Archives for May 2025

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at six of them.

OINTMENT POURED ON JESUS BODY

12 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.13 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her. (Matthew 26: 12-13)

In Matthew 26:12-13, Jesus says that the woman who anointed his body with ointment did so to prepare him for burial. He further states that her act will be told wherever the gospel is preached as a memorial of her. This highlights the significance of her action in preparing Jesus for his upcoming death and emphasizes the enduring nature of her faith and love. 

The passage from Matthew 26 describes an event where a woman anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume (ointment) at a banquet. 

The woman (identified as Mary Magdalene in other accounts) breaks a flask of precious perfume and pours it on Jesus’ feet, wiping them with her hair. 

Jesus acknowledges that Mary’s action is an act of preparing him for his burial. He emphasizes that her action is a good deed and will be remembered. 

Jesus states that Mary’s act will be told wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, serving as a memorial of her faith and devotion. This highlights the enduring nature of her action and its significance in the context of the gospel message.

PRAYER AND ALMS

And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. (Acts 10:4)

In Acts 10:4, the angel informs Cornelius that his prayers and alms are a memorial offering before God, signifying God’s acceptance and remembrance of his devotion. “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God”:

This phrase emphasizes that Cornelius’s prayers and charitable deeds have been acknowledged and remembered by God. 

The term “memorial offering” draws a parallel to the sacrifices of the old covenant, suggesting that God has accepted Cornelius’s offerings as pleasing to him.This phrase highlights God’s acknowledgement of Cornelius’s faith and acts of charity. 

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at six of them.

CROWNS

9 And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,10 Take of them of the captivity, even of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah, which are come from Babylon, and come thou the same day, and go into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah;11 Then take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set them upon the head of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest;12 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The Branch; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord:13 Even he shall build the temple of the Lord; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.14 And the crowns shall be to Helem, and to Tobijah, and to Jedaiah, and to Hen the son of Zephaniah, for a memorial in the temple of the Lord.15 And they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the Lord, and ye shall know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto you. And this shall come to pass, if ye will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God. (Zechariah 6:9-15)

In Zechariah 6:9-15, the story of the memorial crown focuses on the high priest Joshua and the future Messiah, called “The Branch”. The chapter details how a crown is made from silver and gold, collected from those returned from exile, and placed on Joshua’s head. This act symbolizes the future restoration of the temple and the coming of the Branch, who will build the temple and rule as both priest and king. The crown is also a memorial in the temple, honoring those who contributed the materials.

The memorial crown in Zechariah 6 is not just a piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of God’s promise to restore Jerusalem and bring forth a leader who will rebuild the temple and lead with both priestly and royal authority. 

Joshua, the high priest, is depicted as a sign of the coming Branch. The crown placed on his head represents the authority and glory that will be bestowed upon the Branch, the Messiah, according to Ligonier Ministries. 

The “Branch” is identified as the Messiah, who will emerge from his place and build the temple of the Lord. He will be a priest on his throne, ruling with peace and justice.

The text emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s voice. The fulfillment of the prophecy, including the building of the temple and the coming of the Branch, is conditional upon the people’s obedience.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at six of them.

STONES

6 That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean ye by these stones?7 Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever.8 And the children of Israel did so as Joshua commanded, and took up twelve stones out of the midst of Jordan, as the Lord spake unto Joshua, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, and carried them over with them unto the place where they lodged, and laid them down there. (Joshua 4:6-8)

Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever. (Joshua 4:7)

In Joshua 4:1-8 God commands the Israelites to cross the Jordan River which He has stopped miraculously. Joshua leads the 12 tribes to remove boulders from the riverbed, which they erect in the Promised Land in a place called Gilgal. These 12 stones of Jordan were a memorial to God’s love and miraculous assistance.

However, these stones are appreciating not just by those who witnessed the miracle. Joshua 4:21-22 explains that ‘In the future your children will ask, “What do these stones mean?” Then you can tell them, “This is where the Israelites crossed the Jordan on dry ground.”’ God longs for us to proclaim His goodness to future generations.

