“In the first day shall be an holy convocation; ye shall do no manner of servile work therein.”
Context: The book of Numbers is primarily concerned with the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. It contains various laws, regulations, and instructions given by God to the people of Israel through Moses. In Numbers 28, God provides instructions concerning the offerings and sacrifices to be presented daily, on the Sabbaths, and on the appointed festivals.
Explanation: Numbers 28:18 specifically addresses the offering to be made on the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. During this feast, which occurs in the month of Nisan (also known as Abib), the Israelites were commanded to observe a holy convocation and abstain from any servile work.
The Feast of Unleavened Bread: This feast was instituted by God to commemorate the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12:17). It begins on the fifteenth day of the first month (Nisan) and lasts for seven days (Exodus 12:18). The first day of the feast is a special day of convocation and rest.
Holy Convocation: A holy convocation refers to a sacred assembly or gathering of the people for worship and the observance of religious ceremonies. It was a time when the Israelites would come together to worship God, offer sacrifices, and engage in spiritual activities.
Abstaining from Servile Work: On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Israelites were instructed to refrain from performing any servile work. The term “servile work” refers to laborious tasks or ordinary work associated with their daily occupations. This requirement ensured that the focus of the day was on worship and the spiritual significance of the feast.
Application: Although the context of Numbers 28:18 pertains to the specific observance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread for the Israelites, we can draw some principles from this verse that apply to our lives today.
- Honoring Sacred Time: Just as the Israelites were called to set apart certain days for worship and spiritual reflection, we should also prioritize and honor sacred time in our lives. This includes setting aside regular moments for prayer, meditation, and worship, as well as participating in corporate gatherings with fellow believers.
- Rest and Reflection: The requirement to abstain from servile work reminds us of the importance of rest and reflection in our spiritual lives. Taking time away from our usual activities allows us to refocus our attention on God, seek His guidance, and evaluate our spiritual journey. It is a reminder that our relationship with God should take precedence over worldly pursuits.
- Commemoration and Celebration: The Feast of Unleavened Bread served as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and deliverance for the Israelites. In a similar manner, we can use various celebrations and commemorations within the Christian calendar, such as Christmas and Easter, to reflect on and celebrate God’s redemptive work through Jesus Christ. These moments provide opportunities to deepen our understanding of God’s grace and renew our commitment to follow Him.
In summary, Numbers 28:18 highlights the instructions given to the Israelites regarding the observance of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The verse emphasizes the importance of setting aside time for worship, abstaining from servile work, and participating in holy convocations. While the context is specific to the Israelites, we can learn from these principles and apply them in our own spiritual lives today.
