8.26.26 – Journey of Joy

As we approach the conclusion of the book of Deuteronomy and prepare for the Day of Atonement(s) and the Feast of Tabernacles, I find myself reflecting deeply on past Torah portions while looking ahead. I never want to forget where I have been, take for granted where I stand, or lose sight of where I am going.

In last week's Torah portion, Ki Tetzei ("When you go out," Deut. 21:10–25:19), we learned about war against your enemies—specifically, the one within. It reminded us of the internal struggles we face and the constant battle to align our hearts and actions with God's will. This week's portion, Ki Tavo ("When you come in," Deut. 26:1ff), shifts the focus to joy and accomplishment. The battle is over, the victory is won, and it is time to reflect and rejoice.

Joy in the Victory

"Coming in"—Ki Tavo—is about celebrating victory and what has been accomplished through faith and obedience. You have poured out your energy, given your all, and now the game clock has struck 0:00. It is time to pause, look back, and give thanks for what God has done (Deut. 26).

As we journey through the month of Elul, this sacred time of intimacy with the King, we are reminded to focus on drawing near (Song 6:3), unselfish giving (Est. 9:22), and a circumcised heart (Deut. 30:6). Elul is a season when the King is walking in the field, inviting us to draw near to Him and to reconcile with one another. It is no coincidence that Yeshua defined the field as the world (Matt. 13:38).

Each of us has been assigned a role in that field, with a job to do (Matt. 20:1–7; Ruth 2:6–8). The need for workers is immense (John 4:35; Matt. 9:37), and this is not the time to be idle (Matt. 20:6). By His grace, there is work to be done (Eph. 2:8–10). As we move forward into the Fall Feast season, there is joyful work ahead (Deut. 28:45–48)!

The Fall Feasts: Coverings and Community

The appointed times (Moedim) in the spring focus on separation and division, but the fall feasts are about coverings, unity, and community. This season challenges us to pursue the Spirit's leading as we walk the path of power, knowledge, and holy reverence for the Lord. God's ultimate destiny for us is the Promised Land, but the journey requires us to live as lights to the nations (Isa. 42:6; Luke 2:32) and to foster unity so that all may gather under one banner at Sukkot (Zech. 14:16–19).

The Adversary's Strategy

Unfortunately, the adversary knows God's plan very well. Whether we view the adversary as our own evil inclination (yetzer hara) or an external force—Satan, the Devil, or the accuser of the brethren—one thing is certain: this is the season when the battle intensifies.

Instead of unity, forgiveness, and restoration, the enemy seeks to sow division and discord. The Prince of the Power of the Air (Eph. 2:2) and his minions (Eph. 6:10–12) unleash attacks that manifest in self-justifying opinions (Neh. 9:16; Rom. 10:2), critical spirits (Col. 4:6; Eph. 4:29; Rom. 12:21), unhealthy hierarchies (Ezek. 34:18–20), destructive words (Prov. 26:17–19; James 3:9–11), and division among brethren (Prov. 6:19; Rom. 16:17).

At the core, these attacks are rooted in fear and self-preservation—the exact opposite of what it means to contend for the faith (Jude 3) and grow into the fullness of Messiah (Eph. 2:21; 4:15–16).

A Call to Action

Let me ask you: If you were the enemy, how would you create disunity within the body of Messiah? How would you create distraction and disunity in your own life? Stop and think about this for a moment before reading further.

Now that you have reflected, consider the words of Yeshua: "Do unto others as you would have them do to you" (Matt. 7:12).

  • Do you want forgiveness? Forgive.

  • Do you want love? Love.

  • Do you want mercy? Show mercy.

  • Do you want to be heard? Listen.

  • Do you want friends? Be friendly.

  • Do you want intimacy? Give.

  • Do you want community? Lead by serving.

  • Do you want to stand approved before God? Live His standard.

The 10 Days of Awe: Draw Near

This period of the Ten Days of Awe is the ultimate time to draw near to God (Elohim) and one another for the sake of the bigger picture. Atonement is just a month away, and Sukkot is just around the corner. Will we be prepared to receive the blessings of obedience (Deut. 28:1–15, 45–48)? The answer is yes—if we walk in His ways.

Shalom and Blessings

As we prepare our hearts for the fall feasts, let us strive for unity, joy, and faithfulness in the work God has set before us. The victory is already won, and our role is to reflect His light, live in community, and celebrate together under His covering. May we all be ready to receive the blessings He has prepared for us.

Shalom! May your day and week be filled with His peace, strength, and joy. 

To catch up on past teachings, visit www.lightintorah.org.

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