The Passover Celebration Continues

II Chronicles 30:21–27
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The time set by the law for the celebration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread was seven days (Ex. 12:15; Lev. 23:6) but because it had fallen into such irregularity they doubled the period of celebration and kept it 14 days with great satisfaction and joy. Materials for additional sacrificial meals were supplied by the King and the priests. While the priests sang and praised the Lord (v. 21). Hezekiah thanked the Levites for leading the celebration and doing such a good job (v. 22). The worshipers celebrated for seven days by offering sacrifices, by eating the sacred meals, and by praising the Lord God of their ancesters.

As stated above they actually celebrated for seven days by offering sacrifices and everyone was so excited that they agreed to celebrate seven more days (v. 23). A great number of the priests sacrificed themselves so that there would be a sufficient number of hands for the additional services. Hezekiah gave the people 1000 bulls and 7000 sheep to be offered as sacrifices and to be used as sacred food for the meals. The princes also gave 1000 bulls and 10,000 sheep and a great number of priests sanctified themselves for service (v. 24). Everyone was very happy, including those from Judah and Israel, the priests, the Levites and the foreigners living in Judah and Israel (v. 25). It was the biggest celebration in Jerusalem since the days of King Solomon (v. 26). The priests and Levites asked God to bless the people and their prayer was heard all the way to heaven (v. 27). 

Application

It is good to praise people publically and criticize them privately. I need to be looking for ways to praise people for their accomplishments in life. Honest praise is one of the greatest motivators I can possibly give to others. I would like to be known as an encourager.