March 26 - Jubilee

Leviticus 25: 1-18

The Jubilee year of the Old Testament was a Sabatical or time of rest. Every seventh year, the fields were to lie fallow. After 7x7, or 49 years of work, the 50th year was designated for celebration. Slaves would be freed. Debts were forgiven and land returned to the original owners. People would return home to visit their families and loved ones. People would reconcile their differences, forgive, and go on in peace.

Originally the Jubilee year was every 50th year, but today the Catholic Church celebrates Jubilee every 25 years. 2025 is a Jubilee year!

I wonder what we might do to celebrate the Jubilee spirit in modern times. Certainly we can work to reconcile our differences with people or take ourselves more lightly. Perhaps we can say “no” to some extra workload or take a special trip. Jubilee is a time to enjoy!

Link to Bible verses: Leviticus 25