Delrifkah: Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
If you can't be a good example, then you'll just have to be a horrible
warning.

HO'SHANNAH
"Then the multitudes who went before and those who followed cried out
saying, "Ho' Shannah to the SON OF DAVID! Blessed is HE WHO comes in the
NAME OF THE LORD! Ho'Shannah in the highest!" [Matthew 21. 9]

This Psalm-in-chorus is one of the many MESSIANIC Psalms. The plea,
"Ho' Shannah" means "save now." The shout of the crowd was literal and
exact as YESHUA ha'MASHIACH entered Jerusalem for HIS last week of
public ministry. Even though the multitudes now were shouting HIS
adoration, there were many who would be calling for HIS crucifixion just
a few days later. As they gladly received HIM into Jerusalem that day,
little did they understand that they were fulfilling an ancient
prophecy, "Ho' Shannah! Save now, I pray, O LORD! O LORD let us prosper!
May HE WHO enters be blessed in the NAME OF THE LORD; we bless you from
the House of David" [Psalms/Tehillym 118. 25-26] they cried.

The gathered multitude of common people were acknowledging YESHUA as the
promised MESSIAH, the SON of David; and the chief priests and scribes
were indignant and furiously irate at this and asked HIM, "Do YOU hear
what these are saying? — And JESUS said to them — "Yes! Have you
never read — Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants you have
perfected praise?" [Matthew 21. 15 - 16] This had also been predicted
in the Psalms, "The STONE that the builders rejected has become the
HEAD CORNERSTONE. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvelous in our
sight." [Psalms (Tehillym) 118. 22 - 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

As a result of this denial by the principal leaders of HIS people,
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH wept over Jerusalem and was forced to prophesy its
coming judgment, once again quoting an ancient prophecy, "O Jerusalem,
Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent
to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen
gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing! See! your
house is left to you desolate; for I say to you, you shall see ME no
more till you say — Blessed is HE WHO comes in the NAME OF THE
LORD!" [Matthew 23. 37 - 39]

One glorious day, and that very soon, the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA will be
revealed as the great HEAD CORNERSTONE and all HIS people will
acknowledge HIM as LORD. While there is still time, the proper prayer
for each unsaved person to pray today is still — "Ho' Shannah! Save
now, O LORD." Perhaps tomorrow, but assuredly soon, the time will come
when the LORD JESUS CHRIST indeed will return. But, for those who do
not repent, it will be too late and they will perish.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
In Cleaning for Passover, we are first and foremost fulfilling the
mitzvah of biur chametz — getting rid of chametz. Biur chametz is
actually quite an easy mitzvah in terms of physical exertion. The Torah
says: "tashbisu se'or mibateichem" — make all your sour dough rest.
The TORAH commandment is that you can possess all the chametz you want,
but in your mind it must be dust — ownerless and valueless.
May protecting wings arch over each of you as we daily commit our lives
into the mighty hands of the LORD JESUS. Thanks be to GOD WHO loved us
so HE gave HIS SON to take our sins away and set us free from the
bondage of sin! HalleluYAH!
A blessed Pesach (Passover) to all of you.
Love — in Messiah' s service,
Rabbi Del & Rifkah

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.

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

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!
Welcome Sabbat ha'Gadol! The Great Sabbath refers to the Final
Redemption of MESSIAH YESHUA being ushered in by the Prophet Elijah:
"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the
Great & Terrible Day of the LORD."
The celebration of Passover should serve to remind us of our departure
from the past and our commitment to obey GOD all the way to HIS Promised
Land in holiness and integrity of life. The Passover Seder is one of the
most meaningful experience you can enjoy and should be a tremendous
opportunity to express our overwhelming gratitude for ALMIGHTY GOD'S
goodness and grace to us, and to renew our commitment to walk in loving
obedience all the days of our lives. [Special haf-TORAH reading: Malachi
3 & 4]
"Happy Passover" to our precious family of friends. L'Chayim! . . .To
Life!
Our Love, Rabbi Del & Rifkah

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.
Web Page: http://delrifkah. homestead. 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 from 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!
There is light and joy, gladness and honor for all of GOD'S people
as we bid farewell to Sabbath ha'Gadol, 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/Resurrecti on Season and always.
May we be blessed to encourage each other and to celebrate together
"Pass-Over&quo t;!
Wishing you a blessed week filled with the sweetness of Sabbath. 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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Everything is foreseen; yet freedom of choice is granted.

ARM OF THE LORD
"The LORD will bare HIS holy arm in the sight of all the nations; and
the very ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our GOD." [Isaiah
(Yeshayah) 52. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The human arm (Hebrew: zerowa) is often used in the HOLY BIBLE to
symbolize spiritual strength or power. It is first used in Jacob's
dying prophecy concerning his beloved son, Joseph, "Yet his bow stayed
taut, and the arms of his hands were made firm by the hands of the
ALMIGHTY ONE OF JACOB." [Genesis (Bereshith) 49. 24 Tanakh, Torah]

The SOURCE of all true strength is in the ETERNAL ALMIGHTY GOD OF
CREATION, so it is not surprising to find some forty SCRIPTURAL
references to the LORD'S powerful arm or arms. One of the most striking
is where the MIGHTY KING OF GLORY "bares HIS arm" for HIS great work of
delivering this lost world from bondage to Satan, and sin, and death so
the whole world will see HIS SALVATION — the LORD JESUS.

