Rosh Hashanah, or the head of the year, is a high holy day for the Jewish people. It marks the start of the year on the Jewish calendar and the belief is that it is the anniversary of the day God created Adam and Eve. Jewish people believe each person’s destiny for the coming year is decided by God during Rosh Hashanah. It is a time of celebration, but also of seeking God. This year, Rosh Hashanah began at sundown on September 6 and ends at nightfall on September 8. And several days later, on September 16, Jews mark the Day of Atonment, or Yom Kippur. Yom Kippur is the holiest day for the Jewish people as it the day they believe their sins are covered.

While we do not have to participate in the feasts set forth in the Old Testament law, it is interesting to note that God does still move in special ways during times of Jewish feasts. It is also interesting to note that this year, right between the time of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, lies September 11. And this year, it is the 20th anniversary of 9-11. Is that a coincidence? No it is not. God does not operate in coincidence or happenstance.

The number 20 in the Bible is tied to expectancy. Today, we note Rosh Hashanah, or the New Year, with new things and God making plans for our future. On September 11, we will note the 20th anniverary of the worst civilian tragedy in our nation. We wait with expectancy for God’s plans to come to pass, and for Him to reveal truth and to avenge the deaths of the people who were murdered on that day. And on the Day of Atonement, September 16, we can thank God for His mercy in saving us- and we can pray for those guilty of great crimes, like September 11, to repent before they go to their final destination.

I believe that these days from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur will be eventful days for all nations. I believe we can be in expectancy to see God’s plans come to pass and His mercy poured out on this nation and the people of the world. I am not sure how it will unfold, but it will be interesting to observe. Bless the Lord for His mercy and justice. Hallelujah!

Therefore return to your God! Hold fast to love and mercy, to righteousness and justice, and wait [expectantly] for your God continually! Hosea 12:6 (Amplified Bible Classic Edition, AMPC)