Celebrating the Lord's Appointed Times, April 1st, 2026 - Richard Maisenbacher

Celebrating the Lord’s Appointed Times, April 1st, 2026 by Richard Maisenbacher

Understanding What We Celebrate

Many believers wonder exactly what we are to celebrate during this period of time in April. We are approaching the First Feasts of the Lord, which include Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and the Feast of Firstfruits. Leviticus 23:4 instructs,“These are appointed times of the Lord, holy convocations which you shall proclaim at the times appointed for them.” But some believers argue this is in the Old Testament, and does not apply to us now, even though Paul says in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is inspired by God …”

Challenges and Covenant Relationship

I must admit, it can be a little more challenging this year to celebrate the Feasts of the Lord while all the turmoil in the world unfolds. Peace and joy are much more difficult to attain as all the 7 mountains (Art/Entertainment, Business, Education, Family, Government, Media, and Religion) seem to be shaken! However, peace and joy can be received through our covenant relationship with Him as He imparts His fruit to us. In our covenant relationship with Him, we receive His attributes and character through His divine exchange process as we grow and mature, revealing more of His nature.

The Feasts: Passover, Unleavened Bread, and Firstfruits

Passover, April 1-8, 2026, commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. The Feast of Unleavened Bread, a seven-day observance from April 2nd through the 8th, is a festival to remember God's deliverance. The Feast of Firstfruits takes place during the week-long Passover celebration from April 4th to 5th. Examining and implementing the Feasts gives us a deeper knowing and appreciation of God and His ways.

Significance of Passover and Resurrection Sunday

Let’s take a moment to understand the Feasts more fully so you can have a joyful Passover and Resurrection Sunday, April 5th. Ephesians 2:13 declares, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” This means there is no condemnation for those who come to Jesus and receive Him as their Messiah, Lord, and Savior. We have entered a covenant relationship with Him and have passed from death to life!

Freedom Through Faith

In Romans, it says, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus.” The Father has offered the blood of His own Son as the Passover Lamb and entered our House, which is our life. And in that covenant of peace, He brings us from sin to righteousness, bondage to liberty, defeat to victory, fear to faith, sickness to health, poverty to plenty, and from death to life! Celebrating Passover reminds us of the bondage we were in and how we now walk in freedom because of Christ and the New Covenant.

Feast of Unleavened Bread: Cleansing and Joy

We will also observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread this week, from April 2nd to the 8th. Ezra 6:22 says, “And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy.” This is a time to remove any leaven (sin) in our lives and in our hearts. You may be thinking that getting rid of the leaven is difficult and unenjoyable, but God looks for saints who will leap for joy in this process, as they seek ways to please Him in this love relationship. Therefore, part of this process of cleansing teaches us about the burial with Jesus and a life separate from the leaven of the world. Paul talks about “putting off the old man” or our “flesh” in Ephesians 4:22-24 and Colossians 3:9-10.

Feast of Firstfruits: Resurrection and Renewal

From sunset, April 4th to 6 pm on April 5th, we celebrate the Feast of Firstfruits! It is our resurrection with Christ and a reflection of our future resurrection. In this process of consecration, we must put off the old and put on the new.

Paul says in Ephesians 4:24, “And... Put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” The key is allowing the Holy Spirit to live a resurrected life through us! 2nd Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” We also find in Galatians 2:20 the good news - “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me, and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” 

It is nice to say we have been crucified with Christ, or we go to the cross daily; however, we must also put on Christ by the Spirit to experience resurrection power! It takes both. I have tried to do everything in my power in the flesh, and I have also done nothing, expecting God to do everything for me. I have found that neither works on its own. It takes forgiveness and repentance in our synergistic relationship with the Lord.

Galatians 5:16 reminds us to “Walk in the Spirit and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh!” The fruit found in Galatians 5:22-23, will be the dominant force, giving expression to love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. When we align ourselves with His Spirit, “We not only have peace with God, but we have the peace of God,” Colossians 3:15. Peace with God helps us walk this walk by more clearly hearing His voice.

