Day 6: What will we do for atonement?

This is part of our 10-part series, “Hidden in Plain Sight: Why Christians Should Care About the Jewish High Holy Days.”

The human soul carries a deep yearning for atonement. In cultures around the world and across the broad expanse of religious thought, rituals and traditions abound, highlighting the lengths we go to find relief from the weight of our mistakes and misdeeds. The Jewish people are no different. As followers of Jesus, we know that our atonement not only covered our sins once for the next year, but also forgave our sins once and for all.

Jewish Practice

Today, among Orthodox communities, the ceremony known as "Kaparot" is still observed. A chicken or fish is taken and waved over the head three times while a specific prayer is recited. In more liberal Jewish circles, the ceremony may be modified or replaced with charitable donations, known as "Tzedakah," which we discussed yesterday. Money is put in an envelope, and a prayer, rooted in the Book of Job, is repeated three times. The money is then given to the poor, channeling the act of atonement through charity. These acts are believed to bring about a form of earthly atonement, even though the concept of atonement varies within Judaism.

Prayer for the Jewish People

As we consider these rich and varied traditions, our prayer is for the Jewish people to come to know Yeshua, the ultimate atonement for our sins. May these earthly rituals spark a heavenly realization, allowing them to see that Jesus has already paid the price for all, fulfilling the yearning that these practices symbolize.

Application for Believers

For Christians, the rituals around atonement may seem foreign, but the core principle should not. After all, the New Testament teaches that Jesus is our atonement, once and for all. During this day, let's reflect on the depth of that gift. What areas in our lives need atonement and reconciliation? How can we extend grace to others, just as it has been extended to us?

Directed Prayer Point

First, let's pray for the Jewish people, that their search for atonement would lead them to Yeshua. And for ourselves, ask God to reveal areas where we can extend His grace and atonement to others. May this day serve as a reminder of the ultimate atonement we have through the Messiah, and inspire us to live in that truth daily.

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