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Chapter 69—Convocations
God gave direction to the Israelites to assemble before Him
at set periods, in the place which He should choose, and observe
special days wherein no unnecessary work was to be done, but the
time was to be devoted to a consideration of the blessings which
He had bestowed upon them. At these special seasons they were
to bring gifts, freewill offerings, and thank offerings unto the Lord,
according as He had blessed them. The manservant and maidservant,
the stranger, the fatherless and widow, were directed to rejoice that
God had by His own wonderful power brought them from servile
bondage to the enjoyment of freedom. And they were commanded
not to appear before the Lord empty. They were to bring tokens
of their gratitude to God for His continual mercies and blessings
bestowed upon them. These offerings were varied according to
the estimate which the donors placed upon the blessings they were
privileged to enjoy. Thus the characters of the people were plainly
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developed. Those who placed a high value upon the blessings which
God bestowed upon them brought offerings in accordance with
their appreciation of these blessings. Those whose moral powers
were stupefied and benumbed by selfishness and idolatrous love of
the favors received, rather than inspired by fervent love for their
bountiful Benefactor, brought meager offerings. Thus their hearts
were revealed. Besides these special religious feast days of gladness
and rejoicing, the yearly Passover was to be commemorated by the
Jewish nation. The Lord covenanted that if they were faithful in the
observance of His requirements, He would bless them in all their
increase and in all the work of their hands.
God requires no less of His people in these last days, in sacrifices
and offerings, than He did of the Jewish nation. Those whom He has
blessed with a competency, and even the widow and the fatherless,
should not be unmindful of His blessings. Especially should those
whom God has prospered render to Him the things that are His.
They should appear before Him with a spirit of self-sacrifice and
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