Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The more laws and ordinances are multiplied, the more theft and violence increases — stick with The Ten GOD etched on stone and hearts. . . Love one another! Leviticus 19:18 shows ones love for humanity: "Love your fellow as yourself" "Beloved is man for he was created in the image of GOD." [Sifra 4:12] "Beloved are the Children of Israel for they are called children of the LORD." [Pirkei Avot 3:18] We are all precious to GOD. There is no favoritism in Heaven.

FAITH, HOPE, LOVE
"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is LOVE." [1 Corinthians 13. 13]

Love and charity are one and the same in meaning. Pure and undefiled BIBLICAL love before GOD and the HEAVENLY FATHER is concern for the welfare of others. This is True Charity in its highest manifestation. . . by demonstration.

Faith, Hope, Love — these three abiding virtues are all involved in our eternal salvation. The orthodox doctrine establishes that faith is the only means pertinent to salvation. "By grace you are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of GOD." [Ephesians 2. 8]

Hope's characteristic is effectively operational in salvation. If we have what we hope for, we no longer hope, we have. "For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope...but if we hope for what we do not see, then we eagerly wait for it with perseverance." [Romans 8. 24 - 25] For those faithfully following MESSIAH YESHUA, hope is not just wishing, it is waiting — confidently expecting. This hope is a "blessed hope" centered on KING MESSIAH YESHUA'S soon and imminent return. [Titus 2. 13]

Faith and Hope by which we are saved are themselves designed and directed in the BELOVED LORD JESUS. Our faith is "the gift of GOD." The same is true of our Hope — "CHRIST in you, the HOPE of glory." [Colossians 1. 27]

Saving faith and saving hope, gifts given from our HEAVENLY FATHER, are our faith and our hope. But, the love that saves is not our love; it is the love of GOD ALMIGHTY. And, because of GOD'S perfect love, we know how to love others effectively. "For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS ONLY-Begotten SON, that whoever believes in HIM should not perish but have everlasting life...through HIM the world might be saved." [John 3. 16 - 17] These three abide, our gift of faith, our hope, and our love in response to HIS GREATER LOVE.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Wishing you a beautiful Sabbath. Thank YOU LORD GOD for filling the heart with marvelous joy and peace, for giving us strength of faith in YOU for even greater tasks. Our confidence rests solely in YOU, our GREAT, ETERNAL, WONDERFUL LORD. YOU are the LIFE of all, the HELP of those that flee to YOU, the HOPE of those who cry to YOU. Cleanse us from our sins, secret and open, and from every thought displeasing to YOUR goodness — purify our bodies and souls, our hearts and consciences, that with a pure heart, and a clear soul, with perfect love and calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly to pray to YOU. Amen
Omer Day 24

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. . .
As long as I do not speak a word, I am its master. But once I say it, I am its slave.

ROYAL GARMENTS OF THE PRIESTS
"You shall make the robe of the ephod of pure blue. The opening for the head shall be in the middle of it; the opening shall have a binding of woven work round about — it shall be like the opening of a coat of mail — so that it does not tear." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 4 - 5 Tanakh, Torah]

The High Priest wore a special robe over the fine-twined linen breeches and coat. This robe could only be put upon a person already wearing the fine linen garments. It was put on from above and always worn as a symbol of office, authority and dignity. The LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is the very righteousness of GOD ETERNAL, as symbolized in the coat of linen; and HE is the KING. Therefore, HE could wear the robe! We who are the sons of the MOST HIGH GOD, wear the garments of salvation, dressed up in MESSIAH'S righteousness. So, we can be clothed from above with HIS heavenly dignity. JESUS THE BELOVED is the KING/PRIEST; we are the Children of the KING, a royal priesthood.

It is not stated of what material this robe was to be made, only that it was blue — heaven's color, representing the LORD JESUS WHO came from heaven; it tells of HIS heavenly origin and destiny and of ours! We are GOD'S people who have been born from above.

There was no seam in this robe, no beginning and no ending. Our LORD YESHUA is from "everlasting to everlasting." [Psalms/Tehillym 90. 2] HE has the "power of an endless life." [Hebrews 7. 16] Those who are in MESSIAH wear this "spiritual dress" of Eternity for HE promises HIS sons, "because I live, you will live also" [John 14. 19], and "he that lives and believes in ME shall never die." [John 11. 26]

Around the neck of this garment was a linen corset ("tacharah" is the Hebrew word meaning binding of woven work — it implies "white or linen") which made it impossible to tear, for the rending of it was forbidden. [Leviticus/Vayikra 10. 6] Notice in the fulfillment of this commandment and prophecy [Psalms/Tehillym 22. 18], the Roman soldiers did not divide the robe of the MAN OF SORROWS among themselves, as was the custom, but gambled for the whole garment instead. [Mark 15. 14; John 19. 24] The HOLY ETERNAL ONE also had commanded that the people of Israel rend their hearts and not their garments. [Joel/Yoel 2. 13] The LORD JESUS' robe was not torn, but HIS heart was [Psalms/Tehillym 22. 14] — broken for the sins of the world. Caiphas did tear his garment, however, when YESHUA stood before him. The penalty, under the Law, for disobedience of defiling the priestly garment, was death. Unconsciously Caiphas testified, by this tearing of his robe, that he "died" and was no longer the High Priest in Israel — that YESHUA is the TRUE HIGH PRIEST! [Leviticus/Vayikra 21. 10]

No man could take MESSIAH'S life from HIM, YESHUA deliberately laid it down of HIMSELF. HIS robe was kept whole; it could not be torn. And, no one can take our life in the LORD JESUS from us! For all eternity, those who remain faithful, can rest in assurance that they belong to the MASTER CREATOR, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
May our Heavenly Father hear our prayers, that our long-awaited Messiah YesHUA, the Son of David, King of kings comes quickly. And, may His Holy Temple be rebuilt speedily, even in our day, Amen! May you be blessed with love, hope, health, wisdom and GOD’S incredibly amazing grace as you seek HIM.
Omer Day 23
On this National Day of Prayer – we humbly bow before CREATOR GOD and give HIM thanks for HIS love, grace, mercies and forgiveness. We hold up our national leaders and ask for wisdom and truth to be given them as they seek the face of the MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE and HIS righteous counsel.

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 TRUE & LIVING GOD made you to be holy and you are responsible for knowing and being that.

OUR MIGHTY GOD
"YOUR mighty acts, to all who are to come, YOUR beneficence (generosity), high as the heavens, O GOD, YOU WHO have done great things; O GOD, who is like YOU!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 71. 19 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The IMMEASURABLE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE is merciful towards us in that HE chooses to show us what HE is like and that HE wishes to dwell within us. [Ephesians 2. 19 - 22] We cannot begin to know everything about HIM, however, for we are "the thing formed." [Romans 9. 20] Yet, HOLY SCRIPTURE does speak about "that which may be known of GOD." [Romans 1. 19]

The ETERNAL ONE, blessed be HE, is the GREAT GOD OF HOPE [Romans 15. 13], the GOD OF PEACE and the GOD of all grace. [1 Peter 5. 10] The ALMIGHTY GIVER OF LIFE is rich in mercy [Ephesians 2. 4] and HE "cannot lie." [Titus 1. 2] Our OMNISCIENT REDEEMER is also the "JUDGE of all" [Hebrews 12. 23], as well as "a CONSUMING FIRE." [Hebrews 12. 29] The Throne of the LORD is forever [Hebrews 1. 8], the "worlds were framed by" HIM. [Hebrews 11. 3] In fact, GOD "built all things" [Hebrews 3. 4] and preserves them to keep them all alive. [Nehemiah/Nechemah 9. 6] "For by HIM all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through HIM and for HIM. And HE is before all things, and in HIM all things consist." [Colossians 1. 16 - 17]

It is the GLORIOUS LORD GOD alone WHO "gives the increase" [1 Corinthians 3. 7], WHO "has reconciled us to HIMSELF by JESUS CHRIST" [2 Corinthians 5. 18], WHO "raises the dead." [Philippians 4. 19] HIS peace is perfect and beyond all understanding. [Philippians 4. 7]

"There is no power but of GOD." [Romans 13. 1] Moreover "the foolishness of GOD is wiser than men and the weakness of GOD is stronger than men." [1 Corinthians 1. 25] "There is no other GOD but ONE." [1 Corinthians 8. 4] The ALMIGHTY ONE is unique, unlike anything or anyone, but HIS creation reflects HIM. All that is true and wise and lovely is defined by HIS measure. No wonder John tells us, "When I saw HIM, I fell at HIS feet as dead" [Revelation 1. 17]; to which the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA responded — "Fear not, I AM the FIRST and the LAST."

The HOLY ONE, GOD THE CREATOR is worthy of our praise. "Praise our GOD, all you HIS servants, and you that fear HIM, both small and great." [Revelation 19. 5] Hallelu'YAH! How could we help but worship and adore HIM!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Help us, O our GOD, to banish from our hearts all pride and vain-glory, all confidence in worldly possessions, all self-sufficient leaning upon our own reason. Fill us with the spirit of meekness and the grace of modesty, that we may become wise in the fear of YOU. 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 fear of YOU, that we may consecrate our lives to YOUR service and glorify YOUR NAME in the eyes of all men.
Omer Day 22

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. . .
"I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent, and give HIM no rest till HE establishes and till HE makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth." Isaiah/Yeshayah 62:6-7

ISRAEL’S INDEPENDENCE DAY — YOM HA’ATZMA’UT
"Can a land give birth in a single day? Or shall a nation be born all at once? Yet Zion travailed and at once bore her children! Shall I WHO bring on labor not bring about birth? — says the LORD. Shall I who cause delivery shut up the womb? — says your GOD. Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad with her, all you who love her! Join in her jubilation, all you who mourn over her — that you may suck from her breast consolation to the fill, that you may drink deeply from her bosom and be delighted with the abundance of her glory." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 8 – 11 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Command to Settle the Land of Israel: On 5 Iyar 5708 (May 14, 1948 on the Gregorian Calendar), when the establishment of the State of Israel was declared, the Nation of Israel merited to fulfill the TORAH’S command to settle the Land of Promise. Individual Jews lived in the Land prior to this, it is true, but the commandment applies to the entire nation, which is bidden to bring the Land under Jewish sovereignty. [see Deuteronomy/Devarim 11 & 31; Numbers/Midbar 33 & 53; & Nachmanides’ Commentary] Jewish Law, in fact, rules that the obligation to mourn destroyed cities in the Land of Israel is dependent on Jewish sovereignty.

The Beginning of Redemption & Sanctification of GOD’S NAME: The establishment of the State of Israel removed the disgrace of Exile. For generation after generation, we wandered in the Diaspora, we suffered terrible humiliation and pogroms, we were a subject of mockery among the nations, and we were subject to mass slaughter. Observers saw us and said there was no hope for us. This was a situation of terrible — desecration of GOD'S NAME — for "you (Israel) are called by GOD'S NAME." [Deuteronomy/Devarim 28]

GOD'S HOLY WORD, as prophesied in so many places in the HOLY WORD, was that HE would return us to the Land. But with the passing of so many centuries in which this was not fulfilled, the desecration of GOD'S NAME increased, and Israel's enemies concluded that Israel would never return. And then the miracle happened [May 14, 1948], and GOD'S WORD was fulfilled. This was a great sanctification of GOD'S NAME, and it became even stronger during the Six Day War when we liberated Jerusalem and the holy cities in Judea and Samaria.

This process of the Ingathering of the Exiles and the flowering of the desert is the beginning of the promised Redemption. As the Talmud states, "There is no clearer sign of the Redemption than this, as is written in the Book of Ezekiel — "But you, O mountains of Israel, shall yield your produce and bear your fruit for MY people Israel, for their return is near." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 36. 8 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Yes, there is still much to improve and put right; unfortunately, we have not all merited to do teshuvah [return, repentance] and move to the Land of Israel. But our Sages have taught that there are two types of Redemption — full repentance leading to miraculous Redemption, and the type that takes place through natural processes, accompanied by great difficulties and hardships. These will cause the Jewish People to return home — and thus we will progress, step by step, until the Complete Redemption.

Jewish Salvation: On Independence Day 1948, the Jewish Nation was saved. It went from a state of subservience to the nations, to one of political freedom. We also went from a situation of potential death, in that we were unable to defend ourselves from our mortal enemies, to one of life, because since that time we have fought our enemies and, with the help of ALMIGHTY GOD, emerged victorious.

Some 21,000 Jews have been killed in the 60 years since the State was established — but just a few years before that, during the Holocaust, six million holy Jews were murdered over the course of just five years — a rate of nearly 3,500 times more.

This day was a salvation even for Jews living in the Diaspora, in that they now had a country that would always be able to take them in, and even works on their behalf in the international arena. Even the Communist regimes were forced to allow Jews to leave — something that would have been inconceivable before the State of Israel was established.

Spiritual Relief: Spiritually, as well, the Jewish People were saved by the State of Israel. For various reasons, a great spiritual crisis overtook the Jewish People over the past 200 years, and as countries modernized, the Jews became more assimilated. In the United States, for instance, most young Jews marry non-Jews, and those who marry Jews have relatively few children. The Jewish communities abroad are thus getting smaller and smaller. Only in the State of Israel is the Jewish population growing, and assimilation is relatively sparse.

