Growing up in the South, one becomes accustomed to fall festivals and revivals. Typically, these events coincide with the harvesting of crops, especially cotton. After a good season, farmers celebrate with elaborate festivals and revival services.
The revival services were held because many farmers and their families had been away from church planting and managing farms. The harvest season gave them a break to return to routine activities, including church life. A revival was a noble way to reunite with the church community.
Festivals were held for children to celebrate with their friends. Farm life involved everyone, including children. Many communities sponsored fairs with amusement-type rides. However, many of us may remember meetings in the basement of our churches playing various games. There were always delicious carnival-type foods, including hot dogs, funnel cakes, candied apples and other tasty treats.
Unfortunately, the modern industrialized age replaced the need for the human-power necessary to maintain a farm. The value of educating communities required that children attended school instead of working on family farms.
People became leery of children taking part in community events for safety reasons. There have been a few incidents of violence at municipal-sponsored fairs. Churches sponsored “Trunk or Treat” events were created to ensure the safety of young people.
As all those changes have been made for various reasons, the role of fall revivals has not changed. The goal has always been to motivate believers in Christ to remain faithful to the cause of Jesus. Revivals inspire us to be faithful! As the year ends, if you need some inspiration, come to the revival. If your spiritual tank is low, come to the revival and be filled! If life’s challenges have you feeling weary, come to the revival! And as you prepare to come, invite family and friends to join you! Amen.