The "ARM OF THE LORD" is none other than YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. When the
SON OF GOD came into the world HE created, the world refused to
acknowledge HIM. In the unique passage of Isaiah 53, the prophet
presents the tragic question, "Who can believe what we have heard? Upon
whom has the ARM OF THE LORD been revealed?" [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 1
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Nevertheless, some believed. . . the first was HIS OWN mother, Miryam
(Mary). In her declaration of faith spoken before YESHUA was born,
Miryam said, "My soul magnifies the LORD, and my spirit has rejoiced in
GOD my SAVIOR — HE has shown strength with HIS arm." [Luke 1. 47,
51] This confession of faith is the first use of the word "arm" in
the NEW COVENANT and again, it refers to the saving ARM OF GOD, our
BLESSED REDEEMER, MESSIAH YESHUA, the LORD GOD.

The LORD JESUS' "arm is not only mighty to save" — but also
steadfast and secure to hold on to, "The LORD GOD will come with a
strong hand, and HIS arm wins triumph and rule for HIM...like a SHEPHERD
HE feeds and pastures HIS flock; HE gathers HIS lambs in HIS arms and
carries them in HIS bosom, and gently leads those who are with young."
[Isaiah (Yeshayah) 40. 10 - 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Those who remain faithful, enduring to the end, can trust in the saving
power of MESSIAH YESHUA, the MIGHTY ARM OF GOD, and rest secure because
of HIS many promises and HIS reliable faithfulness.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
"Shalom U'Vrakah — Peace & Blessings!" The LORD GOD be with you this
day and always is our prayer.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
A storekeeper does not hang up a sign on his store if he has nothing to
sell!

LISTEN & LEARN
"My children, listen to the instructions of your father, give attention
and learn discernment, for I give you good doctrine; Do not forsake my
law." [Proverbs (Mishle) 4. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The Book of Proverbs is a great source for human wisdom as well as GODLY
understanding. In it we learn, "wisdom and discipline; and
understanding words of discernment; acquiring discipline for success,
righteousness, justice and equity; and for endowing the simple with
shrewdness, the young with knowledge and foresight." [Proverbs (Mishle)
1. 2 - 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Many of the Proverbs, written by Solomon,
were teachings from his father, David.

Wisdom teaches the urgent importance for children to listen and obey the
counsel of their GODLY parents. This command is most important today,
as it is one of the prevalent characteristics of the "last days." It is
foretold that children will be "disobedient to parents." [2 Timothy 3. 1
- 2] It would be much better for children today to obey the GODLY
instruction, "Children, obey your parents in the LORD, for this is
right. Honor your father and mother which is the first
commandment with promise." [Ephesians 6. 1 - 2]

How zealously significant that each lesson stresses the urgent
importance of young people to obey the WORD of ALMIGHTY GOD, which is to
be taught to them by their parents. Wise counsel, learning,
discretion, instruction, knowledge, understanding and wisdom are
promised repeatedly to those who know, love and obey GOD'S HOLY WORD.

"My son, if you accept my words and treasure up my commandments; if you
make your ear attentive to wisdom, and your mind open to discernment; if
you call to understanding and cry aloud to knowledge, if you seek her
(wisdom) as you do silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures,
then you will understand the fear of the LORD and attain knowledge of
GOD." [Proverbs (Mishle) 2. 1 - 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Parents must teach their children so they will have an understanding of
GOD and HIS holiness. Children must listen, comply and conform
then, all the treasures of heaven are within reach. "The fear of
the LORD is the beginning (and the best part) of knowledge and wisdom."
[Proverbs (Mishle) 1. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Make every effort, the best
awaits you and is available for the taking!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
We gratefully acknowledge, O LORD, our GOD, that YOU are our CREATOR and
PRESERVER, the ROCK of our life and the SHIELD of our help. We give
thanks to YOU for our lives which are in YOUR hands, for our souls which
are ever in YOUR keeping, for YOUR wondrous faithfulness to us and for
YOUR continuous goodness, which YOU grant us each day. Truly, YOUR
mercies never fail and YOUR loving-kindness never ceases. To YOU alone
we serve in reverence and put our full trust in YOU. Thank YOU,
HEAVENLY FATHER, for giving YOUR all.
This being the 10th day of Nisan, according to Exodus 20, it is the day
the Passover lamb was selected and taken into the home. [see Exodus
12:3] Our prayer is that you have chosen the LAMB OF GOD into your
life, that HE might be the needed COVERING for all your sin.

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Envy is its own torment.

