Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Piety (goodness, faithfulness, holiness, devoutness, etc.) is in the person, not the place. [Lionel Blue] 

MESSIAH'S RETURN & ARMAGEDDON 
"And I saw the Beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered together to make war against HIM (MESSIAH YESHUA) that sat on the horse and against HIS army. The Beast was captured, and with him the False Prophet who worked miraculous signs in his sight, by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These were both cast alive into the Lake of Fire burning with brimstone. The rest were killed with the sword that proceeded from the mouth of HIM WHO sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh." [Revelation 19. 19 - 21] 

"Then I saw an angel coming down from Heaven, having the key to the Bottomless Pit and a great chain in his hand. He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; and he cast him into the Bottomless Pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more until the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while." [Revelation 20. 1 - 3] 

"I have commanded MY sanctified ones, I have also called MY mighty ones (those who rejoice in MY exaltation — for which the guests were notified to purify themselves ritually – Zephaniah/Zecharyah 1.7) for MY anger. The noise of a multitude in the mountains, as of a mighty force, a tumultuous noise of the kingdoms of nations gathered together! YEHOWAH OF HOSTS is mustering a multitude for war. They come from a far and distant land, from the end of heaven - The LORD with the weapons of HIS wrath — to destroy all the earth (a slaughter of sinners)." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 13. 1 – 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

This statement is especially true and accurate as you apply it to searching out the ways of GOD. You will find HIM revealed in HIS WRITTEN WORD, the HOLY BIBLE. The urgency is great and growing greater as we see the signs unfolding all around us indicating that the time is near. GOD is calling for HIS people to diligently seek HIM and be prepared for the coming of the LORD. GOD'S call always comes with a warning of destruction for those who fail to respond. "Wail, for the Day of the LORD is at hand! It shall come as destruction from the ALMIGHTY." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 13. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Cherished ones, strongly consider the impact of the purge that will follow the Battle of Armageddon. For then it will be too late to do anything, you will then stand before the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE to receive the reward earned by the choices you have already made. Then it will be too late to decide to live for GOD and repent of all your evil deeds! It will be too late to receive JESUS as your SAVIOR! It will be too late to begin church attendance to learn of GOD'S Plan of Salvation! It will be too late to be saved from the fierce justice of ALMIGHTY GOD! 

Therefore, do not delay! Be serious with GOD and seek HIM till you find HIM, blessings and salvation will follow your search. This is a promise of MESSIAH YESHUA our LORD when HE said: "Ask and it shall be given to you, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you. For everyone that asks receives, and he that seeks finds, and to him that knocks it shall be opened." [Matthew 7. 7] 

If you don't know the precious LORD JESUS as your MESSIAH–REDEEMER and have a testimony of HIM, now is the appointed time to find THE GALILEAN, WHOM to know is life eternal. For HE says, "I have heard you in the acceptable time, I have helped you in the Day of Salvation. Behold! Now is the accepted time. Behold! Now is the Day of Salvation." [2 Corinthians 6. 2] 

"With all my being, my soul yearns for YOU in the night; Yes, by my spirit within me I will seek YOU early. For when YOUR judgments are wrought in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im] My soul eagerly longs for the TRUE VINE, the BREAD OF LIFE, the PRINCE OF PEACE. . . JESUS, my LORD & KING. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
O LORD GOD, keep our tongue from evil and our lips from speaking guile. Be our support when grief silences our voice, and our comfort when woe bends our spirits. Implant humility in our soul and strengthen our heart with perfect faith in YOU. Help us to be strong in temptation and trial and to be patient and forgiving when others wrong us. Guide us, by the LIGHT of YOUR counsel that we may ever find strength in YOU, our ROCK and our REDEEMER. Amen 
In the PRESENCE of the LORD we are filled with joy, for HE makes known the way of life. Watch and pray....our KING, MESSIAH YESHUA is coming very soon!. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Woe! to me if I shirk my responsibility to my CREATOR. 

ONE GOD 
"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our GOD, the LORD is ONE." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 4 Tanakh, Torah] 

To my Jewish people, this is known as the Shema and we say it like this: "Sh'ma Yisroel Adonai Elohenu Adonai Echad!" [Deuteronomy/Devarim 6. 4] This great verse has been recited countless times by Israelites, evening and morning, down through the centuries, setting forth their declaration of faith in their distinctive belief in one great CREATOR GOD. This assertion is also setting forth the TRIUNE GOD. The name LORD is Yehowah, the SELF-EXISTING ONE WHO reveals HIMSELF. GOD is ELOHIYM (a plural word), the ALL-POWERFUL CREATOR/RULER proclaiming the declaration of who GOD is. It speaks of a unified oneness rather than an absolute oneness. 

The key word "one (Hebrew: echad — a compound unity, to unify, to collect one's thoughts, united)" is often used to denote unity in diversity. When the SOVEREIGN CREATOR made Adam and Eve, HE stated that they shall be echad — one flesh [Genesis/Bereshith 2. 24] a unity composed of two persons. 

The TRI-UNITY of GOD is implied in Aaron's priestly benediction given to Moses by the MOST HIGH: "Yehowah (the FATHER) bless you and protect you. YEhowah (the SON) deal kindly and make HiS face to shine upon you and be gracious to you! YEhowah (the HOLY SPIRIT) lift up HiS countenance and bestow HiS favor upon you and grant you friendship and peace." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 6. 24 - 26 Tanakh, Torah] 

The ZOHAR — one of the Jews' most sacred books, comments on the Shema states: "Why is there need of mentioning the name of the HOLY ONE three times in this verse? The first name, YEHOWAH is the FATHER. The second is the STEM OF JESSE, the MESSIAH WHO is to come from the family of David. The third refers to the ONE WHO is in us, defining the HOLY SPIRIT WHO leads and empowers us; and these THREE ARE ONE." The Hebrew word here is Shali'YAH meaning three-fold, triple, triangle — the plural of majesty. This teaching of the Zohar is based on the HOLY WORD OF GOD through Jeremiah, where in giving the promise of Israel's safety through the MESSIAH, it is added, "And this is the NAME by which HE shall be called — YEhowah TSIDQENUW (The LORD our RIGHTEOUSNESS / The LORD is our VINDICATOR)." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

In the NEW COVENANT, the authentic "Lord's Prayer" — MESSIAH YESHUA prayed, "HOLY FATHER, keep through YOUR NAME those whom YOU have given ME, that they may be one as WE are ONE. And the glory which YOU gave ME, I have given them, that they may be one just as WE are ONE." [John 17. 11, 22] 

The three-fold constitution of man (body—soul—spirit) proclaims the TRI-PERSONAL GOD WHO created him in HIS own image. The Shema, expressing the TRI-UNITY OF THE GOD-HEAD, precedes the command calling upon man's threefold nature: Spirit (heart), soul (essence), and might (body) to love his triune MAJESTIC CREATOR GOD! The ETERNAL OMNIPRESENT FATHER, CREATOR, and SUSTAINER of all things is our unified SELF-REVEALING LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Watch and pray, the LORD Messiah YESHUA is coming soon to set up HIS Kingdom. The descendants of HIS servants shall inherit it, and those who love HIS NAME shall dwell in it. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Faithfulness means that I can count on God; commitment means that God can count on me. 

PRIDEFUL SIN 
"GoD resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that HE may exalt you in due time." [1 Peter 5. 5 - 6] 

Satan fell due to his great pride and he rebelled against his Creator. When the Creator cast him (Satan) out of his position as "the anointed cherub" covering God’S THRONE [Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 28, 14, 16] the ALMIGHTY ONE said to him, "For you have said in your heart — I will ascend into heaven, higher than the stars of GOD I will set my throne. I will sit on the mount of the assembly on the summit of Zaphon (the north, abode of GOD). I will mount the back of a cloud, I will be like the MOST HIGH. — Instead, you are brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 14. 13 – 15 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Eve was then tempted by Satan, he appealed to her pride: "For GOD knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened and you will be like GOD WHO knows good and evil." [Genesis (Bereshith) 3. 5 Tanakh, Torah] Satan still anticipates and aspires to defeat the HOLY OMNIPOTENT ONE OF HEAVEN & EARTH, and Eve’s descendants still seek to be independent of CREATOR GOD, even to this day. That is why Paul warned Timothy, and us, against "Being lifted up with pride" lest we "fall into the condemnation of the devil." [1 Timothy 3. 6] 

Pride is the easiest sin to commit and the most difficult to overcome, even for CHRIST-like-ones. It is so easy to be proud of our strength, wealth, race, education, position, intelligence or even poverty and ignorance. Some are even proud of their humility...proud of not being proud. 

Thus, the Apostle Paul reminds us, "For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?" [1 Corinthians 4. 7] Even Paul, with his unsurpassed education, being trained under Gamaliel and taught according to the strictness of our Laws [Acts 22. 3], still recognized and admitted that it was only "by the grace of GOD I am what I am." [1 Corinthians 15. 10] 

The chief barrier to salvation is pride; one must acknowledge that he is a lost, hell-deserving sinner before he can be saved "by GRACE...through FAITH and that not of yourselves; it is the Gift of GOD, not of works, lest anyone should boast." [Ephesians 2. 8 - 9] 

Thus we should "humble ourselves in the sight of the LORD, and HE will lift you up." [James 4. 10] And if there is any praise and boasting — it should only be in the LORD GOD OF HOSTS. "Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom, thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our GOD forever and ever, Amen" [Revelation 7. 12] 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Through the common days flow the refreshing waters of GOD'S loving-kindness, yet we forget YOU, THE SOURCE. May this hour awaken within us a sense of our dependence upon YOU, O LORD, create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us that we may face our daily duty with a firm courage and a tranquil mind. May we learn to know that in loving and serving our fellowmen, we are loving and serving YOU. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 
 
Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Don't set your goal to be a person of success, but rather a person of value. 

TORN VEIL 
Under the OLD COVENANT, the Israelites were restricted concerning the Temple, for they were allowed only through the gate or first entrance, into the Court. They were shut off from the Holy Place by the Curtain called The Door. Only the priests were allowed through this door. 

A Jew, under the FIRST COVENANT, could not enter. Two sons of Aaron (Nadab & Abihu) were struck dead when they attempted to enter bringing strange fire rather than the required fire from the Sacrifice Altar. [Leviticus/Vayikra 10. 1 - 7] King Uzziah, tried to enter the Holy Place to burn incense and was struck with leprosy, consequently he lived the rest of his days in a leper house. [2 Chronicles/Dibre Hayamin Bet 26. 18 - 19] From this we learn that it is imperative that we worship the MOST HOLY LORD GOD HIS way, not ours. The priests were shut off from the Holy of Holies by the Veil. Only one man, the High Priest, was allowed through the Veil into the Holy of Holies once a year; and at that time he could not enter unless he carried the blood of the sin-offering. {Moses, was also allowed into the Holy of Holies at any time by GOD'S appointment — Exodus/Shemot 25. 22} 

However, something happened to change these restrictions. They were done away in the MESSIAH YESHUA for HE fulfilled the OLD COVENANT to establish a NEW! "YESHUA (the LORD JESUS), when HE had cried out again with a loud voice, yielded up HIS SPIRIT. And, behold, the Veil of the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split." [Matthew 27. 50 - 51] 

At the moment MESSIAH YESHUA died, the Veil ceased to exist. The LORD YESHUA died at 3:00 in the afternoon which was the time of the evening sacrifice (Hebrew: bain ha'arbaiim — between the evenings) in the Temple. The priests were in the Holy Place in front of the Veil engaged in their duties when this happened. How awful and wonderful was the scene! They could see into the secret of the Holy of Holies. They could enter in! 

It was not by the hand of any man that this work was done! According to some commentators on Jewish history, this Veil was 4 inches thick. It was about 30 feet wide and 60 feet high, higher than a man could reach and stronger than a man could rip apart. It is said that a team of oxen tied to either end of the Veil and pulling in opposite directions would not have had the power to divide it. And, nothing else in the building was shaken or marred in any way. It did not fall in tatters…a piece here and a piece there…it was torn in the middle in two equal pieces. It was torn from Top to the Bottom in a straight line downwards and completely through. It was not jerked apart by anyone from below, but cleanly cut by an "INVISIBLE HAND" from above. 

Being torn from the top and not from the bottom clearly shows that the MIGHTY GOD SUPREME had been there and ripped that curtain apart, throwing the Holy of Holies open — not just once a year to the High Priest only, but to everyone whom the blood of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH has cleansed! In other words, GOD, the KEEPER OF THE COVENANT is no longer shut in alone. . . HE can be approached. HE can be met, known, touched and experienced personally. Both Jew and Gentile who have come to the MIGHTY GOD OF JACOB through the LORD JESUS, the LIVING MEDIATOR are no longer shut off, but can now boldly come past the Door...past the Veil. . . all the way into the incredible Holy of Holies to meet with the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD OF HOSTS, the MIGHTY DEFENDER OF ISRAEL! 

"Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holies by the blood of MESSIAH YESHUA, by a new and living way which HE consecrated for us, through the Veil, that is, HIS flesh (freshly slain), and having a HIGH PRIEST over the House of GOD, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." [Hebrews 10. 19 - 22] 

Day by day, may we draw nearer and higher to the ROCK, our SHELTER & STRONG TOWER and abide in YOUR Tabernacle as we trust in the SHELTER of YOUR wings. This is our fervent prayer. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Merciful KING awaken our soul to grateful acknowledgement of YOUR grace which has bestowed upon us the gift of life, and make our pathway come in safety to the coveted goal — YOUR LOVING PRESENCE. LORD, YOUR loving-kindness is mighty over us, and we are ever grateful to YOU, blessed be YOUR GLORIOUS NAME forever! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
He who learns from the old, to what is he like? ...To one who eats ripe grapes and drinks old wine. 

THE WORD & THE SPIRIT 
"Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the SPIRIT which is of GOD; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of GOD." [1 Corinthians 2. 12] 

Some people are animated only by the spirit of the world, so when they read a BIBLICAL passage they find it tedious, confusing, or even foolish. They are filled with "the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience." [Ephesians 2. 2] However, those who are indwelled by the SPIRIT OF GOD, received the HOLY SPIRIT when they trusted in YESHUA ha'MASHIACH for forgiveness of their sins for salvation. And when they read HOLY SCRIPTURES, they receive great understanding and blessings. 

GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT is the ONE WHO inspired all the SACRED SCRIPTURES and "holy men of GOD spoke as they were moved on by the HOLY SPIRIT" to write it down. "All SCRIPTURE is given by inspiration of GOD" [2 Timothy 3. 16] — that is, "GOD breathed" so the "BREATH OF GOD" is the "HOLY SPIRIT." The Apostle Paul said, "We speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teaches, but which the HOLY SPIRIT teaches." [1 Corinthians 2. 13] 

"And when HE (the HOLY SPIRIT, COMFORTER, HELPER) has come, HE will convict the world of SIN, and of RIGHTEOUSNESS, and of JUDGMENT: Of sin, because they do not believe in ME. Of righteousness, because I go to MY FATHER and you see ME no more. Of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged." [John 16. 8 - 11] It is, therefore, the HOLY SPIRIT WHO indwells each believer to illumine, confirm and apply the WORD OF GOD to the individual who reads or hears with his heart. "The natural man does not receives the things of the SPIRIT OF GOD, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them because they are spiritually discerned." [1 Corinthians 2. 14] However, the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA promised HIS disciples that "when HE, the SPIRIT OF TRUTH, is come, HE will guide you into all truth." [John 16. 13] 

The LORD JESUS is faithful to do this through the HOLY WRIT HE inspired. And, we receive blessings in abundance as we study them prayerfully, then believing and obeying the words HE taught us for they are our LIFE'S BREAD. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
May it be YOUR will, LORD our GOD and GOD of our fathers, MERCIFUL KING, in YOUR abundant love, again to have mercy on us and on YOUR Sanctuary, rebuild it speedily and magnify YOUR magnificent glory! Blessed are YOU, WHO in YOUR glory gives life and light to the whole world. For YOUR great goodness and endless mercies, we give YOU thanks, praise and adoration. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The tongue is the heart’s pen and the mind’s messenger. 

SINS OF THE TONGUE 
"Miryam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite (Ethiopian) woman he had married: he married a Cushite woman!" [Numbers (B'Midvar) 12. 1 Tanakh, Torah] 

After this event, the EVER-PRESENT One called Moses, Aaron, and Miryam to the Tabernacle of the Congregation and spoke to them about this "Sin-of-the-Tongue (Hebrew: leshon ha'ra — evil tongue)." For this sin, Miryam became leprous. Due to the fact that Aaron was the High Priest who wore the Holy Garments and had the Anointing Oil of GOD poured on him; so as not to defile this sacred office — the RIGHTEOUS MASTER did not strike him with leprosy also. Aaron confessed their sin of evil speaking and Moses intercedes for Miryam's healing. She was shut out of the camp for seven days; the people did not journey on until Miryam was brought in again. [Numbers/B'Midvar 12. 1 - 16] 

"The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. It is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature, and it is set on fire by hell." [James 3. 6] The tongue speaks what is within us. Words of envy, faultfinding, complaining or resentment will affect the body. Death and life are in the power of the tongue. "It (the tongue) is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." [James 3. 8] Not only do we poison ourselves with this disorderly member, but also by the wrong use of our tongues we bring others into condemnation. There is suffering and destruction as well as health in this little organ of our mouth. "There is one who speaks like the piercing of a sword, but the speech of the wise promotes healing." [Proverbs/Mishle 12. 18] 

The remedy of healing an "insolent tongue" is available and it can become a "sanctified tongue." First is confession of the sin. Then, as with Moses who did not criticize Miriam or condemn her; he simply interceded for her — this is a consecrated, sanctified, controlled tongue! 

The PRECIOUS COMFORTER, the HOLY SPIRIT, in the epistle of James, said that no man could tame that little member of the body. [James 3. 8] Man cannot, but the BELOVED SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD can. HE enables us to do that which we cannot do without HIM! Thus, Rabbis have taught that the purpose of the tongue is to elevate the level of holiness in our world by communicating the greatness, the presence, and the character of CREATOR GOD through our words as HIS precious children. 

If you want your tongue to be tamed, to be delivered, to be controlled and be a consecrated (holy) tongue, the MIGHTY COMFORTER, the "DOVE OF PEACE & PERFECT LOVE" will do in your life what is impossible without HIM. And, as you allow HIM, HE will fill your life with HIS Special Fruits. . ."love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." [Galatians 5. 22 - 23] Lets use our lips to bless and praise; remembering that man will be satisfied with the good fruit of his mouth. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
May our lips ever declare praises to our KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & SHIELD for HIS loving kindness is mighty over us. We sanctify YOUR NAME on earth, as the heavens declare YOUR glory. For the LORD is wonderful in counsel and excellent in workings. 
Welcoming in Rosh Chodesh – the new month of Cheshvan. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Sometimes we give way to despair to free ourselves from the burden of hope. 

DECEIVING PROPHETS 
"Many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold." [Matthew 24. 11 - 12] 

The two main Gifts of the SPIRIT were those of "apostle" and "prophet" — given in the apostolic era. The Church itself was "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, MESSIAH YESHUA HIMSELF being the CHIEF CORNERSTONE." [Ephesians 2. 20] One of the commissions of these men was to receive and communicate GOD’S revelation to HIS people — first verbally, then written permanently as is recorded in the NEW COVENANT — "Which in other ages was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by the SPIRIT to HIS holy (dedicated to GOD) apostles and prophets." [Ephesians 3. 5] 

The Apostle Paul also revealed that such prophecies would cease once they were complete. "For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away." [1 Corinthians 13. 9 - 10] Clearly referring by the context to the complete revelation of GOD. When the last Book of HOLY SCRIPTURE was transmitted to the Church by the last living apostle, as the LORD warned us throughout the entire BIBLE to neither "add to" or "take away from the WORDS of the BOOK of this prophecy." [Revelation 22. 18 – 19; also Deuteronomy 4. 2; 12. 32; Proverbs 30. 6; Ecclesiastes 3. 14; Jeremiah 26. 2] 

Just as the LORD YESHUA warned "many false prophets have gone out into the world" [1 John 4. 1], and they have deceived many. One existing self-asserted seventh century “false prophet” from Arabia, received certain “revelations” from a “god of this world” that were vastly different from those of the LOVING CREATOR GOD of the BIBLE, and his followers now number over a billion and growing rapidly. 