The Feast of Firstfruits was celebrated the day after Shabbat (Saturday). Before the Sheaves of Barley of the new crop could be touched or eaten, there had to be an offering unto the Lord. This act reminded the farmers that the whole harvest belonged to Him, and they just managed it. They were stewards. Offering first fruits consecrated the whole harvest to God. If God accepted it, the whole harvest was accepted. Jesus fulfilled the feast when He was resurrected as First Fruits from the dead. He was set apart unto God. Do you realize you are God’s first fruits and set apart, too? James 1:18 reminds us, “We who walk with Christ are His first fruits.” NASB.

“But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man (Christ) also came the resurrection of the dead. For in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. But each one in his own order: Christ the first fruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.” 1 Corinthians 15:20-23. NASB.

Jesus was the first to ascend, never to die again. He was the human sheaf set apart to conquer death and provide eternal life to those who believe in Him. Jesus said to Mary in John 20:17, “Do not cling to me (touch me) for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren; and say to them, I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to me My God and your God.” ESV. It was during this Feast that He was resurrected. It was in the evening, not sunrise, when the first fruits were waved. That’s why he couldn’t be touched, as the great high priest.

Ephesians 1:6 - “He (God) made us acceptable in Christ, the Beloved.” KJV.

Romans 11:16 - “If the first fruit is holy, the lump is also holy and if the root is holy, so are the branches.” NKJV

LET’S REVIEW: In the early Church, Passover was one of the most important times of the year. During Passover, the slaves were freed to obtain their full potential spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Passover is the redemptive feast linked with crossing over and entering resurrection power through the blood of the Lamb. God gave us this Feast to celebrate, being redeemed by the blood of the Lamb out of the hands of the enemy. We move from Passover to Resurrection, entering a joyful time to remember that Jesus died to set us free. This allows us to enter the fullness of every promise that has been extended to mankind. In a world of chaos, we can see the Lord’s power and demonstration of His Covenant of Peace, which includes safety, security, strength, prosperity, health, and increase.

Even though it may be challenging, let’s continue to observe and celebrate His Feasts together as His people!

Richard Maisenbacher
Covenant Outreach Ministries, Inc.
www.info@thecovenantcenter.com
PO Box 524, Lakeland, Fl. 33802-05224

Passover Preparation Brings Joy - Richard Maisenbacher

Passover Preparation Brings Joy - Richard Maisenbacher

I am asked periodically why I celebrate Passover. First, it is one of the three feasts our Lord requests His people to observe. Secondly, by requiring the feasts, the Lord forges a connection, reminding His people of their liberation from Egypt and their transition from bondage to freedom. With this yearly feast, we pause and remember what God has done, delivering us from our personal Egypt.

Significance of Passover Preparation

Passover begins on Saturday, April 1, 2026. March 3rd marks the start of the 30-day recommended preparation period for Passover, one of the three required Feasts of the Lord as outlined in Leviticus chapter 23. This period is a special opportunity for cleansing in anticipation of a joyful celebration.

Meaning of Passover “Pesach”

The Hebrew word for Passover is Pesach, which means “to spring, jump, or pass over something.” This term reflects God’s deliverance of Israel from the bondage of Egypt, an act that brought the nation freedom. Passover represents redemption and, prophetically, points to God’s plan for world redemption through Jesus, the sacrificial Lamb. This is a profound reason for celebration!

Joy in Observing the Feast

As Ezra 6:22 records: “And they kept the Feast of Unleavened Bread seven days with joy.” Despite the joy described in Scripture, it is uncommon to find many believers who fully participate in the Lord’s Feasts or who are enthusiastic about removing leaven or yeast—symbolic of sin and unhealthy habits—from their lives. Many people see this process as difficult or painful, especially when it involves letting go of enjoyable or addictive behaviors or confronting mental strongholds that require inner healing.

The Meaning of Cleansing

As Passover draws near, the removal of leaven from the home becomes a central focus. In biblical tradition, leaven symbolizes sin, corruption, and defilement. Cleansing, therefore, is more than a physical act; it is a call to examine and purify the heart in partnership with God’s Spirit.

Challenges in this Present Era

We live in a complex era, shaped by conflicting opinions and decisions across the seven “mountains” of society: religion, family, government, business, media/communications, arts/entertainment, and education. Each sphere is marked by disagreements and controversy, making it increasingly challenging to focus and maintain God’s peace.

