The concept of "gathering in glee" is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, but the themes of joyful assembly and communal celebration are prevalent throughout the Scriptures. These gatherings often reflect moments of divine blessing, communal worship, and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, gatherings often took place during significant religious festivals and events. The Israelites were commanded to gather for feasts such as Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles. These occasions were marked by joy and celebration, as they commemorated God's deliverance and provision. For instance, during the Feast of Tabernacles, the Israelites were instructed to rejoice before the Lord: "On the first day you are to take the branches of majestic trees—palm branches and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook—and rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days" (Leviticus 23:40).

The Psalms frequently depict scenes of joyful gathering and worship. Psalm 100:2 exhorts the faithful to "Serve the LORD with gladness; come into His presence with joyful songs." Such expressions of joy were not only personal but communal, as the people of God came together to celebrate His goodness and faithfulness.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the early Christian community is characterized by gatherings filled with joy and fellowship. The book of Acts describes the believers as being "together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people" (Acts 2:46-47). These gatherings were marked by the breaking of bread, prayer, and the teaching of the apostles, creating a sense of unity and shared joy in the faith.

The Apostle Paul often encouraged the early churches to rejoice and gather in unity. In Philippians 4:4 , he writes, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" This call to joy is a recurring theme in his letters, emphasizing the importance of a joyful spirit in the life of the Christian community.

Theological Significance

Theologically, gatherings in glee reflect the eschatological hope of the Christian faith. They are a foretaste of the ultimate gathering of believers in the presence of God, as depicted in Revelation. The vision of the heavenly assembly in Revelation 7:9-10 portrays a multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!"

These gatherings are not merely social events but are deeply spiritual, reflecting the joy of salvation and the anticipation of eternal communion with God. They serve as reminders of God's faithfulness and the joy that comes from living in accordance with His will.

Practical Implications

For contemporary believers, the concept of gathering in glee encourages the practice of joyful fellowship and worship. It underscores the importance of community in the Christian life, where believers come together to celebrate their shared faith and to support one another in love. Such gatherings are opportunities to experience the joy of the Lord, which is described as our strength (Nehemiah 8:10).

In summary, while the specific phrase "gathering in glee" is not found in the Bible, the underlying principles of joyful assembly and communal celebration are integral to the biblical narrative, offering a rich tapestry of spiritual and communal life for believers.