The HOLY WRITTEN WORD OF GOD fervently warns us that, "Even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed." [Galatians 1. 8 – 9] Just as "there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the LORD who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the WAY OF TRUTH will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber." [2 Peter 2. 1 – 3] 

There are and have been many others, before and since, and still the SOVEREIGN LORD continues to warn us to guard ourselves and always to "beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits." [Matthew 7. 15 – 16] The basic standard by which to test any so-called prophecy, ancient or modern, is whether or not it fully agrees with and conforms to the WRITTEN WORD OF TRUTH, the HOLY SCRIPTURES. "To the Law and to the Testimony! If they do not speak according to this WORD, it is because there is no light in them." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 8. 20] 

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to GOD, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD OF TRUTH" [2 Timothy 2. 15]; and be meticulously vigilant and faithful "fruit inspectors." 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is YOUR love for us and YOUR compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that we may understand and fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED WORD. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Thank YOU for YOUR saving power, for from YOU comes our help. Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
A truth does not become greater through repetition. [-Maimonides] 

IN SEASON & OUT 
"Preach the WORD! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." [2 Timothy 4. 2] 

Paul’s charge to Timothy was urgent as his martyrdom was near. The imperative message is to be aware that "the time will come when they (people) will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables." [2 Timothy 4. 3 - 4] 

This message is crucial for each of us today since persecution and rapidly increasing apostasy are being pushed at all levels of the community, schools, government and news media. The idea of the text is for each true believing CHRISTian to be responsible, available and ready with the right words from the WORD OF GOD — words of exhortation (motivate to do right, encouragement, appeal to stir up with sobering information), of doctrine, of reproof (scolding, rebuke) if needed, yet words given patiently, even when rebuffed (rejected, unwanted) by the hearer. 

"For the grace of GOD that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great GOD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST, WHO gave HIMSELF for us, that HE might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for HIMSELF HIS OWN special people, zealous for good works. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority." [Titus 2. 11 - 15] 

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning (best part) of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom, discipline and instruction." [Proverbs (Mishle) 1. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The heart of the righteous man studies (rehearses) how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things." [Proverbs (Mishle) 15. 28 Tanakh, Kethuvim] These SCRIPTURES are insights for our discernment so we are able to prepare ourselves for the daily battles we face. "We know that we are of GOD, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one. And we know that the SON OF GOD has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know HIM WHO is true; and we are in HIM WHO is true, in HIS SON JESUS CHRIST. This is the TRUE GOD and eternal life." [1 John 6. 19 - 20] 

"But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry." [2 Timothy 4. 5] Moreover, "sanctify the LORD GOD in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in MESSIAH may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of GOD, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." [1 Peter 3. 15 - 17] 

Like the Apostle Paul who fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith and was ready to die as he had always been to speak for the LORD, may each of us be found faithful in the holy calling in our lives. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is YOUR love for us and YOUR compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that we may understand and fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED WORD. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Thank YOU for YOUR saving power, for from YOU comes our help. Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com  

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
You don't play around with the ALMIGHTY HOLY LORD GOD! First, it's not allowed — second, HE won't let you. 

MAGNIFY THE LORD 
"Let all that seek YOU be glad and rejoice in YOU; let those who are eager for YOUR deliverance always say — Extolled and magnified be ELOHIYM!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 70. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Those who love the MESSIAH YESHUA will do as this text declares. However, most people tend to magnify other people and vain ideas and viewpoints, even following them to the death; or worship them instead of the OMNIPOTENT CREATOR. How completely, unreservedly foolish! 

It is the ALL-LOVING MASTER WHO has given us our very life and sustains the heavens and earth for us. HE is the ONE WHO gives us the abilities and opportunities to do. Though we are to give honour where honour is due, we should first and foremost honour and worship the SOVEREIGN GOD OF HEAVEN. Our gifts and talents HE has given us are also to be used for HIS glory and praise; and furthermore, we should thank HIM continually for those gifts of service. 

We should magnify only what AUTHOR & FINISHER HIMSELF has magnified. "HE will magnify and glorify HIS Law & Teachings, and make them honorable." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 42. 21 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Be careful not to diminish the weighty importance and significant power and authority of GOD'S Law, as is the tendency of the world; rather we should magnify HIS Law and commands. 

The precious WORD OF GOD is magnified above all: "YOU have magnified and exalted YOUR NAME, YOUR WORD above all." [Psalms (Tehillym) 138. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] GOD'S HOLY WORD is essential. . . absolutely imperative! — nothing is more important. Our greatest blessing was when GOD HIMSELF magnified the LIFE-GIVING WORD — HE sent HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, JESUS. "In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD." [John 1. 1] GOD THE FATHER commanded worship of GOD THE WORD. "When HE (GOD THE FATHER) again brings the firstborn (YESHUA — GOD THE LIVING WORD) into the world, HE says — Let all the angels of GOD worship HIM." [Hebrews 1. 6] 

"Extolled be the LORD, let GOD be magnified." [Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Accordingly, we revere the LORD OF GLORY when we magnify JESUS, the WORD-MADE-FLESH. Bless the LORD at all times, "O magnify the LORD with me, let us exalt HIS NAME together." [Psalms (Tehillym) 34. 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] We cannot help but love and adore such a WONDERFUL GOD, SAVIOR & VICTORIOUS KING. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Good Sabbath! Praise to Almighty CREATOR God! We praise and bless you O GOD for lovingly and graciously giving YOUR Holy Shabbat — The Bride, The Queen — the imagery of beauty & radiance, testifying to the tremendous affection that the Sabbath is enjoyed among YOUR people in YOUR presence. 
We thank YOU, Great & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR grace we were taught the sanctity of the weekly day of rest and the Sabbath is the sign of the tie that binds us to YOU. Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. Amen 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 
 
Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Because of pride, filth, rebellion, oppression and treacherous deeds, knowing no shame this world will receive perpetual desolation. You have reproached and magnified yourself against the HOLY & RIGHTEOUS LORD GOD. Therefore, the LORD OF HOSTS will pour out HIS indignation and all HIS fierce anger and devour the earth with fire of jealousy. Only with be’esrat ha’Shem (the help of GOD) can we change our ways and triumph over such a tragic fate. 

SPEAK TO THE ROCK 
"Moses took the rod from before the LORD as HE had commanded him. Moses and Aaron assembled the congregation in front of the rock; and he said to them — Listen. you rebels! shall we bring water for you out of this rock? — Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came out abundantly, and the congregation and their animals drank. Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron — Because you did not trust ME, to affirm MY sanctity in the sight of the children of Israel, therefore you shall not lead this congregation into the Land that I have given them." [Numbers (B’Midbar) 20. 9 - 12 Tanakh, Torah] 

Throughout the HEBREW SCRIPTURES of the OLD COVENANT, GOD taught HIS people Israel concerning their MESSIAH. HE showed them by pictures, symbols, and even by their rituals that ONE was coming WHO would be their REDEEMER. GOD’S method of teaching our Jewish forefathers was by similitudes or types. The Hebrew word for similitudes means "to resemble, to liken, types." SCRIPTURE is full of these pictures or shadows of things to come. Our Jewish ancestors received these teachings and believed them for they were from GOD HIMSELF. 

When we study the OLD COVENANT, we see many types pointing to the MESSIAH WHO was to come. One outstanding type is THE ROCK at Horeb, Moses wrote of the ROCK in the Wilderness which he was to strike the first time so the Israelites could have water. The second time he was only to speak to the ROCK for water, but in his anger at his own people, he struck the ROCK twice instead. For this sin of disobedience, Moses could not enter the Promised Land with his people. 

The only way all the types in the OLD COVENANT can be explained is from the writing found in the NEW COVENANT. Jewish men who were anointed of the HOLY SPIRIT, who knew the teachings of the WORD OF GOD explained the fulfillment of all the types, parables and symbols of the TANAKH. One of these men was Paul, a Hebrew of the Hebrews, a man who was a Jew, an Israelite of the tribe of Benjamin. Paul wrote many things concerning some of these types which were in the OLD COVENANT. He called "the happenings of Israel " as types.

Moses wrote of THE ROCK; David and Isaiah also wrote of THE ROCK as a type of MESSIAH. This was GOD’S method of teaching our Jewish ancestors concerning their REDEEMER. Many Jewish people, in the days of YESHUA and of Paul, saw these beautiful pictures and believed in this ONE WHOM GOD was portraying to them. A remnant of Jews down through the centuries have also believed in JESUS as their MESSIAH. HE is THE ROCK. HE was struck on the Altar of Calvary that the fountain of living water could flow to all who will but believe. Will you take a drink from the ROCK that was struck for you? Will you believe in JESUS as your own MESSIAH and quench your thirsty soul? HE is patiently waiting and is ready to receive you now. 

WHO is THE ROCK OF ISRAEL? We learn the answer from the TANAKH (OLD COVENANT): "For the NAME of the LORD I proclaim; Give glory to our GOD! HE is THE ROCK! — HIS work is perfect, Yea, all HIS ways are just, a faithful GOD of truth and without injustice, righteous and upright is HE." [Deuteronomy (Davrim) 32. 3 - 4 Tanakh, Torah] "There is none holy as the LORD, truly, there is none besides YOU; there is no ROCK like our GOD." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 2. 2 Tanakh, Nevi’im] "The GOD OF ISRAEL has spoken, THE ROCK OF ISRAEL said concerning me: 'He who rules over men justly, he who rules in the awe of GOD is like the light of morning at sunrise." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 23. 3 Tanakh, Nevi’im] "O LORD I cry to YOU; my ROCK, do not disregard or be silent to me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 28. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The LORD is my HAVEN, my GOD is my SHELTERING ROCK." [Psalms (Tehillym) 94. 22 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Come let us sing joyously to the LORD, raise a shout for our ROCK and DELIVERER." [Psalms (Tehillym) 95. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

It was prophesied that this ROCK, the LORD, would be an OFFENSE to Israel : "None but the LORD OF HOSTS shall you account holy; give reverence to HIM alone, hold HIM alone in awe. HE will be as a SANCTUARY, a STONE of stumbling and a ROCK of offense to the two Houses of Israel , as a TRAP and a SNARE to the inhabitants of Jerusalem ." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 8. 13 – 14 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

When our Jewish people cried for water in the desert, GOD told Moses to smite the rock and water gusted out for them. They deserved to be smitten for their sins but the ROCK was smitten instead! The next time they were given water, Moses was only to speak to the ROCK, but in his anger he struck it twice, and for this sin was not allowed to accompany Israel into the Promised Land. 

WHO is the ROCK OF ISRAEL? WHO is the ROCK OF OFFENSE? WHO is the ROCK OF SALVATION? WHO is the ROCK who was smitten? WHO is the ROCK from WHOM the Waters of Life flow to all who are thirsty for GOD? The answer is found in the NEW COVENANT: "Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that SPIRITUAL ROCK that followed them, and that ROCK was MESSIAH (CHRIST)." [1 Corinthians 10. 1 - 4] 

My dear Jewish people and Gentile friends, may HE no longer be the ROCK OF OFFENSE to you, but may you accept YESHUA as your MESSIAH, as your SALVATION. HE is the BELOVED ROCK OF ISRAEL. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
As we bid farewell to Shabbat, may you have a good week — a week of peace. . . may gladness reign and joy increase. 
May the MASTER of mercy, show HIS mercy and compassion to all of you, our beloved. 
Heavenly FathER, teach us to emulate Your own grace and mercy. Cause YOUR Truth to fall upon our hearts like seed upon fertile ground. And, may we learn to love Your Law ever more deeply and to find in it the beauty of holiness. Amen 
Have a wonderful week serving and growing in the wisdom and knowledge of the LORD GOD MOST HIGH! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
A truth does not become greater through repetition. [-Maimonides] 

IN SEASON & OUT 
"Preach the WORD! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching." [2 Timothy 4. 2] 

Paul’s charge to Timothy was urgent as his martyrdom was near. The imperative message is to be aware that "the time will come when they (people) will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables." [2 Timothy 4. 3 - 4] 

This message is crucial for each of us today since persecution and rapidly increasing apostasy are being pushed at all levels of the community, schools, government and news media. The idea of the text is for each true believing CHRISTian to be responsible, available and ready with the right words from the WORD OF GOD — words of exhortation (motivate to do right, encouragement, appeal to stir up with sobering information), of doctrine, of reproof (scolding, rebuke) if needed, yet words given patiently, even when rebuffed (rejected, unwanted) by the hearer. 

"For the grace of GOD that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great GOD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST, WHO gave HIMSELF for us, that HE might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for HIMSELF HIS OWN special people, zealous for good works. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority." [Titus 2. 11 - 15] 

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning (best part) of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom, discipline and instruction." [Proverbs (Mishle) 1. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The heart of the righteous man studies (rehearses) how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things." [Proverbs (Mishle) 15. 28 Tanakh, Kethuvim] These SCRIPTURES are insights for our discernment so we are able to prepare ourselves for the daily battles we face. "We know that we are of GOD, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one. And we know that the SON OF GOD has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know HIM WHO is true; and we are in HIM WHO is true, in HIS SON JESUS CHRIST. This is the TRUE GOD and eternal life." [1 John 6. 19 - 20] 

"But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry." [2 Timothy 4. 5] Moreover, "sanctify the LORD GOD in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in MESSIAH may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of GOD, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil." [1 Peter 3. 15 - 17] 

Like the Apostle Paul who fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith and was ready to die as he had always been to speak for the LORD, may each of us be found faithful in the holy calling in our lives. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is YOUR love for us and YOUR compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that we may understand and fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED WORD. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Thank YOU for YOUR saving power, for from YOU comes our help. Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Your spiritual duties must be your own hearts actions. 

OUR HELPER, OUR TEACHER 10/07/15 — 
"The HELPER, the HOLY SPIRIT, WHOM the FATHER will send in MY NAME, HE will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you." [John 14. 26] 

The INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT is the best TEACHER, HE is our own special, personal MASTER-INSTRUCTOR, MASTER-COUNSELOR. "The natural man does not receive the things of the SPIRIT OF GOD, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." [1 Corinthians 2. 14] Therefore, we are to study to show our selves approved so the GUIDING COMFORTER can call to our remembrance ALMIGHTY GOD'S TRUTH, that you do what is written. 

We who have been called and chosen by GOD, know that it is essential and required both to DO HIS will and KNOW HIM. As we read and meditate on the WRITTEN WORD OF GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT brings understanding to our mind. Then moment-by-moment brings awareness as HE remains at our side guiding our daily lives as we allow HIM to lead us. 

"The HOLY SPIRIT also witnesses to us; for after HE had said before, this is The Covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the LORD — I will put MY Laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them." [Hebrews 10. 15 - 16] But, we must study to show ourselves approved, "Be diligent to present yourself approved to GOD, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD OF TRUTH." [2 Timothy 2. 15] 

"The ANOINTING (HOLY SPIRIT) which you have received from HIM abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same ANOINTING (THE COMFORTER) teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in HIM." [1 John 2. 27] Through HIS blessed HOLY SPIRIT, GOD THE DESIGNER, reveals HIMSELF — "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the SPIRIT WHO is from GOD, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by GOD. These things we also speak, not in words which man's wisdom teaches but which the HOLY SPIRIT teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual." [1 Corinthians 2. 12 - 13] 

"But as it is written — Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which GOD has prepared for those who love HIM. But GOD has revealed them to us through HIS SPIRIT. For the SPIRIT searches all things, yes, the deep things of GOD. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of GOD except the SPIRIT OF GOD." [1 Corinthians 2. 9 - 11] 

"Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of GOD! How unsearchable are HIS judgments and HIS ways past finding out!" [Romans 11. 33] As we truly seek HIM, HE delights in showing HIMSELF to us. And, there is such sweet, rich joy in knowing and serving the LORD GOD, CREATOR & KING! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
We praise YOU, MOST HOLY GOD and ask that YOUR SWEET SPIRIT be manifest to us in all YOUR works, so that reverence for YOU may fill the hearts of YOUR creatures. May all the children of men bow before YOU in humility and unite to do YOUR will with one heart, that all may acknowledge that YOURS alone is the power, dominion and majesty; and that YOUR NAME is exalted above all. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The TALMUD says that in the days of MESSIAH, all Jews will dwell together in one gigantic Sukkah. This emphasizes the good and pleasant need for us to dwell in unity; perhaps the reason we take the four spices — the Etrog, Lulav, Myrtle & Willow — bind them together and wave them in all directions. Thus declaring that all Jews and Gentiles are a part of the same unit; pledging to discover how all these parts can work together to accomplish a HIGHER good. 

SHEMINI ATZERET 
"You shall take for yourselves on the first day (of Sukkos) the fruit of the beautiful Hadar Tree (Etrog), branches of a Palm Tree (Lulav), boughs from the Myrtle Tree (Hadassim) and Willows of the brook (Aravos), and you shall rejoice before the LORD your GOD for seven days. You shall observe it as a Festival of the LORD for seven days in the year; you shall observe it in the seventh month as a law for all time, throughout the ages." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 40 - 41 Tanakh, Torah] 

Shemini Atzeret (Shemini: eight; Atzeret: solemn assembly — the 8th day of Sukkot celebration) is likened to the special feast of a king for his beloved son: For a full week the king celebrated with all his kingdom. After this week of festivities, the king said to his son, "It is difficult for me to part with you. Please stay another day to celebrate." {Atzeres also means "holding back" — referring to the king who held back his son from leaving with the rest of the celebrants.} 

For the full seven days of Sukkot, seventy sacrifices were brought into the Bais ha’Mikdash (Holy Temple in Jerusalem) on behalf of all the nations. If the nations of the world would have known the value of the Temple for them, they would have surrounded it with fortresses in order to protect it. GOD , the ETERNAL ONE, set aside an eighth day of celebration on which only one holiday sacrifice was offered, this one on behalf of the Jewish nation, and it became a day of unique celebration between CREATOR GOD and HIS chosen people. 

Simchat Beit ha'Sheavah ("Happiness of the House of the Water-Drawing") is one of the many practices during this festival. Water and wine are poured out from different golden pitchers so they mingle together as they fall onto the ground; thus signifying prayer for abundant rain necessary for the growth of crops. The Temple celebration during Sukkot was highlighted by the Ceremony of Water-Drawing for the holyday offerings. This ceremony was unique in that all year the libations on the Altar were performed with wine, but on Sukkot, plain water was used. Yet it was said that "whoever has not seen the joy at the place of the water-drawing has never seen true joy in his life!" [Sukkah 51] The joy expressed in this ceremony was the joy of the simple and pure acceptance of the ALMIGHTY GOD'S will, as symbolized by clear water; contrasting to the acceptance that is based on the joy of understanding, symbolized by wine. Spiritually, it prophesied the coming of the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA and the outpouring of the HOLY SPIRIT. 

Observant Jews take the "Arba Minim (taking of the Four Kinds)" of plants in his hands into the family Sukkah (booth), recites a benediction, then shakes these three times in all four directions (which forms a cross) to indicate that GOD'S glory fills the whole universe. This is done in fulfillment of the commandment, "On the first day you shall take the product of hadar trees (Hebrew: p’rietz hadar — the fruit of beautiful trees), branches of palm trees, boughs of leafy trees, and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your GOD seven days." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 40 Tanakh, Torah] The four plants enumerated in the TORAH are the Etrog (lemon-like citron – symbolizing a world of abundance and peace for all people), Lulav (palm branch), Hadassim (myrtle) and Aravos (willows). 

In our oral tradition, it is explained that each of these Four Kinds corresponds to a different type of person, from the Etrog, which has both refreshing tastes (constant TORAH learning) and delightful fragrance (good deeds) to the Aravah (willow), which has neither of these qualities. Despite their differences, the TORAH instructs us to take these four and bind them together, for they complement one another. So too does the Jew—and Gentile—complement one another; and only when there is true harmony among all people can we hope for an ideal existence. May it happen soon and in our time! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath of Shemini Atzeret! We honor and praise the LORD YESHUA, the ONE WHO gives true Sabbath peace and rest and separates the sacred from the ordinary; the sacred from the mundane. A truly wonderful Sabbath of Z'man Simchataynu (the time of our rejoicing)! 
The TALMUD says that in the days of the MESSIAH, all Jews will dwell together in one gigantic Sukkah. This underscores the need for Jewish unity. Perhaps this is the reason why on Sukkot we take the four species — Etrog, Lulav, Myrtle and Willow — bind them close together, and wave them in all directions. We declare that all Jews are part of the same unit. And, we pledge to discover how all these parts can work together to accomplish our lofty goals.! 
We are extremely grateful to the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL for HIS miracles that are with us all day and for the wonders and goodness of every moment. 
"Chag Sameyach!" — a joyous Sukkot to you and yours, may these days be extraordinary and blessed as we celebrate the 8th Day of Assembly. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
In Israel , the inevitable rarely happens; the impossible often. 

