jubilee

I stood opposite the gentleman as he hammered and tapped.  Gently, firmly, carefully he maneuvered the piece of silver.  Masterfully he worked it into place.  And I gazed from the other side of the table.

Of all the treasures to be sought or found, on Sunday, at Kettner’s Mill, I had come across something precious.  “It’s from 1953, a silver flat wear pattern called Jubilee.” he informed me.    He had expertly formed the old teaspoon into a lovely ring, and it fits my right hand’s ring finger just perfectly.

I’ve been tossing around the meaning of “Jubilee” in my mind, considering its most general meaning and its meaning in the Old Testament too.  In normal, everyday English it means to celebrate a special anniversary or occasion.  In Scripture it means to rejoice and celebrate  restoration and freedom.  The book of Leviticus lays out particulars of how the Israelites were supposed to acknowledge the year of jubilee.

Considering my past year, I’ve been wondering about this business of Jubilee.  This journey I’ve been on,  thousands of emotional miles, all in a matter of months, has permanently altered me.  I’ve been examining some of the monumental moments.  Just like the craftsman with my ring, The Heavenly Father has been forming me, coaxing me into the exact shape of who He wants me to be.  Sometimes it has been a light tap, other times a firm knock – but He is the one responsible for changing my very being.  All with a view of restoration, and freedom, I’m renewed to be more like Him, and to genuinely reflect His glory.

So, I’m wearing my Jubilee ring.  And with a great deal of affection and gratefulness, I might add.   Every time I notice that ring on my finger, I have cause to rejoice.  Rejoice for this life that He has given me, for His redeeming work in my heart, and for every promise He has made to me – because every promise He has made is true.   It is a beautiful time of jubilee in my heart, and He is the one who has made it so.