Furthermore, the percentage of Jews in Israel who are connected to TORAH and an observant lifestyle is larger than in any other Jewish concentration in the world. This spiritual salvation was the result of the establishment of the State of Israel, which enabled the Ingathering of the Exiles and obviated the lures of world-wide assimilation.

Thus, Israel Independence Day (Yom Ha’Atzmau’t - observed 6 Iyar 5777) is thus decorated with three layers of holiness: the holiness of the commandment of settling the Land; the holiness of the Sanctification of GOD'S NAME and the beginning of the Redemption; and the holiness of the physical and spiritual salvation of the Jewish People and blessings to the whole world when they turn to MESSIAH YESHUA.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Happy 69th Birthday, Israel! Remembering Yom ha'Atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day — Israel’s unique determination, tough resistance, courage and integrity and ingenuity. Though nominally celebrated on the 6th day of Iyar (ה' באייר) in the Hebrew calendar (corresponding to May 2nd this year) — the anniversary of the day in which Israel Independence was proclaimed, when David Ben-Gurion publicly read the Israeli Declaration of Independence. Yom ha'Atzma’ut centers around the declaration of the establishment of the State of Israel on the 14th of May 1948. Our hope is not yet lost — to be a free nation in our own land.
The special prayer for Independence Day begins with Psalm 107, in which we say, “Hodu la’ha’Shem — Give thanks to GOD for HE is good, HIS kindness is everlasting.” The Psalm lists those who must give this thanks — “those who are redeemed by GOD, those whom HE has redeemed from enemies, and gathered them from different lands, from east and west, north and south.”
Obedience will be righteousness for us, as we are careful to observe all the commandments of the LORD our GOD. May you witness the care, love and presence of the MOST HOLY ONE this day and always. Celebrating the gaiety and festivities of Israel’s 69th Independence Day…Yom ha’Atzma’ut, the land we love.
Israel represents the greatest national success story of all time. Despite external threats and terror, we remain a democratic oasis in a regional cauldron of barbarism, providing the right to vote to all citizens and guaranteeing genuine freedom of religion and freedom of expression. Our success defies rationality and by any benchmark must be deemed miraculous. Today, on 69th Anniversary we should give thanks to the ALMIGHTY for enabling us to be the blessed Jewish generation, privileged to live in freedom in our resurrected ancient homeland. We should continually remind ourselves that our success defies rationality and by any benchmark must be deemed miraculous.
Omer Day 21

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. . .
"I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent, and give HIM no rest till HE establishes and till HE makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth." Isaiah/Yeshayah 62:6-7

ISRAEL’S INDEPENDENCE DAY — YOM HA’ATZMA’UT
"Can a land give birth in a single day? Or shall a nation be born all at once? Yet Zion travailed and at once bore her children! Shall I WHO bring on labor not bring about birth? — says the LORD. Shall I who cause delivery shut up the womb? — says your GOD. Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad with her, all you who love her! Join in her jubilation, all you who mourn over her — that you may suck from her breast consolation to the fill, that you may drink deeply from her bosom and be delighted with the abundance of her glory." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 8 – 11 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Command to Settle the Land of Israel: On 5 Iyar 5708 (May 14, 1948 on the Gregorian Calendar), when the establishment of the State of Israel was declared, the Nation of Israel merited to fulfill the TORAH’S command to settle the Land of Promise. Individual Jews lived in the Land prior to this, it is true, but the commandment applies to the entire nation, which is bidden to bring the Land under Jewish sovereignty. [see Deuteronomy/Devarim 11 & 31; Numbers/Midbar 33 & 53; & Nachmanides’ Commentary] Jewish Law, in fact, rules that the obligation to mourn destroyed cities in the Land of Israel is dependent on Jewish sovereignty.

The Beginning of Redemption & Sanctification of GOD’S NAME: The establishment of the State of Israel removed the disgrace of Exile. For generation after generation, we wandered in the Diaspora, we suffered terrible humiliation and pogroms, we were a subject of mockery among the nations, and we were subject to mass slaughter. Observers saw us and said there was no hope for us. This was a situation of terrible — desecration of GOD'S NAME — for "you (Israel) are called by GOD'S NAME." [Deuteronomy/Devarim 28]

GOD'S HOLY WORD, as prophesied in so many places in the HOLY WORD, was that HE would return us to the Land. But with the passing of so many centuries in which this was not fulfilled, the desecration of GOD'S NAME increased, and Israel's enemies concluded that Israel would never return. And then the miracle happened [May 14, 1948], and GOD'S WORD was fulfilled. This was a great sanctification of GOD'S NAME, and it became even stronger during the Six Day War when we liberated Jerusalem and the holy cities in Judea and Samaria.

This process of the Ingathering of the Exiles and the flowering of the desert is the beginning of the promised Redemption. As the Talmud states, "There is no clearer sign of the Redemption than this, as is written in the Book of Ezekiel — "But you, O mountains of Israel, shall yield your produce and bear your fruit for MY people Israel, for their return is near." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 36. 8 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Yes, there is still much to improve and put right; unfortunately, we have not all merited to do teshuvah [return, repentance] and move to the Land of Israel. But our Sages have taught that there are two types of Redemption — full repentance leading to miraculous Redemption, and the type that takes place through natural processes, accompanied by great difficulties and hardships. These will cause the Jewish People to return home — and thus we will progress, step by step, until the Complete Redemption.

Jewish Salvation: On Independence Day 1948, the Jewish Nation was saved. It went from a state of subservience to the nations, to one of political freedom. We also went from a situation of potential death, in that we were unable to defend ourselves from our mortal enemies, to one of life, because since that time we have fought our enemies and, with the help of ALMIGHTY GOD, emerged victorious.

Some 21,000 Jews have been killed in the 60 years since the State was established — but just a few years before that, during the Holocaust, six million holy Jews were murdered over the course of just five years — a rate of nearly 3,500 times more.

This day was a salvation even for Jews living in the Diaspora, in that they now had a country that would always be able to take them in, and even works on their behalf in the international arena. Even the Communist regimes were forced to allow Jews to leave — something that would have been inconceivable before the State of Israel was established.

Spiritual Relief: Spiritually, as well, the Jewish People were saved by the State of Israel. For various reasons, a great spiritual crisis overtook the Jewish People over the past 200 years, and as countries modernized, the Jews became more assimilated. In the United States, for instance, most young Jews marry non-Jews, and those who marry Jews have relatively few children. The Jewish communities abroad are thus getting smaller and smaller. Only in the State of Israel is the Jewish population growing, and assimilation is relatively sparse.

Furthermore, the percentage of Jews in Israel who are connected to TORAH and an observant lifestyle is larger than in any other Jewish concentration in the world. This spiritual salvation was the result of the establishment of the State of Israel, which enabled the Ingathering of the Exiles and obviated the lures of world-wide assimilation.

Thus, Israel Independence Day (Yom Ha’Atzmau’t - observed 6 Iyar 5777) is thus decorated with three layers of holiness: the holiness of the commandment of settling the Land; the holiness of the Sanctification of GOD'S NAME and the beginning of the Redemption; and the holiness of the physical and spiritual salvation of the Jewish People and blessings to the whole world when they turn to MESSIAH YESHUA.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Happy 69th Birthday, Israel! Remembering Yom ha'Atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day — Israel’s unique determination, tough resistance, courage and integrity and ingenuity. Though nominally celebrated on the 6th day of Iyar (ה' באייר) in the Hebrew calendar (corresponding to May 2nd this year) — the anniversary of the day in which Israel Independence was proclaimed, when David Ben-Gurion publicly read the Israeli Declaration of Independence. Yom ha'Atzma’ut centers around the declaration of the establishment of the State of Israel on the 14th of May 1948. Our hope is not yet lost — to be a free nation in our own land.
The special prayer for Independence Day begins with Psalm 107, in which we say, “Hodu la’ha’Shem — Give thanks to GOD for HE is good, HIS kindness is everlasting.” The Psalm lists those who must give this thanks — “those who are redeemed by GOD, those whom HE has redeemed from enemies, and gathered them from different lands, from east and west, north and south.”
Obedience will be righteousness for us, as we are careful to observe all the commandments of the LORD our GOD. May you witness the care, love and presence of the MOST HOLY ONE this day and always. Celebrating the gaiety and festivities of Israel’s 69th Independence Day…Yom ha’Atzma’ut, the land we love.
Israel represents the greatest national success story of all time. Despite external threats and terror, we remain a democratic oasis in a regional cauldron of barbarism, providing the right to vote to all citizens and guaranteeing genuine freedom of religion and freedom of expression. Our success defies rationality and by any benchmark must be deemed miraculous. Today, on 69th Anniversary we should give thanks to the ALMIGHTY for enabling us to be the blessed Jewish generation, privileged to live in freedom in our resurrected ancient homeland. We should continually remind ourselves that our success defies rationality and by any benchmark must be deemed miraculous.
Omer Day 21

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 need a pulpit to preach the GOSPEL; your everyday actions are a sermon on their own. Preach accurately!

LAW OF MOSES
"Then HE said to them, "These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses (Torah) and the Prophets (Nevi’im) and the Psalms (Kethuvim) concerning ME." And HE opened their understanding, that they might understand the SCRIPTURES." [Luke 24. 44 - 45]

MESSIAH YESHUA, on the day of resurrection, had given a wonderful session of SCRIPTURE teaching to two of HIS followers on the Road to Emmaus (perhaps Cleopas and his wife, Mary who had been at the cross, see John 9:25). "Beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, HE expounded to them in all the SCRIPTURES the things concerning HIMSELF." [Luke 24. 27] Later that same evening, RISEN LORD appeared to the eleven apostles and the other disciples, in the upper room, and gave a similar report to all of them that HE had to the couple on the road.

We learn so much from our MASTER TEACHER concerning how we should also teach the complete WRITTEN WORD; for it was through "the SPIRIT OF CHRIST" [1 Peter 1. 11], WHO in actuality wrote the HOLY TEXT. The whole BIBLE speaks of MESSIAH in prophecy, in type, and in other ways. MESSIAH YESHUA began with the writings of Moses, meaning first of all the account of creation and ancient history which is the foundation of all the rest.

It is quite evident that LORD YESHUA regarded "all SCRIPTURE" to be of DIVINE authority which "must be fulfilled" either at HIS first coming or HIS Second Coming. HE believed in the perfect and absolutely infinite inspiration of THE LIVING WORD OF GOD, as well as the miracle of fulfilled prophecy. Even the writings of Paul, it is stated, "If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the LORD." [1 Corinthians 14. 37]

Even in the case of these closest followers, it was essential that the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD "open their understanding" if they were really to "understand SCRIPTURES." All who hope to teach the WORD OF TRUTH today should teach as the ALL-WISE MASTER HIMSELF taught, for MESSIAH is our GREAT TEACHER.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
YOURS, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, the glory, and the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in heaven and in the earth belongs to YOU; YOURS is the kingdom, O LORD, and YOU are exalted as head above all. May our lips ever declare praises to YOU, LORD YESHUA our KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & SHIELD for YOUR loving kindness is mighty over us.
Our prayer for each of you is for mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance from our WONDERFUL REDEEMER.
Happy 69th Birthday, Israel! This evening begins the celebration of Yom ha'Atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day.
Omer Day 20

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. . .
Saichel (Hebrew for common sense) is a gift; intelligence is an acquisition (achieved possession).

PRIEST’S ARMOR
"I clothed myself in righteousness, and it clothed me; justice was my robe and turban." [Job (Iyob) 29. 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Righteousness shall be the girdle of HIS loins, and faithfulness the belt of HIS waist." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 5 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Wearing the Breastplate of Righteousness is always in agreement with the nature of ALMIGHTY GOD’S righteousness which is selflessness. "For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself." [Romans 14. 7] HOLY SCRIPTURE never speaks of the BELOVED MESSIAH taking authority, because HE was AUTHORITY — the power and supremacy of the FATHER dwelt in HIM. YESHUA demonstrated authority by HIS complete obedience, "I have kept MY FATHER'S commandments and abide in HIS love." [John 15. 10] Demons either came and bowed at HIS feet or acknowledged HIS authority. The LORD YESHUA did not have to do anything — they had no choice but to acquiesce to the authority abiding in HIM. There was no fighting, no wrestling, no scolding or argument. . . HE cast them out, and they left.

The body armor of the priesthood is designed by the MOST HOLY to protect HIS priests from those forces of the flesh which would cause them to become an “accuser of the brethren” — Satan. Those who would be priests alongside MESSIAH are commanded to, "Put on the whole armor of GOD, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of GOD, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." [Ephesians 6. 11 - 13]

The Hebrew views and opinions of armor is centered from the foundation of the TORAH, being that of the priestly wardrobe described in Exodus/Shemot 28, rather then the Christian concept of the soldier’s attire. The word "priest" is translated from the Hebrew kohen, always denoting one who offers sacrifices. Both 1 Peter 2:9 and Revelation 1:6 tell that those who actively embrace the life of YESHUA by keeping the WORDS of the FATHER continually offering sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving (Hebrews 7. 1 – 10…portrays a nation of priests). While the priesthood of the Levite could only be attained through birth, the apostle was comparing the clothing worn by those priests of what is to be put on by those who stand before HIM today.

