Text:Lev. 23:26-32; Jonah 3; Isaiah 58
Today we are discussing the most holy of the festivals, The Day Of Atonement. Now please do not confuse this day with the feast of Passover. In the passover celebration we look at the sacrifice of Jesus Christ the Messiah. The Day Of Atonement is not necessarily about the sacrifice but the redemption and holiness of the Lord. This begins with the 30 day preparation that leads up to the Feast Of Trumpets followed by the ten days of awe.
The Day Of Atonement involves several themes which include God’s judgement, Sabbath in the Lord, and the redemption of God. We are told to afflict our souls in a 25 hour fast and abstain from food or drink, wearing leather, washing, anointing, and marital relations. This is to remind us that we have no place in this world and should be living only for our King. Also, if this day falls on a sabbath, absolutely all can enter into the synagogue for the services that were broken, lame, or otherwise unable to enter in. This symbolizes that fact that all can come to Christ no matter the sin or the station in life. God welcomes all into His kingdom.
There is an idea of pleading with the Father to make sure your name is written in the book of life and starts with the Kol Nidre or the vow to the Father. Jonah is read through the next day as well as Isaiah 58 which deals with the real reason behind fasts and that is holiness and godliness. Lev. 16 is very important during this time and deals with the two goats. One is set free with sin being laid on it which is called the scape goat and the other is taken for the sacrifice. Christ again has fulfilled both as He has taken the sin of the world away and is the perfect Lamb sacrifice.
The last service closes with the idea that the gates of heaven will close and there is a sense of urgency to make sure you are in the right place with the Father. The phrase is “God of awe, God of Might, grant us pardon this hour, as thy gates are closing tonight.” This day points to the fact that one day the gates of heaven will indeed close and no more will enter. Is your name written in the Book of Life and are we living for purity, holiness and godliness in preparation for the day Christ makes all right?