SIMCHAT TORAH 
"O how I love YOUR TORAH! It is my meditation studied all day long. YOUR commandments make me wiser than my enemies; they always stand by me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 97 - 98 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

"SIMCHAT TORAH" means "REJOICING (Joy) OF THE LAW." Celebrated on the 23rd of Tishri (23 Tishri 5776/October 06, 2015), the twenty-third day of the seventh month. SIMCHAT TORAH is the most joyous day on the Jewish calendar. It is the day when the reading of the TORAH is concluded in the synagogue every year and immediately afterward resumed. The custom of beginning to read Genesis/Bereshith at the same Synagogue service as Deuteronomy/Devarim is concluded; this is observed so as not to bring the Law to an end at any time — the cycle continues! 

On the "DAY OF REJOICING OVER THE LAW" special inducements are held out to the younger members of the congregation to participate actively in the public service. All assembled in the synagogue are called upon to pronounce the blessing over the reading of the Law, and even boys participate. In the house of worship the scrolls of the law, dressed in beautiful velvet mantles of red, scarlet, blue and white, and ornate with golden embroidery and inscriptions are taken out from the ARK OF THE LAW, and placed lovingly in the arms of the men and boys. Little children holding flags and burning candles praising and exalting in celebration of the WRITTEN HOLY WORD OF ALMIGHTY GOD follow in a procession up and down the aisles. 

Children should be reared and taught in the Laws of the ALMIGHTY, which Jewish people feel is their religious commandment. It is written in the JEWISH WRITINGS: "At five years, bound to the COMMANDMENTS; at fifteen years, the study of the TALMUD." Jewish children are expected to receive 300 hours of religious training throughout the year. So anxious have Orthodox Jews been for their sons to be diligent pupils that they are careful to make the boy's first day at Hebrew school (Chadar) an occasion he will remember all his life. This custom also shows how deeply attached the Jewish people are to the TORAH (The FIVE BOOKS OF MOSES: Genesis/Bereshith, Exodus/Shemot, Leviticus/Vayikra, Numbers/B'Midvar, Deuteronomy/Devarim) and how great has been their love of learning. 

As the solemn procession circles the Synagogue auditorium, those assembled there, kiss the garment of the SCROLLS, or touch the SCROLLS with their fingers and then kiss their fingers. This act shows that the study of GOD'S LAW is sweet. Their forefathers lived and died to preserve these for the generations yet to come. Seven times they march around the front of the Synagogue, singing joyful hymns in honour of the TORAH, "Be glad and rejoice with the joy of the Law." 

How sad is all this rejoicing, when we think of Israel 's spiritual darkness! It is true that "to them were committed the oracles of GOD." [Romans 3. 2] However, "eyes have they but they see not" [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 5. 2] and "blindness in part is happened unto Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in." [Romans 11. 25] 

When Irael's eyes are opened to behold their MESSIAH. . . then it will be SIMCHAT TORAH in reality! 
"All you peoples, clap your hands, raise a joyous shout for GOD. For the LORD MOST HIGH is awesome, the GREAT KING over all the earth; HE subjects peoples to us, sets nations at our feet. HE chose our heritage for us, the excellence of Jacob whom HE loved. Selah 
"GOD ascends midst acclamation; the LORD, to the blasts of the trumpet. Sing, O sing praises to GOD; Sing, O sing to our KING; for GOD is KING over all the earth; sing a Maskil (hymn of praise). GOD reigns over the nations; GOD is seated on HIS Holy Throne. The great of the peoples are gathered together, the assemblage of Abraham's GOD; for the shields of the earth belong to GOD; HE is greatly exalted." [Psalms (Tehillym) 47. 1 – 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Blessed is the LORD our GOD, KING of the Universe WHO sanctifies us with HIS mitzvoth and gave us HIS Holy Feasts. May we each have a life-changing experience and "Awake!" as the blast of the Shofar is dramatically sounded and strive to be holy, even as the LORD our GOD is abundantly faithful and holy. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath of Simchat TORAH! We honor and praise the LORD YESHUA, the ONE WHO gives true Sabbath peace and rest and separates the sacred from the ordinary; the sacred from the mundane. A truly wonderful Sabbath of Z'man Simchataynu —time of our rejoicing! 
The Promised Land of Israel seems small, but it is so great. Thus, we celebrate together: Shabbos, holy-days, the survival and potential of the Jewish people; in short everything we can be. Simchat Torah is not an afterthought, it is the holy-day that gives everything else perspective. Thus, we joyfully proclaim: "Chag Sameyach!" Rejoice and honor the wonders of the SOVEREIGN ONE and HIS HOLY WORD on SIMCHAT TORAH! "Vezot ha’Bracha —and this is the blessing" ...HIS SACRED WORD to us. [see Deuteronomy 33.1 – 34.12; Numbers 29.35 – 30.1; Joshua 1.1-18] 
A Chassidic rabbi once said, that during the month of Tishri, a Jew serves GOD with one’s whole being: On Rosh ha’Shanah with one’s brain, since we remember our deeds; on Yom Kippur with one’s heart, since fasting strains the heart; on Sukkot with one’s hands, since we grasp the lulav and etrog; and on Simchat Torah with one’s feet, when we dance with the TORAH. 
Every one of us has his personal story, how the TORAH has touched his life, how he came to be who he is today, and what the Torah means to him. For the Torah is the possession of all of us. No one has the monopoly on GOD’S wisdom. It is wisdom we can all study and grow from – and recognize its personal message to us. For when we dance on Simchat TORAH, we celebrate the fact that we have been cleansed on Yom Kippur. We celebrate that ALMIGHTY GOD has once again accepted us. So, on Simchat TORAH we celebrate that the Torah is ours and we rejoice in a quiet time with our LOVING MASTER, just the two of us. As we dance with the TORAH, we bask in the unique, eternal happiness that only GOD and HIS HOLY WORD can bring into our lives. "It is a Tree of Life for those who grasp it." [Proverbs/Mishle 3:18] 
Simchat Torah! LORD GOD…amidst all the dancing and celebrations, I realize just how alone I am with the ALMIGHTY ONE. What marvelously treasured moments… just HIM and me. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Sitting in the Sukkah reminds us to be aware of and grateful for the SOVEREIGN ONE'S absolute, all-encompassing protection. 

HO'SHANAH RABBAH 
"You shall dwell in booths for seven days; all who are native Israelites shall live in booths, in order that future generations may know that I made the Israelite people live in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt, I am the LORD your GOD." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 42 - 43 Tanakh, Torah] 

Ho'Shanah Rabbah is the name of the seventh day of Sukkot, and is a holy-day in itself. It is the final day of Chol Hamo’ed Sukkot (the intermediate days of Sukkot). In BIBLE times, the Jews who came to celebrate the Feast carried lights and torches to the Temple area illuminating most of Jerusalem and surrounding areas. It was on the last day of Sukkot, the day of the Great Ho'Shanah, while the people rejoiced, the water being poured forth and the priests blew the trumpets, the Levites were singing the Great Hallel (Praise) and the people were praying, "Ho'Shianah, hatshlichana (Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send us prosperity!)!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 118. 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH stood in their midst to tell them that HE was the answer to all their celebration! YESHUA knew that a drought existed in their hearts as Isaiah stated, "All who thirst, come to the waters." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 55. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The LORD will guide you always; HE will satisfy your thirst in parched places...and you will be like a watered garden, like a spring whose waters do not fail." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 58. 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Thus, the LORD YESHUA declared to them — "If anyone thirsts, let him come to ME and drink. He who believes in ME, as the SCRIPTURE has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." [John 7. 37 - 38] By this, the LORD JESUS was speaking of the HOLY SPIRIT, which they that believe on HIM should receive. 

Oh Yes! The LORD YESHUA is the RAIN for which the people prayed. HE is the LIGHT of the world, the GLORY that fills the Temple. HE is the WINE poured out with the water, as well as the WATER OF LIFE. YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is the LORD OF THE HARVEST, the GREAT INGATHERER! Some glorious day there shall be a greater ingathering of a greater harvest which John describes. . . "After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the LAMB, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, "Salvation (Ho'Sanah) belongs to our GOD WHO sits on the Throne, and to the LAMB!" [Revelation 7. 9 - 10] 

The Sukkot foreshadows MESSIAH'S PROTECTIVE PRESENCE over Israel during HIS Thousand-Year Kingdom Reign. The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL promised this covenant of friendship with the children of Jacob: "I will place MY Sanctuary among them forever." [Ezekiel (Yehezkeel) 37. 27 Tanakh, Torah] As we eagerly await in imminent expectation for that glorious time, may we be even more urgently faithful to obey and serve our LORD & KING, that we may dwell forever with HIM in that Heavenly Sukkah. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
With GOD'S help, the Jewish people will refuse to be "Weeping Willows" any more. 
"Chag Sameyach — a joyous Sukkot to you and yours, may these days be extraordinary and kept sacred!" 
Festival of Booths, the Day 7 of Assembly — HO’SHANA RABBAH - Great Hoshana 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
GOD first, all else second! 

VISIBLE RETURN OF MESSIAH 
"For thus the LORD has spoken to me (Isaiah) — As a lion roars, and a young lion over his prey (if a multitude of shepherds is summoned against him, he will not be dismayed at their voice nor be disturbed by the noise of them), so YEHOWAH OF HOSTS will come down to fight for Mount Zion and for its hill. Like birds flying about, so will YEHOWAH OF HOSTS defend Jerusalem . Defending, HE will also deliver it; passing over, HE will preserve it." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 31. 4 – 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

When the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA returns, every eye shall see HIM. There will be no mistaking this glorious event. "For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the SON OF MAN be." [Matthew 24. 27] 

At the trial of YESHUA, Caiaphas the High Priest adamantly demanded, "I put YOU under oath by the LIVING GOD — Tell us if YOU are the CHRIST, the SON OF GOD!" JESUS said to him, "It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the SON OF MAN sitting at the Right Hand OF THE POWER, and coming on the clouds of heaven." [Matthew 26. 62 - 64] Luke plainly records, "And all flesh shall see the SALVATION OF GOD." [Luke 3. 6] 

No longer the MAN OF SORROWS, MESSIAH YESHUA will be coming riding on a white horse, coming on the basis of HIS sacrifice for sin and HIS victory over death: "Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And HE WHO sat on him was called FAITHFUL and TRUE, and in righteousness HE judges and makes war. HIS eyes were like a flame of fire, and on HIS head were many crowns. HE had a name written that no one knew except HIMSELF. HE was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and HIS NAME is called — THE WORD OF GOD. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed HIM on white horses. Now out of HIS mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it HE should strike the nations. And HE HIMSELF will rule them with a rod of iron. HE Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of ALMIGHTY GOD. And HE has on HIS robe and on HIS thigh a name written: KING of kings and LORD of lords." [Revelation 19. 11 - 16] 

Our FAITHFUL LOVING GOD is calling for HIS people to seek HIM out and be prepared for the coming of MESSIAH THE KING. HIS call comes with a warning of destruction for those who fail to respond. Turn, O turn now be wise and understand what your latter end will be. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
As we bid farewell to Shabbat Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekly Sabbath), we are overwhelmingly grateful for ALMIGHTY GOD’S goodness and grace to us, truly HIS mercies endure forever. Now, go forth and proclaim the GOOD NEWS as the BELOVED ONE commissioned while it is still day. 
This Sukkot, may you be blessed with abundant happiness, health, and gratitude. Chag Sameach! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
You cannot take pride in your humility and still be humble. 

OUR TENT BODIES 
"The house of the wicked will be demolished, utterly destroyed; but the tent of the upright will flourish." [Proverbs (Mishle) 14. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The righteous LORD GOD OF HEAVEN will judge the upright of heart and the wicked for the deeds they have done. "For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous. The LORD is concerned for the needs of the upright, their inheritance lasts forever." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "YEHOWAH is RIGHTEOUS; HE loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold HIS face." [Psalms (Tehillym) 11. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The foes of YEHOWAH shall be shattered; HE will thunder against them in the heavens. YEHOWAH will judge the ends of the earth." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 2. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

GOD OMNIPOTENT is the CREATOR of all things. Therefore, HE has determined judgment on those breaking HIS Laws and knows those who are keeping them. "The LORD judges the peoples. Let the evil of the wicked come to an end, but establish the righteous. HE WhO probes the mind and conscience is GOD THE RIGHTEOUS — the DEFENSE, SHIELD and DELIVERER of the upright. GOD is the JUST JUDGE, and has indignation with the wicked each day." [Psalms (Tehillym) 7. 8 - 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

When allowed, the trials and persecutions we endure in this world can refine us for THE MASTER'S glory. Therefore, the OMNIPOTENT LORD has promised and we can be assured that "if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from GOD, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed with our habitation which is from heaven, if indeed, having been clothed, we shall not be found naked. For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life." [2 Corinthians 5. 1 - 4] 

Peter writes to those who have obtained like precious faith by the righteousness of our GOD & SAVIOR, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH: "For this reason I will not be negligent to remind you always of these things, though you know and are established in the present truth. Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you, knowing that shortly I must put off my tent, just as our LORD YESHUA showed me." [2 Peter 1. 12 - 14] "You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to GOD through JESUS CHRIST." [1 Peter 2. 5] We are commanded to "Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Prove yourselves." [2 Corinthians 13. 5] Therefore, "BE EVEN MORE DILIGENT TO MAKE YOUR CALLING AND ELECTION SURE, for if you do these things you will never stumble." [2 Peter 1. 10] 

If the LORD YESHUA of NAZARETH, the ROCK of our salvation delays, wait for HIM, for HE will surely come, and that speedily; and HIS reward is with HIM. As it is written, "the righteous man is rewarded with life." [Habakkuk 2. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." [1 Corinthians 15. 53] Not only is our reward to be with our REDEEMING SAVIOR, but we will live forever with HIM. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath — Queen of the week! May it be YOUR will, O LORD, that this day bring us a life of peace, a life of goodness, a life of blessing, a life of health, and a life of prosperity. 
We thank YOU, Great & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR mercies and grace we were taught the sanctity of the weekly day of rest, Sabbath is the sign of the tie that binds us to YOU. Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. Amen! 
May your Sabbath have the flavor of Paradise ! And your Sukkot filled with family and friends. 
Have a very blessed Shabbat Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekly Sabbath). 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
An exception casts light on a rule. 

FOR SURE! 
"But if you do not do so, then take note, you have sinned against the LORD; and be sure your sin will find you out." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 32. 23 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

The Hebrew word yada’ takes in many aspects of certainty sure, aware, comprehend, consider, take knowledge, know, assure, discover, teach, tell, understand and the eternal consideration should be made for the soul of each individual. From the very beginning, the ALMIGHTY CREATOR had warned of the consequences of disobedience, death and damnation. Adam was forewarned — "Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." [Genesis (Bereshith) 2. 16 - 17 Tanakh, Torah] All our sins will be exposed and judgment follows accordingly. "Nevertheless the solid foundation of GOD stands sure, having this seal — The LORD knows those who are HIS — and — Let everyone who names the Name of CHRIST depart from iniquity." [2 Timothy 2. 19] 

OMNIPOTENT GOD'S great mercy and enduring faithfulness is also yada’ for HIS HOLY WRITTEN WORD and the HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE, "WHO is the GUARANTEE of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of HIS glory." [Ephesians 1. 14; 2 Corinthians 1. 22; 5. 5] "And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place." [2 Peter 1. 19] We are also sure of GOD'S promised salvation, "This HOPE we have as an ANCHOR of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the PRESENCE behind the veil." [Hebrews 6. 19] 

Thus, through faith and patience we can inherit the promises as we show "the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of HIS glory." [Hebrews 6. 11] 

Of a certainty, the WORD OF GOD is sure, if HE has said it, it is settled if you believe it or not. We can be sure that our sins must be judged, and we can be just as certain that if we come to the ONE WHO is the CLEANSING FOUNTAIN, we will have forgiveness, if we believe HIS sure promises and receive HIS sure salvation. YESHUA ha’MASHIACH promised to return and complete HIS work of redemption and reconciliation graciously stating, "Surely I am coming quickly." [Revelation 22. 20] 

First, each of us must individually make sure that we believe the SURE WORD OF TRUTH and have acquired this absolute hope. "Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST." [2 Peter 1. 10 - 11] 

We can be sure that our sins will be judged, but, blessed assurance we can be eternally sure and secure when we know the amazing gift of forgiveness from our BLESSED REDEEMER and believe HIS sure promises and saving grace of salvation. Even so, come LORD JESUS! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
We thank YOU, Great & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR grace unto YOU do we turn continually, for YOU alone abide deep in the solitude of our hearts. May we ever trust in YOU, HEAVENLY FATHER, and be unafraid in the face of the inscrutable (unfathomable, immeasurable, unknowable, unimaginable) years, and see that everything happens for the best. Because of YOU LORD, there is perfect peace in our hearts at the nearness of YOU. Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest, Amen. 

Open your hearts in song as the sunset swells into a rhythm of changing colors. O taste and see that the LORD is good to those who trust in HIM and wait for HIM; to the one who seeks HIM with all their heart, HE will be found by them. 
Enjoy the PRESENCE of ALMIGHTY LORD this lovely day of Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekday)! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
There are three ways of believing: Inspiration — Reason — Habit. [Blaise Pascal] 

LIFT UP A STANDARD 
"From the west they shall fear the NAME of the LORD, and from the east HIS glorious presence; for when the enemy comes in like a flood, the SPIRIT OF THE LORD will lift up a standard against him." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 59. 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The Hebrew word for standard is "nuwc (pronounced noos)" meaning "abate, a way of escape, drive forth, chase, impel, deliver, put to flight, hide." So when the MIGHTY INTERCESSOR fights for us, we can be certain that the confrontation is already won. 

We are warned to be sober and vigilant because the notorious enemy of our soul, "your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." [1 Peter 5. 8] This notorious master of deception also "transforms himself into an angel of light" as well as "his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness." [2 Corinthians 11. 14 - 15] Satan and his ministering hordes are most dangerously deceptive when they twist, alter and distort HOLY SCRIPTURE to and through untaught and unstable people who twist the WORD OF GOD "to their own destruction." [2 Peter 3. 16] We must use the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT against them! 

Then when they fail to win a convert to their schemes they become anguished in their deception, they resort to great persecution, pressure and blatant opposition seeking to silence the testimony of true people of GOD. Those who were once your friends "think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you." [1 Peter 4. 4] "Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of CHRIST'S sufferings, that when HIS glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." [1 Peter 4. 12 - 13] 

Another event in time is coming when the woman (Israel) escapes from the anti-Christ, the serpent again tries to destroy her when he "spewed water out of his mouth like a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away by the flood." [Revelation 12. 13 - 15] Again, the HOLY & FAITHFUL ONE OF OLD will do great wonders, "the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and swallowed up the flood which the dragon had spewed out of his mouth." [Revelation 12. 16] 

When the enemy comes in like a great flood and the waves seem about to engulf us, we have our blessed SHIELD & DELIVERER we can turn to and be blessed, for HE is ever near. "Were it not for the LORD WHO was on our side when men assailed us, they would have swallowed us alive in their burning rage against us; the waters would have overwhelmed us, the torrent would have swept over us; then the seething waters would have gone over our soul. Blessed is the LORD, WHO has not given us as prey to their teeth." [Psalms (Tehillym) 124. 2 – 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

But, GOD is on our side, and as long as we stay on HIS side, sheltered under HIS wing holding fast to HIS clearly revealed WORD OF TRUTH & LIFE. Before the demonic flood can overwhelm us, the SPRIT OF THE LORD will lift up HIS STANDARD against the enemy and overcome victoriously. We are assured that "the solid foundation of GOD stands" [2 Timothy 2. 19], for the "LORD WHO is in you is greater than he who is in the world." [1 John 4. 4] 

"For YOU are great, and do wondrous things; YOU alone are GOD." [Psalms (Tehillym) 86. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] There is nothing too wondrous for HIM. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Let us adore the EVER-LIVING GOD, and render praise to HIM WHO spread out the heavens and established the earth, WHOSE glory is reveled in the heavens above and WHO'S greatness is manifest throughout the world. HE is our GOD; there is none else. With bowed heads and humble hearts and abiding faith in His justice and lovingkindness, we magnify the KING of kings, the HOLY ONE, praised be HE. 
Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekday)! Praying that each of you have a very blessed, Z’man Simchateinu (Season of Rejoicing)! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
None of us are immune to the deep pain of not being forgiven. 