CONTINUE IN...
"As for you, continue in the things which you have learned and been
assured of, knowing from WHOM you have learned them — the HOLY
SCRIPTURES, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith
which is in CHRIST JESUS." [2 Timothy 3. 14 - 15]

CHRISTianity is not to be a "hit-and- miss-affair" ; or an
"I-tried- it-and-it- didn' t-work" experience. CHRISTianity isn't
something you "TRY" — but what you "ARE" —a determination or
mind set; a choice to live as a CHRIST-like one. One of the great
outward proofs of a true believer is that he continues in the faith.

"IF indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are
not moved away from the HOPE OF THE GOSPEL which you heard." [Colossians
1. 23] Endurance for the duration of our lifetime shows the reality of
our true faith in YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. "Now by this we know that we
know HIM, if we keep HIS commandments. " [1 John 2. 3] "They received
the WORD with all readiness, and searched the SCRIPTURES daily to find
out whether these things were so." [Acts 17. 11] "The works of the
LORD are great, within reach of all who desire them and studied by all
who have pleasure in them." [Psalms (Tehillym) 111. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"Then I thought of the days of old; I meditated on all YOUR deeds,
recounted the work of YOUR hands." [Psalms (Tehillym) 143. 5 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. "
[Colossians 4. 2] The HOLY BIBLE constantly exhorts us to "pray
without ceasing." [1 Thessalonians 5. 17] In the work of ALMIGHTY
CREATOR GOD there are three steps: First, Impossible; second,
Difficult; finally, Complete — when we pray for the extraordinary,
the limitless, the incredible and the glorious.

The unbeliever, "has no root in himself, but endures only for a while.
For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the WORD,
immediately he stumbles." [Matthew 13. 21] "They profess to know GOD,
but in works they deny HIM, being abominable, disobedient, and
disqualified for every good work." [Titus 1. 16]

Grace (Hebrew: chen — favor, acceptance) carries with it an
obligation to tell others. The GOSPEL is "GOOD NEWS" and as
CHRIST-followers, we must continue to witness for and about HIM.
"Therefore, having obtained help from GOD — to this day I stand
— witnessing both to small and great, saying no other things than
those which the prophets and Moses said would come." [Acts 26. 22] Be
co-workers with the HEAVENLY MASTER by sharing the PRECIOUS WORD OF
TRUTH.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
We praise YOU, MOST HOLY God 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 NAME is
exalted above all. The grace of our LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH be with you
always — for you are our glory and joy!
May you life be richer and fuller daily as you prepare to celebrate the
Passover Season and the resurrection of our Wonderful LORD YESHUA.

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Ignorance is arrogance.

THE TEN PLAGUES (Part 1 of 2)
"Has any god ever tried to go and take for himself one nation from the
midst of another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, by war, by a
mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by awesome power, as the LORD
your GOD did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? To you it was
shown, clearly demonstrated, that the LORD alone is GOD; there is none
other besides HIM." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 34 - 35 Tanakh, Torah]

The Ten Plagues were inflicted upon the land of Egypt by the HOLY ONE
because of Egypt's enslavement of the Jewish people. The OMNISCIENT
CREATOR GOD OF HEAVEN promised Avram (Abraham), "I will make of you a
great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you
shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you; but, whoever
curses you, I will curse." [Genesis (Bereshith) 12. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Torah]

There were four specific purposes why TRUE & LIVING ALMIGHTY ONE,
blessed be HE, brought these Ten Plagues upon Egypt: The First was to
show that the MIGHTY GOD OF ISRAEL is the only GOD. The Second was to
show the foolishness of idolatry. The Third was to punish Egypt for
their curse upon the Israelites. The Fourth was to free Israel.

Pharaoh was also considered to be a god in human form and the plagues
proved that he was not much of a god after all. In addition, one of the
most important and controlling casts in the Egyptian society was the
priesthood of Egypt, and the plagues affected these priests likewise.

Plague of Blood was on waters of Egypt found in rivers, streams, pools,
and ponds; it included the water in the vessels themselves. The vessels
were made of wood and stone the common idiom for idolatry
wood and stone; indicating these were used for the purpose of a drink
offering to the gods of Egypt. The Egyptians shed Jewish blood, and now
blood was given them to drink. This plague affected seven Egyptian gods:
The Nile River, Khnum, the guardian of the Nile; Hapi, the spirit of
the Nile; Osiris, for whom the Nile River was his bloodstream; Sepek, a
crocodile god who had the body of a man and the head of a crocodile;
Neith, the protector of the large fish; and Hathor, the protector of the
major fish.
All these so-called gods failed!

Plague of Frogs Two gods were affected by this plague: Hapi again, who
controlled the alluvial deposits of the Nile to make the land fertile
the sound of frogs usually meant a time for rejoicing because it
meant the Nile receded and the land was fertile. The Egyptian priests
and magicians copied this plague and caused an even greater disaster.
The goddess Heqt, having the body of a woman and the head of a frog was
the symbol of resurrection and fertility. These gods were useless!

Plague of Mixture {lice, dog flies, vermin, gnats, and swarms of
numerous pests} The two gods affected in this plague were Uatchit, the
god of insects; and Seb, the god of the earth who was to protect from
lice.

