There is a kind of joy that flows from within whenever anyone completes a task. The Jews were moved into celebration of completion of the building of the temple. Celebrations provide opportunities for persons to rejoice, especially after the completion of a difficult task. After the temple was completed in four years, the Israelites celebrated God by sharing the Passover together.
King Darius’ order to Tattenai, governor of West Euphrates, Shethar-bozenai and their fellow officials to stay away from the building of the temple was strictly followed. They did exactly as the emperor commanded and progress was made with the encouragement of prophets Haggai and Zechariah, as commanded by God. The building project was completed on the third day of the Month of Adar, in the sixth year during the reign of Darius the emperor. Indeed, it was a dream come true for the Israelites and in appreciation to God, the Priests Levites and others who had returned from exile joyfully dedicated the temple amidst sacrifices.
Is it biblical to celebrate or name churches after the benefactors who have contributed to the completion of the building?
• Must a Church building or other properties of the Church be dedicated?
The climax of the dedication of the temple was the joyful celebration of the Passover Feast. The Feast of the Passover was celebrated on the fourteenth of the first Month. The Priests and Levites became ritually clean by purifying themselves so that they will be ceremonially fit to carry out their functions.
• In what way do Christians celebrate God’s faithfulness today after completing some projects like Church/Educational buildings, Pastorium etc?
• When God blesses His people, it results to jubilation and celebration from the people
• God can cause our enemies to work in our favour.
“Then the people of Israel, the Priests, the Levites and the rest of the exiles celebrated the dedication of the house of God with joy” Ezra 6:16.
