HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICE (Day 1)

HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICE 

FRIDAY 8TH NOVEMBER, 2024

DAY ONE: INTRODUCTION

Reverend Professor Y. P. Mancha

Guest Speaker: Rev. Prof. Y. P. Mancha

Topic: Harvest Thanksgiving: Understanding God’s Timing and Provision

Introduction:

God has designed a time and season for everything, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1-12, reminding us that all aspects of life unfold according to His plan. This rhythm of seasons—seedtime and harvest, summer and winter—will continue as long as the earth endures (Genesis 8:22). Everything God created is not only good but intended to fulfill its purpose in its time (Genesis 1:25, 31).

Biblical Roots of Harvest Thanksgiving:

Thanksgiving is deeply embedded in biblical practices, especially among the Jewish people, who celebrated various harvest festivals as acts of gratitude and worship:

1. Passover (Barley Harvest) - Exodus 12:6: Passover symbolizes the ultimate redemption through Jesus, allowing us to "pass over" from death to life in Christ. It’s a call to be grateful for salvation.

2. Pentecost (Wheat Harvest) - Leviticus 23:10: Pentecost, celebrated at the wheat harvest, is a reminder of our need for the Holy Spirit. Just as the wheat harvest sustained them, the Holy Spirit sustains us spiritually, guiding us through life.

3. Tabernacles (Fruit Harvest) - Leviticus 23:33: The Feast of Tabernacles was a time to celebrate God’s provision and protection during the Israelites' time in the desert. It reminds us of God’s presence and protection even in uncertain times.

Pastor Ishaya Goni, a companion of Rev. Prof. Y. P Mancha at the Harvest Thanksgiving Service.

Why We Celebrate Harvest Thanksgiving:

These biblical feasts illustrate God's plan of salvation and His sustaining hand over His people (Biblical feasts are tapestry of spiritual truths, revealing God's plan of salvation). In the same way, harvest thanksgiving today is an expression of gratitude for God’s presence, provision, protection, sustenance, and guidance (3PSD). By recognizing each season as an opportunity to honor God, we align ourselves with His divine timing and celebrate His faithfulness in every aspect of life.

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