Daily Devotionals

Look, I will send to you Eliyahu the prophet (Malachi 3:23).

Perhaps the most renowned and beloved of the Jewish prophets is Eliyahu HaTishbi (Elijah the Tishbite). This could be because of the awesome miracles which were performed through the hand of this humble servant of God. We also admire his incredible boldness as he confronted the pagan prophets ofBa'al on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18). Likewise, Eliyahu has always captured the attention of our people because of his mysterious ascension into heaven on a fiery chariot (2 Kings 2).

It doesn't surprise us, therefore, that this man of faith is given special mention in the last verses (Malachi 4:5-6[3:23-24]) of the Nevi'im (Prophets) as the one who will prepare the way of restoration before the days of Mashiach (Messiah). On account of this distinction, the rabbis of old placed great emphasis on Eliyahu as the one who would announce the coming of Mashiach. Hence the fifth cup at our Pesach seder (Passover service)—kos Eliyahu (cup of Elijah).

This cup is set on the table, filled to the brim, but left untouched during the seder. The hope is that Eliyahu himself will show up at our seder, drink from the cup and announce that Mashiach is finally here! What a beautiful tradition it is; and yet how tragic.

There was a man who came to our people in the first century and claimed to be sent by God to prepare the way for the Mashiach. Yochanan (John) came in the spirit and even with much of the physical appearance of Eliyahu. Yeshua the Messiah said of him "if you are willing to accept it, he is Eliyahu, whose coming was predicted" (Matthew 11:14). Although both Yochanan and Yeshua were rejected by many, God will still fulfill his promise to send Eliyahu. Are we ready for him to join us at our seder?

...contemplate the message of the Cup of Eliyahu and prepare for the return of Messiah.

BK