The priesthood of Egypt was also affected in that it was noted for its
purity and cleanliness. However, they were forced to shave their body of
all hair, including the eyebrows to avoid this plague; but the intensity
of the swarms still was found on their bodies.

Plague of Flies The Egyptian god affected in this plague was Beelzebub,
the "lord of the flies" who controlled the fly population he could
do nothing!

The Hebrews twisted the name BeelzeBUB calling the name, BeelzeBUL
which fittingly means "lord of the dung heap."

Plague of Murrain (a disease in cattle) had an affect on four gods of
Egypt Apis, the sacred bull of the god Ptah, a firstborn bull
always kept in the open; Mnevis, the sacred bull of god Ra, the god of
the city Helipoplis, also a firstborn kept in the open; Hathor, who had
the body of a woman and head of a cow, the protector of the cows and the
goddess of love, beauty, music, and joy; Knom, the ram god who had the
body of a man and head of a ram. Unsurprisingly, these idolatrous gods
failed, all the cattle and rams in the field died! Those inside a barn
or building were spared. . . for now, but more plagues are to come.

...to be continued
A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Reason explains the darkness, but it is not a light.

THE TEN PLAGUES (Part 2 - Conclusion)
"The LORD said to Moses Early in the morning present yourself to
Pharaoh and say to him Thus says the LORD, the GOD of the Hebrews:
Let MY people go to worship ME. For at this time I will send all MY
plagues upon your very heart, and on your servants and on your people
that you may know there is none like ME in all the earth." [Exodus
(Shemot) 9. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Torah] "Nevertheless I have spared you for
this purpose: In order to show you MY power, and in order that MY NAME
may be declared throughout the earth. Yet you continue to exalt yourself
over MY people, and do not let them go." [Exodus (Shemot) 9. 16 - 17
Tanakh, Torah]

So, the plagues continued
Plague of Boils came when Moses sprinkled ashes of the furnace towards
heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. The furnace refers to the one which was
used to bake bricks to build the cities for Pharaoh. It stood as the
symbol of oppression of the Jews; and now from the very symbol of
oppression, ashes were taken that resulted in an oppression on the
Egyptians. With the ashes of the furnace sprinkled, all were smitten
with boils.

The three gods affected were Sekhmet, a goddess with the body of a woman
and head of a lioness, was to have power over epidemics, both to Cause
and/or Stop it could do neither! Serapis was the god of healing.
Imhotep, was the god of medicine. These all failed and could not
terminate the plague!

Plague of Hail & Fire This plague mixture was against four Egyptian
gods:
1. Shu was the sky god, son of Ra, the son god. [In Hebrew, ra means
evil.]
2. Nut, the sky goddess of fertility, sister and wife of Osiris,
represented as wearing cow's horns and a solar disk on her head. These
could not stop the Fire & Hail of ALMIGHTY GOD.
The result of the plague was fourfold: First, it killed every man in
the field. Second, it killed every beast in the field. . .
3. Seth was the god of agriculture.
4. Isis, the goddess of agriculture.
Neither of these gods were able to save the flax and barley crops!
Third, this plague smote every herb of the field. Fourth, it broke
every tree of the field.

Plague of Locust came to destroy everything still left in the field and
even entered the houses. Seth and Isis, the god and goddess of
agriculture are the two gods affected in this plague. Neither could
save the growing crop from the locust.

Plague of Darkness lasted 3 days and was of such a thickness it could be
felt, severely affecting the equilibrium; no one was able even to stand
in such darkness.

The god's affected were: Ra, the sun god who had two forms either
with the body of a man and head of a ram, or the body of a man and the
head of a goose. Khepre, a sun god with the body of a man and head of a
beetle. Harakhte, the sun god with a man's body and head of a hawk.
Aton, a sun-disk god. Horus, the winged sun disk god who was the son of
Osiris and Isis, also having a hawk head. Atum, the god of the setting
sun. Thoth, the moon god. Nut, the sky goddess. Shu, the sky god.
All nine were powerless against the Plague of Darkness!

Death of the Firstborn was the final plague and affected four gods of
Egypt.
Min, the god of protection and reproduction. Isis, the goddess of
procreation and reproduction.
Hathor, the goddess who was believed present at the birth of a child.
Apis, the firstborn bull, a sacred bull, the second Apis bull to die
within these ten plagues.

None of these could protect the firstborn from the FINGER OF THE
ALMIGHTY ETERNAL GOD OF HEAVEN! "It has been clearly demonstrated and
you have been shown to know that the LORD alone is ELOHIYM; there is
none beside HIM." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 35 Tanakh, Torah] Assuredly,
YEHOWAH GOD is the only SOVEREIGN LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem!
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. May this Passover serve as a reminder that obedience is
better then sacrifice! "Shalom! ...Blessed Pesach to each of you!"