The remembrance stones in Gilgal reminded future generations of the God of miracles so that their faith would be renewed. We believe that the Eternal Wall will do this as it memorializes Jesus for centuries.

THE BOOK

13 And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.14 And the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.15 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi: (Exodus 17:13-15)

The children of Israel coming to Rephidim, want water, and chide with Moses about it, who, crying to the Lord, is bid to smite the rock, from whence came water for them, and he named the place from their contention with him, Ex 17:1-7 at this place Amalek came and fought with Israel, who, through the prayer of Moses, signified by the holding up of his hands, and by the sword of Joshua, was vanquished, Ex 17:8-13, for the remembrance of which it was ordered to be recorded in a book, and an altar was built with this inscription on it, “Jehovah Nissi” “The Lord is our banner”: it being the will of God that Amalek should be fought with in every generation until utterly destroyed, Ex 17:14-16.

SPOIL

53 (For the men of war had taken spoil, every man for himself.)54 And Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold of the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and brought it into the tabernacle of the congregation, for a memorial for the children of Israel before the Lord.  (Numbers 31:53-54)

In Numbers 31:53-54, the text describes how the Israelites brought the gold they had acquired as plunder, specifically from the commanders of thousands and hundreds, into the tent of meeting. This gold was to serve as a memorial, a remembrance, for the Israelites before the Lord. The gold, weighing 16,750 shekels, was presented as a gift to the Lord and was a symbolic offering to show their gratitude and dedication. 

After the Israelites’ victory over the Midianites, they had collected a significant amount of gold and other items as plunder.

The gold was not just a collection of wealth; it represented the Israelites’ acknowledgment of God’s role in their victory and served as a reminder of their relationship with Him.

CROWNS

9 And the word of the Lord came unto me, saying,10 Take of them of the captivity, even of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah, which are come from Babylon, and come thou the same day, and go into the house of Josiah the son of Zephaniah;11 Then take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set them upon the head of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest;12 And speak unto him, saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The Branch; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the Lord:13 Even he shall build the temple of the Lord; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.14 And the crowns shall be to Helem, and to Tobijah, and to Jedaiah, and to Hen the son of Zephaniah, for a memorial in the temple of the Lord.15 And they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the Lord, and ye shall know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me unto you. And this shall come to pass, if ye will diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God. (Zechariah 6:9-15)

In Zechariah 6:9-15, the story of the memorial crown focuses on the high priest Joshua and the future Messiah, called “The Branch”. The chapter details how a crown is made from silver and gold, collected from those returned from exile, and placed on Joshua’s head. This act symbolizes the future restoration of the temple and the coming of the Branch, who will build the temple and rule as both priest and king. The crown is also a memorial in the temple, honoring those who contributed the materials.

The memorial crown in Zechariah 6 is not just a piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of God’s promise to restore Jerusalem and bring forth a leader who will rebuild the temple and lead with both priestly and royal authority. 

Joshua, the high priest, is depicted as a sign of the coming Branch. The crown placed on his head represents the authority and glory that will be bestowed upon the Branch, the Messiah, according to Ligonier Ministries. 

The “Branch” is identified as the Messiah, who will emerge from his place and build the temple of the Lord. He will be a priest on his throne, ruling with peace and justice.

The text emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s voice. The fulfillment of the prophecy, including the building of the temple and the coming of the Branch, is conditional upon the people’s obedience.

OINTMENT POURED ON JESUS BODY

12 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.13 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her. (Matthew 26: 12-13)

In Matthew 26:12-13, Jesus says that the woman who anointed his body with ointment did so to prepare him for burial. He further states that her act will be told wherever the gospel is preached as a memorial of her. This highlights the significance of her action in preparing Jesus for his upcoming death and emphasizes the enduring nature of her faith and love. 

The passage from Matthew 26 describes an event where a woman anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume (ointment) at a banquet. 

The woman (identified as Mary Magdalene in other accounts) breaks a flask of precious perfume and pours it on Jesus’ feet, wiping them with her hair. 

Jesus acknowledges that Mary’s action is an act of preparing him for his burial. He emphasizes that her action is a good deed and will be remembered. 

