Blessings
How do you express grief over the loss of a loved one, or deep sorrow for an error in judgment? Over time, tradition has shifted to the extent that it is a mostly individual response, depending on the circumstances. In religious contexts, collective mourning or repentance is probably unheard of. But that was not always the case.
Switching one’s wardrobe to coarse material was not unheard of; nor was heaping ashes on oneself or tearing one’s clothing. In the history of Israel and its Ancient Near Eastern counterparts, this was normative for individuals, families and even nations. Perhaps that’s what makes today’s Holy Nougat so distinctive
“and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto Jehovah your God; for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness, and repenteth him of the evil.” Joel 2:13 ASV
It wasn’t that God’s Chosen had not been observing all the rituals of confession or repentance. In fact, most had it mastered to a fine craft. Their observances may have been on point, but their daily actions reflected a vastly different reality (c.f. Isaiah 58; Malachi 3). The Nougat therefore is inviting that we move beyond mere ritual.
Hence, for us, God is probably inviting us to revisit worship. To move from Observance or entertainment to Participation and engagement. That’s heavy. In fact, that’s a desire for intimacy.
So what does that look like for you and me? A moving away from superficiality perhaps. And movement toward genuineness (c.f. John 4, worship in Spirit and Truth). An intentionality in seeking God’s face, will and purpose with regard to our lives rather than reliance on the faith of our mothers, grandparents or fathers. A desire to know God for Who God is, rather than what God can give to/do for us. And by no means least, loving God to the point where we truly wish to please God even if it seems contrary to our natural selves.
Are we ready to do that? How might we experience God differently if we did?
A lot to swallow – let’s approach with prayer
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