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

Email: delrifkah.kralman@comcast.net
Web Page: http://delrifkah.homestead.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
"In choosing a friend, go up a step." [TALMUD, Yebamot 63a]

THE BUTLER & THE BAKER
"The cupbearer and the baker of the king of Egypt offended their lord,
the king of Egypt. Pharaoh was furious with his two officials, the chief
cupbearer and the chief baker, and put them in custody, in the house of
the captain of the guard, in the same prison house where Joseph was
confined. The chief jailer assigned Joseph to them, and he attended
them." [Genesis (Bereshith) 40. 1 – 4 Tanakh, Torah]

In the course of their imprisonment, the cupbearer (butler) and the
baker had a dream on the same night. When Joseph inquired about their
distraught countenance and learned they had dreamed and didn't know its
interpretation. Joseph replied that the ALMIGHTY GOD OF HEAVEN could
give interpretations and asked them both to tell him their dreams.
[Genesis/Bereshith 40. 9 – 11]

The cupbearer divulged his dream to Joseph— "Behold, in my dream a
vine was before me. On the vine were three branches. It had barely
budded, when out came its blossoms and its clusters ripened into grapes.
Pharaoh' s cup was in my hand, and I took the grapes and pressed them
into Pharaoh' s cup, and placed the cup in Pharaoh' s hand." [Genesis
(Bereshith) 40. 9 – 11 Tanakh, Torah] Joseph said to the butler,
"This is the interpretation: The three branches are three days. In three
days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your post, you
will place Pharaoh' s cup in his hand, as was your former custom, when
you were his cupbearer. But think of me when it is well with you again,
and do me the kindness of mentioning me to Pharaoh so as to free me from
this place. For in truth, I was stolen away from the land of the
Hebrews; nor have I done anything here that they should put me into this
dungeon." [Genesis (Bereshith) 40. 12 – 15 Tanakh, Torah]

Having heard the favorable interpretation that the butler was to be
restored, the baker excitedly then told Joseph his dream. "I also was
in my dream, and there were three baskets with white bread on my head.
In the uppermost basket there were all kinds of baked goods for Pharaoh;
and the birds were eating it out of the basket above my head." Joseph
answered, "This is its interpretation: The three baskets are three days.
In three days Pharaoh will lift off your head from you and hang you on a
tree; and the birds will pick off your flesh." [Genesis (Bereshith) 40.
16 – 19 Tanakh, Torah]

On the third day, just as Joseph had expressed, Pharaoh celebrated his
birthday with a banquet for all his officials. He lifted up the head of
the butler pardoning and restoring him; and the cupbearer once more
placed the cup in Pharaoh' s hand. But the baker, just as Joseph
foretold, was hanged to death on a tree. [Genesis/Bereshith 40. 20 –
22]

The butler, the wine server, was granted life. The baker who had
prepared breads for Pharaoh, committed some sin worthy of death and was
hanged on a tree [Deuteronomy/ Devarim 21. 22, 23], and the birds ate his
flesh.

The communion of our LORD YESHUA is pictured in this story of the wine
and bread. The Bread eaten by the birds, speaks of the body of JESUS
being torn apart by the whips and cross. Believers are granted access
to the FATHER by this "new and living way which HE consecrated for us,
through the veil, that is, HIS flesh." [Hebrews 10. 20] The Wine speaks
of the blood shed in the death of YESHUA to provide a covering for sin,
bringing life for those who believe. "For the life of the flesh is in
the blood, and I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement
for your souls; it is the blood, as life, that makes expiation. The life
of all flesh is its blood." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 17. 11, 14 Tanakh,
Torah]

Our WONDERFUL SAVIOR took our sin and guilt on HIMSELF allowing HIS body
to be broken and delivered up in our place. YESHUA proclaimed, "I am
the BREAD OF LIFE. This is the BREAD which comes down from heaven, that
one may eat of it and not die. I am the LIVING BREAD which came down
from heaven. If anyone eats of this BREAD, he will live forever; and the
bread that I shall give is MY flesh, which I shall give for the life of
the world." [John 6. 48, 50 - 51]

Then YESHUA continued teaching — "Most assuredly, I say to you,
unless you eat the flesh (bread) of the SON OF MAN and drink HIS blood
(wine), you have no life in you. Whoever eats MY flesh and drinks MY
blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For MY
flesh is food indeed, and MY blood is drink indeed. He who eats MY flesh
and drinks MY blood abides in ME, and I in him. As the LIVING FATHER
sent ME, and I live because of the FATHER, so he who feeds on ME will
live because of ME. This is the BREAD which came down from heaven...He
who eats this BREAD will live forever." [John 6. 53 - 58]

The LORD JESUS shed HIS life's blood (WINE) that all who accept HIS
redemption are released from all their sin and can stand clean and made
whole. [1 John 1. 7] How marvelous to know that you can have this
FREE GIFT as a heritage if only you are willing to receive the ONE
(SACRIFICE OF DELIVERANCE) WHO paid the full price of love for you.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Blessings, grace, peace and mercy to each of you, our beloved friends,
our family in the LORD GOD, as it is appropriate to express thanks: to
existence, to destiny, to those we love, and even to our enemies, if we
are able to, who have taught us valuable lessons. Gratefulness is an
important spiritual practice. Guard well your heritage. . . written
with the precious blood of our LORD & REDEEMER, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH.

