“Set apart the fiftieth year as holy, and proclaim liberty to everyone living in the land. This is your jubilee year.” Leviticus 25:10
The Year of Jubilee is a concept introduced in the Bible as part of the Levitical law governing how the Israelites were to live in the Promised Land. Every fifty years all debts were forgiven, property reverted to the original owners, indentured servants were set free and no crops were planted or harvested. God promised that he would provide. It was decreed a year of celebration, redemption of all that had been lost and release from the curse of hard labor imposed on Adam when he left Eden. Sadly there is no evidence that the Children of Israel ever took God up on his kind offer and entered into an actual Year of Jubilee. Apparently it is really hard to lay our plowshares down, return the deeds and release our servants. I understand completely. You probably do to – social chaos! How practical is that?
I turn 55 this year and practical or not I feel the need for a personal Year of Jubilee. I long to experience the blessings that might come from a year of celebration instead of yet another year filled with staunch resolutions and tedious obligations. I desire to release those that are beholden to me of any expectations. I wish to return what I have taken and receive again what I have lost. What does that look like? I don’t know exactly. But I’m committed to a year of finding out.
I plan on posting progress reports once a week. Do you have suggestions or insights regarding what a Year of Jubilee should or should not include? I would love to hear them. Let the party begin!
First, welcome to the blogging world Pat. I hope you find it as fulfilling as your celebratory year. As for what a year of Jubilee should have, I will admit I'm no expert in biblical teaching. I've read it several times, in several versions in several languages. I think, in freeing yourself of expectations of others, you should free yourself of expectations of yourself. Perhaps break out of your shell, and in the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, "Do one thing every day that scares you."
ReplyDeleteThank you Sabrael! I am finding this 'no expectations' thing a little scary. Does that count? I don't think I'm as brave as Eleanor Roosevelt but doing something scary once a week sounds like it might be fun!
ReplyDeleteI do believe that counts. Shedding expectations is a test of will, and I'm sure it'll be easier over time. And who knows, you may surprise yourself. But one thing a week sounds like a big step. I look forward to reading about your adventures here.
ReplyDeletePat--I am intrigued! I plan to follow your journey with interest and virtual support. I sort of did something like this myself back in April, emancipating myself from GBA, a place I've loved for nearly 2 decades, but which was sucking the life out of me. I resigned just before spring break without any idea what I was going to do next. Although I finished out the year, I immediately felt free, although scared to death. Turns out I ended up at Thunderbird Academy. I got a call the middle of July and by the first of August, I was there! Crazy! And scary! But oh so good for me...
ReplyDeleteGive my greetings to your husband. I've missed each of you since you left Boston but am glad you're enjoying what you're doing... God bless you in this new year.
Rondi, so good to hear from you! God is good! I am so happy for you! Thank you for your comments and virtual support. I'm a little scared too but really enjoying the sense of lightness. BTW one of my favorite young friends is working at Thunderbird. Do you know Genevieve?
ReplyDeleteYes, I know her! I'll have to tell her I know you! Such a small world, this Adventist circle!
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