What’s so important about the feasts in the Bible? When reading the Old Testament, it’s easy to gloss over the chapters describing the festivals and feasts in ancient Israel. We might dismiss them as cultural relics that have little to teach us today. However, there is great truth and even hope on display for modern-day Christians.
In Invitations to Abundance (released March 1, 2022), Alicia J. Akins shows us how the feasts of the Bible nourish us today. In 12 chapters and just over 200 pages, Akins has written a wonderful and worshipful tour of the feasts in God’s Word. It is a fascinating read, and I found my heart full and filled with delight.
Culinary Time Travel
The book opens with a look at Passover, Israel’s most famous feast that marked the beginning of the Exodus from Egypt. Akins brings us to the first Passover table, which happened during the last of the Ten Plagues. Through her “culinary time travel” descriptions, we taste and smell the passover lamb, the unleavened bread, and the bitter herbs. We are shown that this feast of remembrance is for all generations.
Feasts for All
Throughout the book, Akins describes well-known feasts, such as the “Feasts of Mercy” in Luke 14:21-22, and more obscure feasts, such as those in Isaiah 25:6 and Jeremiah 31:14. The Lord’s Supper deservingly gets its own section. She helps us consider how we can be a partaker in these celebrations and respond in worship, as each chapter ends with a liturgical prayer to lift your gaze towards God.
In God’s sovereign timing, I read the chapter on Sukkot as I prepared to preach on John 7:1-24 and the story of Jesus at the Feast of Booths. Akins gave me the background I needed to understand and appreciate the feast in more detail. It led me to worship and helped me to lead others to God as well.
Come and Invite Others
I was most happy to see Akins include Psalm 23 in her book. She brings up the verses on how God prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies. In this way, she connected the Psalm to the story of the cross, turning a table meal into a scene of victory. This brought comfort and assurance to my soul like never before.
The book ends with a look at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb in Revelation 19. We learn about Jewish weddings and the unique significance found in the bride and bridegroom—as well as the wedding venue. Akins reminds us that there is still room at the table. We are beckoned to come, and we are called to invite others.
Never Go Hungry Again
This book would be perfect for pastors who want to see deeper spiritual significance in the feasts of the Bible. Small groups can work their way through this book to trace the theme of food and provision throughout God’s Word. You will find enrichment and enjoyment as you read this during your personal devotions.
This book is a banquet. It is brilliantly theological and beautifully devotional. You will see how God provides for his people. You will celebrate and sing. You will see Jesus, the bread of life. Come, eat for free, taste and see, and never go hungry again.
I received a media copy of Invitations to Abundance, and this is my honest review.
Invitations to Abundance (released March 1, 2022) is available to purchase directly from the publisher website or on Amazon. For more, check out Aaron’s interview with author Alicia J. Akins.