship are conducted. The Sukkah is a reminder of the tents the children of Israel dwelt in whilst they sojourned through the wilderness.
It is also a reminder that God chose to dwell with the children of Israel as He too made His presence known in a tent, the Tabernacle in the Wilderness. It has always been God’s desire to dwell with His people.
“Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him.” John 14:23
The last day of this seven day feast is known as “Hoshana Rabba”, meaning the great salvation. It is a time of rejoicing, being thankful for God’s provision and blessings. It is also a time for renewed fellowship with God.
A Sukkah or a Booth is temporary dwelling place, we are reminded that spiritually this world, as it stands, is only a temporary dwelling place… Until Jesus our Messiah returns. He will make all things new, and we tabernacle with Him forever.
“Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.” Revelation 21:3
Israel Feast of Tabernacles Tour Update
The ICEJ Australia Feast Tour team have been so blessed & enriched by the Feast so far.
Here’s a (small!) snapshot of some of our highlights. Follow us on Social Media to see more!
Shabbat Shalom,
Sarah Way
ICEJ Australia National Director