The Fast Before the Feast

Given by Zach Smith
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
October 2, 2025

In the midst of such a joyful fall holy day season, does it ever feel like the Day of Atonement is a hurdle we just have to surmount before we can really rejoice? Why does God command us to afflict our souls in the midst of such a joy-filled season? Do we just have to get through fasting or can it actually enhance our feasting?