Lord of the Harvest Party

Harvest was a big deal in the town where I grew up.  I grew up in a small community in southern Idaho that was supported by several large farms.  Those farms spent the entire year looking forward to the harvest.  When harvest arrived, they collected their crops, took them to market, and sold them for profit.  This generated income for the coming year and drove the little town’s economy. 

The best part about the harvest was the party that followed.  Farmers celebrated the income the harvest generated.  They celebrated the year’s work.  The town celebrated another year of business.

Christians in Homedale added something to the celebration.  They celebrated God’s provision.  They recognized that the good work and income was ultimately a gift from God.  God provided the rich soil and ideal climate for the harvest.  God provided the resources that allowed them to reap another year’s livelihood.

In a world of super markets and vending machines, it is hard to appreciate the harvest.  A wealth of food and products are always available, at the swipe of a debit card.  Because we harvest blessings on a daily basis, we may not always remember that the Lord has provided those blessings.

The Bible reminds us in very clear terms.  Psalm 67 says, “Then the land will yield its harvest, and God, our God, will bless us.”  Celebrating any harvest is an opportunity to rejoice in God’s provision.  We can rejoice in God’s provision the next time we drive the combine or stop by the grocery store.

Sunday night, our church family will be rejoicing with our very own “harvest party.”  Kids will descend on our church building in droves.  They’ll wear wild costumes, play games, and eat candy.  As they do, remember what we are partying for.  God has provided.  Though few of us sow as farmers, all of us reap the incredible rewards of God’s harvest.