PRAYER OF ATONEMENT 
"O LORD, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare YOUR praises. YOU are blessed, O LORD our GOD and GOD of our fathers, GOD OF ABRAHAM, GOD OF ISAAC, GOD OF JACOB. YOU are the GREAT, MIGHTY & REVERED GOD, the MOST HIGH GOD, WHO bestows loving kindnesses, and possesses all things, WHO remembers the pious deeds of the patriarchs, and in love will bring the Redeemer to their children’s children for YOUR NAME'S sake. 

Remember us unto life, O KING, WHO delights in life, and inscribe us in the BOOK OF LIFE, for YOUR OWN sake, O ETERNAL LIVING ONE. O KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & PROTECTOR. Blessed are YOU, O LORD, the SHIELD of Abraham. YOU, O LORD, are mighty forever. YOU quicken the dead, YOU alone are mighty to save. 

YOU, O LORD, sustain the living with loving-kindness, quicken the dead with great mercy, support the falling, heal the sick, loose the bound, and keep YOUR promise to them that sleep in the dust. Who is like YOU, LORD of mighty acts, or who resembles YOU, O KING ETERNAL, WHO kills and quickens, and causes salvation to spring forth? 

Who is like YOU, FATHER OF MERCY, WHO in mercy remembers YOUR creatures unto life? Yes! Faithful are YOU to quicken the dead. Blessed are YOU, O LORD. YOU are holy and YOUR NAME is holy, and holy beings praise YOU daily. There is none like YOU, INIMITABLE HOLY ONE! Selah 

Now, therefore, O LORD our GOD, impose YOUR awe upon all YOUR works, and YOUR dread upon all that YOU have created, that all works may fear YOU and all creatures prostrate themselves before YOU that they may all form a single band to do YOUR will with a perfect heart, even as we know, O LORD our GOD, that dominion belongs to YOU, strength is in YOUR hand, and might in YOUR right hand, and that YOUR NAME is to be feared above all that YOU have created. 

Give then glory, O ETERNAL ONE, unto YOUR people, praise to them that fear YOU, hope to them that seek YOU, and free speech to them that wait for YOU, joy to YOUR land, gladness to YOUR Holy City, a flourishing horn to David, YOUR servant, and a clear shining light to the SON OF JESSE, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, YOUR ANOINTED — speedily and in our days. 

Then shall the just also see and be glad, and the upright shall exult, and the pious triumphantly rejoice, while iniquity shall close her mouth, and all wickedness shall be wholly consumed like smoke, when YOU make the dominion of arrogance to pass away from the earth. 

YOU, O LORD, shall reign! YOU alone over all Your works on Mount Zion , the dwelling place of YOUR glory, and in Jerusalem , YOUR Holy City — as it is written in YOUR HOLY WORD: "The LORD shall reign forever, your GOD, O Zion, for all generations. Hallelu'YAH." [Psalms (Tehillym) 146. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

YOU, O LORD GOD are holy, and dreaded is YOUR NAME and there is no god beside YOU, as it is written: "The LORD OF HOSTS is exalted by judgment, the HOLY GOD proved holy by righteousness and retribution." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 5. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

YOU, MASTER, have chosen us from all peoples, YOU have loved us and taken pleasure in us, and have exalted us above all tongues; YOU have sanctified us by YOUR commandments, and brought us near unto YOUR services, O LORD our KING, and have called us by YOUR RIGHTEOUS & HOLY NAME. Blessed be our GLORIOUS LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT! Amen" 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
"Good Shabbat. . .have a very blessed Sabbath this eve of Yom Kippur!" — Thanking GOD, the FAITHFUL & TRUE ONE for the Day of Expiation. 
Kol Nidre (All Vows) Tonight we will stand in the synagogue and declare our sins, intentional and unintentional, and ask the ALMIGHTY to forgive us, pardon us and grant us atonement. We also recite the Yizkor—“Remember”…is a special memorial prayer for the departed…it is not only the first word of the prayer, it also represents its overall theme. In this prayer, we implore GOD to remember the souls of our relatives and friends that have passed on. 
At this time of renewal of our collective conscience, we should start by loving each other and learn to accept each other, helping them to stand up for GOD’S TRUTH; to accept the responsibility of defending the Promised Land of Israel from its many enemies. Defend us also from our sins of impurity of the lips and foolish speech, of running to do evil, of scoffing, evil speech and arrogant expressions which caused our thoughts to fly to wickedness and dictatorial abuse of power, not only here but throughout the western world. 
We must learn to measure our words, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy — we should meditate on these things. 
Please, LORD GOD OF HOLINESS, give us the patience to await the truth. . . create in us a clean heart and renew an unwavering spirit within us; uphold us by YOUR GENEROUS SPIRIT and keep us ever mindful of our obligations to YOU and to others. We give you our thanks, our praise, and our humble hearts. Amen! 
Days of Awe. The 39th day of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The HOLY BIBLE is an EXTRAORDINARY BOOK, expressing many norms and principles that have maintained their validity throughout thousands of years. It proclaims a vision of faith for men that is still valid and awaiting realization. 

YOM KIPPUR 
"In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, from evening to evening, you shall afflict your souls, exercise self-denial; and do no work at all — For on this day atonement shall be made for you to cleanse you of all your sins — It is a SABBATH OF REPENTANCE — a statute forever." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 29-31; 23. 27, 32 Tanakh, Torah] 

Yom Kippur is the day of afflicting your souls. Perhaps the most important day of the Jewish Year, this is a day for repentance and forgiveness. Compare Leviticus to James and learn see for yourself how this "Sabbath of Sabbaths" is meaningful for true followers of CHRIST JESUS today. 

Jews afflict their soul on Yom Kippur by fasting & praying. On the Day of Atonement in the Temple , the High Priest would announce: "O YEHOWAH, YOUR people, the House of Israel , have committed iniquity, have transgressed, have sinned before YOU! I beseech YOU by the NAME of YEHOWAH, make YOUR atonement for the iniquities and for the transgressions and for the sins wherein YOUR people, the House of Israel, have committed iniquity, have transgressed and sinned before YOU; as it is written in the TORAH of YOUR servant Moses, saying — "For on this Day atonement shall be made for you to cleanse you from all your sins; that you may be clean before YEHOWAH." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 30 Tanakh, Torah] 

ALMIGHTY GOD pronounced a terrible decree upon those who did not have a day in which their sins were atoned for. But GOD OMNIPOTENT, in HIS mercy, has provided the WAY in which everyone can have a Day of Atonement — the ONLY WAY of forgiveness. . . HIS NAME is "YESHUA — IMMANU-EL, GOD with us." 

"For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have assigned it to you for making an atonement for your lives upon the altar; it is the BLOOD, as life, that effects expiation." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 17. 11 Tanakh, Torah] 

This is a prophecy of MESSIAH, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL to come. HE would be the INNOCENT SUBSTITUTE. Even as the innocent bulls and goats of the OLD COVENANT ceremonies who "shed their blood" — would die — and by this death the sins of the people would be forgiven. The OMNISCIENT LORD OF HOSTS gave HIS SON, YESHUA, as THE ATONEMENT for the soul when HIS blood was shed for our sin! 

On Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), "Aaron shall take two he-goats and shall place lots upon them; one marked for the LORD and the other marked for Azazel (Scapegoat) ...and Aaron shall bring forward the goat designated by lot for the LORD, which he is to offer as a sin offering." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 8 - 9 Tanakh, Torah] 

The goat, on which the lot marked for the LORD GOD fell, was slain — its blood carried by the High Priest into the Holy of Holies and placed upon the Mercy Seat. The High Priest had already taken the blood of a bullock into the Holiest for himself. When he returned to the people after their atonement — it was the second time the priest had made his appearance before them! And so it is with the GREATER HIGH PRIEST WHO came once to give HIS OWN blood. After the FATHER'S acceptance of the SACRIFICE, when the sins of the people are forgiven, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH will return at the appointed second time! 

"Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat and confess over it all the iniquities and transgressions of the Israelites putting them on the head of the goat; and it shall be sent off to the wilderness." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 21 Tanakh, Torah] This Scapegoat (Hebrew: Azazel) would carry the sins of the people far from them; it was a substitute; it was made sin that the people might be excused from the penalty of their sins! YESHUA ha'MASHIACH was the SCAPEGOAT, for HE was the SUBSTITUTE WHO died outside the city of Jerusalem . . . (in the wilderness — "outside the gate" Hebrews 13.12). JESUS of NAZARETH was made sin that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in HIM! HE carried our sins away from us, removing them as far away as the east is from the west. MESSIAH has done more than "cover up" our sins, HE has blotted them out with HIS precious blood; they are to be remembered against us no more! "Much more then, having now been justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to GOD through the death of HIS SON, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by HIS life." [Romans 5. 9 - 10] 

Our WONDERFUL SAVIOR, by the sacrifice of HIMSELF, has inscribed our names in the LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE and we shall never be separated from HIM. No longer is it necessary that a goat or bullock have its blood shed for the remission of sins once every year, for GOD'S LAMB shed HIS blood ONCE FOR ALL. Jew or Gentile who believe in HIM can rejoice that there is a Yom Kippur for time and eternity made possible through the PERFECT KAPPORAH (sacrificial covering) this UNIQUE ONE is Yeshua, THE ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF THE LIVING GOD! 

Have you found the blood of atonement? "Behold! The LAMB OF GOD WHO takes away the sin of the world!" [John 1. 29] Are you trusting in GOD'S SMITTEN LAMB, the SUPREME SACRIFICE? The LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, JESUS — the only ONE WHO can satisfy your soul! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Shabbos Shabbason! According to the TORAH, Yom Kippur is called "Shabbos Shabbason" — a day of total rest. 
O LORD our GRACIOUS & MERCIFUL GOD, YOU have given us in love this Sabbath Day for holiness and rest, the Day of Atonement for pardon, forgiveness, and atonement that we may, in love, obtain pardon thereon for all our iniquities. 
O KING, pardon and forgive our iniquities and restore YOUR people; and let our eyes behold YOUR return in mercy to Zion . Please strengthen the bonds of friendship and fellowship among all the inhabitants of our land. Plant virtue in every soul, and may the love of YOUR HOLY NAME sanctify every home and every heart. Praised are YOU, O LORD, GIVER of peace. We again bless YOU, O LORD, WHOSE NAME is ALL-GOOD and unto WHOM it is becoming to give thanks! 
The Shofar is blown 100 times at the end of the Yom Kippur service to signify that the Day of Repentance and introspection has come to an end. "Pitka Tava!" — hoping the “Heavenly note” in your future is a positive one! 
There are five areas of physical involvement from which we remove ourselves on Yom Kippur: Eating or drinking; Washing; Applying oils/lotions to the skin; Marital relations; Wearing leather shoes. 
Days of Awe. . . 40th Day of Repentance…prepare to meet your GOD! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The things that come to those who wait, may be the things left by those who got there first. 

FAITHFUL IS OUR GOD 
"As many as received HIM (YESHUA), to them HE gave the right to become children of GOD, to those who believe in HIS NAME: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of GOD." [John 1. 12 - 13] 

The righteous one lives by faith and "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" [Hebrews 11. 1]; therefore, faith is believing totally what the WORD OF GOD says. HOLY SCRIPTURE teaches us that "by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the Gift of GOD, not of works, lest anyone should boast." [Ephesians 2. 8 - 9] And faith (grace, the same Greek word, charis) in the substitutionary work of YESHUA HIMSELF on the Cross of Calvary is vitally crucial to salvation, "Whoever believes in HIM (YESHUA) should not perish but have eternal life...He who believes in HIM is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the NAME of the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD." [John 3. 15, 18] "And this is the testimony: that GOD has given us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON. He who has the SON has life; he who does not have the SON OF GOD does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the SON OF GOD, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the NAME of the SON OF GOD." [1 John 5. 11 – 13] 

However, faith does not stop there, it grows as the believer matures in the MESSIAH, the SURE FOUNDATION. Mounting faith in the MASTER DESIGNER is characterized in various ways, for instance: Whoever has accepted GOD’S most gracious offer of forgiveness and salvation, the one who by faith has found the LORD trustworthy, comes to fully trust HIM and HIS promises in other areas as well. The Apostle Paul, who had been gravely persecuted for his faith, claimed — "For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know WHOM I have believed and am persuaded that HE is able to keep what I have committed to HIM until that Day." [2 Timothy 1. 12] "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of GOD commit their souls to HIM in doing good, as to a FAITHFUL CREATOR." [1 Peter 4. 19] Assuredly, GOD will faithfully fulfill HIS promises, and we can have faith, unwavering confidence, that HE will do "exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us." [Ephesians 3. 20] 

Some of the great heroes of faith are written of in Hebrews 11 proving that they all had one thing in common — they dared to trust GOD explicitly for great things, even impossible things and were motivated because of that belief. Such as Abraham and Sarah: "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise; for he waited for the City which has foundations, whose BUILDER and MAKER is GOD...By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged HIM faithful WHO had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude—innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore." [Hebrews 11. 8 - 12] These two, among several others mentioned, were confronted with an impossible problem, but all dared to trust GOD for the promised outcome, and all HIS promises were fulfilled. 

The one who has attained mature faith will "rest in the LORD, be at peace and wait patiently for HIM" [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] in the face of hardship, opposition, intimidation, oppression, threats or terrorization in this world. Allow the ALMIGHTY ONE to mold you into perfection as HE wills. "For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait on the LORD — they shall inherit the land. For yet a little while longer and the wicked shall be no more; indeed, you will look carefully for where he was — but it shall be no more. But the meek shall inherit the land, and delight themselves in the abundance of peace." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 9 – 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim].] 

In every juncture of our life as followers of the MIGHTY EL YEHOWAH, HE allows us opportunities to exercise and grow our faith. Remembering always that, "without faith it is impossible to please HIM, for he who comes to GOD must believe that HE is, and that HE is a REWARDER of those who diligently seek HIM." [Hebrews 11. 6] Even now, put your trust in the LORD JESUS, HE is the FAITHFUL ONE. Rejoice in the LORD you righteous ones for praise from the upright is beautiful. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
We bid farewell to Sabbath by singing the song in the Havdallah ritual that states, “the Prophet Elijah, the Tishbite from Gilead , may he come to us soon with the SON OF DAVID, the MESSIAH” — the GREATEST ONE that we fix our gaze on. We also pray that GOD, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins, guide our life and open our mouth to declare HIS praises continually. Unto YOU alone, O LORD GOD do we turn; for YOU alone abide deep in the solitude of our hearts. May we ever trust in YOU, HEAVENLY FATHER, and be unafraid in the face of the inscrutable (unfathomable, immeasurable, unknowable, unimaginable) years ahead, and see that everything happens for the best. Because of YOU LORD, there is perfect peace in our hearts at the nearness of YOU. 
Have a joyous GOD-filled week! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
In the beginning, GOD wished to render justice; but when HE observed that the world could not rest on justice, so HE rendered mercy. [TALMUD, Rosh ha'Shanah 17] 

GOSPEL PREACHED TO THE WORLD 
"He who endures to the end shall be saved. And the GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." [Matthew 24. 12 - 14] 

The MOST HIGH GOD OF HEAVEN is faithful in all things. "There is no other god besides ME, a JUST GOD and a SAVIOR; no god exists besides ME. Turn to ME, and be saved, all ends of the earth! For I am GOD, and there is none else." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 45. 21 – 22 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The SOVEREIGN ETERNAL ONE desires that none be lost, and all come to the knowledge of the truth in saving faith. [1 Timothy 2. 4] "So HE became their SAVIOR. In all their troubles HE was afflicted, HIS OWN PRESENCE delivered them; in HIS love and in HIS pity HE redeemed them; and HE bore them and carried them all the days of old." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 63. 8 – 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The STONE that the builders rejected has become the CHIEF CORNERSTONE. This was the LORD'S doing; it is marvelous in our sight." [Psalms (Tehillym) 118. 22 - 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Men were given the privilege of sharing the WONDROUS LIFE-GIVING MESSAGE that whoever believed would be saved. This GOOD NEWS had gone out from Judea, Samaria , then into the uttermost parts of the world, and continues today. The HOLY LORD has always had devoted followers with hearts willing to complete the great commission, which still says — "Go into all the world and preach the GOSPEL to every creature!" [Mark 16. 15] 

The prophets, apostles, disciples, missionaries and modern-day world evangelists thought the WORD had been spread completely by their teaching on radio, internet and television. However, the ALMIGHTY let it be known that it still is not complete. As you read the book of Revelation, you find that GOD HIMSELF will be the ONE to assure the task is complete, for HE shows the way it will be accomplished HIS perfect and complete way. 

Two Witnesses: The FAITHFUL & TRUE, the AUTHOR & FINISHER of our faith affirms — "And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees and the two lamp-stands standing before the GOD of the earth." [Revelation 11. 3 - 4] When they finish their testimony, the beast from the bottomless pit will make war on them and kill them, but after three days, the BREATH OF LIFE from GOD will enter them and they will ascend into heaven in a cloud. [Revelation 11. 7 - 14] 

144,000 Jewish Witnesses: The SAVIOR OF OLD has 144,000 un-defiled, virgin Jewish men "who follow the LAMB wherever HE goes. These were redeemed by MESSIAH from among men being first-fruits to GOD and to the LAMB. And in their mouth was found no guile, for they are without fault before the Throne of GOD." [Revelation 14. 4 – 5; 7. 1 - 8] 

Remnant of the Woman's Seed: Again in Revelation we see that those who are left behind, will overcome Satan, the Accuser, by "the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony for they did not love their lives to the death." [Revelation 12. 11] 

Three Angels' Announcement: "Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the EVERLASTING GOSPEL to preach to those who dwell on the earth — to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people — saying with a loud voice — Fear GOD and give glory to HIM, for the hour of HIS judgment has come; and worship HIM WHO made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water." [Revelation 14. 6 - 7] 
"And another angel followed, saying — Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication." 
"Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice — If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of GOD, which is poured out full strength into the cup of HIS indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the LAMB." [Revelation 14. 8 - 10] 

May each of us be found faithful doing our HEAVENLY FATHER'S business when HE comes — for the crowns we will win, is the souls of men: "Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the LORD, beloved." [Philippians 4. 1] "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our LORD JESUS CHRIST at HIS coming? For you are our glory and joy." [1 Thessalonians 2. 19 - 20] 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath! Come, celebrate in the tradition of Melaveh Malkeh (escorting in the Sabbath) — Queen of the week! 
Of old the MASTER DESIGNER rested on the seventh day and blessed it. Exalted and highly praised be the LORD, the CREATOR, the LIVING GOD and EVERLASTING KING, HIS abundance of mercies and loving-kindness rest upon HIS servants. 
O KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & SHIELD, blessed are YOU, O LORD, the SHIELD of Abraham. YOU, O LORD are mighty forever, YOU quicken the dead; and YOU are mighty to save and sustain the living with lovingkindness and cause salvation to spring forth. I love you, LORD and lift up my voice to YOU in praise and worship! Blessed be the glory of the LORD our GOD. 
Enjoy HIS perfect peace and presence. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
In the beginning, GOD wished to render justice; but when HE observed that the world could not rest on justice, so HE rendered mercy. [TALMUD, Rosh ha'Shanah 17] 

GOSPEL PREACHED TO THE WORLD 
"He who endures to the end shall be saved. And the GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come." [Matthew 24. 12 - 14] 

The MOST HIGH GOD OF HEAVEN is faithful in all things. "There is no other god besides ME, a JUST GOD and a SAVIOR; no god exists besides ME. Turn to ME, and be saved, all ends of the earth! For I am GOD, and there is none else." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 45. 21 – 22 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The SOVEREIGN ETERNAL ONE desires that none be lost, and all come to the knowledge of the truth in saving faith. [1 Timothy 2. 4] "So HE became their SAVIOR. In all their troubles HE was afflicted, HIS OWN PRESENCE delivered them; in HIS love and in HIS pity HE redeemed them; and HE bore them and carried them all the days of old." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 63. 8 – 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The STONE that the builders rejected has become the CHIEF CORNERSTONE. This was the LORD'S doing; it is marvelous in our sight." [Psalms (Tehillym) 118. 22 - 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Men were given the privilege of sharing the WONDROUS LIFE-GIVING MESSAGE that whoever believed would be saved. This GOOD NEWS had gone out from Judea, Samaria , then into the uttermost parts of the world, and continues today. The HOLY LORD has always had devoted followers with hearts willing to complete the great commission, which still says — "Go into all the world and preach the GOSPEL to every creature!" [Mark 16. 15] 

The prophets, apostles, disciples, missionaries and modern-day world evangelists thought the WORD had been spread completely by their teaching on radio, internet and television. However, the ALMIGHTY let it be known that it still is not complete. As you read the book of Revelation, you find that GOD HIMSELF will be the ONE to assure the task is complete, for HE shows the way it will be accomplished HIS perfect and complete way. 