The Belt of Truth can be seen in the Ephod of Exodus/Shemot 28:5-14 depicting an apron-like garment worn from the waist and covering the loins.
— "Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth..." [Ephesians 6. 14a]

The Breastplate of Righteousness/Judgment is described in Exodus/Shemot 28:15–30 and Isaiah/Yeshayah 59:17..."For HE put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on HIS head; HE put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak."
— "Having put on the breastplate of righteousness." [Ephesians 6. 14b]

Feet of Shalom. Priests were always barefoot before the HOLY PRESENCE because they were on holy ground. [Exodus/Shemot 3. 5 -"Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground."; Isaiah/Yeshayah 52. 7] In the LORD GOD is there Perfect Shalom (Peace).
— "Having shod your feet with the preparation of the GOSPEL OF PEACE." [Ephesians 6. 15]

The Shield of Trust. Faith, ‘aman, in Hebrew means "to trust". [Deuteronomy/Devarim 7. 9; Psalms/Tehillym 115. 10; Proverbs/Mishle 30. 5]
— "Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one." [Ephesians 6. 16]

The Helmet of Salvation (in Hebrew, teshuw`ah, salvation and deliverance mean the same) is found in Exodus 28:36-39, and is made of white fine linen, signifying righteous deeds. [Revelation 19. 8] This Turban carried an engraved plate attached to it that said "Holy to the YEHOWAH" — Here, the emphasis is on the covering of thought processes, "taking every thought captive unto the obedience of the CHRIST JESUS." [2 Corinthians 10. 5]
— "And take the helmet of salvation." [Ephesians 6. 17a]

The Sword of the SPIRIT is the WORD OF GOD. [Exodus/Shemot 20. 1; Isaiah/Yeshayah 55. 11; John 17. 17] Priests carried no weapons of war, so the MIGHTY WORD OF THE LORD, as with all of these descriptions about armor is used defensively, to protect what is within — not offensively against someone or something outwardly. "For the WORD OF GOD is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." [Hebrews 4. 12]
— "And the sword of the SPIRIT which is the WORD OF GOD." [Ephesians 6. 17b]

The Sacrifice of Prayer is found in Exodus/Shemot 30:7-8. The burning of incense signifies the supplications continually offered up to the MOST HOLY LORD GOD by HIS Priests. [Psalms/Tehillym 141. 2; Revelation 5. 8; 1 Peter 2. 5]
— "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the SPIRIT, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints." [Ephesians 6. 18]

"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses." [1 Timothy 6. 12 - 13] The ALL-WISE LOVING LORD GOD has given us everything we need to stand strong in HIM and in the power of HIS might.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
We lift up our hearts and our hands to YOU, GREAT GOD in Heaven for YOUR loving-kindness, O LORD, is mighty over us and we are ever thankfully indebted to YOU, MOST MERCIFUL GOD. We will examine our ways and test them, and return to YOU, O MOST HIGH. May each day be entered with joy in our hearts and confidence that ALMIGHTY GOD, in HIS mercy, will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us!
This evening Yom Ha'Zikaron begins remembrance/memorial day on which Israel honors its fallen servicemen and women. Scheduling Yom Ha'Zikaron is observed on the 5th day of the month Iyar on the Hebrew calendar (corresponding to May 1st this year), always one day before Israel Independence Day (5 Iyar), the anniversary of the Proclaiming of the State of Israel in 1948. It is intended to remind people of the price paid for independence and of what was achieved with the soldiers' sacrifice.
When things around you appear dark and terrifying, hold on to the promises of LORD GOD. HE is in complete control. "The ROCK! — HIS deeds are perfect; Yes! all HIS ways are just; a FAITHFUL GOD, never false, true and just is HE." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 4 Tanakh, Torah] Great and mighty is our MERCIFUL & LOVING GOD. Since the establishment of Israel they have been forced to defend themselves on too many an occasion. This past year, tragically, was no different. Again, some of Israel’s finest of our children, friends, and colleagues had to pay with their lives to secure that elementary right to national self-determination. We grieve their loss deeply yet remain, always, resilient with a view to the future: building, innovating, creating, and confident that Israel and the world will one day live in both peace and security – this will happen just as the GOD OF ISRAEL promised.
Omer Day 19

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 shows his true relationship to GOD by his actions.

THE INVISIBLE GOD
"No one has seen GOD at any time. The ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, WHO is in the bosom of the FATHER, HE has declared HIM." [John 1. 18]

The GLORIOUS LORD GOD is present everywhere in HIS creation, so HE is necessarily invisible anywhere. HE is "the KING eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise GOD." [1 Timothy 1. 17] ALMIGHTY GOD is omnipresent and omnipotent and HE can manifest HIMSELF in tangible, visible form when HE so chooses. And at various times throughout the ages, GOD has made HIMSELF known. Pointing out just a few times the ETERNAL ONE appeared to men: The LORD GOD was with the two angels who appeared to Abraham, in the form of men, before continuing on to Sodom and Gomorrah . [Genesis/Bereshith 18] Then in Mount Sinai — "Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu and seventy elders of Israel saw the GOD OF ISRAEL: Under HIS feet there was the likeness of a pavement of sapphire, like the very sky for purity. Yet HE did not raise HIS hand against the leaders of Israel ; they beheld GOD, and they ate and drank." [Exodus (Shemot) 24. 9 - 11 Tanakh, Torah]

Obviously, the PERSON they saw was GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON WHO was manifest visibly. The LORD YESHUA ha’MASHIACH is "the IMAGE of the INVISIBLE GOD, the FIRSTBORN of every creature." [Colossians 1. 15] In some marvelous way beyond human comprehension, the OMNIPRESENT, INFINITE GOD has on occasion taken on the appearance of a human being with the intended purpose of conveying a specific revelation or to accomplish some divine purpose. Such manifestations are called theophany and each has been implemented by the SON OF GOD, the WORD, in Pre-Incarnate Form. "And the WORD became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as of the ONLY BEGOTTEN of the FATHER, full of grace and truth." [John 1. 14]

Then, the ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD became the ETERNAL SON OF MAN. "Concerning the WORD OF LIFE — the LIFE was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that ETERNAL LIFE which was with the FATHER and was manifested to us — that which we have seen and heard we declare to you." [John 1. 2]

YESHUA ha'MASHIACH became as we are so HE could save us, as befitting a PERFECT SAVIOR! The LORD JESUS is our KINSMAN WHO fulfilled the Law that declares, "if one of your kinsman being in straits, sells himself to the stranger (we sold ourselves to sin), after he is sold he may be redeemed again — ONE OF HIS KINSMEN shall redeem him." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 25. 47 - 48 Tanakh, Torah] How very much our COMPASSIONATE, DEVOTED REDEEMER loves us and became our BELOVED KINSMAN giving HIMSELF as a RANSOM that we might be free. Thank YOU, HEAVENLY FATHER for JESUS, YOUR PERFECT GIFT!

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 Sabbath, our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly. And, may peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, Amen We thank YOU GOD our FATHER, for the blessings which brighten our life and we pray for YOUR strength and light when sorrows darken our way. With bowed heads and humble hearts, and abiding faith in YOUR justice and loving kindness, we sanctify YOUR HOLY NAME.
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. May some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout the week.
Omer Day 18

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. . .
Believing is a fine thing, but executing those beliefs is a test of strength.
MESSIAH'S BIRTHPLACE
"And you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, least among the clans of Judah , from you ONE shall come forth to rule Israel for ME — ONE WHOSE origin is from of old, from ancient times." [Micah (Michah) 5. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Micah indicates the birthplace of MESSIAH OF ISRAEL as Bethlehem Ephrathah (about 6 miles southwest of Jerusalem) was also the birthplace of King David. Bethlehem means "House of Bread." Ephrathah comes from the root word meaning "fruitful." Both names convey the fertility of the region (depicting the Bread and Wine). The YESHUA ha'MASHIACH (ANOINTED ONE) is that BREAD WHO came down out of heaven, WHO was born in the HOUSE OF BREAD and WHO is the FRUITFUL ONE as it was prophesied.

In this poor, meager and inconspicuous little town, ONE was to be born WHO could take the foolish things of this world and confound the wise; WHO, by HIS coming, could transform the unlovely into a thing of beauty; WHO could, by HIS very presence, compel the learned to bow in humility before HIM, and kings to lay their authority at HIS feet!

Though HE was to be RULER (KING) in Israel , the LORD JESUS, GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON was meek and lowly in heart. The OMNIPOTENT LORD GOD chose a stable in the smallest town in Judah for birth of HIS UNIQUE SON, rather than a royal palace. But when the SAVIOR was born there, the unlovely, unimportant small town was transformed, and the least became the greatest. Lambs are born in stables, not palaces. GOD'S PRECIOUS GIFT came as the "LAMB OF GOD" to be sacrificed.

Today, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is still searching for a place in the heart of the insignificant, unlovely least of all the people. HE desires to take up HIS abode there withIN such hearts. And when the GREAT & MIGHTY TRANSFORMER does enter, HE will (in a sense) do with our useless, worthless life as HE did with the little town in which HE was born! With GOD, we are no longer just human for HE transforms us into "new creatures" for HIS glory and praise.

We who have opened the door of our hearts and lives to the LORD YESHUA and allowed HIM room to be born there, though poor, needy, lost and unworthy we can rejoice exceedingly! The reason: We realize that GOD MOST HIGH, in HIS infinite, great and boundless love has spoken and fulfilled HIS promise to us touching our individual lives. "But you...though you are little, yet out of you shall HE come forth to ME — THE ONE — to be RULER...WHOSE goings forth are from of old, from everlasting."

Just as our BLESSED LORD has promised, we are now HIS OWN special people, zealous for good works, who have been called out of darkness into HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Welcome Sabbath! Those who keep the Sabbath and call it a delight shall rejoice in GOD'S Holy Kingdom. Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to GOD in heaven for great is the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL in our midst. The LORD is mighty over us and we are ever thankfully indebted to YOU, O MERCIFUL GOD. May we examine our ways, test them, and return to YOU, O MOST HIGH.
Have a sweet and blessed Sabbath with family and friends.
Omer Day 17

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. . .
To seek wisdom in old age is like a mark in the sand; to seek wisdom in youth is like engraving on stone.

ZION BUILT UP
"For the LORD has built up Zion ; HE has appeared in all HIS glory." [Psalms (Tehillym) 102. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT is going to do the building of Zion . This not only refers to the Great City , Jerusalem , but to the Jewish people. "Arise, shine, for your light has come! And the GLORIOUS PRESENCE (KABOD) OF THE LORD has shone upon you! Behold! Darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but upon you the LORD will shine, and HIS GLORIOUS PRESENCE (KABOD) be seen upon you." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 60. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Ezekiel was also given a prophecy of the building up of Zion . The ALMIGHTY GOD OF HEAVEN gave him a vision of the "valley of dry, disconnected bones." It was humanly impossible for these bones to live, but the LORD GOD told Ezekiel to preach to them. At the preaching of the LIFE-GIVING WORD, the bones came together; the HOLY ONE put sinew and flesh on them, then the SPIRIT OF GOD was put into them causing them to stand upright and live again. The BELOVED MASTER described these bones as the "whole house of Israel ." Though dead, HE caused them to come up out of their graves from every land where HE had scattered them.

"Prophesy and say to them: Thus said the LORD GOD — I am going to open your graves and lift you out of the graves, O MY people, and bring you to the land of Israel. I will put MY SPIRIT (RUWACH — BREATH) into you and you shall live again, and I will set you upon your own soil. Then you shall know that I the LORD have spoken and have acted — declares the LORD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 12, 14 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "I am going to take the Israelite people from among the nations they have gone to and gather them from every quarter, and bring them to THEIR OWN LAND. I will make them a single nation in the land, on the hills of Israel , and one KING (MESSIAH YESHUA) shall be KING of them all. Then they shall be MY people, and I will be their GOD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 21 - 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The ALMIGHTY ETERNAL GOD is the only "Giver" of breath and spiritual life — that life comes exclusively through faith in the PROMISED ONE OF GOD, MESSIAH YESHUA the LORD. The only way either Jew or Gentile can come out of their "graves of spiritual death" and receive eternal life is to recognize and accept YESHUA ha'MASHIACH — JESUS THE RISEN CHRIST — is THE ONE WHO was promised by GOD to come to Israel — THE KING in Zion. The GREAT GOD OF ISRAEL promised that ONE KING will rule "in that day" when Zion would be built up.