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.

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

HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
"More than Israel has kept the Sabbath, it is the Sabbath that has kept
Israel." [Ahad Ha'Am - A Hebrew Essayist]

SABBATH REST
"The heavens and the earth were finished and all their array. On the
seventh day ELOHIYM finished HIS work that HE had been doing; and HE
ceased (rested) on the seventh day from all HIS work that HE had done.
And ELOHIYM blessed the seventh day and declared it holy; because on it
GOD rested and ceased from all HIS work of creation that HE had done."
[Genesis (Bereshith) 2. 1 - 3 Tanakh, Torah]

There are three words for GOD'S Holy Sabbath: The first is shabbat
meaning to rest, to cease, to repose, to complete. CREATOR GOD
"sabbathed (rested)" from HIS work of creation. HE could sabbath
because the (first) creation was completed.

The second word is nuach meaning rested, to be comforted, consoled, to
settle down. OMNIPOTENT GOD could Sabbath because HE was content and
satisfied with the work HE had done.

The third word is shabbat-naphash translated means rested, refreshed,
re-spirited, restored. The ALMIGHTY AUTHOR & FINISHER of all creation
could Sabbath because HE was refreshed in the perfect work of HIS
creation!

For man, Sabbath was always a special day set apart by the HOLY ONE; and
it was given to Israel as a commandment at Mount Sinai, "Tomorrow is a
day of rest, a Holy Sabbath of the LORD...Six days you shall gather it
(manna); on the seventh day, Sabbath — there will be none. Mark that
the LORD has given you the Sabbath. So the people Sabbathed on the
seventh day." [Exodus (Shemot) 16. 23 - 30 Tanakh, Torah] Realize, it
is the people of GOD who rested — they had been delivered from
bondage of sin and death and could now rest!

"The seventh day is a Sabbath of the LORD your GOD; you shall not do any
work — you, your son or your daughter, your male or female slave,
your ox or your ass, or any of your cattle, or the stranger in your
settlements, so that your male and female slave may REST as you do.
Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt and the LORD your
GOD freed you and brought you out from there with HIS MIGHTY HAND and
OUTSTRETCHED ARM; therefore the LORD your GOD has commanded you to
observe the Sabbath Day." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 5. 14 - 15 Tanakh,
Torah]

Sabbath is a shadow of things to come. . ."Come to ME, all you who labor
and are heavy laden, and I will give you Sabbath (rest). Take MY yoke
upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you
will find Rest (Sabbath) for your souls." [Matthew 11. 28 - 29] "There
remains therefore a rest for the people of GOD. For he who has entered
his rest has himself also ceased from his works as GOD did from HIS."
[Hebrews 4. 9 - 10]

The Sabbath is a reminder of the two worlds — this one and the world
to come. And Sabbath is an example of both worlds; for the Sabbath is
joy, holiness, and rest. Joy is part of this world; Holiness and Rest
are something of the world to come.

What an overflowing- abundance of wealth there is in Sabbath (Day of
Rest) for those who have entered into the NEW COVENANT and found their
freedom, their delight, their rest in the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA —
"LORD OF THE SABBATH" . . . those who are now leaning upon the
everlasting arms of JESUS their BELOVED REDEEMER and are kept by the
DOVE OF HEAVEN, the HOLY SPIRIT WHO dwells in them .

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Welcome Sabbath! Come, my dear friend, let us go out to meet the
Sabbath, the Queen! Come, O Bride, the Sabbath presence is eagerly
awaited, and joyously welcomed!
Be pleased, O LORD our GOD, to fortify us by YOUR commandments, and
especially by the commandment of the seventh day, this great and holy
Sabbath, given for our rest and repose in love in accordance with the
teaching of YOUR will. In YOUR favor, O LORD our GOD, grant us such
repose that there be no trouble, grief or lamenting on the day of our
rest. Let us, O LORD, behold the consolation of Zion and the rebuilding
of Jerusalem, YOUR Holy City, for YOU are the GOD of our salvation and
consolation in WHOM we delight.
It is a mitzvah to take delight in Shabbat observance, as Isaiah said,
"You shall call Shabbat a delight" . Oneg implies celebration and
relaxation, sharing time with loved ones, enjoying the beauty of nature,
eating a leisurely meal made special with conviviality and song,
visiting with friends and relatives, taking a leisurely stroll, reading,
and listening to music.

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Hard times don't erase GOD'S promises.

