The Passover Celebration Continues
October 17, 2020
Commentary
The time set by the law for the celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread was seven days (Ex. 12:15; Lev. 23:6) but because it had fallen into such irregularity they doubled the period of celebration and kept it 14 days with great satisfaction and joy. Materials for additional sacrificial meals were supplied by the King and the priests. While the priests sang and praised the Lord (v. 21). Hezekiah thanked the Levites for leading the celebration and doing such a good job (v. 22). The worshipers celebrated for seven days by offering sacrifices, by eating the sacred meals, and by praising the Lord God of their ancesters.
As stated above they actually celebrated for seven days by offering sacrifices and everyone was so excited that they agreed to celebrate seven more days (v. 23). A great number of the priests sacrificed themselves so that there would be a sufficient number of hands for the additional services. Hezekiah gave the people 1000 bulls and 7000 sheep to be offered as sacrifices and to be used as sacred food for the meals. The princes also gave 1000 bulls and 10,000 sheep and a great number of priests sanctified themselves for service (v. 24). Everyone was very happy, including those from Judah and Israel, the priests, the Levites and the foreigners living in Judah and Israel (v. 25). It was the biggest celebration in Jerusalem since the days of King Solomon (v. 26). The priests and Levites asked God to bless the people and their prayer was heard all the way to heaven (v. 27).
Application
It is good to praise people publically and criticize them privately. I need to be looking for ways to praise people for their accomplishments in life. Honest praise is one of the greatest motivators I can possibly give to others. I would like to be known as an encourager.
2 Chronicles 30:21– 27 (NET)
21 The Israelites who were in Jerusalem observed the Feast of Unleavened Bread for seven days with great joy. The Levites and priests were praising the Lord every day with all their might. 22 Hezekiah expressed his appreciation to all the Levites, who demonstrated great skill in serving the Lord. They feasted for the seven days of the festival, and were making peace offerings and giving thanks to the Lord God of their ancestors.
23 The entire assembly then decided to celebrate for seven more days; so they joyfully celebrated for seven more days. 24 King Hezekiah of Judah supplied 1,000 bulls and 7,000 sheep for the assembly, while the officials supplied them with 1,000 bulls and 10,000 sheep. Many priests consecrated themselves. 25 The celebration included the entire assembly of Judah, the priests, the Levites, the entire assembly of those who came from Israel, the resident foreigners who came from the land of Israel, and those who were residents of Judah. 26 There was a great celebration in Jerusalem, unlike anything that had occurred in Jerusalem since the time of King Solomon son of David of Israel. 27 The priests and Levites got up and pronounced blessings on the people. The Lord responded favorably to them as their prayers reached his holy dwelling place in heaven.