Beginning in chapter eight of Leviticus there is material about the consecration of the priests (Kohanim). This consecration was to inaugurate the work of the Kohanim at the House of God. What was their primary work?

“As he did on this day the Lord commanded to make atonement for you.” Lev. 8:34

The priests’ primary work was to make atonement for the Children of Israel. This fact is very important and foundational for one in his spiritual preparation for Passover. What is the benefit of atonement? If the priest carried out the work properly not only was atonement made, but they would not die. This fact is included in the text to teach the reader of the Torah, that without atonement, God’s people are without the means for forgiveness.

This same truth is taught concerning the resurrection, as Paul states, if Messiah did not raise from the dead, then our proclamation and our faith are in vain (See I Corinthians 15:14). Not only that, Paul continues and states,

“And if Messiah was not raised…you are yet in your sins.” I Cor. 15:17

In the same way that the Children of Israel celebrated Passover with a great joy, we too, believers in Messiah Jesus, need to understand and express a great joy for our redemption especially during the Passover season (the seven days of unleavened bread, which includes Resurrection Sunday, which the Torah calls Resheet or first fruits).