Will you be one of HIS people? Will you let this MAJESTIC SOVEREIGN KING rule in your life now and be your LORD for eternity? The KEEPER OF THE VINEYARD is coming soon to gather HIS people to HIMSELF!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Do not forget your position in this world — we are travelers passing through focusing on reaching a more lofty and meaningful destination. This world is like a lobby before the World to Come; prepare yourself in the lobby so that you may enter the Banquet Hall where our permanent residence is with the HOLY LORD GOD ALMIGHTY.
Welcoming Rosh Chodesh – the month of Iyyar
Omer Day 16

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 nothing more exhilarating in life then to be shot without results! [Winston Churchill]

ACQUIRING A SOUND MIND
"Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of GOD which is in you...For GOD has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." [1 Timothy 1. 6 - 7]

Human intelligence frequently mocks and scoffs at CHRISTian intellect because it is only the born-again CHRISTian that is able to understand the spiritual truth for salvation since "the god of this age has blinded the minds (thoughts), of those who do not believe." [2 Corinthians 4. 4]

Through the miracle of the new birth, however, that is received through faith in MESSIAH YESHUA, the believer is "transformed by the renewing of their mind." [Romans 12. 2] In actual fact — "we have the mind of CHRIST." [1 Corinthians 2. 16]

The potential of a renewed, CHRIST-honoring, scripturally-submissive and obedient mind is tremendous. To begin with, the LORD JESUS first taught us, "You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind." [Matthew 22. 37] We think GOD’S thoughts: "It is no longer I who live, but CHRIST lives in me." [Galatians 2. 20]

Next, we must have inherent faith in the LIFE-GIVING WORD OF GOD — "Do not have an anxious (doubtful, unbelieving, worried) mind..."O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken!" [Luke 12. 29; 24. 25] Also, we should "put on tender mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind (humility)" [Colossians 3. 12] and seek to discipline the mind, "gird up the loins of your mind, be sober." [1 Peter 1. 13] Proficient and knowledgeable thinking should also be developed, "Do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature (men of intelligence in understanding)." [1 Corinthians 14. 20]

That potential is embedded in the great truth that in the BELOVED LORD JESUS "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." [Colossians 2. 3] "To those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, CHRIST the POWER of GOD and the WISDOM of GOD. Because the foolishness of GOD is wiser than men, and the weakness of GOD is stronger than men." [1 Corinthians 1. 24 - 25] Therefore, we should strive to bring "every thought into captivity to the obedience of CHRIST." [2 Corinthians 10. 5]

Confidently and most assuredly, we should not allow our minds to dwell on vain imaginations of those "professing to be wise (they became fools)" [Romans 1. 22] in the "wisdom of this age" which will soon "come to nothing." [1 Corinthians 2. 6] This reality is well stated in the OLD COVENANT: "For an hollow-headed man will be wise (get understanding), when a wild ass is born a man." [Job (Iyob) 11. 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"But you, O man of GOD, flee these things (love of money, greed, envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless power struggle of men with corrupt minds & destitute of the truth) and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life...keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our LORD JESUS CHRIST'S appearing." [1 Timothy 6. 11 – 12, 14]

It is to us, HIS children, that our HEAVENLY FATHER has given us a sound mind, that with our mouth we can intelligently glorify GOD our FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Thank YOU, LORD GOD for filling the heart with marvelous joy and peace, for giving us strength of faith in YOU for even greater tasks. Our confidence rests solely in YOU, our GREAT, ETERNAL, WONDERFUL KING. YOU are the LIFE of all, the HELP of those that flee to YOU, the HOPE of those who cry to YOU. Cleanse us from our sins, secret and open, and from every thought displeasing to YOUR goodness — purify our bodies and souls, our hearts and consciences, that with a pure heart, and a clear soul, with perfect love and calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly to pray to YOU. Amen
Omer Day 15 – don’t just count the Omer, make the Omer count!

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. . .
Faith uses its strength to develop trust.

SUFFERING MESSIAH/TRIUMPHANT LORD
"I AM the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END — says the LORD — WHO is and WHO was and WHO is to come, the ALMIGHTY." [Revelation 1. 8]

There are seven "I AM" statements that occur in Revelation, the last book of the HOLY BIBLE. And, all are declarations by the GLORIFIED CHRIST JESUS, speaking of HIS ultimate victory.

The Psalms also have seven statements of the LORD YESHUA, but they are vastly different I am statements, all speaking prophetically of MESSIAH'S sufferings. These are in four of the wonderfully fulfilled MESSIANIC Psalms, all written 1,000 years before YESHUA'S birth, yet each Psalm mentioned is fulfilled by the LORD JESUS CHRIST in the NEW COVENANT.

"But I AM a worm, less than human; scorned and reproached by men, despised of the people." [Psalms (Tehillym) 22. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Job states it this way, "How much less man, a worm, the SON OF MAN, a maggot." [Job (Iyob) 25. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Here MESSIAH YESHUA is compared to a mother scarlet worm who dies that her young may live, and in so doing, gives off a scarlet fluid which protects and nourishes her young.
"I AM poor and needy." [Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM a stranger to My brothers, an alien to My kin." [Psalms (Tehillym) 69. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM poor, lowly and sorrowful full of pain." [Psalms (Tehillym) 69. 29 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM like a lone bird upon a rooftop." [Psalms (Tehillym) 102. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"I AM withered like grass." [Psalms (Tehillym) 102. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

In contrast to these lonely sufferings of MESSIAH, there are the glories that shall follow. Five of the seven I AM's of Revelation proclaim the same great truth — "I AM the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the FIRST and the LAST." [Revelation 1. 8, 11, 17; 21. 6; 22. 13]

The SELF-EXISTING ONE, the I AM, YEHOWAH, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH WHO created all things (ALPHA) one day will triumph and make all things new forever (OMEGA). The two other wonderful testimonies proclaim — "I AM HE WHO lives, and was dead, and behold, I AM alive forevermore. Amen — And I have the keys of Hades and of Death." [Revelation 1. 18] "I AM the ROOT and the OFFSPRING of David, the BRIGHT and MORNING STAR." [Revelation 22. 16]

This same JESUS, the GREAT I AM, is THE ONE WHO is coming back soon to judge the living and the dead, and set up HIS Kingdom. "I charge you therefore before GOD and the LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO will judge the living and the dead at HIS appearing and HIS Kingdom." [2 Timothy 4. 1] Are you ready???

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 LORD and ask that YOUR PRESENCE 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 HOLY NAME is exalted above all. LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, help us daily to break down the barriers which keep us from YOU: Falsehood & faithlessness, callousness & selfishness, injustice and hard-heartedness. Amen!
Omer Day 14

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 highest reward for man’s trial and toils is not what he gets for it, but what he becomes by it.

ENEMIES, YOUR ADVANTAGE
"Woe to you when all men speak well of you, For so did their fathers to the false prophets." [Luke 6. 26]

Although it may not seem to be a compliment to say that a CHRIST-like-one has enemies, but true. Such as when SCRIPTURE tells what GOD said about Pharaoh — "For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show MY power in you, and that MY NAME may be declared in all the earth." [Romans 9. 14] Even the Apostle Paul had many bitter enemies, and they finally got him executed. In fact, most if not all of the great heroes of the faith, over the centuries had enemies and had to overcome bitter opposition from that wicked one (Satan).

So instead of resenting our enemies, we should thank ALMIGHTY GOD for them, as they enable us to become more like our LORD and SAVIOR, MESSIAH YESHUA! Only through such experiences can we learn what it means to say, as did Paul — "I have been crucified with CHRIST; it is no longer I who live, but CHRIST lives in me." [Galatians 2. 20] Only if we have enemies can we learn to obey CHRIST’S challengingly difficult command to "love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." [Matthew 5. 44] We also learn just how precious it is to have faithful, loving friends.

The LORD YESHUA could easily have called on twelve legions of angels to rout HIS enemies. Instead, HE submitted to their vicious insults and cruel tortures, even praying in HIS agony and suffering on the cross, "FATHER, forgive them, for they do not know what they do." [Luke 23. 34] The enemies of MESSIAH killed HIM, but if they had not done so, HE would not have died for our sins, and we would be lost eternally. This is a mystery to think about although it is difficult to fully understand and appreciate; yet as the HOLY SCRIPTURES promises, "Surely the fiercest of man shall praise YOU; with the remainder of wrath YOU shall gird YOURSELF." [Psalms (Tehillym) 76. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Therefore, the enemy of men can be an instrument of DIVINE grace to the believer, for "tribulation produces perseverance (patience); and perseverance, character; and character, hope." [Romans 5. 3 - 4] And, "our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." [2 Corinthians 4. 17] The SOVEREIGN OF THE UNIVERSE certainly works all things out for our good. So, in all things, REJOICE!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world HE created. May Your will be fulfilled and YOUR sovereignty revealed, MOST HOLY ONE, in the days of our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel speedily and in our time, Amen. May YOU be blessed forever, even throughout all eternity. May YOU, be blessed, praised & honored, extolled & glorified, adored and exalted above all else. Amen
Zey ha-yom asaw ADONAI, nagilah ve-neesmechah voh. This is the day the LORD has made, we will rejoice and we will be glad in it. May the LIGHT of the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, fill you with a yearning desire to submit to HIS inscrutable will and give you strength for your daily tasks.
Omer Day 13

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 best disciple is one who broadens the knowledge of his MASTER.



KNOWING GOD'S WILL
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge HIM, and HE will make your paths smooth." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]



The key to knowing the will of ALMIGHTY GOD is the willingness and determination to follow it, before knowing it. "If any man will do HIS will, he shall know concerning the doctrine." [John 7. 17] The best indicator as to whether one is really willing to follow the HOLY ONE'S command is whether or not he is now pursuing and abiding in the revealed WRITTEN WORD. This requires knowing and believing what it says, then deliberately obeying all that the LORD GOD commands.



"YOUR WORD is a lamp to my feet, a light for my path." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 105 Tanakh, Kethuvim] If one indeed is following the revealed will of CREATOR GOD, we can "ask anything according to HIS will, HE hears us. And if we know that HE hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of HIM." [1 John 5. 14 - 15]



"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of GOD, WHO gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind." [James 1. 5 - 6] "For the LORD grants wisdom; knowledge and discernment are by HIS decree." [Proverbs (Mishle) 2. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]



The GREAT & MIGHTY ONE OF ISRAEL desires the ultimate best for each of us. In view of this fact, "men always ought to pray, and not lose heart." [Luke 18. 1] "For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought; but the SPIRIT...makes intercession for the saints according to the will of GOD. And we know that all things work together for good to those that love GOD." [Romans 8. 26 - 28] The MASTER DESIGNER is faithful and unwavering, HE desires that we know HIM as LORD, and HE is faithful to direct our paths.


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
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!
Omer Day 12



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.

Email: delrifkah.kralman@comcast.net
Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
A great use of your time is to accomplish something that will out-last it.

THE LOVE LETTER (Part 2 – Conclusion)
This great subject of atonement is the central theme of the HOLY BIBLE, from the promises in the first chapters of the OLD COVENANT through types and symbols, such as the blood on the door posts when the Passover was instituted, the Tabernacle with its priesthood and offerings, the Copper Serpent set up in the wilderness, etc. Down through the prophecies, OMNIPOTENT GOD'S dealings with a fallen race are seen until we come to the consummation in the redemptive work of the MESSIAH YESHUA. Then, on through this present Age of Grace and the wonderful happenings just ahead of us, the rapture of the Church, the tribulation, the return of our SOVEREIGN LORD YESHUA to reign and so on through the eons to come.

Stupendous and fascinating beyond words is this "LETTER" which the GREAT LOVER of our souls has written us! Can anyone study it and remain unchanged? It is practical, sensible and orderly with explicit, sure and clear directions for our daily walk. There is no circumstance which GOD'S PRECIOUS WRITTEN WORD cannot meet. There is wisdom and guidance, strength and security for you within these pages; and there is hope and complete peace. This INCALCULABLY PRECIOUS LIVING SCRIPTURE is the BREAD OF LIFE to the hungry soul; the LIVING WATER to them that thirst; a LAMP to the feet of the living; and a PILLOW for the head of the dying. There are five kinds of crowns to be won and this LIFE-GIVING WORD also describes our future Home in heaven.

Beloved child of the MOST HIGH GOD, you who have been redeemed by the precious blood of MESSIAH YESHUA, how much time do you spend daily with this wonderful "Love Letter" from our HEAVENLY FATHER? Can you expect spiritual growth without spiritual food? Some day you will look upon the blessed face of our glorious Lord YESHUA in the home HE is preparing for you; and you will gaze upon the wounds in HIS hands and HIS feet. Oh, what shame to admit you seldom read "HIS Love Letter" to you!

And to you, our other precious friends who are still unsaved, will you not read this WRITTEN WORD and in it find the "LIVING WORD" WHO was made flesh and dwelt among us; the ONLY ONE WHO is your HOPE OF SALVATION? Can you be indifferent to HIS matchless love and sacrifice? Can you possibly be indifferent to your own fate?