Two Witnesses: The FAITHFUL & TRUE, the AUTHOR & FINISHER of our faith affirms — "And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees and the two lamp-stands standing before the GOD of the earth." [Revelation 11. 3 - 4] When they finish their testimony, the beast from the bottomless pit will make war on them and kill them, but after three days, the BREATH OF LIFE from GOD will enter them and they will ascend into heaven in a cloud. [Revelation 11. 7 - 14] 

144,000 Jewish Witnesses: The SAVIOR OF OLD has 144,000 un-defiled, virgin Jewish men "who follow the LAMB wherever HE goes. These were redeemed by MESSIAH from among men being first-fruits to GOD and to the LAMB. And in their mouth was found no guile, for they are without fault before the Throne of GOD." [Revelation 14. 4 – 5; 7. 1 - 8] 

Remnant of the Woman's Seed: Again in Revelation we see that those who are left behind, will overcome Satan, the Accuser, by "the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony for they did not love their lives to the death." [Revelation 12. 11] 

Three Angels' Announcement: "Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the EVERLASTING GOSPEL to preach to those who dwell on the earth — to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people — saying with a loud voice — Fear GOD and give glory to HIM, for the hour of HIS judgment has come; and worship HIM WHO made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water." [Revelation 14. 6 - 7] 
"And another angel followed, saying — Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication." 
"Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice — If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of GOD, which is poured out full strength into the cup of HIS indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the LAMB." [Revelation 14. 8 - 10] 

May each of us be found faithful doing our HEAVENLY FATHER'S business when HE comes — for the crowns we will win, is the souls of men: "Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the LORD, beloved." [Philippians 4. 1] "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our LORD JESUS CHRIST at HIS coming? For you are our glory and joy." [1 Thessalonians 2. 19 - 20] 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath! Come, celebrate in the tradition of Melaveh Malkeh (escorting in the Sabbath) — Queen of the week! 
Of old the MASTER DESIGNER rested on the seventh day and blessed it. Exalted and highly praised be the LORD, the CREATOR, the LIVING GOD and EVERLASTING KING, HIS abundance of mercies and loving-kindness rest upon HIS servants. 
O KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & SHIELD, blessed are YOU, O LORD, the SHIELD of Abraham. YOU, O LORD are mighty forever, YOU quicken the dead; and YOU are mighty to save and sustain the living with lovingkindness and cause salvation to spring forth. I love you, LORD and lift up my voice to YOU in praise and worship! Blessed be the glory of the LORD our GOD. 
Enjoy HIS perfect peace and presence. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
From the time of the Exodus — "Freedom" is spoken with a Hebrew accent. 
SUKKOT — FEAST OF BOOTHS 
"You shall dwell in booths for seven days; all who are native Israelites shall live in booths, in order that future generations may know that I made the Israelite people live in booths when I brought them out of the land of Egypt, I am the LORD your GOD." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 42 - 43 Tanakh, Torah] 
"Sukkot" is the Hebrew word for the Festival of the Feast of Tabernacles, also known as "Chag ha-Asif (Feast of Ingathering)." This is the Season of our Rejoicing for the TORAH commandment to rejoice is mentioned more often in connection with the holy day of Sukkot then for any other. It is a national holiday that begins at sunset this evening memorializing the journey from the land of slavery to the Land of Promise . Sukkot is called "zman simchateinu — the time of our joy" . . . living in the shadow of GOD'S embrace. 
This Feast emphasizes thanksgiving, celebration and a temporary dwelling place. It commemorates the 40-years of wandering in the desert and marks the final harvest of the agricultural year. It is the custom to dwell in Sukkah (booths, huts) decorated with various kinds of fruits and flowers. This symbolizes the house where you and the ALMIGHTY CREATOR will dwell together. 
There are nine traditional fruits that are hung in the Sukkah, symbolizing nine characteristics and attributes of the HOLY TRUE & LIVING GOD that HE desires for us to have in our lives. The nine fruits include pomegranates, figs, dates, oranges, apples, grapes, pumpkins, etrog (citron—similar to a lemon), and the fruit from locust tree (a chocolate-type fruit). The nine FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT are symbolized by the nine fruits hanging in the Sukkot. "The FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." [Galatians 5. 22 - 23] There is a remarkable correlation between the two. 
Sukkot is indeed a time of rejoicing, following closely after Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement (forgiveness, covering). Sukkot begins on the fifteenth day of Tishri, at the time of the ingathering of the crops — a further cause for rejoicing, as one looks with a sense of humbleness knowing the LOVING MASTER, blessed be HE, has prospered and blessed the fruits of one's labor of the previous months. 
The seven-day celebration of Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles/Booths) is the last of the three pilgrimage festivals, the holy days on which the Jews were commanded to go up to Jerusalem. A time when all Jewish males over the age of thirteen were commanded to come to Jerusalem to celebrate. This is called "Sholosh Regolim" — the other two Feasts are Pesach (Passover) and Shavuoth (Pentecost). Women and children joined these pilgrimages whenever possible. 
Sukkot is celebrated for 7 days. However, the 8th day which follows is a Solemn Assembly known as "Shemini Atzeres (holding back)" —which is also a Sabbath and a complete holiday in its own right. This speaks of the future earthly MESSIANIC KINGDOM when peace and righteousness shall rule and GOD'S people will be observing the Seventh Day Sabbath during that time they are "resting in GOD" and "GOD resting in HIS people." Then follows the new day, the New Beginning, the first day of Eternity. . . a Sabbath forever! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
"Chag Sukkot Sameyach! " — a joyous Sukkot (Festival of Booths) celebrating the ALMIGHTY ONE'S joyous seasons of life. Delight yourself by making it a life-changing experience! Praise to GOD, the LORD OF HOSTS for HE is good, HIS mercy endures forever. May Judah be saved and Jerusalem dwell in safety! 
We were greatly blessed when the HOLY ONE brought us out of slavery from Egypt (Passover) and took HIS people directly to Mount Sinai . There HE gave us the Law (Shavuoth) to keep us free from slavery (to sin). Then, gave us YESHUA ha'MASHIACH...to keep us free and give us true peace and rest (Sukkoth/Booths). 
We are creatures of comfort. We have to push ourselves to move beyond our physical needs and desires. It isn’t easy, the pull of inertia (disinterest, inactivity, apathy, sluggishness) is very strong. So the Almighty gives us a boost. “Move outdoors with me. Come sit under the wings of my Presence and experience My clouds of glory. It’s time to let go of your attachments to the material world. Come outside, leave your comfort zone so that you can embrace our relationship…you will appreciate a change.” 
The holiday of Sukkot impels us to live just outside our comfort zone — without the walls and locks and sense of stability provided by the material world that usually consoles us. On the High Holidays we make decisions about growth and transformation. It isn’t easy to stick to them — even with the best organized plans. The Almighty King, when we allow ourselves to live solely under His protection for a week. . . (Yes, we are always solely under His protection), but on Sukkot we make it authentically real, understandable, and obvious. 
It’s not forever…just a week…and the joy of that experience can carry you through the year. 
May these days be extraordinary and blessed as we celebrate the 1st Day of Assembly which starts this evening. 
Enjoy Sukkot, rejoice, be happy! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The FAITHFUL MASTER DESIGNER chooses what we go through; we choose how we go through it. 

MEANINGFUL PURPOSE 
"When the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous man do?" [Psalms (Tehillym) 11. 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The Hebrew word "shathat" is translated — foundations which fittingly means purpose, intent, basis, objective. The LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is our FIRM FOUNDATION and HE can never be done away with. But, a CHRISTian can loose his purpose if his eyes are not focused continually on the BLESSED SAVIOR. 
When one is distracted with the cares of this world, Satan delights to undermine and spoil the purpose SOVEREIGN GOD has for us, and we soon deviate away from HIS will. "When the whirlwind passes the wicked man is gone, but the righteous has an EVERLASTING FOUNDATION." [Proverbs (Tehillym) 10. 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 
Man's purpose is to exalt, praise and worship OMNIPOTENT GOD. "YAH (I AM) is my strength and might, HE has become my deliverance. HE is my GOD, and I will praise and glorify HIM; the GOD of my fathers and I will exalt HIM." [Exodus (Tehillym) 15. 2 Tanakh, Torah] "Let men thank and praise the LORD for HIS steadfast love, HIS wondrous deeds for mankind! Let them exalt HIM in the congregation of the people, and praise HIM in the assembly of the elders." [Psalms (Tehillym) 107. 30 - 32 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 
We will only be fulfilled and know a sense of worth and direction in our life when MESSIAH'S commands and decrees are followed. As we carefully pursue YESHUA, the TRUE VINE, in HIS "doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions" [2 Timothy 3. 10 - 11], "we may have confidence and not be ashamed before HIM at HIS appearing." [1 John 2. 28] 
"Nevertheless the solid foundation (purpose, basis) of ALMIGHTY GOD stands, having this seal — The LORD knows those who are HIS; and, let everyone who names the NAME of CHRIST depart from iniquity." [2 Timothy 2. 19] 
The LORD JESUS CHRIST, our SOLID FOUNDATION, is complete and by faith we grow to a higher plane, day-by-day. "HE raises the poor from the dust, and lifts the needy from the dung heap to set them with the great, with the great men of HIS people." [Psalms (Tehillym) 113. 7 - 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] There is none other like our WONDERFUL ALL-WISE CREATOR, the GREATEST LOVER of our soul. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Have a joyous week celebrating holy days of Sukkoth This Feast of the LORD is seven days long — a two-day Sabbath-like holiday (only in Israel, it is a one day Sabath-like holiday); followed by six days of Chol HaMoed, on which many every-day activities are permitted. Immediately afterwards, on Tuesday, Tishrei 22 [October 5th] is the one-day Sabbath-like holiday of Shmini Atzeret followed by Simchat Torah on Wednesday, known as the Rejoicing of the Law. Thursday night will see post-holiday Hakafot Shniyot celebrations — a continuation of the day's singing and dancing in honor of the Torah — all around the country. 
Enjoy Day 2 of Sukkot (Festival of Booths). Rejoice in the LORD always to be happy! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com  

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Man should have a jacket with two pockets: In one have a piece of paper on which is written — I am but dust and ashes. In the other, a piece of paper on which is written — For Messiah, the world and I were created. 

A BETTER COVENANT 
"For the priesthood being changed, of necessity there is also a change of the Law." [Hebrews 7. 12] "In that HE says — A NEW COVENANT — HE has made the FIRST obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away." [Hebrews 8. 13] 

In the BRITH HADASHA (NEW COVENANT) the Book of Hebrews is called the "bridge between the OLD & NEW COVENANT SCRIPTURES." Its key word, found 13 times in this book, is "better." It was written to the Hebrews at a time when they were being persecuted for their faith in the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH and there was a danger they might be tempted to go back to their forms, rituals, holidays, sacrifices, etc. But the writer of this Letter (Paul most probable) encourages these Jewish believers to go on in the MESSIAH, "go on to perfection (maturity)" [Hebrews 6. 1] ...or simply suggesting, Grow Up! since the Law was changed as also was the priesthood of the FIRST COVENANT. 

The better things to take place — as HOLY SCRIPTURE states, "The way into the Holiest of All was not yet made manifest while the First Tabernacle was still standing. It was symbolic for the present time in which both gifts and sacrifices are offered which cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to the conscience — concerned only with foods and drinks, various washings (Hebrew: mikvoth) and fleshly (carnal) ordinances imposed on them until the time of reformation." [Hebrews 9. 8 - 10] The reformation was to be brought about through the new HIGH PRIESTHOOD of MESSIAH YESHUA. 

The entire legal system, called "the First Tabernacle" was a figure for that time when gifts and sacrifices were offered but could not make them perfect (cleanse them from sins as pertaining to the conscience). They were outward, fleshly, carnal rituals which were observed to represent that which was to come and be fulfilled in the BELOVED MESSIAH WHO brought about the reformation. HE brought a BETTER COVENANT, a better SACRIFICE, a better PRIESTHOOD by the One Supreme Sacrifice on Calvary ’s Altar. 

GOD ALMIGHTY HIMSELF declared that the carnal, weak and unprofitable Law could not make anyone perfect. One does not grow spiritually mature by following the unprofitable Law. One draws near to CREATOR GOD by following a BETTER HOPE — the LORD YESHUA ha’MASHIACH, WHO is the fulfillment of all the HEBREW SCRIPTURES! "There arises another priest who has come, not according to the Law of a fleshly commandment, but according to the power of an endless life...For on the one hand there is an annulling of the former commandment (FIRST COVENANT) because of its weakness and unprofitableness." [Hebrews 7. 15 - 19] 

"To fulfill the Law" is not to do away with the Law, but to perform what the Law and the prophets required and to make good what it demanded and prophesied. By grace of the MERCIFUL LORD, Jew and Gentile shall finally and completely be saved. SCRIPTURES show that in the LORD JESUS there is no difference between us when it pertains to following the NEW COVENANT. Both, Jew and Gentile, have been set free from bondage of the carnal commandment which has to do with fleshly works. They are now "spiritual" for they follow the "spiritual commandment" of the NEW COVENANT. One does not carry burdens of the Law when YESHUA ha’MASHIACH has delivered him from these burdens; nor does one follow a dead and profitless Law when new life and a BETTER COVENANT has come! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Man is given choices to act out in this world; but the junctions and highways have been set in place by the Creator. We have an AWESOME GOD, and HE is on the throne ruling over the affairs of men. Even in difficult times there is light and joy, gladness and honor for all of GOD'S people. HE is worthy of all our praise and worship, thus we glorify our KING. 
May your Sukkot Festival bring you closer to the MASTER — the LORD OF THE HARVEST! 
Day 3 of Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekday). 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Sometimes forgetting can be a higher form of love than forgiving. 

SCAPEGOAT, THE AZAZEL 
"And he (Aaron) shall take from the congregation of the children of Israel two kids of the goats for a sin offering, and one ram for a burnt offering. Aaron shall offer the bullock of the sin offering, which is for himself, and make atonement for himself and for his house. He shall take the two he-goats and present them before the LORD at the door of the Tabernacle of the Congregation. Then Aaron shall cast lots upon the two goats; one lot for the LORD, and the other lot for the scapegoat. And Aaron shall bring the he-goat on which the LORD'S lot fell, and offer him as a sin offering. But the goat on which the lot fell to be the scapegoat, shall be presented alive before the LORD, to make atonement over him, and to let him go for a scapegoat into the wilderness." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 5 – 10 Tanakh, Torah] 

The Hebrew word for scapegoat or goat of departure is azazel — the word also refers to the evil one or his dwelling. Literally, the lots were cast so that one goat would go to the LORD and the other (according to tradition) to the Devil. However, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL said the goat was to be led away into a solitary land bearing the sins of the people after the High Priest laid his hands on the head of the goat and confessed over it the sins of the people. [Leviticus/Vayikra 16. 20 – 22] This ceremony was one of GOD’S historical pictures foretelling of the "coming atonement" for human sin by the death of MESSIAH YESHUA. The PRINCE OF PEACE became sin for us bearing our sins, taking on HIMSELF the punishment that was due us. 

On the Day of Atonement under the OLD COVENANT, the High Priest would cast lots on two goats. The lot which fell on one goat would be "slain unto the LORD" — then it’s blood would be carried by the same High Priest into the Holy of Holies and placed upon the Mercy Seat. The High Priest had already taken the blood of the bullock into the Holiest for himself. When he returned to the people after their atonement — it was the second time he had made his appearance before them! And so it is with the GREATER HIGH PRIEST WHO came once to give HIS OWN blood and then after the FATHER’S acceptance of the Sacrifice when the sins of the people were forgiven, YESHUA ha’MASHIACH would again return — at the appointed time! 

The goat which was slain unto the LORD and its blood shed, is a type of a new and living way into the PRESENCE OF GOD in the Holy of Holies: "For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the Law, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people, saying, "This is the blood of the covenant which GOD has commanded you." Then likewise he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle and all the vessels of the ministry. And according to the Law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission. Therefore it was necessary that the copies of the things in the heavens should be purified with these, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. For MESSIAH has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us; not that HE should offer HIMSELF often, as the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood of another — HE then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, HE has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of HIMSELF... And every priest stands ministering daily and offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. But this MAN, after HE had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of GOD." [Hebrews 9. 19 – 26; 10. 11, 12] 

The other lot would fall upon the Azazel/Scapegoat: "Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat, confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them on the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness. And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities to a land not inhabited; and he shall release the goat in the wilderness." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 21 – 22 Tanakh, Torah] 

This scapegoat would carry the sins of the people far from them; it was a substitute; it was made sin that the people might be excused from the penalty of their sins! And YESHUA ha’MASHIACH was the SCAPEGOAT, for HE was the SUBSTITUTE WHO died outside the city of Jerusalem ("in the wilderness" – Hebrews 13.12) WHO carried our sins far from us, WHO was made sin that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in HIM! JESUS THE LORD CHRIST has done more than cover up our sins, HE has blotted them out completely! HE has moved them as far as the east is from the west; HE has cast them behind HIS back to be remembered against us No More! 

ALMIGHTY GOD ordained that the Blood should be the only way of approaching HIM. This was shown from the very beginning with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. After they transgressed HIS Law, GOD HIMSELF slew an animal, shedding its blood, made coats of skin and with them, and covered their nakedness. Their sins were covered through the shedding of blood, by the sacrifice of a substitute. 

"Cain brought an offering to the LORD from the fruit of the ground; and Abel, for his part, brought the choicest firstlings of his flock…and the LORD had respect to Abel and his offering, but to Cain and his offering HE paid no heed." [Genesis/Bereshith 4. 3 - 5] This looks like the institution of Blood Sacrifice, right at the start, as the condition of man’s acceptance with the RIGHTEOUS & HOLY GOD — an archaic hint, and the beginning of a long line of pictures and predictions of MESSIAH’S Atoning Death for the sin of mankind. 

When the LORD commanded the people of Israel concerning their deliverance from Egypt , HE commanded them to take the firstling of the flock, an innocent lamb without spot or blemish, to shed its blood and place that blood on the doorpost, then said: "When I see the blood I will pass over you!" That first Passover, they had to stay where the blood was, they had to stay inside their houses until morning; they had Blood Protection! 

"Much more then, having now been justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM." [Romans 5. 9 – 10] "Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with HIS OWN blood HE entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of CHRIST, WHO through the ETERNAL SPIRIT offered HIMSELF without spot to GOD, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the LIVING GOD?" [Hebrews 9. 12 - 14] Only the blood of JESUS, GOD’S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON can give life eternal. Not blood flowing in the veins of man, but the blood shed of HIM WHO was with GOD in the creation of all things. Only such blood has power to purify an unclean soul and give a perfect body at the time of the resurrection so that we may appear unashamed, at last, in HIS presence. 

