Scripture Focus: Leviticus 23:33–43; Zechariah 14:16–19; John 1:14; John 7:2–39; Revelation 21:3–4
The Feast of Tabernacles—Sukkot—begins at sundown on October 6, 2025, and lasts for seven days, followed by a sacred assembly on the eighth day. It is the grand finale of the appointed times, a joyous celebration of God’s provision, presence, and promise. Israel was commanded to dwell in booths (sukkot) to remember their wilderness journey and to rejoice in the Lord.
But this was no mere camping trip. It was a prophetic rehearsal of something far greater: the coming of Emmanuel—God with us.
Dwelling in Booths: A Temporary Reminder
“You shall dwell in booths for seven days… so that your generations may know that I had the sons of Israel live in booths when I brought them out from the land of Egypt” (Leviticus 23:42–43).
During Sukkot, the people lived in makeshift shelters to recall how God sustained them in the wilderness. It was a time of rejoicing and remembering: God led them, fed them, and dwelled among them in the pillar of cloud and fire.
Jesus at the Feast
In John 7, we find Jesus attending the Feast of Tabernacles. On the last and greatest day of the feast, He stood and cried out:
“If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7:37–38)
This declaration occurred during the water-drawing ceremony, when priests would pour water at the altar in anticipation of rain and the Spirit. Jesus proclaimed He is the source of that living water. He is the presence of God among us.
And John had already declared:
“And the Word became flesh, and dwelt [tabernacled] among us…” (John 1:14).
The Future Fulfillment: Dwelling Forever
The Feast of Tabernacles looks not only backward and inward—but forward:
“Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people…” (Revelation 21:3)
In the age to come, God will dwell permanently with His people. There will be no more need for temporary shelters. No more tears. No more separation. Just God with us, forever.
Devotional Reflection: Joy in His Presence
Read Together: Leviticus 23:33–43; John 7:2–39; Revelation 21:1–4
Discuss:
- Why did God command Israel to rejoice during this feast?
- How does Jesus fulfill the symbols of Sukkot?
- What does it mean to experience His presence now, even before the final fulfillment?
- How can we cultivate joy as we await His dwelling among us?
Reflect: Build a small booth or tent as a family, or sit outside under the stars. Remember how God has sustained you. Rejoice in His faithfulness. Let your heart long for the day when the dwelling of God will be fully with us.
Pray: Lord, You are our shelter, our provision, our joy. Thank You for coming to dwell among us through Christ. Help us rejoice in Your presence now, and long for the day when we will see You face to face. Amen.
The booth is temporary. His presence is eternal. Rejoice, for God will dwell with us forever.
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