That VOICE OF AUTHORITY speaks very plain indeed about you, "All have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD." [Romans 3. 23] The wages of sin is "death" — yet "HE WHO knew no sin was made sin for us that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in HIM." [2 Corinthians 5. 21] Was ever a bargain so wondrous as this? My guilt for HIS GLORY, my pain for HIS PEACE, my night for the LIGHT OF HIS FACE! "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears MY WORD and believes in HIM WHO sent ME has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life." [John 5. 24] "But as many as received HIM, to them HE gave the right to become children of GOD, to those who believe in HIS NAME." [John 1. 12]

This LOVE LETTER contains the heart thoughts of GOD ALMIGHTY, the state of man, THE WAY of salvation, the doom of sinners and the happiness of believers. It's doctrines are holy, it's precepts binding, it's histories are true and it's decisions are unending and unchangeable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be whole and holy. This LETTER includes the light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you and fill you with HIS great joy that is everlasting.

The Heavens are opened here and the gates of hell disclosed. YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the LORD GOD is the MAGNIFICENT SUBJECT, our good its design, and the glory of the ALMIGHTY ONE its end. This LETTER should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, prayerfully. It is given to you in life, will be opened at the Judgment Seat of MESSIAH, and be remembered forever. "O, 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]

My dear friend, as I close this message to you, I make one last plea: GOD has written to you, HIS WORD is true and unchangeable. HE plainly says there are two courses open to you, on one hand enmity and eternal separation from HIM if you reject HIS BLESSED ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, JESUS. On the other hand, acceptance of MESSIAH YESHUA, makes you a child of GOD ETERNAL, "and if children, then heirs — heirs of GOD and joint heirs with CHRIST, if indeed we suffer with HIM, that we may also be glorified together." [Romans 8. 17] And having offered you these riches which are far beyond our feeble imagining, our LORD JESUS says — "Whosoever will may come...now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." [2 Corinthians 6. 2]

We write this that you may see life as a moment-by-moment time to celebrate life, but even more important — to know, honor, cherish and adore the LIFE-GIVER. In sickness or in health, all comes from HIS hands. . . Choose Life! The BELOVED LORD JESUS CHRIST, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, is knocking at your heart's door. Will you not open it to HIM and receive YESHUA as your LORD and MASTER, REDEEMER and FRIEND and trust HIM as your only SAVIOR?

We cover you with our prayers and our love. To GOD our FATHER and to the PIERCED LAMB forever and ever be blessing, and glory and wisdom, thanksgiving and honor and power and might and dominion. Amen

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 sing 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 GREATER 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.
May the ALL-PRESENT ONE fill our upcoming week with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE that HE may be glorified; and may some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout your week days.
Omer Day 11

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. . .
If you don't know where you are going, any path will take you there.

THE LOVE LETTER (Part 1 of 2)
Would it not be terribly unfair of the GOD OF HEAVEN to put us here to stumble in the dark, and then have a Day of Judgment when we would learn, to our horror, that certain things were required of us and that we should be punished forever because we had not fulfilled these obligations? Certain things are required of us, and we shall be separated forever from this LOVING GOD if we do not accept THE WAY of escape HE has provided. But, HE has been just and more then fair with us, HE has told us plainly.

Beside me is a LOVE LETTER from the ETERNAL ONE, written on fine white paper edged with gold, bound in a volume called "THE HOLY BIBLE" — in it the ALMIGHTY CREATOR tells me how much HE loves me and shows me how to be righteous.

Marvelous, wonderful beyond imagination, that the GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN would so condescend that HE would have it all put down in black and white in our own language, so clearly that we need have no uncertainty about it. We can, by careful study, understand GOD'S SPIRITUAL LAWS, which are as unchangeable and orderly as HIS Laws governing the physical world.

OMNIPOTENT GOD tells us of the past — facts that the great scientists are still endeavoring to discover. HE tells us of the present, of mighty world movements which are confounding the intellectuals, and making their hearts fail them for fear. MESSIAH YESHUA tells us of a future, unveiling to us mysteries undreamed of by the man ignorant of HIS WORD. Philosophy and science give us only a record of human reasoning and discovery. They can only go so far; but, the HOLY SCRIPTURES are the VOICE OF AUTHORITY!

I need not speak here of its matchless beauty and perfect diction. That it is the revealed WORD OF GOD is the fact which most concerns us. Let no one tell you that man wrote the BIBLE, "prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of GOD spoke as they were moved by the HOLY SPIRIT." [2 Peter 1. 21]

If you will really study the HOLY WORD, you will be convinced that man could not have written it; it harmonizes too well. The BLESSED CREATOR OF HEAVEN & EARTH, blessed be HE, is THE MASTER DESIGNER of order and distinctly clear of thought. There is no confusion nor contradiction when rightly understood. Each part slips into place "precept upon precept, line upon line, now here a little, now there a little." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 28. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In HIS WRITTEN WORD, the plan of the ages unrolls before us, beginning with the "account of the Creation" in the Book of Genesis/Bereshith and continues down through the drama of human history to the final culmination in the last Book of Revelation.

The ETERNAL ONE tells us how man, created in GOD'S OWN IMAGE, sinned and the whole after-existence of the human race and the physical world as well, was changed. Looking ahead through the ages, GOD ALMIGHTY planned THE ONLY WAY out for man. INFINITE JUSTICE would demand the punishment of the sinner, yet INFINITE LOVE longed for man's redemption. Our TREMENDOUS, LIMITLESS, INFINITE HOLY GOD is both of these. Do you see the dilemma? Of course, you know what HE did. YESHUA ha'MASHIACH our REDEEMER, the SECOND PERSON of the TRINITY took on the form of human flesh and dwelt among us. Upon HIM, WHO was sinless, GOD THE FATHER placed the sins of all mankind.

The LORD JESUS suffered upon Golgotha 's Cross indescribable tortures under the weight of the sins of the whole world, individually and collectively, for your sins and mine, as well as the agony of being separated from HIS FATHER. YESHUA died in our place! And all who, by faith, accept HIS precious shed-blood atonement for their sins and receive HIM as their LORD & SAVIOUR are "born anew" into the Family of GOD, to be presented faultless before the Throne of GOD. Thus, ETERNAL GOD'S love and justice met together at the Cross of YESHUA, the MESSIAH, LORD & KING.

...to be continued

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Good Sabbath — Come, let us go out to meet the Sabbath Queen, the Bride of the week…Sabbath, eagerly awaited and joyously welcomed!
I greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul exults in my GOD. For HE clothed me with garments of salvation, wrapped me in a robe of righteousness; thus shouts of victory and praise spring forth in HIS PRESENCE. I love YOU, LORD and I lift my voice to worship YOU.
MOST HOLY LORD, continue to impart YOUR blessing upon us. Teach us to seek YOU evermore within the sanctuary of our souls, within the tabernacle of YOUR world, and in the congregation of YOUR worshipers." The grace of our LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH be with you this Sabbath and always.
Omer Day 10

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. . .
We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.

FOUR WINDS
"Behold, HE WHO formed mountains, and creates the wind, and declares to man what HIS thought is, WHO turns black darkness into daybreak, and treads upon the high places of the earth — HIS NAME is the LORD, the GOD OF HOSTS." [Amos (Amus) 4. 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

These are some wondrous works of HIM WHO is altogether perfect in knowledge! Even the winds obey HIM. [Matthew 8. 27; Luke 8. 25] "At the sound of HIS VOICE, there is a rumbling of water in the skies; HE makes vapors rise from the ends of the earth, HE makes lightning for the rain, HE brings forth wind from HIS treasuries." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 10. 13; 51. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Whatever the LORD desires HE does in heaven and in earth, in the seas and all the depths. HE makes clouds rise from the end of the earth; HE makes lightning for the rain; HE releases the wind from HIS vaults." [Psalms (Tehillym) 135. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Mighty are the ways of the AWESOME CREATOR, controlling even the elements in the four corners of the earth for HIS purpose and plan:
EAST WIND (Hebrew: qadiym ruwach) — The East wind is the most often mentioned in HOLY SCRIPTURE; it is stormy, wrecks ships, and withers growing things. "So Moses held out his rod over the land of Egypt , and the LORD drove an east wind on the land…and when morning came the east wind had brought the locusts." [Exodus (Shemot) 10. 13 Tanakh, Torah] "Like the east wind, I will scatter them before the enemy. I will show them MY back and not MY face in their day of disaster." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 18. 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "They all come, bent on destruction; their faces are set like the east wind, and they amass captives like sand." [Habakkuk 1. 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

WEST WIND (Hebrew: yam ruwach) — The West wind blew away the plague of locusts. "The LORD caused a shift to a very strong west wind, which lifted the locusts and hurled them into the Red Sea; not a single locust remained in all the territory of Egypt ." [Exodus (Shemot) 10. 19 Tanakh, Torah]

NORTH WIND (Hebrew: tsaphown ruwach) — The North wind brings rain, refreshing or stormy. "The north wind brings forth rain." [Proverbs (Mishle) 25. 23 Tanakh, Torah] "Awake, O north wind! Come, O south wind! Blow upon my garden, that its perfume may spread." [Song of Songs (Shir Ha'Shirm) 4. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "I looked, and lo, a stormy wind came sweeping out of the north." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

SOUTH WIND (Hebrew: darowm ruwach) — The south wind is gentle and helps growth. "(Do you know) why your clothes become hot when HE quiets the earth by the south wind?" [Job (Iyob) 37. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "HE set the east wind to blow in heaven, and brought in the south wind by HIS might." [Psalms (Tehillym) 78. 26 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Awake, O north wind, Come, O south wind! Make my garden breathe out fragrance, that its spices may flow out. May my beloved come into his garden and eat its luscious choice fruits." [Song of Songs/Shir Ha'Shirm 4. 16] "As for man, his days are like those of grass; he blooms like a flower of the field; a wind passes by and it is gone, and its place no longer knows it. But the LORD'S mercy is for all eternity toward those who fear HIM, and HIS righteousness is for the children's children of those who keep HIS Covenant and remember to observe HIS precepts." [Psalms (Tehillym) 103. 15 - 18 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

And some glorious day, the MOST HOLY LORD GOD ALMIGHTY "will send HIS angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together HIS elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." [Matthew 24. 31] That is the day the redeemed of the LORD are all looking for. What a magnificently glorious day that will be! HalleluYAH!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
OMNIPOTENT LORD GOD, we give you thanks and praise for your invisible hand that guides our lives and in the mist of turmoil, gives perfect peace from YOUR High Place. We look to YOU alone for our help. YOUR GREAT NAME is blessed forever and to all eternity.
Shalom U'Vrakah (Peace & Blessings) Lift your head up high and rejoice, our GOD reigns! The LORD GOD be with each of you this day and always is our prayer.
Omer Day 9

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. . .
Believing is having faith in advance for what only makes sense afterwards.

BONE OF MY BONES
"Then Adam said — This one at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh. This one shall be called woman (Hebrew: ‘ishshah), for from man (Hebrew: ‘ish) she was taken." [Genesis (Bereshit) 2. 23 Tanakh, Torah]

This statement of the first man, Adam, was made when the MIGHTY CREATOR told him that a suitable helper would be made for him…"The LORD GOD said — "It is not good for man to be alone; I will make a fitting helper for him." And the LORD GOD formed out of the earth all the beasts of the field and all the fowl of the sky, and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. So Adam gave names to all cattle, to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a fitting help meet for him. So the LORD GOD caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and while he slept; HE took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh thereof. Then the LORD GOD made from the rib which HE had taken from man into a woman; and HE brought her to the man." [Genesis (Bereshith) 2. 18 - 22 Tanakh, Torah]

Then, out of the ground, GOD formed the beasts and brought them to him. After their presentation, none was suitable for him. Adam was searching from among these creatures of the dust one to be his close friend and partner, but found none to be suitable. CREATOR GOD had not given to them of HIS life as was the case with the man that HE had made. Therefore, a helpmate was not found among them to correspond to the nature of the "GOD-Breathed" one. In mercy, because it was not good for man to be alone, the MASTER DESIGNER performed a miraculous operation for his sake. From the side-parts (Hebrew: tsela’ — a rib {as curved} side of the body) of Adam HE built him a woman. Upon seeing her, the man accepted her as his very own flesh and bone.

The creatures that were formed out of the ground and brought before him, having no GOD-consciousness, were not suitable. But this time from his own flesh, she was a part of him, closer and dearer then any other living creature in the Garden!

What a wonderful spiritual truth we see here. The first time we were born (physically), we came from the ground and did not have the BREATH OF GOD or DIVINE LIFE, and therefore could not possibly become helper or one who could come along-side and be a part of the MAN OF GLORY. But GOD, in HIS mercy and because HE so loved, performed a miraculous operation upon the LAST ADAM, MESSIAH YESHUA — for behold! there came forth from HIS "side-parts" the precious blood, HIS life, which made it possible for one to be born again, born of GOD, this time a very vital, warm, living part of HIM!