Before the foundation of the earth, in the mind of GOD ETERNAL there was set a Day of Atonement for both Jew and Gentile which was fulfilled 2,000 years ago on the Altar of Calvary! We who have accepted GOD’S wondrous salvation can praise the LORD declaring: “MESSIAH YESHUA is my LORD, HE is my REDEMPTION for HE was slain in order that I might be admitted to life everlasting; HIS blood covering my sins.” 

There is no longer a priest to cast lots, no scapegoats to send into the wilderness, and no blood to be poured on the Mercy Seat. The LORD MESSIAH YESHUA OF ISRAEL, has finished it all. Our WONDERFUL SAVIOR, by the sacrifice of HIMSELF, has inscribed our names in the LAMB’S BOOK OF LIFE and we shall never be separated from HIM. No longer is it necessary that a goat or a bullock or even a fowl (a ceremony still performed by many Orthodox Jews over all the world substituting a fowl for a man — called Kapporas Schlagen) shed it’s blood for the remission of sins once every year, for GOD’S LAMB shed HIS blood once and for all, Jew or Gentile who believes in HIM can rejoice that there is a Yom Kippur (Day of Covering) for time and eternity, made possible through the PERFECT KAPPORAH (Sacrifice/Covering) WHO is YESHUA (JESUS), the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF THE TRUE & LIVING GOD! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
I praise and thank YOU, ALMIGHTY ONE, for YOU comfort and delight my soul. YOU are my ROCK and my REFUGE, in YOU alone do I have hope and place my trust completely. May gladness reign and joy increase throughout this Season of the LORD'S Festivals! 
Wishing you a meaningful Yom Kippur! 
Days of Awe/Day 38 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The fence around purity is holiness. 

OUR HIGH PRIEST'S ATONEMENT 
"He (the high priest) shall be dressed in a sacral linen tunic, with linen breeches next to his flesh, and be girt with a linen sash, and he shall wear a linen turban. They are sacral vestments; he shall bathe his body in water and then put them on...Then Aaron shall go into the Tent of Meeting, take off the linen vestments which he put on when he entered the Holy Place, and leave them there...The priest who has been anointed and consecrated to serve as priest in place of his father shall make atonement. He shall then put on the linen vestments, the holy garments; then he shall make atonement for the Holy Sanctuary, for the Tent of Meeting and the altar; and he shall make expiation for the priests and for all the people of the congregation." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 4, 23, 32 - 33 Tanakh, Torah] 

On the Day of Atonement, the High Priest would undress himself of the glorious garments in the HOLY PLACE . To make the sacrifice, he wore only the holy coat of fine-twined linen with the mitre and the linen undergarments. [Leviticus/Vayikra 16] The High Priest's dress was all white linen when he entered the Holy of Holies; whereas, in the Tabernacle of Meeting it was blue, purple, scarlet, and gold. 

The Jewish Rabbis' apparel on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) is taken from this Tabernacle custom. According to tradition, on That Day their fathers wore the Kittel, a long white robe, which is still worn on special ritual occasions. They interpret this to mean what their Rabbis teach: "When people appear before a human judge they wear black, somber clothing because they fear the possible verdict. But, when Israel appears before the DIVINE JUDGE we wear white, since we have great confidence in the ALMIGHTY ONE'S mercy and faith in HIS forgiveness!" 

All year long, until this day, the bells on the High Priest's robe of blue would ring clearly (because of the pomegranate pad between them) and the children of Israel would know that he was ministering before the MOST HIGH GOD for them. But on this solemn day, the bells were silent. When he would put on the garments of glory and beauty again, after the ritual was completed [Leviticus/Vayikra 16. 23] the bells would ring out to GOD'S people that the sacrifice had been accepted by the LORD GOD OF ISRAEL on their behalf and that their HIGH PRIEST was still alive! 

Our great HIGH PRIEST, YESHUA ha’MASHIACH, laid aside HIS glory garments to make the sacrifice of HIS OWN LIFE. When the LORD JESUS hung between heaven and earth, unwanted by both, the bells were silent; no DIVINE Voice was heard. After HIS resurrection, HE ascended to HIS HEAVENLY FATHER, presented the tokens of HIS sacrifice (HIS OWN precious blood) before the Mercy Seat (in keeping with the ritual) and later poured out the GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT upon HIS waiting disciples. 

Now we can understand the warning of MESSIAH YESHUA to Miryam (Mary) of Magdala at the time of HIS appearance to her after HIS resurrection. [John 20. 17] Why did JESUS tell her not to touch HIM? The ANOINTED ONE, MESSIAH YESHUA, the ANTI-TYPE of the High Priest of Israel, performed the ceremonies of the Day of Atonement exactly as he did. Great care was taken to guard against any unclean person entering into the Sanctuary. [Leviticus/Vayikra 16. 17] No one was permitted to remain there while the High Priest officiated on the Great Day of Atonement. No unclean person could touch the High Priest and he could not touch anyone for fear of defilement. When the blood was applied to the Mercy Seat and every detail carried out as GOD OMNIPOTENT commanded, the High Priest could then be touched by hands and praised for his work, which had been accomplished. [Leviticus/Vayikra 16 w/Hebrews 8. 1 - 6; 9. 6 - 14] 

As soon as MESSIAH YESHUA arose from the dead, HE must enter immediately into the Holy of Holies — ascended straight to GOD THE FATHER in heaven and present the tokens of HIS perfect sacrifice on Calvary in order to complete this important Day's ritual. The LORD JESUS told Miryam (Mary) Magdala the reason HE did not want her to touch HIM. . . HE "had not yet ascended to the FATHER" — HE had not entered into the Holy of Holies to complete the customary established ritual. Therefore, MESSIAH YESHUA , the LIVING LORD could not allow anyone to touch HIM, just as was the case with the earthly High Priest for the Day of Atonement. When the LORD YESHUA entered the Holy of Holies and concluded the ceremony at the Mercy Seat in Heaven, HE returned and met HIS friends on earth who then could touch HIM. In truth, they held MESSIAH'S feet worshipping HIM for the work HE had done! [Matthew 28. 9] 

The 120 disciples in the Upper Room at Jerusalem knew the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, their HIGH PRIEST, lived and was in the presence of the HEAVENLY FATHER when they heard the sound from heaven. The DIVINE testimony (golden bells) rang clearly through the disciples proclaiming their GLORIOUS LORD, MESSIAH-REDEEMER was ALIVE, and would continue HIS life and work in and thru them (pomegranates which portray reproduction) by the operation of the HOLY SPIRIT. Through HIS called-out-ones, the evidence, testimony and witness of the LORD JESUS CHRIST continues! HALLELU’YAH! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
May the MIGHTY ONE forgive our sins and grant us peace as we continue to learn HIS WORD and HIS WISDOM. The LORD is my PRAISE, my STRENGTH, my FORTRESS, my REFUGE — in days of affliction, tribulation, and at all times. 
Gmar Chatima Tova! — (Literally) A good and final sealing (Idiomatically: May you be inscribed [in the BOOK OF LIFE] for good!) 
Days of Awe. This is the 37th Day of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Our AMAZINGLY WONDERFUL SAVIOR, by the sacrifice of HIMSELF, has inscribed our names in the BOOK OF LIFE and we shall never be separated from HIM. HalleluYAH! 

A SEARCH FOR BLOOD ATONEMENT 
The following account has many anonymous authors each told in various ways for Yom Kippur: 

One spring evening an elderly Jewish gentleman related the following experience to a gathering of Jews. He said: "This is Passover week among you my Jewish brethren, and as I sat here I was thinking how you will be observing it. You will have put away all leaven from your houses; you will eat the matzoth (unleavened wafers) and the roasted lamb. You will attend the Synagogue Services, and carry out the ritual and directions of the Talmud, but you forget, you have everything but that which YEHOWAH required first of all, HE did not say — "When I see leaven put away; or when I see you eat the matzoth; or the lamb; or go to the synagogue" — but HIS WORD was, "When I see the blood, I will pass over you." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 13 Tanakh, Torah] Ah, my brethren, you can substitute nothing for this. You must have blood...Blood...BLOOD! 

As he repeated this word with increasing emphasis, his black eyes flashed. "Blood! that is an awful word for one who reveres the ancient oracle, and yet has no sacrifice." Turn where he will in THE BOOK, the blood meets him, but let him seek as he may, he cannot find it in the Judaism of the present. 

"I was born — he went on — in Israel, nearly 70 years ago. As a child, I was taught to read the Law (Torah), the Prophets (Nevi’im), and the Psalms (Kethuvim). I attended the synagogue and learned Hebrew from the Rabbis early in life. At first I believed what I was told, that ours was the true religion, but as I grew older, and studied the Law more intently, I was struck by the place the blood had in all the ceremonies outlined there, and equally struck by its utter absence in the ritual in which I was brought up." 

"Again and again I read in the 12th chapter of Exodus and Leviticus 16 thru 17. The latter chapters especially made me tremble as I thought of the Great Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) and the place the blood had there. Day and night one verse would ring in my ears, "It is the BLOOD that makes atonement for the soul." [Leviticus/Vayikra 17. 11] I knew I had broken the Law. I needed atonement. Year after year, on That Day, I beat my breast as I confessed my need of it, but it was to be made by blood, and there was no blood! 

"In my distress, at last, I opened my heart to a learned and respected rabbi. He told me that the ALMIGHTY ONE was angry with HIS people. Jerusalem was in the hands of the Gentiles (this before 1967), the Temple was destroyed, and a Mohammedan mosque was reared up in its place. This is the only spot on earth where we dare shed the blood of sacrifice in accordance with Deuteronomy 12 and Leviticus 17 was desecrated and our nation scattered. That was why there was no blood. GOD HIMSELF had closed the way to carry out the solemn service of the Great Day of Atonement. Now, we must turn to the TALMUD and rest on its instructions. We must trust in the mercy of ALMIGHTY GOD and the merits of the fathers. 

"I tried to be satisfied, but could not be. Something seemed to say that the Law was unaltered, even though our Temple was destroyed. Nothing else but BLOOD could atone for the soul. We dare not shed blood for atonement elsewhere than in the place the LORD GOD MOST HIGH had chosen. Then we were left without any atonement at all! 

"I was over 30 years of age when I left Israel and came over to Constantinople , with my still unanswered question ever before my mind, and my soul exceedingly troubled about my sins. One night I was walking down one of the narrow streets of that city when I saw a sign telling of a meeting for Jews. Curiosity led me to open the door and go in. Just as I took my seat, I heard a man say, "the blood of YesHUa ha’MASHIACH, His Son cleanses us from all sin." [1 John 1. 7] 

"This was my first introduction to Christianity, but I listened breathlessly as the speaker told how HOLY GOD had declared that "without shedding of blood there is no remission" [Hebrews 9. 22], that HE had given HIS SON, the LAMB OF GOD, to die, and all who trusted in HIS blood were forgiven all their iniquities. This was THE MESSIAH of Yeshayah/Isaiah 53 — THE SUFFERING SERVANT of Tehillym/Psalms 22! 

"Ah, my brethren, I had found the blood of atonement at last. I trusted it, and now I love to read the NEW COVENANT and see how all the shadows of the Law are fulfilled in MeSSIAH YESHUA. HIS blood has been shed for sinners. It has satisfied OMNIPOTENT GOD, and it is the ONLY MEANS of salvation for either Jew or Gentile." 

Have you found the blood of atonement? "Behold! THE LAMB OF GOD WHO takes away the sin of the world!" [John 1. 29] Are you trusting in GOD'S SMITTEN LAMB, the SUPREME SACRIFICE? 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcoming Shabbat Shuvah —Sabbath of Return. While this breath of life is in me, HOLY LORD of all worlds, I worship YOU. Help us, O GOD, to banish from our hearts all vain glory, pride of worldly possessions, and self-sufficient leaning on our own reason. 
Fill us with YOUR SPIRIT of humility, meekness and the elegant grace of modesty that we may grow in wisdom and in reverence. May we never forget that all we have and prize is but lent to us, a trust for which we must render account to YOU. O HEAVENLY FATHER, put into our hearts the love and awe of YOU, that we may consecrate our lives to YOUR service and glorify YOUR NAME in the eyes of all men. Amen 
May you be inscribed in the BOOK OF LIFE for good!. 
Days of Awe - Day 35 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
A man's service to ALMIGHTY GOD is sincere when he wants no publicity for it. 

PARALLELISMS OF JONAH 
The Book of Jonah is read during Yom Kippur in order to teach us that the compassion of the ALMIGHTY, TRUE & LIVING GOD extends over all that HE has created. Jonah was angry with the CREATOR for not destroying Nineveh . Jonah confused GOD'S hatred of evil in people for GOD'S abhorrence of the evil person. The mercy and compassion of the OMNIPOTENT ONE for the people of Nineveh is available to us today. 

The ETERNAL KING does not think we are beyond hope. HE does not condemn us without an AVENUE OF REPENTANCE open to all who will receive HIM: "For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, that whoever believes in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life. For GOD did not send HIS SON into the world to condemn the world, but that the world, through HIM, might be saved." [John 3. 16 - 17] The government will be laid on the shoulders of CHRIST JESUS the KING and peace will never end. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6a, 7b; 22. 22] 

Jonah is called. Jonah was in the light; Nineveh in darkness. Likewise, Israel and the nations. Israel was called to show the light of the LORD to the nations. 
Jonah is disobedient. Israel became apostate and turned merchant. Israel became a curse to the world as did Jonah to the sailors. 
Jonah is in trouble. It is thus with the Jews, trouble has come upon us and we are tossed about by the sea of nations. 
Jonah does not deny GOD or his nationality. So with the Jews; we still believe in ONE GOD, and confess ourselves as Jews. 
Jonah is cast overboard. So Israel is cast away in part for a time, as at present. 
Sailor’s conversion. So the Gentiles turned to GOD on the fall of Israel . 
Jonah is miraculously preserved. So is Israel among the nations — except for a remnant, spiritually dead, yet preserved by the LORD GOD of all flesh. 
Jonah was not digested by big fish. The Jew is not digested by the nations, he is still a Jew. Assimilation fails! 
Jonah is restored. So will Israel . "Salvation (our deliverance) is of the LORD. Selah" [Psalms (Tehillym) 68. 20 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 
Jonah is commissioned the second time and he obeyed. So will Israel ! 
Nineveh is spared. So will the world be spared who repent at the preaching of restored Israel . 

When Israel 's eyes are opened to behold their MESSIAH, YESHUA OF NAZARETH, all the world will be glad and rejoice with the SIMCHAT TORAH (JOY OF THE LAW). May that time come soon, and in our time! 

All in all, the story of Jonah is a grand historical picture of the MESSIAH’S Resurrection and Mission to all nations. Joppa, is the town from where Jonah embarked to avoid preaching to another nation. This was the very same town the LORD GOD chose some 800 years later to tell Peter to receive men of other nations. [Acts 10] It is also a prophetic picture of YESHUA’S resurrection on the "third day." [Matthew 12. 40] 

We offer thanks to YOU, our LIVING & ETERNAL KING for YOU have mercifully restored our soul within us, YOUR faithfulness is immeasurable! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Our prayer as we bid farewell to Sabbath: HOLY ETERNAL ONE, give us the kindness to hear with compassion, to offer support, loving comfort and care to all we meet. Give us the courage to do what is needed, the wisdom to choose what is right and most fair. Give us the vision to see what is possible. Give us the faith that will help pave the way for a present that’s hopeful, a future that’s peaceful — give us the heart to bring joy to each day. Thank YOU, ALMIGHTY GOD for making us a needy people, ever looking to YOU, the AUTHOR & FINISHER of our faith. Keep us ever mindful to praise, honor and obey YOU, O GOD our MAKER. May the days following be filled with great joy as we prepare for Sukkot—Feast of Tabernacles. 
Five days after Yom Kippur, the holiday of Sukkot begins. In Israel , the holiday is seven days long - one day of a Sabbath-like holiday, followed by six days of Chol ha’Moed, on which many every-day activities are permitted. Immediately afterwards, on Monday, October 5th this year, is the one-day Sabbath-like holiday of Shmini Atzeret/Simchat Torah, known as the Rejoicing of the Law. Monday night will consist of post-holiday Hakafot Shniyot celebrations — a continuation of the day's singing and dancing in honor of the TORAH — all around Israel and various countries as we delight in SIMCHAT TORAH the following day. 
Days of Awe/Day 36 of Repentance 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The biggest tragedy in life is to be oblivious (unaware, unmindful, insensible) as to how much GOD loves you. 

SEARCHING FOR GOD 
"Seek first the KINGDOM OF GOD and HIS righteousness." [Matthew 6. 33] 

Riches, power, health, adventure, fame, peace, conquests, or even an escape are some of the things people are searching for these days. When or if they are found, these things still never satisfy, things never will! To our shame, it is only a few CHRIST-like-ones who realize that permanent fulfillment or redirection of such desires can be found only in the LORD GOD OF HEAVEN. . . the ONE WHO created them and designed them to function in a particular, satisfying way. 

While it is true, prudently speaking, that "there is none who understands, there is none who seeks after GOD" [Romans 3. 11] for there is no salvation outside of the encouraging incentive of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GRACE. Everyone is commanded to seek the TRUE GOD, however, and HE never asked us to do the impossible. 

As encouragement, the ALMIGHTY ONE tells us — "If you search for the LORD your GOD, you will find HIM, if only you seek HIM with all your heart and soul." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 29 Tanakh, Torah] "If you seek HIM, HE will find you, but if you forsake HIM, HE will abandon you forever." [1 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Alef) 28. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "One thing I ask of the LORD, only that do I seek, to live in the House of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD, and frequently inquire in HIS Temple." [Psalms (Tehillym) 27. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "ELOHIYM, YOU are my GOD; I search for YOU, my soul thirsts for YOU, my body yearns for YOU." [Psalms (Tehillym) 63. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The wisdom of the ALMIGHTY ONE says — "Those who love ME, I love; and those who seek ME will find ME." [Proverbs (Tehillym) 8. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "You will search for ME and find ME, if only you seek ME wholeheartedly (sincerely, genuinely, honestly)." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 29. 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Finding the SOVEREIGN ONE'S perfect will should be our priority and the longing desire of our life. Then, we will be completely fulfilled as we search for the attributes, characteristics and nature of our OMNIPOTENT CREATOR and make HIS way, ours. The LORD JESUS promises that we will find HIM, if we truly seek HIM. The most PRECIOUS TREASURE in this life is found when we find our wonderful MASTER, YESHUA, the LIVING HOPE. . . then HE gives us so much more. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Observing Tzom Gedaliah (Fast of Gedaliah [at dawn] — governor of Judea) in commemoration of the end of Jewish rule in the Holy Land at the time of the first destruction of the First Holy Temple some 2,500 years ago. The events are described in the HOLY BIBLE. [see 2 Kings/Melakhim Bet 25.25–26; Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 40 – 41] The Fast Day was establish and called the "Fast of the Seventh." (see Zechariah 8.19 —Tishri is the 7th month of the Hebrew calendar.) Gedaliah was probably killed on Rosh ha'Shana, but the fast was pushed off due to the holiday. 
The TALMUDIC TRACTATE ROSH ha'SHANA equates Gedaliah's murder with the destruction of the Holy Temple , citing the fact that fasts were instituted to commemorate both events. 
HEAVENLY FATHER, teach us to emulate YOUR OWN grace and mercy. Cause YOUR TRUTH to fall upon our hearts like seed upon fertile ground. And, may we learn to love YOUR Law ever more deeply and to find in it the beauty of holiness. Remind us that YOU are the CENTER of our joy; thank YOU again for YOUR great love and kindness to us. Amen! 
Days of Awe. Day 33 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

 A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Many a man who does not fear GOD wraps himself in a Prayer Shawl. [-Abraham ibn Esra] 

TRADITION OR TRUTH 
"This shall be to you a Law forever for all time: In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, Tishri, you shall practice self-denial; and you shall do no manner of work, neither the citizen nor the alien who resides among you. For on this day atonement shall be made for you to cleanse you of all your sins; you shall be clean before the LORD." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 29 - 30 Tanakh, Torah] 

The "Days of Awe (Yamim Nora’im)" refers to the ten days between Yom Teruah (Day of Trumpets/Rosh ha’Shanah) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) which can alter the sentence of one’s fate if a person repents of his sin, makes restitution, and returns to the GOD of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Thus, the goal of Yamim Nora’im is to return (teshuvah) to the BLESSED ONE with their whole heart, soul and might. This results in DIVINE forgiveness and at-one-ment with GOD which is only possible through MESSIAH'S forgiveness, extended to all those who embrace HIS "once-for-all" sacrifice for our sin. 