Newness Through Christ - Our Passover Lamb

In 1 Corinthians 5:7, Paul writes: “Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, just as you really are unleavened. For Christ the Passover Lamb has been sacrificed.” Through Jesus’s sacrifice, believers are made new, and his death and resurrection have removed the leaven from our lives. Yet there remains a daily, practical process of cleansing ourselves from internal and external influences. This is a time to purify our hearts and choose to separate from anything unclean.

Embracing the Season of Preparation

As we prepare for Passover, from April 1 through April 9, we are invited to cleanse our “house,” remove the leaven, and celebrate while experiencing God’s presence, joy, and blessings. This is a time to seek Him in prayer, delight in His Word, receive His love, and rejoice in the freedom that our Passover Lamb has provided!

In His Covenant Love and Happy Pesach!

Richard Maisenbacher
Covenant Outreach Ministries, Inc.
Contact: www.info@thecovenantcenter.com

Is My Covenant Relationship in Ministry Performance-based? by Richard Maisenbacher

Is My Covenant Relationship in Ministry Performance-based?

Many people I have talked to recently have been discouraged because they do not seem to be “in the ministry” or a calling that was prophesied. They are asking themselves: What do I need to do to make this ministry, that I think God wants me to do, come to pass?

Ezekiel 16:60 says, “Nevertheless, I will remember My covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you.”   

Part of the answer to their question involves reviewing their covenant relationship with the Lord. In a covenant relationship, it is not necessary for the parties involved to negotiate or earn the favor of God’s promise, because God wishes to grant such a favor for His own reasons and on His own terms. In the covenant, it is God’s expression to Himself that He will exhibit His love and care toward those He calls into this relationship. He promises that He is the One best positioned to know what we need.

It is a blessing to know that God’s covenant promise toward us does not falter and is not dependent on our performance. God continues to love us, regardless of our failures and successes, because He chooses to love us. My struggles and failures may affect my joy and hurt my communion with Him, but He does not give up on me. He guides me back to His blessings.

With all the media, politics, opinions, and frustration in our world right now, it can ignite our own negative emotions. Therefore, if we are not doing what we want to do for God, this will come out in our thinking, emotions, and communication.

A reminder of Habakkuk 2:4 may help, “For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal, and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; For it will certainly come, it will not delay.” God’s timing is not our timing. He is transforming us. We are in His covenant where He is exchanging our character for His character. This process does take time, but His love for us is what keeps us in this covenant relationship. Performing for God may not be what He is asking of you right now. It may be to enjoy this covenant love relationship even though things are not going exactly the way you planned. His purpose for you and timing is unfolding.  I encourage you to sense His presence, receive His love, and enjoy your covenant relationship that He has invited you into!

It is important to remember that ministry may be done in many different locations with many individuals. Yes, ministry takes place in churches and missions in other countries, but not only by the pastor. Jesus and his disciples ministered to people in groups and individuals in many different locations. You do not have to be a pastor to release ministry. There are opportunities for ministry in the marketplace (business) where you may be employed, in stores, restaurants, in families, with your children, and with your friends. God desires to expand ministry to many people through believers like you. This is the way He expands His covenant of love to others. He desires for you to be His hand extended to others wherever you go!

In His Covenant Love,

Richard Maisenbacher
www.thecovenantcenter.com
Covenant Outreach Ministries, Inc.
PO Box 524
Lakeland, Fl. 33802-0524
www.info@thecovenantcenter.com

It's Time to Believe Again! by Becky & Richard Maisenbacher

It’s Time to Believe Again! by Becky & Richard Maisenbacher

I awoke early this morning, 12-11-25, with a heavenly directive – “Becky, tell My people, “It’s Time to Believe Again!” I had to ask Him… “Are you sure, Lord?  These past five years have been challenging for many. I’ve observed great trials, loss and discouragement among Your people. The enemy has worked overtime to weaken trust in You.

Well, the Lord's timing is always perfect. As these thoughts rolled off my tongue, I heard Holy Spirit’s gentle whisper – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly,” John 10:10.

“Becky, why did I send My Son to experience such humiliation and pain?” I replied, “To give us life and to have life more abundantly.” “And when does the world celebrate My Son’s birth?” At Christmas, Lord…”Now, Becky, look at the word Christmas: Christ – mas! What does Más mean in Spanish?” Ok Lord, I’ll look it up. Más with a tilde means “more,” and “plus” when you're adding numbers.