Jesus states that Mary’s act will be told wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, serving as a memorial of her faith and devotion. This highlights the enduring nature of her action and its significance in the context of the gospel message.

PRAYER AND ALMS

And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. (Acts 10:4)

In Acts 10:4, the angel informs Cornelius that his prayers and alms are a memorial offering before God, signifying God’s acceptance and remembrance of his devotion. “Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God”:

This phrase emphasizes that Cornelius’s prayers and charitable deeds have been acknowledged and remembered by God. 

The term “memorial offering” draws a parallel to the sacrifices of the old covenant, suggesting that God has accepted Cornelius’s offerings as pleasing to him.This phrase highlights God’s acknowledgement of Cornelius’s faith and acts of charity. 

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at six of them.

STONES

6 That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean ye by these stones?7 Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever.8 And the children of Israel did so as Joshua commanded, and took up twelve stones out of the midst of Jordan, as the Lord spake unto Joshua, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, and carried them over with them unto the place where they lodged, and laid them down there. (Joshua 4:6-8)

Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever. (Joshua 4:7)

In Joshua 4:1-8 God commands the Israelites to cross the Jordan River which He has stopped miraculously. Joshua leads the 12 tribes to remove boulders from the riverbed, which they erect in the Promised Land in a place called Gilgal. These 12 stones of Jordan were a memorial to God’s love and miraculous assistance.

However, these stones are appreciating not just by those who witnessed the miracle. Joshua 4:21-22 explains that ‘In the future your children will ask, “What do these stones mean?” Then you can tell them, “This is where the Israelites crossed the Jordan on dry ground.”’ God longs for us to proclaim His goodness to future generations.

The remembrance stones in Gilgal reminded future generations of the God of miracles so that their faith would be renewed. We believe that the Eternal Wall will do this as it memorializes Jesus for centuries.

THE BOOK

13 And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.14 And the Lord said unto Moses, Write this for a memorial in a book, and rehearse it in the ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.15 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi: (Exodus 17:13-15)

The children of Israel coming to Rephidim, want water, and chide with Moses about it, who, crying to the Lord, is bid to smite the rock, from whence came water for them, and he named the place from their contention with him, Ex 17:1-7 at this place Amalek came and fought with Israel, who, through the prayer of Moses, signified by the holding up of his hands, and by the sword of Joshua, was vanquished, Ex 17:8-13, for the remembrance of which it was ordered to be recorded in a book, and an altar was built with this inscription on it, “Jehovah Nissi” “The Lord is our banner”: it being the will of God that Amalek should be fought with in every generation until utterly destroyed, Ex 17:14-16.

SPOIL

53 (For the men of war had taken spoil, every man for himself.)54 And Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold of the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and brought it into the tabernacle of the congregation, for a memorial for the children of Israel before the Lord.  (Numbers 31:53-54)

In Numbers 31:53-54, the text describes how the Israelites brought the gold they had acquired as plunder, specifically from the commanders of thousands and hundreds, into the tent of meeting. This gold was to serve as a memorial, a remembrance, for the Israelites before the Lord. The gold, weighing 16,750 shekels, was presented as a gift to the Lord and was a symbolic offering to show their gratitude and dedication. 

After the Israelites’ victory over the Midianites, they had collected a significant amount of gold and other items as plunder.

The gold was not just a collection of wealth; it represented the Israelites’ acknowledgment of God’s role in their victory and served as a reminder of their relationship with Him.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at four of them.

3) PURIM

And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed. (Esther 9:28)

Definition and Origin

Purim is a Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. The name “Purim” is derived from the word “pur,” meaning “lot,” as Haman, the antagonist in the account, cast lots to determine the day on which he would execute his plan against the Jews (Esther 3:7).

Biblical Account

The narrative of Purim is found in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Ketuvim, or Writings, in the Hebrew Bible. The account unfolds during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia. Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the king’s court, harbored a deep hatred for the Jewish people, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman devised a scheme to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire.

