Marking Time: Forming Spirituality through the Christian Year

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Mark i ng T ime : Formi ng Sp i r i tua l i t y through the Chr i s t i an Year

6. Every fiftieth year (Jubilee Year)

a. All property returned to its original owner.

b. All slaves freed, and the land was to lie fallow (Lev. 25.8-17, 23-55).

B. Public Jewish celebrations

1. When temples were dedicated or renovated (1 Kings 8; 2 Chron. 29)

2. When kings were coronated (1 Kings 1.39-40; 2 Kings 11.12, 13, 20)

3. When military campaigns were successful (1 Sam. 18.6-7; cf. 30.16)

4. When families celebrated notable events

a. When children were weaned (Gen. 21.8)

b. At marriage ceremonies (Gen. 29.22; Judg. 14.10-11; Tob. 10.7; Mark 2.19; John 2.1-2)

5. Shepherds held festivals when flocks were sheared (1 Sam. 25; 2 Sam. 13.23-29; cf. Gen. 31.19; 38.12).

6. When offering sacrifice to acknowledge God’s blessing with family and guests (cf. Lev. 3; 7.11-18; Deut. 12.6-7, 11-12, 17-18; 1 Sam. 9.22-24; 16.2-5; Job 1.4)