"Your body is the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT WHO is in you, whom you have from GOD, and you are not your own for you were bought at a price; therefore glorify GOD in your body and in your spirit, which are GOD'S." [see 1 Corinthians 6. 19] Now all who accept the LORD YESHUA are fit to be HIS companion, HIS hand extended — closer and dearer to HIM than when we were but creatures of the dust alone! HalleluYAH!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
The final days of Passover celebrate the splitting of the sea. This year, let’s celebrate a journey through our own waves, a redemption from our own personal Egypt, and understand that our biggest barricade to freedom was never actually the sea; it was ourselves. As we celebrate Passover, we leave behind the constrictions of Egypt and break through our own personal barricades, which at times may seem as vast as the sea. GOD WHO brought us out of Egypt and split the sea is surely capable of delivering us from our own personal troubles. With effort and faith, nothing is out of reach.
Omer Day 6 / Pesach Day 7 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)

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. . .
Unless we remember, we cannot understand. [Edward Morgan Foster] The ALMIGHTY ONE, blessed be HE, commanded us to remember because it is only by treasuring the messages of the past that we can understand the present and hope for a more blessed future.

INFALLIBLE PROOFS
"To whom HE also presented HIMSELF alive after HIS suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the KINGDOM OF GOD." [Acts 1. 3]

Believing in the deity of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH was not simple blind faith or a wishful hope, to CHRIST'S followers — but genuine reliable evidence. Only GOD OMNIPOTENT could defeat death and they knew beyond all doubt, that the LORD JESUS — GOD THE SON — had RISEN BODILY from the tomb. They had seen HIM, talked with HIM, touched HIM and even eaten with HIM…alone, in crowds, in closed rooms and out in the open. [Luke 24. 36 - 44]

"Infallible Proofs" literally and precisely means, many measures or confirmable evidences of certainty — and this phrase is used only this one time in HOLY SCRIPTURE. The inspired, inerrant WORD OF GOD applies the term, "infallible proofs" only to the RESURRECTION of MESSIAH YESHUA, which is fascinatingly noteworthy. It is not overstating the fact to say that MESSIAH'S RESURRECTION IS THE MOST CERTAIN FACT IN ALL HISTORY, and many prominent volumes have been written establishing such evidences. Without question, the Apostle Peter could knowingly say, "We have not followed cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, but were eyewitnesses of HIS MAJESTY." [2 Peter 1. 16]

John the Apostle, whom the MASTER loved, testified saying — "The life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the FATHER and was manifested to us." [1 John 1. 2] John not only saw the BELOVED ANOINTED ONE in HIS RESURRECTED BODY but in HIS GLORIFIED BODY as well, and heard MESSIAH YESHUA proclaim: "I am HE WHO lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen! And I have the keys of Hades and of Death." [Revelation 1. 18]

Like the first followers of MESSIAH YESHUA, we must believe to receive salvation, "if you confess with your mouth the LORD JESUS and believe in your heart that GOD has raised HIM from the dead, you will be saved." [Romans 10. 9] And, our PRECIOUS HEAVENLY FATHER promises that "if the SPIRIT OF HIM WHO raised JESUS from the dead dwells in you, HE WHO raised CHRIST from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through HIS SPIRIT WHO dwells in you." [Romans 8. 11]

This faith is not unwarranted or without foundation, it is a most reasonable faith, based on Many Infallible Proofs, and we can trust the risen LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH completely with our eternal souls.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
This is a GLORIOUS DAY celebrating YESHUA’S victorious resurrection! HE lives, rules, and reigns…HE is our LIVING HOPE; and because HE lives, we too shall live, Hallelu’YAH!
Chol Hamo’ed — Intermediary Festival Days — commemorates our freedom: Freedom from slavery. Freedom from oppression. Freedom from those who rise against the Jewish Nation to destroy it. But GOD governs according to HIS righteous will. Just is HE in all HIS ways, and wise are all HIS decrees. May HIS Kingdom come and HIS will be done in all the earth. Praised be the LORD of life, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE for evermore. The REDEEMER OF ZION, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL is the CREATOR & REDEEMER, blessed be HE. Consider and know, see and understand that HE has chosen you. HE will never forsake or reject HIS own. Even when we pass through valleys of trial, HE provides everlasting joy and perfect peace through it all. How extraordinary indeed.
Omer Day 5 / Pesach Day 6 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)

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. . .
If one would only discipline themselves to be still and silent, they would make room for the DIVINE PRESENCE to enter and hear HIS voice. Like the Prophet Elijah discovered, GOD is often found in the "Still small voice." [1 Kings/Melakhim Alef 19:12] In the silence, you can come to know the ALMIGHTY ONE. . ."be still and know that I am GOD." [Psalms/Tehillym 46:11]

RESURRECTION
"O let YOUR dead revive! Together with MY dead body they shall arise! Awake and shout for joy, you who dwell in the dust! — For your dew is like the dew of fresh growth; you make the land of the shades come to life." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 19 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Although the cultic doctrine of the Sadducees, at the time of MESSIAH YESHUA, denied a bodily resurrection [Matthew 22. 23], the Israelites of the OLD COVENANT knew different. For the promise has always been known to the people of GOD MOST HIGH.

Long before Isaiah’s time the Prophet Job claimed, "I know that my VINDICATOR lives. In the end hE will testify on earth — this, after my skin has been destroyed. But I will behold GOD in my flesh, I myself, not another, will see hIM." [Job (Iyob) 19. 25 – 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim] And Ezekiel tells of the valley of the dry bones that the LORD caused to come together, made breath enter, were made to breathe, attach tendons to, make flesh come upon, covered with skin, and caused them to live. [Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 37. 1 - 14]

Daniel records: "Many of those that sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to eternal life, others to reproach, shame and everlasting abhorrence. Those who are wise will be radiant like the bright expanse of sky, and those who lead the many to righteousness will be like the stars forever and ever." [Daniel (Danyel) 12. 2 – 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Such promises were not referring to some uncertain or vague immortality of the soul, as taught in pagan and cultic religions, but to the literal resurrection of the body!

The LOVING MASTER DESIGNER must first become MAN, die for the sins of the world and defeat death by HIS OWN BODILY resurrection. This was the message in the OLD COVENANT that believers would be raised "together with mY dead body." When "the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after HIS resurrection, they went into the Holy City and appeared to many" [Matthew 27. 52 - 53], this was literally fulfilled.

Then, when YESHUA, the PRINCE OF PEACE ascended to heaven, HE led those who had been in captivity in the grave with HIM into heaven. All who have trusted the LORD JESUS will likewise be raised from the dead when HE comes again. YESHUA ha’MASHIACH, the EVERLASTING KING OF GLORY, has defeated death and promised, "Because I live, you will live also." [John 14. 19] HalleluYAH!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
HalleluYAH to the VICTORIOUS SAVIOUR, YESHUA! HE IS RISEN & IS ALIVE FOREVERMORE! Not the grave nor any other power on earth could hold HIM, LORD OF THE SABBATH, the PRINCE OF PEACE, the KING OF GLORY!
May we live as willingly for HIM as HE joyously laid down HIS life for us! O the love of JESUS — truly there is light & joy, gladness & honour for the people of GOD, our GOD reigns victoriously! Praise HIS dear name forever.
With the conclusion of Sabbath, comes the Dawn of the New Day for our LORD is alive and reigning forevermore! HalleluYAH to the KING!
Omer Day 4 / Pesach Day 5 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)

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. . .
If one would only discipline themselves to be still and silent, they would make room for the DIVINE PRESENCE to enter and hear HIS voice. Like the Prophet Elijah discovered, GOD is often found in the "Still small voice." [1 Kings/Melakhim Alef 19:12] In the silence, you can come to know the ALMIGHTY ONE. . ."be still and know that I am GOD." [Psalms/Tehillym 46:11]

RESURRECTION
"O let YOUR dead revive! Together with MY dead body they shall arise! Awake and shout for joy, you who dwell in the dust! — For your dew is like the dew of fresh growth; you make the land of the shades come to life." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 19 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Although the cultic doctrine of the Sadducees, at the time of MESSIAH YESHUA, denied a bodily resurrection [Matthew 22. 23], the Israelites of the OLD COVENANT knew different. For the promise has always been known to the people of GOD MOST HIGH.


Long before Isaiah’s time the Prophet Job claimed, "I know that my VINDICATOR lives. In the end HE will testify on earth — this, after my skin has been destroyed. But I will behold GOD in my flesh, I myself, not another, will see HIM." [Job (Iyob) 19. 25 – 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim] And Ezekiel tells of the valley of the dry bones that the LORD caused to come together, made breath enter, were made to breathe, attach tendons to, make flesh come upon, covered with skin, and caused them to live. [Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 37. 1 - 14]

Daniel records: "Many of those that sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to eternal life, others to reproach, shame and everlasting abhorrence. Those who are wise will be radiant like the bright expanse of sky, and those who lead the many to righteousness will be like the stars forever and ever." [Daniel (Danyel) 12. 2 – 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Such promises were not referring to some uncertain or vague immortality of the soul, as taught in pagan and cultic religions, but to the literal resurrection of the body!

The LOVING MASTER DESIGNER must first become MAN, die for the sins of the world and defeat death by HIS OWN BODILY resurrection. This was the message in the OLD COVENANT that believers would be raised "together with MY dead body." When "the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after HIS resurrection, they went into the Holy City and appeared to many" [Matthew 27. 52 - 53], this was literally fulfilled.

Then, when YESHUA, the PRINCE OF PEACE ascended to heaven, HE led those who had been in captivity in the grave with HIM into heaven. All who have trusted the LORD JESUS will likewise be raised from the dead when HE comes again. YESHUA ha’MASHIACH, the EVERLASTING KING OF GLORY, has defeated death and promised, "Because I live, you will live also." [John 14. 19] HalleluYAH!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
HalleluYAH to the VICTORIOUS SAVIOUR, YESHUA! HE IS RISEN & IS ALIVE FOREVERMORE! Not the grave nor any other power on earth could hold HIM, LORD OF THE SABBATH, the PRINCE OF PEACE, the KING OF GLORY!
May we live as willingly for HIM as HE joyously laid down HIS life for us! O the love of JESUS — truly there is light & joy, gladness & honour for the people of GOD, our GOD reigns victoriously! Praise HIS dear name forever.
With the conclusion of Sabbath, comes the Dawn of the New Day for our LORD is alive and reigning forevermore! HalleluYAH to the KING!
Omer Day 4 / Pesach Day 5 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)

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 should enhance, not minimize, the importance of holy matters.

ALABASTER FLASK 04/14/17
"And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, as HE (YESHUA) sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenard. Then she broke the flask and poured it on HIS head." [Mark 14. 3]

Matthew and John also tell of this incident and we discover that this woman is none other than Miryam (Mary) sister to Lazarus (whom YESHUA raised from the dead) and Martha, daughter of Simon the leper. In John's account, we learn also that she is the same woman who "anointed the feet of JESUS, and wiped them with her hair; and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment." [John 12. 3]

For this loving act of worship, the LORD YESHUA declared — "Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this GOSPEL is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her." [Matthew 26. 13] The alabaster flask was broken, never to be used again. Freely, enthusiastically, generously and fittingly Miryam (Mary) poured the precious oil over her SAVIOR from HIS head to HIS feet, anointing HIS whole body. In reality, she was performing a priestly function by her actions. However, she went even further. . . when the oils had run down to HIS feet, she wiped them dry with her long hair. What extraordinary, amazing, tremendous love!

At this, the disciples were shocked and called it wasteful; but YESHUA ha'MASHIACH said, "Let her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for ME...she has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint MY BODY for burial." [Mark 14. 6, 8]

Unknown to them, in just one week the body of this SUFFERING SERVANT would be laid in a tomb, anointed with myrrh instead of spikenard, and wrapped in burial linens instead of Miryam's beautiful hair. But YESHUA knew, and Miryam had "done what she could" to show, with honest and open sincerity, her love for her WONDERFUL LOVING REDEEMER. It cost her dearly — not only in material possessions, but in sacrificing her pride and self-esteem; and the BELOVED MASTER was honored, as it should be. Miryam (Mary) did what she could for her LORD & SAVIOR to demonstrate her love; a small thing perhaps, but that act was significant and the moment was one that counted. Do we so love our WONDERFUL & AWESOME GOD?

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Welcoming Sabbath Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekday) The REDEEMER OF ZION, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL is the CREATOR & REDEEMER, blessed be HE. Consider and know, see and understand that HE has chosen you. HE will never forsake or reject HIS own. Even when we pass through valleys of trial, HE provides everlasting joy and perfect peace through it all. How extraordinary indeed.
Omer Day 3 / Pesach Day 4 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)

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. . .
Over time, every wave of sadness and joy washes ashore.

DEATH IS PRECIOUS
"The death of HIS faithful ones is precious in the LORD'S sight." [Psalms (Tehillym) 116. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

It may seem odd to hear that the peace of GOD ETERNAL can so enrich your soul that it would matter little if your broken body suffers. However, the body's loss may be the spirit's gain. There is so much we could see in the physical, as well as the spiritual world if we would let the HIGH & LOFTY ONE touch our eyes. "The righteous man perishes, and no one considers it or takes it to heart; merciful men are taken away, while no one gives thought that the righteous is taken away from evil. Yet he shall enter into peace; he shall have rest in his bed, who walk straightforward and upright." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 57. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "HE (GOD OMNIPOTENT) will redeem their life from oppression and violence; and their blood is precious in HIS sight." [Psalms (Tehillym) 72. 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

GOD'S PRECIOUS WORD holds great comfort in time of sorrow, it is a PILLOW for the head of the dying, and a LAMP for understanding, wisdom and guidance for the living. Nothing that happens to us is as important as our spiritual development, our knowledge of the TRUE GOD, and the growth of our faith. Can we learn the lessons the EVER-LIVING ONE wants to teach us? Can one ever learn all that our LOVING CREATOR has to teach? I do not expect to understand, if I did, there would be no need for faith. It is enough that my glorious LORD and REDEEMER knows why, and some day HE will tell us all about it — why suffering was best for us and best for HIS cause.