Esther, a Jewish woman who had become queen, was urged by her cousin Mordecai to intercede with the king on behalf of her people. Despite the risk to her own life, Esther approached the king and revealed Haman’s plot. The king, moved by Esther’s plea and angered by Haman’s treachery, ordered Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).

Following Haman’s downfall, the king issued a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. On the appointed day, the Jews triumphed over those who sought their harm, and the threat was averted (Esther 9:1-2).

Observance

Purim is celebrated annually on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, with the 15th observed in walled cities like Jerusalem, known as Shushan Purim. 

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Purim underscores themes of divine providence and deliverance. Although God’s name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is seen in the orchestration of events leading to the salvation of His people. The festival serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to protect and preserve His chosen people against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Purim also highlights the courage and faith of individuals like Esther and Mordecai, who played pivotal roles in the deliverance of their people. Their actions exemplify the importance of standing firm in faith and righteousness, even in the face of great danger. (https://biblehub.com/topical/p/purim.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at four of them.

1) PASSOVER

13 And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.14 And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the Lord throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.15 Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. (Exodus 12:13-15)

Definition and Origin

Passover, known as “Pesach” in Hebrew, is one of the most significant feasts in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The term “Passover” refers to the event described in Exodus 12, where the Lord “passed over” the houses of the Israelites during the tenth plague, sparing their firstborn while striking down the firstborn of Egypt. This event marks the beginning of the Exodus, the journey of the Israelites to the Promised Land.

Biblical Account

The institution of Passover is detailed in Exodus 12. God commanded Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites to take a lamb without blemish, slaughter it, and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. The lamb was to be roasted and eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. The Lord declared, “For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and I will strike down every firstborn male, both man and beast, and I will execute judgment against all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will fall on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:12-13).

Observance and Rituals

Passover is observed on the 14th day of the first month, Nisan, in the Hebrew calendar. 

Passover in the New Testament

Passover holds significant typological importance in the New Testament, where it is seen as a foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrificial death. The Apostle Paul writes, “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples, was a Passover meal. During this meal, Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, saying, “This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19). The crucifixion of Jesus coincided with the Passover, underscoring His role as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). (https://biblehub.com/topical/p/passover.htm)

2) UNLEAVENED BREAD

Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days; and there shall no leavened bread be seen with thee, neither shall there be leaven seen with thee in all thy quarters.8 And thou shalt shew thy son in that day, saying, This is done because of that which the Lord did unto me when I came forth out of Egypt.9 And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that the Lord’s law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the Lord brought thee out of Egypt.10 Thou shalt therefore keep this ordinance in his season from year to year. (Exodus 13:7-10)

Definition and Origin

The term “unleavened” refers to bread or other baked goods made without leavening agents, such as yeast, which cause dough to rise. In the Bible, unleavened bread holds significant religious and symbolic meaning, particularly in the context of the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread.

Biblical Significance

Unleavened bread is first mentioned in the context of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. As they prepared to leave in haste, there was no time to allow their bread to rise. Thus, they baked unleavened bread, which became a lasting symbol of their deliverance from bondage. In Exodus 12:39 , it is recorded: “They baked unleavened cakes of the dough that they had brought out of Egypt, for it was not leavened, because they were driven out of Egypt and could not delay; they had not prepared any provisions for themselves.”

Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread

The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a seven-day festival that begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, immediately following the Passover. During this time, the Israelites were commanded to eat unleavened bread and remove all leaven from their homes. Exodus 12:15 states: “For seven days you must eat unleavened bread. On the first day, you are to remove the leaven from your houses. Whoever eats anything leavened from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel.”

This feast serves as a reminder of God’s deliverance and the purity required of His people. Leaven, often symbolizing sin and corruption, is to be purged, reflecting the call to holiness and separation from sin.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, unleavened bread continues to hold symbolic importance. The Apostle Paul draws a parallel between leaven and sin in 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 : “Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven works through the whole batch of dough? Get rid of the old leaven, that you may be a new unleavened batch, as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”

Here, Paul emphasizes the need for believers to live lives of sincerity and truth, free from the corrupting influence of sin, just as unleavened bread is free from leaven. (https://biblehub.com/topical/u/unleavened.htm)

3) PURIM

And that these days should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city; and that these days of Purim should not fail from among the Jews, nor the memorial of them perish from their seed. (Esther 9:28)

Definition and Origin

Purim is a Jewish festival commemorating the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to annihilate them, as recorded in the Book of Esther. The name “Purim” is derived from the word “pur,” meaning “lot,” as Haman, the antagonist in the account, cast lots to determine the day on which he would execute his plan against the Jews (Esther 3:7).