“That’s correct Becky! I sent My son, so the world could experience “more“ of Christ! More of Jesus, more of Me and Holy Spirit, bringing heaven to earth - pressed down shaken together and running over,” (Luke 6:38). Father continued, “As people give their heart and life to Me, believing and trusting in Me, I will give back in good measure to them. Remember, it’s My principle and law of reciprocity. When they give, when they believe, when they trust in Me, I will pour back into them.”

A vision of Kathryn Kuhlman then appeared before me. I was reminded of a video of her sitting at a desk, teaching, and sharing her personal life and struggles. She spoke this encouragement.

“Whatever you are passing through, take it as training – not punishment. What you call a problem, trial, affliction, or challenge today might be a calling to a deeper understanding of your identity in Christ – an assignment for your tomorrow.  If I had not been through the trials of life, I would not be able to pray with you now. Stick to the Teacher (God), and in due time He will deliver you from them all.”
”The afflictions of the righteous are many, But the Lord rescues him from them all.” Psalm 34:19 NASB.

God’s ways are often different from our ways. He sent His Son to be born and live a somewhat obscure life, until He pulled back the curtain and promoted Jesus into society, displaying God’s signs and wonders during His three and one-half years of ministry. In that time, John the Apostle, one of the first males to believe Jesus rose from the dead (John 20:1-10), and who recognized Him on the Sea of Galilee (John 21:1-7), journaled Jesus’ teachings. We find John’s eye-witness accounts, while walking with Jesus. He is described as a disciple and beloved friend, who documented the words of Christ that still speak to us today. The following are red-letter biblical scriptures that Jesus taught, found in the Book of John. Let His words bring hope to you now.

“Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, also believe in Me.” John 14:1 NASB.

“Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe on account of the works themselves.” John 14:11 NASB.

“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.’” John NASB.

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water.’” John 7:38 NASB, (referring to Holy Spirit).

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16 NASB.

“And Jesus cried out and said, ‘He who believes in Me does not believe in Me, but in Him who sent Me, And he who beholds Me beholds the One who sent Me. I have come as light into the world, that everyone believes in Me may not remain in darkness.” John 12:44-46 NASB.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?’” John 11:25-26 NASB.

God, our Father, wants you to experience the fullness and gift of life here on earth as well as in heaven. He knows this world is fallen and dark; therefore, He has called and desires to fashion you as His vessel of light.

During this Christmas season, we pray that our Father will visit you with His healing virtue, dispelling any past hurts/wounds or toxicity from His body. May you be healed of misunderstandings regarding His timing and purpose. May you also be enlightened to His plans as He allows you to walk through difficult trials; trusting in Him that He knows who you are and where you live. He is not caught unaware. He has a destiny and purpose for you. He desires to make you a sea worthy vessel, as He turns your sorrow and mourning into gladness.

“You have turned for my mourning into dancing; You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness; That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever." Psalm 30:11-12 NASB.

Would you join me in this sweet prayer by Kathryn Kuhlman, from her book, I Believe in Miracles, pg. 127-128.

Dear God, give to us the simple faith that little children know. The faith to believe in the living person and power of Jesus. The faith to look for miracles upon this earth. For if we wear this simple faith like a cloak around us, we will be blessed as children are, and it is then that we will not only know ABOUT LIFE – we will know HOW TO LIVE LIFE! Kathryn Kuhlman.

P.S. This encouragement was received on 12-11-25. 12+11+25=48. 48 is defined as the blessing of the Father’s inheritance. Ez. 48. Genesis 48 records an old Jacob blessing over Joseph’s two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. Meaning to be determined and to prosper. Also 1948, the State of Israel was birthed. *A to Z Symbology Dictionary Volume 2. Dr. Barbie Breathitt, page 456.

Again, Richard and I extend our heartfelt prayers to you and family, for a blessed Christmas and joyful New Year. May this season bring you peace, happiness, and the warmth of God’s love.

We are deeply grateful for your ongoing love, support, and prayers. Your encouragement uplifts us as we continue, together with you, to make a meaningful impact on this world in His name.

In His Covenant Love,

Becky and Richard Maisenbacher
Covenant Outreach Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 524, Lakeland, Fl. 33802-0524
www.info@thecovenantcenter.com
www.thecovenantcenter.com