PERFECT SACRIFICE
"For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have assigned it to
you to make atonement for your lives upon the Altar; for it is the
blood, as life, that effects expiation. For the life of all flesh —
its blood is its life." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 17. 11, 14 Tanakh, Torah]

The Book of Leviticus is full of types and indirect references to the
PERSON and WORK of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH; these Five Offerings are:
Burnt Offering — typifies MESSIAH' S total offering in submission to
HIS FATHER'S will. [Leviticus/Vayikra 1. 1 - 17; 6. 9 - 13; 9. 24]
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is our PASSOVER. "And walk in love, as CHRIST also
has loved us and given HIMSELF for us, an offering and a sacrifice to
GOD for a sweet-smelling aroma." [Ephesians 5. 2]

Grain (Meal) Offering — typifies MESSIAH' S sinless service. JESUS,
the GRAIN OF WHEAT, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of
wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies,
it produces much grain." [John 12. 24]

Peace Offering — is a type of the fellowship believers have with
OMNIPOTENT GOD through the work of the cross. [Leviticus/Vayikra 3. 1 -
17; 7. 11 - 21] The LORD JESUS is our PEACE OFFERING, "For HE HIMSELF
is our peace, WHO has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall
of separation." [Ephesians 2. 14]

Sin Offering — typifies the ANOINTED ONE as our GUILT-BEARER.
[Leviticus/Vayikra 4. 1 - 35; 6. 24 - 30] The LORD YESHUA was our SIN
OFFERING, "For HE made HIM WHO knew no sin to be sin for us, that we
might become the righteousness of GOD in HIM." [2 Corinthians 5. 21]

Trespass Offering — typifies CHRIST'S payment for the damage of sin.
[Leviticus/Vayikra 5. 1 - 19; 6. 7; 7. 1 - 10] YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is
our TRESPASS OFFERING: "And you, being dead in your trespasses and the
uncircumcision of your flesh, HE has made alive together with HIM,
having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of
requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And HE has
taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." [Colossians 2.
13 - 14]

Only the best, cleanest, and finest of the Israelites&# 39; bullocks, sheep,
goats, and fowl were brought according to the Law. These were brought
to the Copper Altar of Sacrifice, tied to the horns of the altar, then
slain and then burned upon the Altar.

What is the meaning the MASTER OF MERCY & TRUTH was trying to convey to
the children of Israel? What significance does it have for us today?
Here we see ALMIGHTY GOD'S goodness and severity, HIS love and wrath,
HIS righteousness and peace. It is here that the heart of man and the
heart of LOVING CREATOR are revealed and atonement for sin is made. At
this Altar, the innocent bore the judgment of the guilty, and HOLY GOD
was reconciled with the sinner who killed and shed the blood of the
sacrifice. This slaughter place pictures the Cross of Calvary — a
vessel on earth which is the only way of entrance into GOD'S PRESENCE.
It depicts the Cross which is easily accessible to the world, but towers
over all the wrecks of time, the cross upon which the PRINCE OF GLORY
died, where HE was bound with the cords of love for lost humanity. This
Copper Altar foreshadows the Cross, universal in its mercy as well as
its judgment. . . the horns pointing GOD-ward and man-ward, inviting
"whosoever will" to come!

The sacrifices brought to that Altar — the innocent doves and
pigeons with their heads wrung off, their feathers plucked from their
bodies, their blood wrung at the side of the altar; the bullocks cut to
pieces and burned; the lambs and goats sacrificed — all of these
tell of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH: HE is the INNOCENT DOVE of the
heavens WHO came to earth, WHOSE head was crowned with thorns, WHOSE
beard was plucked from HIS cheeks.

YESHUA is the OX of GOD WHO was bruised and cut to pieces by the whip of
the Roman soldiers, WHOSE blood was shed, WHO was burned with the fire
of judgment from HIGH & LOFTY ONE upon HIM for the sins of the whole
world.

HE is the LAMB of GOD, WHOSE heart melted within HIM like wax, WHO
opened not HIS mouth in HIS OWN defense, WHO was led to the slaughter,
and HIS face was marred more than any other man's.

Day-by-day, year-by-year, continually the offerings were being made upon
the Altar until the time of the GREAT SACRIFICE upon the Altar of
Calvary. From the Cross on Golgotha we hear the words from the lips of
our wonderful LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, the only SAVIOR & BLESSED REDEEMER,
"IT IS FINISHED!" The types, the offerings of the OLD COVENANT were now
done away, fulfilled in the MESSIAH OF ISRAEL, the WONDERFUL SAVIOR of
the world!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Blessed, praised and glorified, exalted, extolled and honored, magnified
and lauded be the NAME of the HOLY ONE , blessed be HE; though HE be
high above all the blessings and hymns, praises and consolations, which
are uttered in the world. Let the NAME of the ALMIGHTY be blessed from
this time forth and for evermore. Amen

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
When we know WHO (CREATOR GOD) holds the future, then whatever comes,
even the worst is transformed into a blessing.

