“…the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.”

‭‭Luke‬ ‭3:2-4‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Yom Kippur has begun. The Day of Atonement is being observed from sundown today until sundown tomorrow by many of my friends. It’s a day when Jewish people all around the world pause to intentionally and purposefully to seek forgiveness and reconciliation. Repentance is heavy on many minds and hearts, including mine. 

It’s interesting that today’s reading is about John preaching a gospel of repentance from sins followed by the declaration to prepare the way for the Lord and make His paths straight. Repentance prepares the way for Him. When we repent, it makes room for Him to come. He cannot work where sin abounds. It’s that simple and that profound. Repentance makes the path straight. 

If I truly desire to encounter Him and see Him intervene on my behalf in the world today, I must walk in repentance and forgiveness. It sounds simple – but it’s not. I cannot be His disciple or His witness if I do not have the fruits of repentance – Godly sorrow, obedience, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, self control, and holiness. 

This Yom Kippur I’m reminded that repentance and reconciliation are the keys to making room for Him, and that’s what I desire most – more of Him, less of me. 

To those who observe, may our fast be easy and may His presence transform our hearts and minds this day. 

Father – thank You for Your Word and truth. Thank You for the rhythm of the feasts. Transform my heart and mind. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen. 

Daily Reading: Matthew 3, Luke 3, Mark 1

October 4, 2022