In Israel, we have been spoiled. Shavuot is the only Holy Day in the year where ALL the congregations usually come together to celebrate and worship together (If you are ever in Israel during Shavuot get in touch with us and we can send you more specific information!). The Youth Groups and worship teams from various congregations perform the latest Israeli composed worship for the body who picnic together and fellowship under shade. It's a first fruits offering of Praise together. The weather is usually hot, so the kids are occupied by water guns, crafts, and making floral crowns. It is a sweet way to celebrate the first harvest of the year (both literally with the wheat, and spiritually through new believers and worship music). It’s also a sweet evidence of the unity of the body (both Jew and Gentile together) and celebration of the giving of the Holy Spirit as a unifying language of the Body of Messiah.
This year, due to the COVID19 pandemic, our yearly gathering has been cancelled, so we are in the same situation as those in the nations, unable to celebrate in physical community. But we must remember, WE ARE NOT ALONE. And while it is a blessing to gather together, we can still celebrate God’s provision, and gift of unity through Yeshua Messiah regardless of the circumstances and where we are. I am reminded of Paul, in prison, singing Hymns and songs as testimony of God’s peace and joy despite the circumstances. Read Acts 16:25-33 for the full story. And read Philippians 4:11-13 for encouragement to find peace and contentment no matter what circumstances you find yourself in. This is a struggle in my own heart and life as it is so easy for me to be swayed by circumstance. This year has been a great lesson to overcome in spite of disappointments.
So how can we celebrate with our families or as singles?
There are some great ideas on Pinterest, but if you’re like me and become a deer in headlights with stress to make something “perfect”, don’t forget that sometimes simple is better, and fun is ALWAYS better than stressful perfection.
If you have more than one child, show them the power of the Holy Spirit to Unite the Body of Messiah with a …. BALLOON! Who doesn’t like balloons, right? Read more here.
Read through the Book of Ruth, and Ask your Children Questions to get them thinking critically about how God shows his provision and heart of redemption through this powerful (and SHORT!) story.
Have the kids write/act out a play of Ruth
Read through Acts 1-2 and ASK your Children to recap what happened on that particular Shavuot/Pentecost.
Create art with or about the Seven Species—Deuteronomy 8:7
Pick flowers and glean from a harvest and make Floral Crowns.
Eat Lots of rich foods—symbolic of God’s provision and blessing! —Shavuot Meal Plan
Sing Worship together and PRAY for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to bring about fresh empowerment and revelation of Yeshua’s salvation in THIS generation!
We would love to hear about how you celebrate with your friends and family as well!