Biblically the beginning of the year does not start in January. The Biblical year begins on the sighting of the first sliver of the new moon once the barley is Aviv (in seed, just about ready to harvest). This is usually in or around April, sometimes in March (when it seems like spring is coming early), and sometimes in May (when spring seems late).
There's no reason to get too worried about a special calendar or anything. It can be much simpler than that. One way or another, we still have to do most of our business according to the calendar everyone else is on. We should keep in mind: "But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter." |
Some would like to take verses like this and say we need to ignore the "old" law. Unfortunately, those people are missing so much meaty goodness in the scriptures. The spring feasts of the Lord are definitely filled with treasures.
Deep Cleaning the Home
Spring time is a great time to get some of that deep cleaning done. You know, those things you've been meaning to get to all year, but just haven't been able?
A quick note: If you don't have the time, energy or strength, set aside a little money to hire help. One person can do more in my home in a few hours than I can get done in a week! And don't worry about them seeing how your house looks. Most people who hire out for housekeeping have seen worse! I promise! The nice thing about hiring help is that it is JUDGEMENT FREE!
Some ideas of things that might need done:
A quick note: If you don't have the time, energy or strength, set aside a little money to hire help. One person can do more in my home in a few hours than I can get done in a week! And don't worry about them seeing how your house looks. Most people who hire out for housekeeping have seen worse! I promise! The nice thing about hiring help is that it is JUDGEMENT FREE!
Some ideas of things that might need done:
- Cleaning filters on appliances, heating and air conditioning units, and water system.
- Going through seasonal wardrobe and cleaning the closet.
- Wiping down baseboards and door frames.
- Washing windows.
- Refrigerator and deepfreeze cleaning.
"Seven days shall there be no leaven found in your houses.." Exodus 12
Health Cleanse
Not only does the house need cleaned, it's an excellent idea to do a gut cleanse as well. During Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Israelites were commanded to eliminate yeast from their diet and to eat "bitter herbs" for a time. Bitter herbs help cleanse they digestive system.
"...eat it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs." Numbers 9:11
I like to spend a week taking aBlack Walnut and Wormwood supplement and also avoid (or cut down on) sugar for a week or more.
Detox Bath
The word "wash" is in the Bible 133 times in the King James Version. The word "clean" is found 194 times. While the verses apply to different times and circumstances, it's obvious that God considers cleanliness important.
A good detox bath is soothing as well as cleansing. Kristen over at A Better Way To Thrive has a wonderful post and recipe for Relaxing Lavender Bath Salts. I like to apply castor oil instead of lotion after a detox bath. Castor oil is lovely on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.
A good detox bath is soothing as well as cleansing. Kristen over at A Better Way To Thrive has a wonderful post and recipe for Relaxing Lavender Bath Salts. I like to apply castor oil instead of lotion after a detox bath. Castor oil is lovely on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Clean the yard and porch
After all the winter weather, it's time to prune, rake and sweep around the house. As you are doing this bit of cleaning up, take note of any plants you may want to purchase when you see those great spring sales popping up. Also, do you need to replace any yard furniture? This is a great time to take inventory.
"Be still, and know that I am God..." Psalm 46:10
Take time to breathe
Spring is a good time to enjoy the pretty days before the summer heat sets in. Open some windows, let in light and air. Listen to the birds play. Breathe in deeply and count your blessings.
Admittedly, here in the Oklahoma panhandle, I have to choose these moments with care and enjoy those days as they are presented. Between dust storms, wild fires, late blizzards and tornadoes, we can have five seasons in one day. So when I'm presented with a pretty one, I do my best to enjoy it as much as possible!
The Feasts of the Lord aren't legalistic, religious mumbo-jumbo. They're an opportunity for resetting your home and life for the year. Here's a great video with simple explanations and ideas for how to do this.
Admittedly, here in the Oklahoma panhandle, I have to choose these moments with care and enjoy those days as they are presented. Between dust storms, wild fires, late blizzards and tornadoes, we can have five seasons in one day. So when I'm presented with a pretty one, I do my best to enjoy it as much as possible!
The Feasts of the Lord aren't legalistic, religious mumbo-jumbo. They're an opportunity for resetting your home and life for the year. Here's a great video with simple explanations and ideas for how to do this.
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What are you doing this spring to prepare for the rest of your year? I'd love to hear from you. Tag me on social media with a picture of something that brings you joy in spring!