Meanwhile, GOD'S mighty strength is made perfect in our weakness and HE "will supply all our needs according to HIS riches in glory by MESSIAH YESHUA." [Philippians 4. 19] It is one thing to think so — it is another thing to have found that it is so; to know beyond a shadow of doubt that when you go down into the valley of deepest darkness you can clasp the hand of our WONDERFUL LORD — that you never need to be alone or afraid for HE will go with you on all your paths - and that HIS arm is strong enough to carry you. "Because you are precious in MY sight, and honored, and I love you, I give men in exchange for you and peoples in your stead." [Isaiah (Yeshua) 43. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The righteous man has a secure refuge in his death." [Proverbs (Mishle) 14. 32 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Our greatest joy and utmost satisfactions come in our relationship with GOD, the AUTHOR & CREATOR. Now there are no more gray days for they are all touched with color; no more dark days for the radiance of HIS coming is on every horizon; no more dull days with glory just around the corner; and no more lonely days with HIS footsteps coming ever nearer and the thought that soon, soon, we shall see the precious face of our BELOVED LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, "JESUS" and be forever through with pain and tears.

With the LORD GOD'S protective wings arched over us, tomorrow's tasks, old pain, old memories are forgotten and into HIS hands, O LORD, into YOUR precious hands we enter the promised realm of eternal glory. At last, we will see YOUR GLORIOUS FACE and be forever on the new earth with the New Jerusalem, the Tree of Life, the River of the Water of Life, and peace forevermore.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Thank YOU LORD GOD for filling the heart with marvelous joy and peace, for giving us strength of faith in YOU for even greater tasks. Our confidence rests solely in YOU, our GREAT, ETERNAL, WONDERFUL LORD. YOURS, O LORD, is the greatness and the power, the glory, and the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is YOURS; YOURS is the Kingdom, O LORD, and YOU are exalted above all. YOU are the LIFE of all, the HELP of those that flee to YOU, the HOPE of those who cry to YOU. Cleanse us from our sins, secret and open, and from every thought displeasing to YOUR goodness — purify our bodies and souls, our hearts and consciences, that with a pure heart, and a clear soul, with perfect love and calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly to pray to YOU. Amen
We greet you and wish you many abundant blessings this Passover-Resurrection Season!
This is the 17th of Nisan – the 3rd day after Passover when MESSIAH rose from the grave victoriously on the Feast of FirstFruits.
Omer Day 3 / Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekday) - Pesach/Unleavened Bread Day 4

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. . .
Wisdom belongs to those who seek advise.

ANGELS ON ASSIGNMENT
"But there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of CHRIST. But 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." [Galatians 1. 7 - 8]

Over the years people have been interested in angels. The HOLY BIBLE tells there are myriads of them and some of them are named. From the Book of Enoch: Uriel ("GOD is Light" — over worlds, luminaries & Sheol); Raphael (over spirits of men); Raquel ("the terrifier" — chastens the world of the luminaries); Michael ("who is like GOD?" — the archangel over people of Israel); Sariel (over spirits who seduce the spirits to sin); Gabriel ("man of GOD" — an archangel over paradise, the seraphym & cherubiym); Yerahmeel ("GOD is merciful" — over resurrection). From Jewish Theology: Sarha’olam (the prince of the world); Dumah ("death" — for ministering & destroying); Yorqemi (prince of fire); Radya (angel of rain); Ruach Pisonith (spirit of decision); Naqid (angel of food); Nabhel (angel of poverty); Lailah (angel of dreams).

However, angels are not to be worshipped nor sought after they are simply "ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation." [Hebrews 1. 14] In the final confident and audaciously bold reference to preaching the "Gospel" — we read in the NEW COVENANT that angels are flying through the sky declaring what the Apostle John called "the EVERLASTING GOSPEL" to "them that dwell on the earth." The message of that angel is — "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. 7]

It is quite clear that the GOSPEL of the angel was the same GOSPEL preached by Paul as it too was sent by GOD into the world to preach the PURE WORD OF GOD. Furthermore, it was the EVERLASTING GOSPEL and thus has always been the ONLY ONE TRUE MESSAGE from the beginning of time to the end of time.

The GOSPEL is identified in many different ways, however. Called first in Matthew, "preaching the GOSPEL of the Kingdom." [Matthew 4. 23] Mark speaks of "the GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST, the SON OF GOD." [Mark 1. 1] The Apostle Paul calls it "the GOSPEL of the grace of GOD" [Acts 20. 24], and "the GOSPEL of peace." [Romans 10. 15] Paul also speaks of "the GOSPEL of the glory of CHRIST, WHO is the IMAGE OF GOD." [2 Corinthians 4. 4], and "the GOSPEL of your salvation." [Ephesians 1. 13] It is frequently called "the GOSPEL of GOD" [Romans 1. 1; 15. 16; 2 Corinthians 11. 7; 1 Thessalonians 2. 2, 8, 9; 1 Peter 4. 17], and even more persistently, "the GOSPEL of CHRIST" [Romans 1. 16; 15. 19, 29; 1 Corinthians 9. 12, 18; 2 Corinthians 9. 13; Galatians 1. 7; Philippians 1. 27; 1 Thessalonians 3. 2] Nonetheless, the majority of times [about 83], the LIFE-GIVING WORD is simply called "the GOSPEL" as no other portrayal is at all needed. The word gospel means "GOOD NEWS" and this is the wondrous message that centers on the glorious information of the PERSON and work of the LORD YESHUA ha’MASHIACH, from eternity to eternity. HE is our CREATOR, our EXAMPLE, our REDEEMER, our SAVIOR, our HOPE, our LIFE, our TREASURED LORD, and our ETERNAL KING.

Just as the angels will shout across the heavens in the last days, "worship HIM" we must also for HE alone is worthy of all our glory, honor, praise, adoration, complete respect and devotion.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Our ancestors celebrate redemption as they left behind the pyramids, hieroglyphics, advanced agriculture, and music of the dominant culture, and went out to the desert to learn the ethical precepts of genuine humanity and civilization, from the only TRUE SOURCE, the Creator of humanity. On Passover our mission is to see ourselves as if we are leaving Egypt. We must walk in the very same footsteps as our ancestors did, turning away from the dominant culture, refusing to think that it is automatically right because that is culture - and instead turn to the HOLY ONE’S moral code found in the TORAH. This is how we discover real freedom and liberate our souls from the shackles of cultural servitude and worldly immorality.

The TORAH requires us to remember the Exodus from Egypt every day. Such remembrance leads to gratitude, the core characteristic of the Jewish people [and true followers of MESSIAH]. The identifying word Jew derives from the Hebrew name "Yehuda" - which means "thank" or "acknowledge."
Let us lift up our hearts and our hands to YOU, GREAT GOD in Heaven for HIS loving-kindness is mighty over us and we are ever thankfully indebted to the MOST MERCIFUL GOD. We will examine our ways and test them, and return to YOU, O MOST HIGH.
May each day be entered with joy in our hearts and confidence that ALMIGHTY GOD, in HIS mercy, will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us!
Counting of the Omer begins at evening!

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. . .
When we witness GOD'S hand in a coincidence, it is what you should call a miracle.
ALEF-TAF
"I, the LORD, WHO was FIRST and will be the LAST as well." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 41. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
The Hebrew word for first is "ri'shown" and last is "acharown." When the term "first and last" is used it also includes that which is in between. The first and last letters of the Hebrew alphabet, aleph and taf, are combined and this combination is found hundreds times in HOLY SCRIPTURE; and every WORD OF GOD is in its appropriate position. The MIGHTY & HOLY CREATOR is declaring HIS NAME — "ALEF-TAF."

The GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN & EARTH gives HIS NAME — "ALEF-TAF" to JESUS, HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON! "Thus says the LORD, the KING OF ISRAEL, and HIS REDEEMER, the LORD OF HOSTS — I am the FIRST and I am the LAST, and there is no GOD but ME." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 44. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Hence, the LORD GOD and HIS REDEEMER (YESHUA ha'MASHIACH) both have the same identifying characteristic: ALEF-TAF, the FIRST and the LAST!

"I will fill the House of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem with the SPIRIT of Grace and Compassion; then they shall lament to ME about those who are slain; they will mourn and wail because of HIM as one mourns for his only son, and show bitter grief because of HIM as one grieves for a firstborn." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 12. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] It is the DIVINE ALEF-TAF, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, WHO is promising to pour out the SPIRIT on the House of David; then HE affirms that HE is the PIERCED ONE WHO has been slain! "Behold, HE is coming with clouds, and every eye will see HIM, even they who pierced HIM. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of HIM. Even so, Amen" [Revelation 1. 7] "Then the sign of the SON OF MAN will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory." [Matthew 24. 30]

"I am the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END — says the LORD, WHO is and WHO was and WHO is to come, the ALMIGHTY." [Revelation 1. 8] "And behold, I am coming quickly...I am the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END, the FIRST and the LAST." [Revelation 22. 12 - 13]

Yes, the PIERCED ONE is the ALEF-TAF, the ALPHA-OMEGA (the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet correlates with the Hebrew, Alef-Taf). YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the REDEEMER OF ISRAEL, is the FIRST and the LAST! GOD has already declared this to be HIS NAME!

Here is an interesting consideration: The ancient SINAI SCRIPT pictures the ox as the First letter and the cross as the last letter. The ox was the animal of sacrifice and many were killed on the altars in Jewish worship as commanded by the HOLY ONE. Not only was this first letter drawn in the shape of an ox, but the name of the letter (Alef) signifies the type of animal.

The Last letter of the Hebrew alphabet, TAF expresses a sign or symbol. In the ancient writings, this letter was pictured as an X or cross! In the legal systems, if a person could not write their name, they affixed a mark or cross instead. This sign or signature of the cross stands for the name as well as for the person who made it. The LORD MESSIAH YESHUA is the SACRIFICIAL OX (alef) WHO died for our salvation, and HE made HIS signature, CROSS (taf), with HIS OWN blood — the Sign that represents HIS NAME and HIS PERSONAGE forever!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
GOD holds HIS people in the hottest part of the fire of suffering in order to completely purify us, but HE is with us throughout the process and never takes HIS eyes off us nor allows us to be destroyed. And the purification will be complete only when GOD can see HIS IMAGE in us…just as the silversmith holds the silver over the flame in order to burn away all the impurities. When it is fully refined, he can see his image in it.
It took the splitting of the Red Sea and the revelation at Mount Sinai to convince the Jewish people that the depths of their fiery suffering in Egypt had forged them into a people capable of experiencing the heights of Redemption and Revelation.
Pesach Day 2
Omer Day 1 ...it begins the counting of the 49 days, known as Sefirat ha'Omer, the TORAH invites us on a journey into awareness of the MIGHTY ONE.

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 life is a vessel formed for two functions; one is to hold, the other is to pour.

WHAT PASSOVER IS (Part 2 of 2)
Everything was ready for GOD to speak. A LITTLE BABY, a LAMB, was born in a stable. HE was the first-born, an unblemished male. It was a perfect place for this LAMB to appear, and it seemed that the ALMIGHTY was making HIS purpose known to those who loved HIM and wanted to know HIM, those whose eyes were fixed on the COMING ONE. This LAMB was gently laid in a manger where animals come to feed. There among the other newborn lambs this LITTLE BABY gave HIS first cry. Then angels spoke to men and one was heard to say — "You shall call HIS NAME YESHUA (JESUS)" for it is HE WHO will save HIS people from their sins." [Matthew 1. 21]

Time passed quickly and in three-and-a-half-years from the beginning of HIS ministry, a group of people had gathered and followed HIM to Jerusalem . The crowd was greatly excited with HIS coming — shouting and rejoicing! At last, THE COMING ONE, THE KING had arrived to deliver them! No one noticed the shepherds leading the sheep from the Tower of the Flock in the small town of Bethlehem toward Jerusalem . It was the 10th day of Nisan, when they were "each one to take a lamb for themselves...an unblemished male." As the LAMB entered the Gates of Jerusalem led by a throng of people, the Passover lambs were being led into Jerusalem in preparation for the Passover Feast. Everyone knew that the way to be redeemed was to sacrifice a lamb, as the prophets had called HIM, "your REDEEMER, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL" — but they had forgotten.

The ONE in WHOM dwelt all the fullness of deity in bodily form was facing the Serpent (Satan) — preparing to destroy his evil works. The blood sacrifice had been a symbol of this final, once-for-all-sacrifice which would redeem mankind from the curse of sin and death. Utterly defenseless, like a lamb led to the slaughter, MESSIAH YESHUA offered HIMSELF as a ransom, an offering, a sacrifice for sin and sinners. This PASSOVER VICTIM became the SACRIFICE of the NEW COVENANT which was for all men.

