How do we make sense of the Amish school shootings?  How could the Amish so readily forgive their enemy?  Let me explain.

According to Jewish teaching, Rosh Hashanah began on September 23rd when the Jews devote 10 days to fasting, prayer and repentance for past sins. During this same time, Charles Carl Roberts IV was evidently preparing his murderous acts.

Then on October 2nd, the day of the shootings, the Jews celebrated Yon Kippur, The Day of Atonement.  This is the day for forgiveness of sins.  The High Priest would select one lamb to “send into the wilderness to die” (this was the scapegoat) and the other innocent pure lamb would be slaughtered for the sins of the people.  Likewise, Mr Roberts, “sent the boys outside into the wilderness” and kept the young Amish girls “inside to be slaughtered”.  There is no forgiveness of sins without the shedding of blood.

Then during October 7 to 15 the Jews celebrate Sukkot to show their thankfulness for the fall harvest and for their renewed commitment to God.

The Amish demonstrated their Christian beliefs, as all true Christians should, by promptly forgiving their enemy.  Jesus Christ, the innocent lamb of God, shed his blood to atone for our sins.  If we believe on him, our sins are forgiven.  When we have received forgiveness for our sins, then we willingly want to forgive others their sins against us.  This a daily experience, not just once a year.