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Embracing the Call of Yom Teruah: Drawing Closer to God Through the Feast of Trumpets

Did you know that beyond the familiar holidays, there’s a profound celebration that invites us to reflect, reset, and reconnect with God?

Yom Teruah, or the Feast of Trumpets, offers just such an opportunity, yet many of us might not even know it exists!”

Growing up in a Christian household in the United States, the biblical holy days Yahweh established for His people were largely absent from our teachings. As Christians, we often overlook Old Testament instructions, deeming them outdated. Yet, these appointed times are not obsolete; they hold deep significance and can bring us closer to God.

Discovering Yom Teruah: Yom Teruah, often known as Rosh Hashanah in modern times, marks the beginning of the civil year on the Hebrew calendar. This day of shouting and blasting of trumpets is more than a cultural celebration; it’s a spiritual marker designed by God as outlined in Leviticus 23:23–32. Unlike the abundant details for other feasts, Leviticus is relatively concise about Yom Teruah, leading us to explore its broader implications in Scripture and tradition.

Significance and Observance:

  • A Call to Awareness: Yom Teruah serves as a spiritual alarm clock, awakening us to self-reflection and repentance in preparation for Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
  • Prophetic Undertones: For followers of Christ, the trumpets symbolize not only historical observance but also the anticipation of Christ’s return. The blasts are a reminder to live in readiness, aligning our lives with God’s commandments.
  • Symbolism of the Shofar: The shofar, or ram’s horn, used during Yom Teruah, has deep biblical roots. Its sound is a powerful call to action, a reminder to forsake sin and embrace God’s ways.

Practical Steps to Celebrate: Starting to observe Yom Teruah can feel daunting amid various interpretations and traditions. Here are some tips to begin your journey:

  • Begin with Scripture: Always measure traditions and interpretations against the Word of God.
  • Join a Community: Participate in gatherings, whether online or in person, like those at JacobsTent.org, to experience communal worship and learning.
  • Embrace Imperfection: Don’t worry about getting everything perfect at the start. Choose a day to observe and refine your understanding each year. (Ecclesiastes 11:4 One who watches the wind will not sow and one who looks at the clouds will not harvest.)

Resources for Deeper Understanding:

Resource for fellowship in a virtual community:

  • JacobsTent.org is a fellowship that meets in Tennessee and live streams events for Moedim and regular Sabbath services weekly. It is more than just a study, but brings you in to be part of a fellowship worshipping and learning together.

Conclusion: Yom Teruah is an invitation to reconnect with the roots of our faith, celebrating God’s sovereignty and our place in His plan. As we approach this day, let it renew our commitment to live a life that honors Him.

Call to Action: I encourage you to delve into the rich traditions and profound meanings of Yom Teruah. Let this festival deepen your relationship with God and enhance your spiritual journey. Start this year—don’t wait for perfect conditions!

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your appointed times that draw us closer to You. As we prepare to observe Yom Teruah, open our hearts to the lessons You have for us. Help us to hear Your call and respond with obedience and joy. May our observance be a testament to our desire to know You more and walk in Your ways. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.