The LAMB died, wearing a crown of thorns! Men placed a sign over HIS head on the Altar\Cross "JESUS OF NAZARETH, KING OF THE JEWS" — it appeared in the languages of all peoples. The heavens rolled up and darkness covered the earth. A strangeness beyond understanding existed, nothing like it had ever happened before.

On the first LORD'S DAY, a GREATER LIGHT began to dawn. The time was right, heaven and earth were prepared. History records that the Temple was later destroyed and has never been rebuilt, the priesthood ended, sacrifices could no longer be offered, and genealogical records were destroyed…and the scattering of the people was total. The ancients had demanded that the COMING ONE present proper credentials; moreover after the great dispersion in AD 70, it would have been impossible.

The LAMB OF GOD, standing on the altar as if slain, described as innocent, meek and mild, represented the emblem most suited to the MESSIAH OF ISRAEL. There were many types of sacrifices in the OLD COVENANT, most were due and belonged to GOD ALMIGHTY. All the lambs that had been slain from Moses to MESSIAH YESHUA, lambs without number, were always men's lambs. They were men's provision for sin. But this LAMB was unique, this LAMB was different, this LAMB was GOD'S LAMB, GOD'S PROVISION. This BELOVED, HIGHLY TREASURED ONE was voluntary, this was GOD giving of HIS OWN.

All Passover sacrifice lambs were to be the firstborn, without blemish or spot, whose blood was to be applied to the doorways as protection from the Angel of Death.

YESHUA ha'MASHIACH was the FIRSTBORN LAMB, from the line of David, without sin, beyond reproach, WHOSE blood over our hearts and lives will protect us from GOD'S righteous judgment. Through the applied blood of GOD'S PERFECT PASSOVER LAMB we are spared again — and for all time, and granted new life and freedom in the Promised Land.

Our LOVING HOLY GOD sacrificed HIS ONLY LAMB on the Altar of the Cross. Those wooden beams became the doorpost for the world's home whereon the LAMB'S blood was spilled. GOD promised to "Pass Over" us from HIS Judgment of Death as we are willing to stand under its protection. This is what we remember and why we celebrate Passover year-after-year; and spiritually, day-by-day. We are a blessed people in that our LORD GOD, CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE left us such festivals to remember HIM by until HE comes again. Thank YOU, LORD GOD for such amazing grace and magnanimous love!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
There is light and joy, gladness and honor for all of GOD’S people as we celebrate Passover. May the HOLY ONE bless and fill you with HIS Holy Commandments and call us to occupy ourselves with the LIFE-GIVING WORDS OF TORAH. And, may your ever-growing faith grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin.
Blessings to each of you this Passover/Resurrection Season and always. May we be blessed as we encourage each other and celebrate Passover together in GOD’S loving kindness.
We also wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread.
Shalom! Shalom!

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. . .
Believing is faith in advance for what only makes sense afterwards.

WHEN THE LORD BUILDS UP ZION
"Arise, shine; For your light has dawned; the PRESENCE (KABOD or GLORY) of the LORD is shone upon you! Behold! darkness shall cover the earth and deep darkness the peoples; but upon you the LORD will arise and shine, and HIS glory will be seen over you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, kings to the brightness of your rising." [Isaiah (Tehillym) 60. 1 - 3 Tanakh, Nevi’im]

Prophecies of MESSIAH’S return are being fulfilled around the world these tremendous and thrilling days — things foretold thousands of years ago by the Jewish prophets of GOD. We can see by what is now happening to my own Jewish people what time it is according to GOD’S calendar…and the return of the MESSIAH OF ISRAEL. "For the LORD has built Zion ; HE has appeared in all HIS glory." [Psalms/Tehillym 102. 16] The LORD HIMSELF is going to do the building, perhaps using man as the instrument, but it is GOD WHO will accomplish HIS purpose. The LORD promises that it is HE WHO will build up Zion .

Zion refers not only to the City of Jerusalem , but to those living in that City. Those who occupied the City of Jerusalem in the days of this prophecy were Jews. In a spiritual sense, this also refers to both Gentile and Jewish believers in MESSIAH. However, this verse is speaking of a literal City and a literal people and HIS literal appearance. There is a day when the LORD will revive the nation of Israel and build her up politically and nationally — but even more so, spiritually. And, HE will come again and appear in "HIS glory."

Zion is being built up and fulfilled today as recorded in Ezekiel where GOD gave him a vision of a Valley of Dry Bones which were disconnected and scattered everywhere. Though humanly impossible for the bones to live, the ALMIGHTY ONE told Ezekiel to preach to them: "Prophesy, therefore, and say to them: Thus said the LORD GOD—I am going to open your graves and lift you out of the graves, O MY people, and bring you to the Land of Israel...I will put MY BREATH ("RUWACH"- SPIRIT) into you and you shall live again, and I will set you upon your own soil. Then you shall know that I the LORD have spoken and have acted — declares the LORD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 12, 14 Tanakh, Nevi'im] At the preaching of the WORD OF GOD, the bones came together; GOD put sinews and flesh on the skeletons making them into bodies but with no life in them. Then, the BREATH (SPIRIT) came into them and they stood upright and lived…this is the Whole House of Israel who had been dead, who HE would cause to come up out of their graves and from every land where HE had scattered them.

The LIVING FAITHFUL LORD then explained to Ezekiel the meaning of the Valley of Dry Bones : "I am going to take the Israelite people from among the nations they have gone to, and gather them from every quarter, and bring them to THEIR OWN LAND. I will make them a single nation in the Land, on the hills of Israel , and one KING (MESSIAH YESHUA) shall be KING of them all…Then they shall be MY people, and I will be their GOD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 21 - 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Yes! the EVERLASTING GOD, YEHOWAH, the CREATOR of the ends of the earth will revive Israel and put them back in their own land which HE promised to Abraham and will set one KING over them in that day. "For the LORD will pardon and have mercy on Jacob, and will again choose Israel , and will settle them in their OWN LAND. And strangers will be joined with them and they will cling to the House of Jacob. For peoples will take the House of Jacob and bring them to their homeland; and the House of Israel will possess the peoples as slaves and handmaids in the Land of the LORD. They will take them captive whose captives they were, and rule over their oppressors." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 14. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

For nearly two-thousand years our Jewish people have been scattered over the face of the earth — scattered like those bones in Ezekiel’s vision. We have been exiled from the Land GOD promised to our forefathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Land had laid desolate and barren, governed by Gentiles just as GOD said it would be. But no longer, the Land once barren is blossoming as the rose; our Jewish people returning and governing it; resources from the Land are being developed; and through agriculture, the Land is cleared, terraced and cultivated, deserts and swamps reclaimed and crops are being grown.

"I am bringing MY righteousness near; it shall not be far off, and MY salvation shall not be delayed. I will grant triumph in Zion , to Israel , in whom I glory." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 46. 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im] There is a revival of Land as well as of the people of Zion . They are being revived politically and nationally — but most important — our Jewish people are being revived spiritually. GOD is giving them the very breath of spiritual life — that life that can come only through faith in the PROMISED ONE OF GOD.

Many of our Jewish people are receiving the LORD YESHUA as their long-awaited MESSIAH, their Soon-Coming KING. They are coming out of their graves of spiritual death and receiving life…becoming "completed Jews" by accepting the fulfillment of all the prophecies in their own HEBREW SCRIPTURES concerning their MESSIAH. They are recognizing that JESUS is THE ONE WHO was promised by GOD to come to Israel WHO will be their REIGNING KING in Zion . GOD promised that ONE KING will rule in that Day when Zion would be built up. Will you be one of HIS people now? Will you let this KING rule in your life now and when HE comes? HE is coming soon!
Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Bidding farewell to Shabbos ha’Gadol. O 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 ETERNAL to WHOM all praise is due for ever and ever. Amen
Wishing each of you our warmest Passover blessings! Keep KING YESHUA the center of your focus every day.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Inside each of us is a Pharaoh — inside every Pharaoh is a slave — inside every slave is a Moses.



WHAT PASSOVER IS (Part 1 of 2)
From the beginning of time OMNIPOTENT GOD has been saying to men — There is no way to approach ME except by coming with a lamb. Sacrifice was ordained by our HOLY LORD GOD and instituted by HIM in the beginning. Adam and Eve had never seen death, they didn't know what it was like. When they disobeyed the MASTER CREATOR, HE sacrificed a lamb to make a covering for them to hide their nakedness. ["Lambs will provide you with clothing." — Proverbs/Mishle 27. 26 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

When the ALMIGHTY ONE tested Abraham, HE said — "Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac; and go to the Land of Moriah and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you." And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac, his son, and the two of them walked on together. Isaac questioned his father, "Where is the lamb for the offering?" Abraham replied — "GOD HIMSELF will provide the LAMB for the burnt offering, my son." [Genesis/Bereshith 22. 2, 7 – 8] Abraham laid Isaac on the wood on the altar and raised his hand to slay him — but the LORD ETERNAL sent HIS Angel to stop the sacrifice and provided a substitute, a ram caught in the thicket by its horns.



Abraham's descendants through Isaac became a great nation. In the land of Egypt , the FAITHFUL PROVIDER said to HIS servant, Moses — "The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt : This shall mark for you the beginning of months; it shall be the first of the months of the year for you. Speak to all the congregation of Israel and say that on the tenth of this month each of them shall take a lamb to a family...a lamb to a household. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a yearling male; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats. You shall keep watch over it until the fourteenth day of this month; and all the assembled congregation of the Israelites shall slaughter it at twilight. They shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it...and THE BLOOD SHALL BE A SIGN FOR YOU ON THE HOUSES WHERE YOU LIVE; AND WHEN I SEE THE BLOOD I WILL PASS OVER YOU. For I will go through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike down all the first-born in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments — I am the LORD. Now this day will be a memorial for all the children of Israel, and you shall celebrate it as a FEAST to the LORD throughout your generations you are to celebrate it as a permanent ordinance." [Exodus/Shemot 12]

One day, the ALMIGHTY SOVEREIGN GOD called to Moses: "Come up to ME on the mountain — and Moses entered the midst of the cloud." When he returned his face shone because of his time spend with the GOD OF HEAVEN. The Law of the ETERNAL ONE had been revealed to man. This Law was personally engraved by the LORD SUPREME. The LOVING GOD OF CREATION, WHO is holy, had set forth requirements that must be met before HE could show mercy. Sin must be punished, either in person or by a substitute. Lambs, goats, and rams were Israel 's substitutes. The law was given to lead us to The LAMB. The MOST HIGH GOD accepts us by means of the PERFECT SACRIFICE on the Altar (the Cross of Calvary).

Prophets began to appear, they urged that sacrifice is not just a ritual — a vain repetition, but is a matter of the heart! It was meant to be an outward expression of inner intentions. It was the "SPIRIT" within which gave it all its value. GOD ALMIGHTY looks at the intentions of the heart. HE was heard to say, "What are your multiplied sacrifices to ME? I have had enough...I take no pleasure in the blood of bulls, lambs or goats...bring your worthless offerings no longer...your hands are full of bloodshed..."Wash yourselves clean! Put away your evil doings from MY sight. Cease to do evil; learn to do good. Devote yourselves to justice; rebuke the oppressor; uphold and defend the orphan; show charity to the widow...Come! let us reach an understanding; though your sins are like crimson, they can be turned snow-white; though they are red as dyed wool, they can become like fleece." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 1. 16 - 18 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Little by little the prophets understood...One day ALMIGHTY GOD was going to send HIS OWN SPECIAL LAMB in place of all the lambs and sacrificial animals — "We all went astray like sheep, each going his own way; but the LORD visited upon HIM (YESHUA OF NAZARETH) the guilt and iniquity of all of us, HE was maltreated, yet HE was submissive. HE did not open HIS mouth; like a sheep being led to slaughter, and a lamb silent before its shearers, HE did not open HIS mouth — but the LORD was pleased to crush HIM, putting HIM to grief that through HIM the LORD'S purpose might prosper — by HIS knowledge the RIGHTEOUS ONE, MY SERVANT will justify many, as HE will bear their iniquities. HE made HIMSELF an offering for guilt." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the REDEEMER, COMFORTER OF ISRAEL, the HOLY ONE bore the sins of many on HIMSELF. How can we help but thank and praise the WONDROUS ANOINTED ONE, JESUS the BELOVED SON OF GOD!


. . . to be continued

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel !
Redeem Israel , O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
There is light and joy, gladness and honor for all of GOD’S people as we celebrate Passover, may the HOLY ONE bless and fill you with HIS Holy Commandments and call us to occupy ourselves with the LIFE-GIVING WORDS OF TORAH. And, may your ever-growing faith grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin.
Blessings to each of you this Passover/Resurrection Season and always. May we be blessed to encourage each other and to celebrate together Pass-Over from death into GOD'S Eternal Life!
Wishing you a blessed and sweet Passover and Week of Unleavened Bread.
Shalom! Shalom!

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