Biblical Account

The narrative of Purim is found in the Book of Esther, which is part of the Ketuvim, or Writings, in the Hebrew Bible. The account unfolds during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) of Persia. Haman, an Agagite and a high-ranking official in the king’s court, harbored a deep hatred for the Jewish people, particularly Mordecai, a Jew who refused to bow to him. In his wrath, Haman devised a scheme to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire.

Esther, a Jewish woman who had become queen, was urged by her cousin Mordecai to intercede with the king on behalf of her people. Despite the risk to her own life, Esther approached the king and revealed Haman’s plot. The king, moved by Esther’s plea and angered by Haman’s treachery, ordered Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9-10).

Following Haman’s downfall, the king issued a new decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves against their enemies. On the appointed day, the Jews triumphed over those who sought their harm, and the threat was averted (Esther 9:1-2).

Observance

Purim is celebrated annually on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, with the 15th observed in walled cities like Jerusalem, known as Shushan Purim. 

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Purim underscores themes of divine providence and deliverance. Although God’s name is not explicitly mentioned in the Book of Esther, His hand is seen in the orchestration of events leading to the salvation of His people. The festival serves as a testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to protect and preserve His chosen people against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Purim also highlights the courage and faith of individuals like Esther and Mordecai, who played pivotal roles in the deliverance of their people. Their actions exemplify the importance of standing firm in faith and righteousness, even in the face of great danger. (https://biblehub.com/topical/p/purim.htm)

4) BLOWING OF THE TRUMPETS

And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,24 Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the seventh month, in the first day of the month, shall ye have a sabbath, a memorial of blowing of trumpets, an holy convocation.25 Ye shall do no servile work therein: but ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the Lord. (Leviticus 23:23-25)

Also in the day of your gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God: I am the Lord your God. (Numbers 10:10) 

Definition and Origin

The Feast of Trumpets, also known as Rosh Hashanah in Jewish tradition, is one of the appointed feasts of the Lord as outlined in the Old Testament. It is observed on the first day of the seventh month, Tishri, according to the Hebrew calendar. This feast marks the beginning of the civil new year in Jewish tradition and is a time of spiritual reflection and renewal.

Biblical Foundation

The Feast of Trumpets is instituted in Leviticus 23:23-25: “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Speak to the Israelites and say, “On the first day of the seventh month you are to have a day of rest, a sacred assembly commemorated with trumpet blasts. You must not do any regular work, but you are to present an offering made by fire to the LORD.”‘”

Numbers 29:1 further elaborates on the observance: “On the first day of the seventh month, you are to hold a sacred assembly; you must not do any regular work. This is a day for you to sound the trumpets.”

Significance and Observance

The blowing of trumpets, or shofars, is a central element of this feast. The trumpet blasts serve as a call to repentance and a reminder of God’s sovereignty. The sound of the shofar is intended to awaken the spiritual consciousness of the people, prompting them to reflect on their lives and return to God.

The Feast of Trumpets is a time of introspection and preparation for the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), which follows ten days later. These ten days, known as the Days of Awe, are a period of repentance and seeking forgiveness.

Symbolism and Prophetic Implications

In addition to its historical and spiritual significance, the Feast of Trumpets holds prophetic implications within Christian eschatology. Many conservative Christian theologians see the trumpet blasts as symbolic of the future return of Christ. This is supported by passages such as 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, which states, “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.”

The Feast of Trumpets is thus seen as a foreshadowing of the final gathering of God’s people and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

Cultural and Liturgical Practices

In Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah is observed with various customs, including the sounding of the shofar, prayer services, and festive meals. It is a time for personal reflection, prayer, and the seeking of reconciliation with others. The liturgy often includes the recitation of Psalms and other prayers that emphasize God’s kingship and the hope for redemption.

