And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.” Revelation 19:9
This week our family, like many asian families throughout the world will be preparing for a feast. The Year of the Rat is upon us and we will celebrate with blessings, traditions, food, family and feasting. I am so grateful that I married into this beautiful tradition and get to enjoy not one but two official New Year’s celebrations. This special time brings with it the tradition of blessing one’s elders (and vice versa) with words of encouragement for good health and prosperity. Our kids in turn enjoy the many red packets and oranges they receive. Oranges are used as a symbol of prosperity because the word in Chinese sounds similar.
In my Bible reading this Sunday, there was another feast described in Revelation 19. This is the feast of all feastings, where all the nations, tribes and tongues will be in attendance. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb will be the culmination and orientation into the Heavenly realm. This is where I will receive all my health and prosperity for all eternity! This is my feast with the King of Kings for all the saints who are followers of Christ Jesus. Blessed are those who are invited!
Here are some phrases of blessing during Chinese New Year…
Xing Nian Kwai Le (Happy New Year)
Shen Ti Jian Kang (Blessing for Health)
Wan Shi Ru Yi (Blessing in All things)
Xin Xiang Shi Chen (All Dreams come Through)
Here are the phrases proclaimed at the Marriage Supper…
Hallelujah!
Salvation and glory and power belong to our God
Hallelujah!
Praise our God all his servants, you who fear him small and great.
Hallelujah!
For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.
It is always special to have a time of feasting with friends and family. It is a blessing to receive and enjoy the invitation, yet all the while keeping myself ready, prepared and dressed for the greatest banquet the saints will ever witness. Even if you may or may not be celebrating the Chinese New Year, I pray, my friend – you will not miss your invitation to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. His invitation and blessing is awaiting you. Follow and receive the true words of God.
Blessed to Feast
Invited. Blessed. Receive.
How are you preparing to feast this New Year?