A Sense of Time

In my study of the Jewish religion, and how it relates to the Christian faith, I am learning that there is a strong sense of historical time and recognition in the annual remembrances of Judaism. At specific times each year, historical events are not just commemorated but recreated. The chapter of Leviticus 23 explains the purpose of the Sabbath and goes on to summarize other appointed festivals of the Jewish calender. These festivals are appointed times or seasons, moments in time when the eternal, spiritual world can be glimpsed. The rituals and prayers associated with each festival, from biblical times until now, are a means to spiritual experience, ways of appropriating the significance of God's activity in the history of a people, and making it your own. The festivals also give the year a spiritual rhythm.

We are approaching the Fall Holy Days, beginning with Rosh Hashanah on September 18, the beginning of a new calender year.