The Feast of Trumpets, while rooted in Jewish tradition, continues to hold significance for Christians as a reminder of God’s call to repentance and the anticipation of Christ’s return. (https://biblehub.com/topical/f/feast_of_trumpets.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at four of them.

2) UNLEAVENED BREAD

Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days; and there shall no leavened bread be seen with thee, neither shall there be leaven seen with thee in all thy quarters.8 And thou shalt shew thy son in that day, saying, This is done because of that which the Lord did unto me when I came forth out of Egypt.9 And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that the Lord’s law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the Lord brought thee out of Egypt.10 Thou shalt therefore keep this ordinance in his season from year to year. (Exodus 13:7-10)

Definition and Origin

The term “unleavened” refers to bread or other baked goods made without leavening agents, such as yeast, which cause dough to rise. In the Bible, unleavened bread holds significant religious and symbolic meaning, particularly in the context of the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread.

Biblical Significance

Unleavened bread is first mentioned in the context of the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. As they prepared to leave in haste, there was no time to allow their bread to rise. Thus, they baked unleavened bread, which became a lasting symbol of their deliverance from bondage. In Exodus 12:39 , it is recorded: “They baked unleavened cakes of the dough that they had brought out of Egypt, for it was not leavened, because they were driven out of Egypt and could not delay; they had not prepared any provisions for themselves.”

Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread

The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a seven-day festival that begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, immediately following the Passover. During this time, the Israelites were commanded to eat unleavened bread and remove all leaven from their homes. Exodus 12:15 states: “For seven days you must eat unleavened bread. On the first day, you are to remove the leaven from your houses. Whoever eats anything leavened from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel.”

This feast serves as a reminder of God’s deliverance and the purity required of His people. Leaven, often symbolizing sin and corruption, is to be purged, reflecting the call to holiness and separation from sin.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, unleavened bread continues to hold symbolic importance. The Apostle Paul draws a parallel between leaven and sin in 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 : “Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven works through the whole batch of dough? Get rid of the old leaven, that you may be a new unleavened batch, as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.”

Here, Paul emphasizes the need for believers to live lives of sincerity and truth, free from the corrupting influence of sin, just as unleavened bread is free from leaven. (https://biblehub.com/topical/u/unleavened.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Memorials in the Bible

A memorial is an object which serves as a focus for memory of something, usually a person (who has died) or an event. The most common type of memorial is the gravestone or the memorial plaque. Also common are war memorials commemorating those who have died in wars. 

God has given us many memorials. This week we will look at four of them.

1) PASSOVER

13 And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.14 And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the Lord throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.15 Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel. (Exodus 12:13-15)

Definition and Origin

Passover, known as “Pesach” in Hebrew, is one of the most significant feasts in the Jewish calendar, commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The term “Passover” refers to the event described in Exodus 12, where the Lord “passed over” the houses of the Israelites during the tenth plague, sparing their firstborn while striking down the firstborn of Egypt. This event marks the beginning of the Exodus, the journey of the Israelites to the Promised Land.

Biblical Account

The institution of Passover is detailed in Exodus 12. God commanded Moses and Aaron to instruct the Israelites to take a lamb without blemish, slaughter it, and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. The lamb was to be roasted and eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. The Lord declared, “For I will pass through the land of Egypt on that night, and I will strike down every firstborn male, both man and beast, and I will execute judgment against all the gods of Egypt. I am the LORD. The blood on the houses where you are staying will distinguish them; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will fall on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt” (Exodus 12:12-13).

Observance and Rituals

Passover is observed on the 14th day of the first month, Nisan, in the Hebrew calendar. 

Passover in the New Testament

Passover holds significant typological importance in the New Testament, where it is seen as a foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrificial death. The Apostle Paul writes, “For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). The Last Supper, which Jesus shared with His disciples, was a Passover meal. During this meal, Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, saying, “This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19). The crucifixion of Jesus coincided with the Passover, underscoring His role as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). (https://biblehub.com/topical/p/passover.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com