At sunset today, the celebration of Shavuot begins. Shavuot is one the three pilgrim festivals mandated by the scriptures. The Festival of Weeks, as it is also called, follows the observance of Passover by fifty days.
The gifts of God remembered in the celebrations of Shavuot are Torah and the wheat harvest. Christians remember as well the gift of the Holy Spirit.
In ancient times as well as today, the mood of the worshipper was one of extreme joy. Meals were festive whenever possible. Torah study lasted through the night. The Book of Ruth is still read for it's themes which parallel the interpretation given the holiday.
Christians will gather on Sunday (June 12) to observe Pentecost, the name given to Shavuot by Hellenistic Jews. As we gather in our varied settings, may our God draw near as God did on Mount Sinai and in ancient Jerusalem. May we worship God with glad and generous hearts.
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