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In a heartfelt message filled with biblical insights and practical wisdom, Bishop Benjamin reminds us that celebrating God is not only a declaration of faith—it’s a powerful act that transforms individuals, communities, and even the world. Drawing on Jewish traditions and scriptures, he explores how the promise made to Abraham and the observance of Rosh Hashanah illustrate that God’s words are true and that our response should be one of joyful trust.

Trusting in God’s Faithfulness

Bishop Benjamin begins by emphasizing that the heart of the conflict in our world is not about whether God exists but whether God is true. He points to the promise made to Abraham—a promise that, when fully understood, reveals that God’s faithfulness is the foundation of all blessings. Celebrating God’s goodness is the very way Israel (and by extension, all believers) affirm that promise. When we trust and celebrate, we declare, “God is worthy!”

Rosh Hashanah: The Head of the Year

A central theme in the class is Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Unlike the typical American New Year’s celebration on December 31st, Rosh Hashanah arrives in early October. Bishop Benjamin explains:

• A Time of Renewal: Rosh Hashanah, meaning “head of the year,” marks a time when the old is set aside, and a new spiritual calendar begins. It is a time for introspection, prayer, and a renewed commitment to living according to God’s ways.
• Symbolism and Celebration: The holiday is linked with the idea of “first fruits” and the yield of the earth. Just as a garden flourishes when cared for, so too does our spiritual life when we celebrate God’s goodness. Bishop Benjamin shares his own experience of harvesting tomatoes, kale, and peppers—each fruit a reminder that the earth yields in response to our joyful acknowledgment of God’s blessings.
• The Number 5785: In the Jewish calendar, the new year is symbolically represented by the number 5785, a reminder that every moment and every season has divine significance.

Introspection and the Ten Days of Awe

Rosh Hashanah initiates a period known as the Ten Days of Awe—a time of deep self-reflection and community reconciliation. Bishop Benjamin highlights several key aspects:

• A Time for Introspection: Instead of the raucous celebrations of a typical New Year, this period is marked by solemn reflection. Believers examine their lives, seek forgiveness, and ask, “How can I be better?”
• Traditional Practices: One intriguing tradition he mentions is the act of removing lint from one’s pocket—symbolizing the removal of sin and the cleansing of one’s heart. It’s a tangible way to practice introspection and prepare for spiritual renewal.
• Fasting with Purpose: Fasting during this period isn’t about displaying self-oppression; it’s a sincere effort to align one’s heart with God’s righteousness. Referencing Isaiah 58, Bishop Benjamin reminds us that true fasting should lead to the cutting off of “the bands of wickedness” and the fostering of justice and love within our communities.

Community, Justice, and Divine Increase

Celebrating God is not an individual act—it has far-reaching implications:

• Building a Better Community: Bishop Benjamin stresses that when we celebrate God, we not only affirm His goodness but also create an environment of mutual care and respect. This community spirit is foundational, whether in a small neighborhood or an entire nation.
• Restoration and Justice: The concept of the Jubilee, where every forty-nine years lost property is restored, underscores the idea that celebrating God’s goodness also means promoting fairness and restoring what has been lost. Such practices remind us that the blessings of God extend to every aspect of life—from the yield of our gardens to the health of our communities.
• From Individual Blessing to Global Impact: When we trust in God’s promise and celebrate His goodness, the blessings multiply. What begins as personal gratitude can extend to transform families, neighborhoods, and eventually, the world.

Biblical Foundations of Worship and Celebration

Bishop Benjamin weaves in scriptural references to ground these practices in biblical tradition. He draws on passages from Exodus, Leviticus, and Isaiah to show how:

• Worship Is a Command: God instructed the Israelites to observe sacred times with specific rituals—like the blowing of trumpets and the setting up of the tabernacle—to continually remind them of His presence and promises.
• Celebration Leads to Blessing: From the early traditions in Egypt to the establishment of the new covenant, the act of celebrating God is consistently linked with divine increase and deliverance. Even the high priest’s careful observance (complete with the symbolic ringing of bells) served as a reminder of the seriousness and joy of approaching God.

A Call to Joyful Trust

In his passionate delivery, Bishop Benjamin challenges us to reconsider how we approach celebrations in our own lives. Rather than succumbing to despair amid societal challenges, we are called to a joyous, thankful recognition of God’s enduring goodness. Whether it’s through a bountiful garden, a heartfelt prayer, or a commitment to community justice, celebrating God affirms that:

• God Is In Charge: The harvest of our lives—both physical and spiritual—belongs to God, and when we honor Him, blessings overflow.
• Transformation Begins Within: Personal introspection during sacred times like Rosh Hashanah leads to a transformation that ripples outward, impacting families, communities, and nations.

Bishop Benjamin’s message is clear: In a world filled with confusion and challenges, let us fix our eyes on the truth of God’s promises. Celebrate His goodness, trust in His words, and be a beacon of hope and renewal in your community.