The Day of Atonement was observed a few days ago. According to Leviticus 16, it is a Sabbath of rest, a day to afflict the soul, and a statute forever unto Israel. Most Christians are unaware that there are more than one Sabbath given to the Jewish people. Many Bible scholars and theologians lead others to believe that there is only one Sabbath given to the Israelites by God as a covenant people, often considering one Sabbath as the preparation day for the next Sabbath.
Today’s Christians do not observe the preparation day for their day of worship, nor do we have a deep understanding of its importance. However, it is significant. Matthew 28 tells us with certainty that Jesus rose from the dead on the day following two successive Sabbaths. Isaiah, the prophet, saw in a vision Jesus as Savior and King, and he was born, but the wise men asked, “Where is he that is born King of the Jews?” They missed the fact that Savior and King were associated with different times and establishments.
Matthew wrote about the end of the Sabbaths. Just to remind you, the Day of Atonement and the Day of Passover are the two holiest days of the year for the Jews, which makes three Sabbaths, but not all of the Sabbaths.
Now, let’s reason for a moment. The day we set apart to give worship and praise to God is important. In the same manner, is not the day we set apart to afflict the soul through fasting, prayer, and worship even of greater importance? For the affliction of the soul reveals the joy of the Lord and fills the spirit with the beauty of the glory of God.
Accompanying Bible Verses:
- **Leviticus 16:29 (NIV)**: “This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month you must deny yourselves and not do any work—whether native-born or a foreigner residing among you.”
- **Matthew 28:1 (NIV)**: “After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.”
- **Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)**: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
