Tonight at sunset (1 Oct 2025), our Jewish brothers and sisters begin the observance of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. It marks the culmination of the Ten Days of Awe—a period of reflection, repentance, and reconciliation that began with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
Yom Kippur is set apart as a day of fasting, prayer, and spiritual rest, a solemn invitation to return to the Lord with humility. From sunset to sunset, many will abstain from food and work, choosing instead to examine their hearts, confess their sins, and seek forgiveness. It’s not just a ritual—it’s a rhythm of renewal. What a profound way to begin a new year: not with resolutions and hustle, but with repentance and rest.
What does Yom Kippur Mean for us as Christians?
Though we are not bound by the Mosaic Law, Yom Kippur holds deep significance for followers of Christ. It points us to the ultimate Day of Atonement—the moment when Jesus, our High Priest, entered the Most Holy Place not with the blood of goats or bulls, but with His own blood, securing eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:11–12).
On this day, we remember:
The finished work of the cross: Jesus became our atonement, once and for all.
The power of His blood: It cleanses us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:7).
Our new identity: We are no longer condemned—we are called children of God (Romans 8:1, John 1:12).
A Time to Return
Yom Kippur offers us—not an obligation—but an opportunity.
An opportunity to:
ü Reflect on areas where we’ve drifted from God’s heart.
ü Forgive those who’ve wronged us and seek forgiveness ourselves.
ü Recommit to walking in grace, truth, and love.
ü Rest in the assurance that we are fully known and fully loved.
This sacred pause doesn’t have to feel heavy—it’s meant to be holy. A moment to realign, to breathe, and to be still before the Lord.
How Can We Participate as a Christian Family?
Though Yom Kippur is NOT a requirement for believers in Christ, it offers a beautiful opportunity for families to pause, reflect, and realign with God—together. Here are some meaningful ways to honour this sacred day as a Christian household:
a. Thank God for the gift of forgiveness through Jesus.
b. Invite the Holy Spirit to reveal areas needing repentance or healing.
c. Pray for one another and for those who may be far from God.
📖 2. Teach the Significance of Atonement
Gather as a family to explore the biblical roots of Yom Kippur (Leviticus 16) and how they point to Jesus as our perfect High Priest (Hebrews 9–10). This can be a powerful moment to help children and teens understand the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and the joy of reconciliation.
🍽️ 3. Consider a Family Fast or Simple Meal
While traditional fasting may not be suitable for everyone, you could choose to:
a. Share a simple, humble meal to reflect the spirit of repentance.
b. Encourage older children to fast from distractions like social media or entertainment.
The goal is not deprivation, but devotion.
💬 4. Practice Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Use this day to make amends. Encourage open conversations where family members can:
a. Apologize for past hurts.
b. Extend forgiveness freely.
c. Pray together for restored relationships.
This can be a healing and holy moment—especially when modeled by parents.
Let this be a day where your home becomes a sanctuary. A place of grace, truth, and togetherness. A day not just to remember what Christ has done—but to respond with hearts wide open.
The Invitation
So today, as the sun sets let us pause too. Not out of obligation, but out of reverence. Let us remember the mercy that met us at the cross, the grace that still flows, and the invitation to return—not just once a year, but daily.
Whether you light a candle, whisper a prayer, or reach out to someone in forgiveness, may this be a moment of holy alignment. A moment to say, “Lord, search me. Restore me. Renew me.”
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Cynthia Mabaso Chimanikire
This article was written by Cynthia Mabaso Chimanikire. Cynthia is the co-founder of New Gates and heads the organisation’s operations and learning strategies. Prior to joining New Gates full-time, Cynthia worked at the Central Bank of Eswatini as the Skills Development Consultant for the Bank’s Academy. Cynthia is married to Berven and together raises three leaders in their home Ethan, Zamar and Joseph. Cynthia’s is passionate about discipleship in families and organisations. Her mantra is “Raising Leaders for tomorrow”.