Among the many preparations for the awesome day of Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), and perhaps one of the most important, is the seeking of forgiveness from friends, relatives and acquaintances — for actual wrongs done or to soothe bad feelings that may have arisen during the year. This is one aspect of our behavior that cannot be forgiven by the Almighty unless forgiveness is first sought from those we have wronged. Another custom practiced on the eve of Yom Kippur is to bathe (mikvah) so we become pure in preparation for services and prayer. 

"I have forgiven" are the eternal words spoken by the FAITHFUL, TRUE & LIVING GOD on the tenth of the month of Tishri, after Moses prayed and fasted for forty days on behalf of the Jewish people. This day became Yom ha'Kippurim, the Day of Atonement, for all generations. Any time a Jew (or Gentile) sincerely repents, he is forgiven. But, this day has a special meaning because of the forgiveness granted to the Jews on this day. 

Yom Kippur and all the laws pertaining to it started before sunset, as do all the holidays, with candle-lighting by the women of the house. A 24-hour (yahrzeit) candle is also lit in the house in honor of the holiday, as it is a day of fasting and we cannot honor it with a special festive meal. The light also reminds us of the Second Tablets that were given to the Jewish people on this day, for light symbolizes the TORAH. 

On Yom Kippur, no work (melachos) may be done and it is referred to as Shabbos Shabbason — a total rest day just like Sabbath. In fact, the doubled wording teaches us that even if Yom Kippur comes out on Sabbath, the laws of Yom Kippur are observed on that day and are not postponed, unlike other fast days when they occur on Shabbos. 

On Yom Kippur, five activities are specifically prohibited: Eating and drinking, anointing oneself with perfumes or oils, and washing (for pleasure), wearing leather shoes, and marital relations. Men go to the Synagogue (Shul) wearing white garments called kittels — and women often dress in light colors or white, which symbolizes purity. 

The evening service begins with the chanting of Kol Nidrei (all vows) which is intended to nullify in advance all vows and promises which Jews have been forced to make, or have made hastily in emergencies of sorrow or passion. During each main prayer, we say the "Viduy (confession - "we have sinned!")" — beating the heart with the right hand at each phrase as we enumerate all the sins we may have committed and ask GOD OF HOSTS, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL for forgiveness. The Viduy is phrased in the plural ("we have sinned!"), for all Jews and Gentiles are considered — one body — and we are all responsible for one another. 

One of the unique prayers of Yom Kippur is the Avodah section in the Musaf Prayer, which describes in detail the great and awesome service performed on Yom Kippur by the Priests in the Holy Temple . This service was highlighted by the entry of the High Priest into the Holy of Holies, the place where the original tablets of the Ten Commandments were kept in the Ark of the Covenant. Only on this one day a year, and only after much preparation, was the High Priest alone allowed to enter. Described are his preparations, the service, and the exciting conclusion — when the Jewish people knew they were granted forgiveness. [Leviticus/Vayikra 16] 

In these present times, Jews everywhere feel that by fasting and repenting for twenty-four hours in obedience to GOD'S righteous commandment, they are forgiven of all their iniquities and their names are written in the BOOK OF LIFE. Although they no longer have a Temple , nor a high priest, and no sacrifice, they are so convinced of the need of an atonement, that rather than confess that they have absolutely none, they teach that repentance and the day itself will atone for all sin. [Hilchoth T'shuvah c.i 2.] But, the LORD GOD stressed, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have assigned it to you for making AN ATONEMENT for your lives upon the altar; it is the BLOOD, as life, that makes expiation for the soul." [Leviticus/Vayikra 17. 11 Tanakh, Torah] For this reason, blood must be shed.

As believers in the LORD YESHUA, we know that we have a GREATER HIGH PRIEST and HIS precious blood has been shed for sinners. YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is our KIPPUR (Covering, Atonement). HE is the only means of salvation for both Jew or Gentile and forgiveness is an eternal gift. "Seeing then that we have a GREAT HIGH PRIEST who has passed through the heavens, JESUS, the SON OF GOD, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a HIGH PRIEST WHO cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." [Hebrews 4. 14 - 16] "For such a HIGH PRIEST was fitting for us, WHO is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; WHO does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for HIS OWN sins and then for the people's, for this HE did once for all when HE offered up HIMSELF." [Hebrews 7. 26 - 27] HalleluYAH! Our GREATER HIGH PRIEST, JESUS, has done it all . . . the price is paid in full; and we, who believe, are bought back by HIS perfect atonement. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
As we celebrate Yamym Noraym (High Holy Days) — May GOD give us the kindness to hear with compassion, to offer support, loving comfort, and care. May HE give us the courage to do what is needed, the wisdom to choose what is right and most fair...give us the vision to see what is possible; the faith that will help pave the way for a present that is hopeful, a future that is peaceful — give us the heart to bring joy to each day. May Rosh ha’Shana mark a new beginning for you. . . through a year blessed with goodness and promise through MESSIAH YESHUA, the KING of Glory. Amen! 
Shana Tova! May you have a year filled with meaning and purpose. . . happiness will surely follow. 
Days of Awe / Day 34 of Repentance. 


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
"Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her, all you who love her! Join in her jubilation, all you who mourned over her—that you may suck from her breast consolation to the full, that you may draw from her bosom glory to your delight." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 66. 10 – 11 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

ROSH HA’SHANA PRAYER 
Our prayer for you and your family on this Feast Day of Yom Teruah/Rosh ha’Shanah is that ALMIGHTY GOD, blessed be HE and blessed be HIS NAME, will make the coming days of this year, 5776, happy ones... 
...Not by shielding us from all sorrow and pain, but by strengthening us to bear it if or when it comes. 
...Not by making our path easy, but in making us strong enough to tread any path. Not by granting unbroken sunshine, but by keeping our face bright even in the shadows. 
...Not by making our life always pleasant, but in showing us where MESSIAH and HIS cause needs us most; and by making us zealous to do HIS perfect will. 
...Not by keeping us from conflict and war, but by bringing us off every field of battle more than conquerors through the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH WHO loves us most. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
The Rosh ha’Shana prayers—longer, more melodious, and more intense and inspirational than usual — concentrate on GOD'S KINGSHIP and HIS judgment of all creatures. 
"Our PRECIOUS HEAVENLY FATHER, we have no king but YOU. Help us for YOUR NAME’S sake. Grant us a blessed New Year, annul all evil decrees against us, annul the plots of our enemies, frustrate the designs of our foes, rid us of tyrants, rid us of pestilence, sword, famine, captivity, sin and destruction. Forgive and pardon all our sins. Help us return to YOU fully repentant. Send complete healing to the sick; remember us with favor; hasten our deliverance. Exalt YOUR people, Israel and those who are called by YOUR NAME everywhere. Hear us our INCREDIBLE REDEEMER, show us mercy and compassion, accept our prayer with favor and mercy. Do not turn us away unanswered. Remember that we are dust. Have pity for us and our children; act for those slain for YOUR HOLY NAME who were slaughtered for YOUR unity — who went through fire and water; act for YOUR sake if not for ours. Answer us though we have no deeds to plead our cause. Save us with mercy and loving-kindness. And, make us careful to bless, praise and thank YOU all the days of our life. Amen!" 
Chag Semayah — Good Holy Days! 
Days of Awe - Day 32 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The person of faith believes GOD even when circumstances appear to the contrary. 

YOM TERUAH 
The purpose of Rosh ha’Shanah can be understood through the main themes of the central Mussaf prayer offered. The prayer is organized in three sections: 


1. Malchiot (KINGSHIP) — We begin the special silent prayer of Rosh ha’Shana by declaring GOD our KING. Our prayers declare GOD’S ONENESS, and the path in life we would like to lead. 

2. Zichronot (Remembrances) — Unlike humans who forget and remember, it is inconceivable that such a concept exists in our SUPERLATIVELY, HONORABLE, EXCELLENT, ALL-POWERFUL GOD. Zichronot refers to GOD’S ability to identify and consider all factors and aspects of a decision. The ALMIGHTY ONE is aware of our mission in life, our motivations, our thoughts, and our desires. Each and every one of these facets is considered when we are judged. 

3. Shofarot (The Shofar) — Shofarot refers to horn, the Shofar, blown on Rosh ha’Shanah. The Shofar symbolizes a new beginning. It is for this reason that it was present at Mount Sinai as the Jewish Nation was forged, and it is for this reason that we sound it on Rosh ha’Shana when we desire to start anew. 
Why do we desire a new beginning? Have we given our best effort to self improvement, to our relationships with our fellow man and with GOD? The answer to the question likely gives one pause. We therefore ask God for a new beginning. Then we blow the Shofar. 

Yom Teruah (The Day of the Horn/Trumpets) — literally shouting...begins with blessings after the Shofar is sounded. "Baruch atah Yahweh Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidishanu bemitzvotav vetzvivanu leshemoa kol Shofar." [Blessed are YOU, YEHOWAH, our GOD, KING of the universe, WHO has sanctified us with your commandments and has instructed us to hear the Shofar.] "Baruch ata YAHWEH ELOHEINU MELECH ha-olam, asher kidishanu bemitzvotav vetzivanu lazman hazeh." [Blessed are YOU, YEHOWAH, our GOD, KING of the universe, WHO has kept us alive, sustained us, and brought us to this season.] 

The Sounds of the Shofar 
There are four different sounds associated with the blowing of the Shofar during the Yom Teruah service. These sounds are interpreted as follows: 
1. Tekiah — A pure unbroken sound that calls man to search his heart, forsake his wrong ways, and seek forgiveness through repentance. The Tekiah called the people to attention and to gather to Moses. It is the calling note, calling your attention and holding you. It would be the customary summons to listen to GOD, to receive from HIM the orders for the day. The sound of the KING’S coronation. 
2. Shebarim — A broken, staccato, trembling sound. It typifies the sorrow that comes to man when he realizes his misconduct and desires to change his ways. Signifies repentance. 

3. Teruah — A wave-like sound of alarm calling upon man to stand by the banner of GOD. Teruah in Hebrew means not only a certain unique sound. It also implies "to break" — denoting breaking something and/or causing damage. It is the note for bustling, speedy activity, the signal for breaking up, for striking tents and breaking up camp. Sound to awaken the soul. 

4. Tekiah Gedolah — The prolonged, unbroken sound typifying a final appeal to sincere repentance and atonement (sound as long as you can blow). 

The Shofar blowing on Yom Teruah is a combination of the various sounds. The call of the shofar reminds us that the KING OF THE UNIVERSE loves us, is thinking about us, and cares about our lives. HE is judging us because HE loves us. With GOD, it is crucial to remember that no matter how we feel about HIM, HIS love for us is unwavering. 

The Tekiah is sounded first to call man's heart to give attention and hear the following "sound" of the Shofar message. It is then followed by the Teruah which would then give the HOLY ONE’S order to break off and away from every attachment that estranges us from HIM, and from our own purposes and present mode of life which is displeasing to the ALMIGHTY, and leave behind every worthless activity. The broken sound reminds us that we have a job of "breaking" to do as well — the breaking of our evil inclination. 
Based on the commandment in Numbers 29:1 ["And in the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall have a holy convocation. You shall do no customary work. For you it is a day of blowing the trumpets."], one hundred Shofar blasts are dramatically sounded throughout the prayers, awakening us to improve our ways. 

It is our willingness to declare GOD as KING that entitles us to a new life. Our request for life is based on our desire for a relationship with HIM. Like other relationships it is possible that there are areas that need improvement, however, those imperfections should not detract from the value of the relationship. 

The Eternal New Year begins in the heart of him who accepted MESSIAH YESHUA as their LORD & SAVIOR. At that moment the heart was changed and all his sins were cast into the depths of the sea and he now is a new creation in CHRIST JESUS, the KING OF GLORY. The trumpet of the LORD OF HOSTS will sound announcing the greatest event as a new name is written in the LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE! 

This New Creation is now awaiting the sound of the ETERNAL ONE when HE calls us Home to be with HIM forevermore. Truly, this will be the greatest of all events since the days of MESSIAH'S flesh! O glorious day when KING JESUS shall come for HIS OWN — both Jew and Gentile — who have repented of their sins (Hebrew: teshuvah — to return, repent, contrition) and accepted the redemption HE purchased through CHRIST JESUS' SUPREME SACRIFICE on the Altar of Calvary! 

In Judaism, a distinction is made between repentance for sins committed against GOD and those committed against one’s fellow man. For this reason the TORAH has two different sacrifices dealing with sin. The first was known as "ha’taat" — the sin offering, while the other is called "asham" — the guilt offering. The sin offering taught that when man sinned against the MASTER CREATOR, restitution must be made with GOD; whereas, the guilt offering concerned man’s restoring his relationship with another man before GOD. If a person sinned against another person, forgiveness would not be given by the ALMIGHTY if the guilty party only confessed his sin to GOD. He must first make restitution with his fellow man and then come to GOD. 

MESSIAH YESHUA referred to this in the Book of Mattatiyahu (Matthew): "Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift." [Matthew 5. 23 - 24] 

Rosh ha’Shana, a celebration of GOD’S KINGSHIP and our desire to have a relationship with HIM. May this time serve as a prelude to a Happy New Year for each of us and our families. We cover you with our love and prayers. May your relationship with the HOLY CREATOR, the GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN & EARTH, grow daily in the little time we have left to serve HIM here on earth. L’Chayim! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Chag Semayah — Good Holy Days! May you be inscribed in the BOOK OF LIFE and may the Jewish nation be rid of their enemies. Pardon our sins and grant us a life of health, prosperity and blessings. 
The Rosh ha’Shana prayers—longer, more melodious, and more intense and inspirational than usual — concentrate on GOD'S KINGSHIP and HIS judgment of all creatures. 
"Ketiva Vahatima Tova — may your inscription and seal be for good." Our prayer for each of you is for a good year, not one just good for us, but a year where we do good to others. 
Days of Awe - Day 31 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
He who kneels before the ALMIGHTY ONE, can stand before any person. 

FEAST OF TRUMPETS 5776 
At some point in history, the Feast of Yom Teruah (a more accurate term for the Day of Trumpets — Leviticus/B'Midvar 23. 23 - 25) became the day on which the Jewish New Year is celebrated, more popularly known as Rosh ha’Shanah (celebrated in the 7th month, Tishri) which translates as "Head of the Year." {Beginning tonight at sundown — Sunday Evening, September 13th this year} This Festival, a truly extraordinary occasion, is both a memorial and a blessing. 

The Feast of Trumpets is also called "Yom ha'Din" — the Day of Judgment and "Yom ha’Zikkaron" — the Day of Remembrance. The Apostle Paul was speaking of the appointed time when he declared: "HE (the RIGHTEOUS ONE) has appointed a day on which HE will judge the world in righteousness by the MAN (YESHUA THE ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD) whom HE has ordained. HE has given assurance of this to all by raising HIM from the dead." [Acts 17. 31 – 32] And again, warning of the judgment to come: "It is a righteous thing with GOD to repay with tribulation those who trouble you, and to give you who are troubled rest with us when the LORD JESUS is revealed from heaven with HIS mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know GOD, and on those who do not obey the GOSPEL of our LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH." [2 Thessalonians 1. 6 – 9] 

However, according to Exodus/Shemot 12:2, Nisan (Passover Season-March/April) is the month regarded as the "head" of the year, "the beginning of months." There are two other places in the Hebrew expression where "Rosh ha’Shanah (head or beginning of the year)" is found in the HOLY SCRIPTURE. ["It is a land the LORD your GOD cares for; the eyes of the LORD your GOD are continually on it from the beginning of the year to its end." Deuteronomy/Devarim 11. 12 "In the twenty-fifth year of our exile, the exile of King Jehoiachin, the fourteenth year after the City had fallen, at the beginning of the year, the tenth day of the month — on that very day." Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 40. 1] 

Our Jewish people celebrate their New Year's Day in a very solemn way, unlike the Gentile practice. Jews examine their record for the past year and make resolutions to do better the coming year. According the Talmud, three books are opened on Yom Teruah/Rosh ha’Shanah before the MIGHTY CREATOR, wherein the fate of the righteous, the wicked, and those of a middle class are recorded. The names of the righteous are immediately inscribed and they are sealed at once to life. The middle class are allowed 10 days to repent and become righteous; while the wicked are altogether blotted out of the Book of the Living. 

Tradition alleges that Adam was created about the time of the Feast of Trumpets. According to the WRITTEN WORD OF GOD, when YESHUA, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL was born, that was certainly a new beginning. It will be a time of renewal when MESSIAH YESHUA returns some glorious day. We are in the final days of repentance leading to the Day of Atonement. Now is the time to make things right with the GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN & EARTH and with each other before the coming final judgment. Maybe soon, on some Feast of Trumpets, the LORD YESHUA will come for all who believe in HIM. [1 Thessalonians 4. 13 - 18] 

In fulfillment of the EVER-LIVING ONE'S command, Jews gather on Yom Teruah/Rosh ha’Shanah during the day at the Synagogue where the most prominent feature of the religious ceremony is the blowing of the Shofar (ram's horn), marking the preparation of the Holy Festival. "Speak to the Israelite people thus — In the seventh month, on the first day of the month, you shall observe Sabbath rest, a sacred occasion commemorated with loud blasts." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 24 Tanakh, Torah] 

On this day, the Jewish people feel that the purpose for the sounding of the Shofar is to arouse them to the serious contemplation of their sinfulness as well as to their duty to lead a godly life. The Shofar is blown as a summons for the conscience to awake and heed the call of duty. For this reason, Yom Teruah/Rosh ha’Shanah is known as "The Day of the Sounding of the Horn." Furthermore, on that day it is concluded that RIGHTEOUS OMNIPOTENT JUDGE, the FAITHFUL & TRUE, calls to memory the faults and sins of the past year, it is also known as "Yom Zikrown" — The Day of Memorial. And, since Jewish people feel they are then on trial before the JUDGE OF THE UNIVERSE, Rosh ha’Shanah is also known as the Day of Judgment (Yom ha'Din). The prayers of the Jewish people to our RIGHTEOUS LORD GOD is that the HOLY ONE, blessed be He and blessed be HIS NAME, would inscribe their name in the "SEFER ha’HAYYIM — THE BOOK OF LIFE." 

"Tashlikh (casting off)" is another custom observed on this holy day. In fulfillment of the text — "YOU will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea." [Micah (Michah) 7. 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Jews go to the edge of a running stream and throw rocks into the water. In doing so, prayers are recited concluding with the words: "May GOD cast our sins into the depths of the sea!" 

There is another great event which will be proclaimed by the blowing of a trumpet! This event is going to rock this world as never any event in her history! 
"For the LORD YEHOVAH HIMSELF will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of GOD. And the dead in MESSIAH will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the LORD in the air. And thus we shall always be with the LORD." [1 Thessalonians 4. 16 - 17] 

"Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed — in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed." [1 Corinthians 15. 51 - 52] 

The Eternal New Year began in the heart of those who accepted the MESSIAH YESHUA as their SAVIOR, REDEEMER & LORD. At that moment the heart was changed and all his sins were cast into the depths of the sea. The trumpet of the LORD OF HOSTS sounded announcing this great event and a new name was written in the LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE! This New Creation is now awaiting the Sound of the Shofar (ram's horn) which shall usher in that greatest of all events since the days of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH'S flesh! O glorious day when the LORD shall come for HIS OWN — both Jew and Gentile — who have accepted the redemption HE purchased through HIS SUPREME SACRIFICE on the Altar of Calvary! Without question, the incredible wonder of this Festival of Trumpets is a memorial and a blessing. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcoming Yom Teruah/Rosh ha’Shanah — a Solemn Sabbath! Rejoicing in the new day and continually praising ALMIGHTY GOD for HIS FEASTS! This Rosh ha’Shanah concludes the Shmita, the holy Sabbatical Year in the Land of Israel . Our prayers for you and your family is that your life be filled with health, happiness, and prosperity in knowing our EXTRAORDINARY LOVING SAVIOR personally. 
Remembrance (zichronot) is to never forget that the ALMIGHTY loves you — imperfect, struggling, wonderful, one-of-a-kind you. 

