Clean and Pure

“The Day of Atonement … shall be a holy convocation for you, and you shall … present an offering by fire to the LORD. You shall not do any work on this very day … make atonement on your behalf before the LORD your God.” – Leviticus 23:27-28 NASB

Clean. Spotless. Pure – more than words for Israel’s high priests. Once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), their sacred duty was to enter the Holy of Holies and come into the presence of Almighty God alone.

The Day of Atonement was one of God’s appointed times. On these days, there were to be holy convocations. Special offerings were to be made. The Day of Atonement was to be set aside for prayer, soul searching, confession, and repentance. It was so serious that no one was allowed to work or eat.

After the high priest made a sacrifice to atone for himself and other priests, he sacrificed a goat as an offering for sin. Then, another goat was sent into the wilderness, symbolically taking with it the sins of the people.

Through this symbolism, we are reminded of all Jesus did for us. He sacrificed His life so that we might be forgiven. He also became our high priest. Like the scapegoat, He took our sins away “as far as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12).

The Day of Atonement, which is celebrated beginning at sundown today, still has powerful meaning. It is a day to focus on God. Humble yourself before Him and spend time in prayer. Seek to be clean in His sight. Receive the forgiveness, freedom, and victory that are yours through Christ! And remember to bring Him your special offering.

Reflection Question: Write a prayer asking God to search your heart and forgive your sins.