Leviticus 16:34 (ESV): “34 And this shall be a statute forever for you, that atonement may be made for the people of Israel once in the year because of all their sins.” And Aaron did as the Lord commanded Moses.”
The Day of Atonement was the most important day of the year for all of Israel. It was this day that brought a covering for sin. Without atonement by the shedding of blood, there can be no forgiveness (Heb 9:22). Jesus is both the High Priest and our sin sacrifice. In Him, we have atonement for our sins!
The seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, was a day of national fasting and rest for it was the Day of Atonement. The people were to be mindful of the sacrifice being presented to God on their behalf. Aaron alone was permitted to enter the Tabernacle on this day. He was to make a series of sacrifices for himself, his household, and the people of Israel. There was also a scapegoat which would carry the collective sin of man outside the camp into the wilderness. All of this is a picture of what Jesus has done as our High Priest and sacrifial Lamb. He carries our sins away and makes atonement for us on the Mercy Seat. This ritual is a foreshadowing of Jesus.
Have you considered the reality of your sin lately? Once a year Israel was to afflict their soul with fasting and rest. They were to be mindful of their sin. We are in the age of grace but that doesn't mean we don't lament over our sinfulness. Where there is much mourning and lamenting for sin there is much appreciation for what Jesus has done (Matt 5:4). He paid the price. He carried our sin as far as the East is from the West. Be mindful of His sacrifice and rejoice in the freedom given through Jesus! Amen?
Father, thank You for making atonement on our behalf through Your Son. May we be mindful of the price that was paid on our behalf that it might change how we live we pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
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