SYMBOLS OF A COVENANTER
We have loved learning about our Israel roots and those who have come before us —who have stood to defend religious beliefs and have kept the covenant. Even stood when it meant suffering and their life was to be given in bloodshed. Knowing this sacred lineage has had an impact on our family to raise the bar in how we spend our holidays and how we remember this Israel history
In our excitement for our favorite family tradition, we thought we would share a few significant symbols for Scottish Covenanter Day, held on February 28th.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RED SCARF
For most of my life, I have had this image that a “redneck” was a man who wore jean overalls without a shirt—driving a jacked-up loud truck. Maybe I watched too many old shows to conjure up this idea, but I have held onto it all these years…until I learned what a real redneck was.
In 1630 the Presbyterians in Scotland were facing treason by the king for their protests against the bishops, the Book of Canons, and the Book of Common Prayer. They decided that they needed some way of uniting together so they could stand firm against these attacks on their religious freedoms (sound familiar?).
The National Covenant pledged those who swore to it, to defend the true religion and remain true to the Bible. This desire of the covenant was to maintain true worship of God, the majesty of our King, and the peace of the kingdom, for the happiness of those who swore it and their children. They also promised to live lives that showed they were in covenant with God and to be good examples to others.
SIGNING IN BLOOD
The Covenanters signed in blood on Feb 28th, 1638, and to symbolize this oath, wore blood-red bandannas around their necks. They were known as the “Rednecks.
For my family, we have a tradition of wearing red scarves on this day. I just pulled out our scarves and ordered more for my family who is coming this year!
If you are going to participate and do this with your family, don’t forget to order yours too, also look up your family plaid and order a table cloth or runner. If you do not know your plaid, just pick the one you like!
THE COVENANTER FLAG
On special occasions in both Old and New Testaments, believers would gather together and make a covenant that they would obey the Lord.
During the time of the Reformation, believers in Scotland embraced this tradition for mutual protection and for the advancement of Christianity. They were making a new covenant with God saying we will be your people, we will cleanse our land of profanity, etc., and no King but King Jesus.
For war, you would hear drums and see the flag flying high and on it was written “COVENANT FOR RELIGION, KING, AND KINGDOME.”
These are the symbols of my ancestors I wish to have my children and their children come to know and love as I do. The blood of these Scots runs through my veins and I feel to make a stand for religion, king, and kingdom just as they did!
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