The Prophetic Timing of Yom Kippur
Scripture: Leviticus 23:26–32 (ESV)
“And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, ‘Now on the tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement. It shall be for you a time of holy convocation, and you shall afflict yourselves and present a food offering to the Lord… It shall be to you a Sabbath of solemn rest, and you shall afflict yourselves. On the ninth day of the month beginning at evening, from evening to evening shall you keep your Sabbath.’”
Devotion:
In Israel’s calendar, Yom Kippur—the Day of Atonement—was the holiest day of the year. For one day, the High Priest entered beyond the veil into the Holy of Holies to make atonement for himself and the people. It was a day of awe, fasting, and deep reflection, a time when the nation asked: Will God forgive us this year?
This day pointed forward to something greater. It was a shadow of what Jesus, our Great High Priest, would fulfill once and for all. While Yom Kippur carried fear and uncertainty, the cross of Christ now carries assurance and access. We don’t tremble outside the veil, wondering if God will accept us—we walk boldly in because of Jesus’ blood.
Yet, Yom Kippur still speaks to us today. It reminds us of the seriousness of sin, the cost of atonement, and the gift of access we now have. What was once a day of affliction is now a reminder of mercy. And the call remains: to humble ourselves, seek God’s presence, and draw near.
Reflection Questions:
Do I approach God’s presence with reverence, or have I grown casual?
How does remembering Yom Kippur’s weight deepen my gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice?
Am I using the access Jesus won for me to truly pursue His presence?
Prayer Focus:
Thank God for the prophetic picture of Yom Kippur fulfilled in Jesus. Pray for a fresh awe and reverence in approaching His presence. Declare that you will not stand at a distance but draw near daily, confident in the blood of Christ. Pray that Harvest Revival Center will be a people who honor God’s presence above all else.
