Posted 8/10/2007
WATCH FOR AUGUST 15th THROUGH SEPTEMBER 22nd! – CLICK HERE
The traditional New Year begins in January. The Jewish New Year begins in the fall on the Feast of Trumpets. Known as Rosh Hashanah, the secular Hebrew calendar marks this day as the beginning of a new cycle of the year. This is also the season of Teshuvah.
Teshuvah means, “to turn or to repent.” It is not a Biblical feast recognized in the Torah (5 books of Moses), however the concept from which it originates is from the book of Exodus. Moses spent 40 days on Mount Sinai receiving the Commandments from God (Exodus 24:18). This time was marked by the feast of Pentecost. After returning to camp at the base of the mountain, God’s people were dancing before an idol, a gold calf. Moses in anger broke the Commandment stones. He then ascended for another 40 days to the top of the mountain to intercede and repent on behalf of Israel’s disobedience (Exodus 34:28). God’s decision to destroy Israel was reversed by Moses intercession and repentance. This second forty days became known as Teshuvah, the season of repentance and turning to God.
The custom is to blow the shofar for the 29 days of Elul. This year Elul begins on August 15th. At this time a person searches their heart, turning to God and asking for forgiveness for any sins, failures of offences they have committed. They also focus on others. Each person is to evaluate their personal relationship with family, friends and co-workers. Any repentance and forgiveness toward others must be done at this season. Letters are written asking to bless friends and inscribe their names in the book of life. If a believer sins they should immediately repent and not wait for this season. However, this season is a united repentance, just like a nationally called fast or a national call to prayer. The entire church should spend time before God.
This year, on September 13th, the Jewish New Year, or Feast of Trumpets will begin. This marks the beginning of Tishri, the first month on the Jewish civil calendar. From September 13th through September 22nd are the Days of Awe. This is believed to be the time when God opened a special window for prayers to be received and answers to come. It is also believed to be a time when God makes decisions for the following year, which are sealed on the Day of Atonement (this year on September 22nd).
Several years ago the Lord impressed me to take teach about this season and call individuals, churches and His people into a time of more intimate prayer, reflection, intercession and giving. Will you join me in the following?
- Beginning August 15th through September 22nd spend more quality time with the Lord
- Spend time reflecting and repenting for personal and national sins
- Write letters blessing family and loved ones, encouraging them to follow the Lord
- Plant a one time Days of Awe offering for your financial blessings the next 12 months
We will receive any and all prayer request at this time, which are placed in my office in the prayer chest. We will pray and agree over your request and your offering. Act in faith as Cornelius did, mixing your prayers and your giving to create a memorial before God:
“And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.” - Acts 10:4
Perry Stone, Jr.
Voice of Evangelism Ministries
PO Box 3595
Cleveland TN 37320-3595