Rosh ha’Shanah is a time when we coronate (empower, enthrone) GOD as our KING. The ALMIGHTY ONE loves us more then we can imagine; HE is flawless and infallible. Everything HE does is for our good. All that happens to us is ultimately good and perfect. 

Have a sweet and good new year — have health. happiness, love, and may there be true peace in the Land of Israel and the whole world; Come LORD YESHUA! 
"L'Shanah Tova tikatevu v'techateimu — May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year!" 

The 10 Days of Awe begin tonight, they are from Yom Teruah (Feast of Trumpets/Rosh ha’Shana) through Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). These days are a foreshadowing picture and rehearsal of the Second Coming of MESSIAH YESHUA, the fulfillment of prophetic SCRIPTURES. 
Day 30 of Repentance 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
One good deed has many claimants. 

JUSTIFIED BY FAITH 
"Behold the proud, his soul is not upright in him: But the just shall live by his faith." [Habakkuk 2. 4 NKJV] "Lo, there is a reward for the upright — the life breath within him — for the righteous man is rewarded with life for his fidelity." [Habakkuk 2. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"The just shall live by faith" is an absolutely excellent doctrine. The Hebrew word "tsaddiyq" means just, justified, right, righteous, correct, lawful. The HOLY ONE says that a person is enabled to live righteously by his faith. 

"For in it the righteousness of GOD is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, the just shall live by faith." [Romans 1. 17] The words "from-faith-to-faith" means "from the beginning of faith to the end of faith" and the context verifies that the foundational item of faith is faith in "HIS eternal power and GODhead" which "from the creation of the world HIS invisible attributes are clearly seen." [Romans 1. 20] 

"Now the just shall live by faith; but IF ANYONE DRAWS BACK, MY SOUL HAS NO PLEASURE IN HIM." [Hebrews 10. 38] The writer of Hebrews, most probably the Apostle Paul, records that the fundamental ingredient of faith is a uniquely specific creation, "By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the WORD OF GOD, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear visibly." [Hebrews 11. 3] 

"But that no one is justified by the Law in the sight of GOD is evident, for the just shall live by faith." [Galatians 3. 11] Paul's long explanation to the Galatian legalists begins, "knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but by faith in JESUS the CHRIST, even we have believed in CHRIST JESUS, that we might be justified by faith in HIM and not by the works of the Law; for by the works of the Law no flesh shall be justified." [Galatians 2. 16] Thus, justifying, saving, living faith begins and centers in YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, first as CREATOR of all things, then as the SAVIOR & REDEEMER WHO "has redeemed us from the curse of the Law having become a curse for us." [Galatians 3. 13] In HIS precious hands we can confidently entrust our spirit, soul, and body both now and forevermore. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Let us reverently sanctify the NAME of the HOLY ONE OF JACOB and fear the GREAT GOD OF ISRAEL. As we humble ourselves before the LORD GOD, our joy is increased and we are satisfied in HIS love. . . With great love YOU have loved us, O our GOD, and with exceeding compassion YOU have borne with us. Our fathers believed and trusted in YOU; therefore you taught them the laws of life, and showed them the ways of wisdom. We implore YOU, O MERCIFUL FATHER, to grant us discernment, that we may understand and fulfill all the TEACHINGS of YOUR WORD. Make us gladly obedient to YOUR commandments and fill our hearts with love and reverence for YOU. In YOU we put our trust; we rejoice and delight in YOUR help, for with YOU alone is salvation, and peace in the soul of man. YOU have called us as teachers of YOUR Law; YOU have chosen us for a holy mission to mankind; therefore do we joyfully lift up our voices and proclaim YOUR magnificence. Praised are YOU, O GOD, WHO has chosen us in love. We give praised to YOUR HOLY NAME and thank YOU for YESHUA, our REDEEMER. 
Day 20 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
The Eternal People of the Book are the Jews, through whom the ALMIGHTY ONE gave the HOLY SCRIPTURES to the world. 

OUR BLESSINGS IN MESSIAH 
"For we know that if our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from GOD, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." [2 Corinthians 5. 1] 

The blessings we have in YESHUA ha'MASHIACH are far too vast and numerous to calculate, but it is a blessing to retell a few. First, "In HIM (our BELOVED SAVIOR) we have redemption through HIS blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of HIS grace." [Ephesians 1. 7] As a result, "being justified by faith, we have peace with GOD through our LORD JESUS CHRIST." [Romans 5. 1] 

GOD'S PRECIOUS WORD assures us of salvation through these promises. "These things I have written to you who believe in the NAME of the SON OF GOD, that you may know that you have eternal life." [1 John 5. 13] A greater assurance is given by the witness of the SPIRIT OF GOD WHO indwells our bodies when we believe on the LORD JESUS, THE ROCK of our salvation, THE ROCK of our strength. "You have received the SPIRIT of adoption, whereby we cry — ABBA, FATHER!" [Romans 8. 15] 

There are many other blessings that are ours in the MESSIAH YESHUA, "we have obtained an inheritance" [Ephesians 1. 11] for we are joint-heirs with JESUS, the TRUE VINE; YESHUA, our REFUGE. GOD OMNIPOTENT confirmed HIS promises in the book of Hebrews when HE declare — "we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. This HOPE we have as an ANCHOR of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters THE PRESENCE behind the veil." [Hebrews 6. 18 - 19] "We have a GREAT HIGH PRIEST WHO has passed through the heavens, JESUS, the SON OF GOD." [Hebrews 4. 14] And HE is ever-living "to make intercession" for us at the THRONE OF GOD. [Hebrews 7. 25] 

Ultimately, when our ALL-WISE & LOVING MASTER CREATOR calls us home, "we have a building of GOD, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." And we will "be present with the LORD" throughout the ages to come. [2 Corinthians 5. 8] There are countless treasures awaiting us, but the greatest of all is — we have forgiveness of sins; we have the LORD YESHUA, the PRINCE OF PEACE in our lives now and we will be with HIM forevermore. HalleluYAH!!! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
O EVER-FAITHFUL GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guile. Be my SUPPORT when grief silences my voice, and my COMFORT when woe bends my spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with perfect faith in YOU. Help me to be strong in trials and temptations and to be humble always before YOU, my STRONG-TOWER. Guide me by the LIGHT of YOUR counsel, and let me ever find rest in YOU — my ROCK and my REDEEMER. Praised be the LORD GOD to WHOM all praise is due for ever and ever. We bow the head and bend the knee and magnify the KING of kings, the HOLY ONE, praised be HE. Amen! 
Shana Tova uMetukah! We wish you and your family a happy, healthy year – may you have a year filled with meaning and purpose and happiness that will surely follow. 
Day 26 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Great is repentance; it turns sins into incentives for correct conduct. 

RECONCILIATION 
"A man takes a wife and marries her. She fails to please him because he finds something obnoxious about her, and he writes her a bill of divorcement, hands it to her, and sends her away from his house; she leaves his household and becomes the wife of another man; then this latter husband rejects her, writes her a bill of divorcement, hands it to her, and sends her away from him; or the man who married her last dies. Then her first husband who divorced her shall not take her to wife again, since she has been defiled — disqualified for him — for that would be abhorrent to the LORD. You must not bring sin upon the land that the LORD your GOD is giving you as a heritage." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 24. 1 - 4 Tanakh, Torah] 

The marvelous ministry of reconciliation has been distorted by many churches and fellow-CHRISTians when they have failed to read and follow the WRITTEN SCRIPTURES dealing with marriage and re-marriage. Even King David honoured GOD'S commandment with his concubines after they were defiled by Absalom, putting them in "a guarded place, he provided for them, but did not cohabit with them. They remained in seclusion until the day they died, living in widowhood." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 20. 3 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"If a man divorces his wife, and she leaves him and marries another man, can he ever go back to her?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 3. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The answer is emphatically — No! it would be an abomination before the HOLY & RIGHTEOUS LORD GOD because she has been defiled. On the other hand, if the couple separates for a time and remain pure, they may be reconciled together again. "Now to the married I command, yet not I but the LORD: A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife." [2 Corinthians 7. 10 - 11] 

However, dealing with our relationship with the ALL-WISE ETERNAL ONE, though we have been defiled by sin, HE has said: "Turn back to ME — says the LORD OF HOSTS — and I will return to you — said the LORD OF HOSTS." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 1. 3 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The work of reconciling lost men back to a relationship with HOLY GOD is only possible as provided by the precious blood of the PRINCE OF PEACE, MESSIAH YESHUA through HIS shed blood of atonement. HE has committed this ministry to us, HIS servants. A CHRIST-like life can only be gained if we are centered in the LORD JESUS and "those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for HIM WHO died for them and rose again." [2 Corinthians 5. 15] 

As we serve in the ministry of reconciliation, may we do the service of the MOST HOLY GOD as HE commands and not by our own understanding. "Therefore, if anyone is in CHRIST, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of GOD, WHO has reconciled us to HIMSELF through JESUS CHRIST, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that GOD was in CHRIST reconciling the world to HIMSELF, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Now then, we are ambassadors for CHRIST, as though GOD were pleading through us: we implore you on MESSIAH'S behalf, be reconciled to GOD." [2 Corinthians 5. 17 - 20] Like our BLESSED MASTER, look for good and encourage with forgiveness. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath! We thank YOU, Great & MIGHTY GOD for by YOUR mercies and grace we were taught the sanctity of the weekly day of rest, Sabbath is the sign of the tie that binds us to YOU. Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. Amen 
Shabbos calls us to bring the highest moral values. to our daily labor and to culminate the workweek with kedushah (holiness), menuchah (rest), and oneg (joy). May God, Whose grace is irresistible and all sufficient, be glorified. 
As we celebrate Yamym Noraym (High Holy Days); may GOD'S PRECIOUS WRITTEN WORD be the center of your life. In it, you will find sweet honey in the ROCK. As the Shofar sounds, we are reminded that the KING OF THE Universe loves us, is thinking about us, and cares about our lives. HE is judging us because HE loves us. It is crucial to remember that, with GOD no matter how we feel about HIM, HIS love for us is unwavering. Have a blessed day as you saturate yourself in the sweetness of the MIGHTY LORD, the SOURCE OF LIFE. 
Day 28 of Repentance 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
There is no reason to try predicting the future, the BIBLE has already done that. . . and with greater certainty. 

EVEN NOW 
"You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, HIS OWN special people, that you may proclaim the praises of HIM WHO called you out of darkness into HIS marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of GOD, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy." [1 Peter 2. 9 - 10] 

There are so very many marvelous and wondrous things that await us IF we have trusted the LORD Messiah YesHUA for our salvation — specifically, His mercies: "The LORD is longsuffering, slow to anger, abundant in mercy and abounding in kindness; forgiving iniquity and transgression." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 14. 18 Tanakh, Torah] "One thing GOD has spoken; two things have I heard — That Might belongs to ADONEY, and Faithfulness is YOURS, O LORD, to reward each man according to his deeds." [Psalms (Tehillym) 62. 11 - 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

It is written, "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which GOD has prepared for those who love HIM." [1 Corinthians 2. 9] However, do not miss the next line. . . "But GOD has revealed them to us through HIS SPIRIT. For the SPIRIT searches all things, yes, the deep things of GOD." [1 Corinthians 2. 10] "The concealed (secret) things belong to the LORD GOD, but the overt acts (those things which are clearly revealed), it is for us and to our children ever to apply all the words and provisions of this TEACHING (Law)." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 29. 29 Tanakh, Torah] This means that we are free from any condemnation at the Judgment. "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in CHRIST JESUS, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the SPIRIT. For the Law of the SPIRIT of life in CHRIST JESUS has made me free from the law of sin and death." [Romans 8. 1 - 2] 

We have been justified already, declared righteous with the righteousness of MESSIAH YESHUA HIMSELF. "GOD demonstrates HIS OWN love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, CHRIST died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to GOD through the death of HIS SON, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by HIS life." [Romans 5. 8 - 10] "But now the righteousness of GOD apart from the Law is revealed — even the righteousness of GOD, through faith in CHRIST JESUS, to all and on all who believe." [Romans 3. 21 – 22] We are now the people of the RIGHTEOUS, LOVING, HOLY GOD who have obtained mercy. 

In the magnificent passage, the precious Apostle John confirms the glorious truth, "Beloved, now we are children of GOD; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when HE is revealed, we shall be like HIM, for we shall see HIM as HE is." [1 John 3. 2] 

As CHRIST-like-ones, we have the wonderful assurance that our blessed LORD YESHUA is praying for us, even now for Messiah, the perfect REFUGE, is entered into Heaven itself. "For MESSIAH has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us" [Hebrews 9. 24] since "HE always lives to make intercession for them." [Hebrews 7. 25] 

"Now to Him Who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to GOD our SAVIOR, WHO alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever, Amen!" [Jude 24 - 25] What a MIGHTY GOD we serve! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Judgment is coming, troubles are coming, and we must live disciplined, enduring CHRIST-filled lives. Lives disciplined by the WORD OF GOD and empowered by HIS HOLY SPIRIT to give us strength and courage to fight evil and to triumph over it. May the WONDROUS LORD GOD grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin. All glory and praise to the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD, KING OF CREATION forever! 
Our prayer is that Rosh ha’Shanah marks a new beginning for you. . . through a year blessed with goodness and promise through MESSIAH YESHUA the KING OF Glory. And, as you observe the High Holy Days, may your home be filled with love and may the year ahead be filled with sweetness. May happiness, love, and the joy of Messiah reign in your lives daily. Amen! 
Day 27 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Even in excess, there should be moderation. 

MESSIAH'S SPECIAL PEOPLE 
"Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured or numbered. And it shall come to pass in the place where it was said to them — You are not MY people — there it shall be said to them — You are sons of the LIVING GOD." [Hosea (Hoshea) 1. 10; 2. 23 w/Romans 9. 19 - 26] 

Contrary to the thinking of some, CHRISTianity is not a Gentile religion but is completely Jewish! CHRISTianity is the fulfillment of the Jewish faith found in the OLD COVENANT! Jews today who believe in MESSIAH YESHUA have not left the faith of their forefathers but rather have rediscovered it. The verses in Hosea meant that the HOLY ONE would cut the people off officially as a people, and during that time HE would refuse to be their GOD. [v. 9] Regardless of being cut off, they would eventually multiply, be great, and again be called the children of God. [v. 10]

Compare this with the NEW COVENANT promise where Peter is writing to both Jewish and Gentile believers in the LORD JESUS, "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, HIS OWN special people, that you may proclaim the praises of HIM WHO called you out of darkness into HIS marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of GOD, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy." [1 Peter 2. 9 - 10] This is the same declaration YEHOWAH promised to Israel in the OLD COVENANT — "Now then, if you will obey ME faithfully, and keep MY Covenant, you shall be MY treasured possession among all the peoples. Indeed, all the earth is MINE, but you shall be to ME a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." [Exodus (Shemot) 19. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Torah] 

The covenant stands and has been extended to the Gentiles who believe in MESSIAH. Jews who believe in MESSIAH YESHUA have not deserted their nation but weep with their MESSIAH over the continued sorrow of their beloved people who reject the PROMISED ONE OF GOD. Jewish believers today are NEW COVENANT MESSIANIC believers who see and follow the faith of ancient Israel as fulfilled in the LORD JESUS CHRIST. 

The TORAH agrees fully with the Commandments of YESHUA, the problem is in the man-made rules and regulations (Judaism) that go beyond the moral law of the TORAH. Judaism is so wrapped up in the letter of the Law, they missed the heart of the Law as GOD intended in it. GOD'S desire for HIS people has never changed, HIS plan has always extended to include Gentiles who believe. 

The CHRISTian Church, as recorded in the NEW COVENANT, was composed exclusively of Jewish believers in YESHUA until about twelve years after HIS ascension into heaven! CHRISTianity, pure CHRISTianity, was not rejected by our Jewish forefathers, but was accepted by them. They were the first to preach the GOOD NEWS, the GOSPEL OF YESHUA their MESSIAH, and defended it with their lives. The GOSPEL happened to be Jewish all the way through! In the early CHRISTian church of the NEW COVENANT, the rare thing was to find a Gentile believer among them! 

Neither is the Church today a continuation of Judaism. ALMIGHTY GOD declared that the COVENANT OF MOUNT SINAI (MOSAIC LAW) was broken by Israel . [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 31. 31 - 34] Through MESSIAH YESHUA, GOD provided a New Covenant for Jews and Gentiles. This COVENANT does not mean "Jewish" nor does it destroy the Old Covenant, it confirms and fulfills it. [Matthew 5. 17; Romans 3. 31; 8. 4] Judaism does not mean "Jewish" nor does it make anyone Jewish who practices its beliefs, holidays, and ceremonies. True, the religion of national, unconverted Israel today is Judaism, but it is not the pure faith of their ancestors as we find recorded in the HEBREW SCRIPTURES! 

The Church began in the OLD COVENANT days and was composed of Jews who believed in the coming MESSIAH. The Hebrew word by which the church was called is kahila or edah meaning a religious assembly or congregation. 

It is sad to realize that many of my Jewish people do not know the difference between a Gentile and a CHRISTian. They feel they are one and the same. It has been thought that all who are not Jewish are Gentiles and that all Gentiles are CHRISTians. {That is what this writer was taught.} Nothing could be further from the truth! The WORD OF GOD describes a CHRISTian as one who has come out of GOD-lessness into the faith of the JEWISH MESSIAH & REDEEMER. There are many Gentiles who do not believe in the LORD JESUS and follow HIM, even as there are many Jews who do not accept HIM. Not all those who call themselves CHRISTians are really CHRIST-like-ones, true followers of CHRIST JESUS, just as not all who are Jewish are followers of Judaism. A true CHRISTian is, first of all, a believer in IMMANU’EL, THE ANOINTED ONE. That follower will have a spirit of love and of compassion for all men, Jew or Gentile, that they may be freed from the bondage of sin. A true CHRISTian is one who prays for both Jews and Gentiles to receive the LORD JESUS into their hearts so that they may have peace with GOD ETERNAL. 

YESHUA ha'MASHIACH did not come to bring a new religion, but to fulfill the HEBREW SCRIPTURES. The NEW COVENANT is not a NEW BOOK, but is the continuation and completion of the OLD. What is hidden in the FIRST TESTAMENT is revealed in the NEW. When a Jewish person accepts YESHUA as their MESSIAH & SAVIOR, he becomes a true Jew! He has accepted what belongs to him by GOD'S COVENANT with his fathers. The Church of the NEW COVENANT (which developed out of the Church of the FIRST TESTAMENT) was composed of Jewish believers. According to a record in history, there were 25,000 Jews who recognized and accepted JESUS as their MESSIAH soon after Shavuoth (Pentecost) 2,000 years ago. YESHUA, WHO was a Jew according to GOD'S promises concerning MESSIAH'S genealogy, does not expect any Jew to change the fact that he is Jewish, but wants every Jew to come into living touch with GOD, to love GOD with all his heart, soul, and mind. 

Jewish believers in the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH know and love the SCRIPTURES of the FIRST COVENANT more than ever they did before. They know the meaning of the holidays and customs of their forefathers. They have been brought to a greater sympathy and understanding and also a greater love for Israel . They now have a deep impression on their hearts (put there by the MASTER DESIGNER HIMSELF) to pray for their own Jewish people everywhere that they see the LIGHT and come into the NEW COVENANT with HIM. They do not deny their heritage, but realize more than ever that they are the natural descendants of Abraham through Isaac and Jacob — not only Jewish by descent — but true Jews inwardly, sons of GOD'S PROMISE, for they have come into HIS NEW COVENANT; they believe on JESUS as their LORD, MESSIAH, ROCK OF SALVATION, and their Soon-Coming King. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
LORD, thank YOU that YOU continue to keep us in life and to preserve us that we may observe YOUR statutes, to do YOUR will, and serve YOU with a perfect heart; seeing that we give thanks to YOU. Blessed be ALMIGHTY GOD to WHOM thanksgivings, honor and praise are due. 
As you observe the High Holy Days, may your home be filled with love and may the year ahead be filled with sweetness. May happiness, love and the joy of Messiah reign in your lives daily. 
"Ketiva Vahatima Tova — may your inscription and seal be for good." 
Day 25 of Repentance. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

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