SEEK MEEKNESS
"Seek the LORD, all you meek of the land who have fulfilled his Law and
judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness. Perhaps you will find
shelter on the day of the LORD'S anger." [Zephaniah (Tsefanyah) 2. 3
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The phrase "the meek of the land (earth)" is a promise of salvation,
promising justice and also a reassurance of deliverance from the fury of
GOD ALMIGHTY' S wrath. This is also seen in Isaiah and the Psalms—
"Thus hE shall judge the poor with righteousness equity, and reprove
with justice for the lowly and meek of the land. hE shall strike down
the ruthless land with the rod of hIS mouth and slay the wicked with the
breath of hIS lips." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "GOD
arose to execute judgment, to deliver all the meek of the earth. Selah"
[Psalms (Tehillym) 76. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The NEW COVENANT also has blessed promises for "the meek of the land."
MESSIAH YESHUA confirmed, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit
the earth" [Matthew 5. 5] referring to the promise in the OLD COVENANT
— "But the lowly (meek) will inherit the land and delight in
abundant of peace." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "For
the LORD takes pleasure (delights) in hIS people: hE adorns the meek
(lowly) with victory and salvation." [Psalms (Tehillym) 149. 4 Tanakh,
Kethuvim] "hE guides the meek in the right path, and teaches them hIS
way." [Psalms (Tehillym) 25. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Thus, we should put on
the incorruptible beauty of "the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit,
which is very precious in the sight of GOD." [1 Peter 3. 4]

Meekness (Hebrew: `anav) means gentle or humble not weakness
(Hebrew: `aniy). This is made clear by the first use of the word in
HOLY SCRIPTURE, "Now Moses was a very humble (meek) man, more so than
any other men on earth." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 12. 3 Tanakh, Torah] Moses
was courageous and strong, as well as being profoundly humble (meek) and
unselfish; a man of prayer and expectation totally trusting the Word of
the Almighty implicitly without hesitation. The LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH portrayed meekness in HIS OWN HUMAN character, "Take MY
yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle (meek) and lowly in
heart, and you will find rest for your souls." [Matthew 11, 29]

A meek and quiet spirit enables a true CHRIST-like- one to maintain
composure in the face of conflict, trials and hardship without
complaining; accomplishment without arrogance; failure without
resentment. It produces a peace which no trouble can disturb, "the
peace of GOD, which surpasses all understanding. " [Philippians 4. 7]
Therefore, seek meekness!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
LORD our GOD, may YOUR Kingdom come speedily, so the worship of YOUR
HOLY NAME and obedience to YOUR Law may unite all men in brotherhood and
peace; that every creature may know that YOU are its CREATOR, and every
living being exclaim — The LORD, the GREAT GOD OF ISRAEL, rules and
HIS dominion endures forever. Amen!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
"Zeal without knowledge is fire without light." [-Thomas Fuller] In
other words The greater you are, the more you must humble
yourself.

THE WICKED PROSPER
"Why do the wicked live on, yes, prosper and grow wealthy?" [Job (Iyob)
21. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

This often asked question has puzzled the thoughts of men in every age.
Persecuted Job had prospered both materially and spiritually, yet he
lost all his worldly possessions, as well as family and friends. The
ungodly scorners of the region where he had lived were now humiliating
and mocking him, yet they continued to prosper. But why is this?

The same troublesome question occurs again and again in the HOLY BIBLE.
Asaph, a psalmist, confessed "I envied the wanton and boastful; I
saw the wicked prosper and were at ease. Death has no pangs for them;
their body is healthy and strong, they have no part in the travail of
men; they are not afflicted like the rest of mankind." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 73. 3 - 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Jeremiah, the weeping prophet
also complained: "Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why are the
workers of treachery at ease?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 12. 1 Tanakh,
Nevi'im] Asaph and Jeremiah were both perplexed at the prosperity and
comfort of the wicked until they entered GOD'S Sanctuary and reflected
on their fate. [Psalms/Tehillym 73. 17]

And today, there are very few genuine believers who have great wealth or
are powerful that are walking humble and righteous before the LORD GOD.
There is serious spiritual danger inherent in riches and power, unless
these privileges are dedicated deliberately and sincerely to the work of
the ALL-WISE MASTER DESIGNER. Even the church at Laodicea, was
scornfully rebuked by the GLORIFIED LORD YESHUA, "Because you say I
am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing and do not
know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked."
[Revelation 3. 17] They were cunning, deceitful and loved to oppress.
Thinking to themselves that they had become rich in finding wealth for
themselves by all their labors and thought that no one, even GOD, the
ALMIGHTY ONE, could find iniquity in them. Truly, their minds were
dulled, darkened, duped, deluded, deceived and deadened.

GOD OMNIPOTENT has promised to supply all our need if we are faithful to
HIM. [Matthew 6. 33; Philippians 4. 19] We need to weigh all our
standards of prosperity on the balances of eternity. "I saw the
wicked, powerful, and well-rooted like a healthy native tree. Suddenly
he vanished and was gone; I sought him, but he was not to be found. Mark
the blameless, note the upright; for there is a future for the man of
integrity. But transgressors shall be utterly destroyed, the future of
the wicked shall be cut off. The deliverance of the righteous comes from
the LORD; their stronghold in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and
rescues them; delivers them from the wicked and saves them, for they
seek refuge in HIM and trust in HIM." [Psalms (Tehillym) 37. 35 - 40
Tanakh, Kethuvim] Our greatest need is a closer fellowship with the
MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE. JESUS is earnestly calling and anxiously
waiting for you!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Toward YOU alone, SOVEREIGN LORD GOD, is my desire, and all my thoughts
are turned to YOU. My mind and my heart cling to YOU and thank and
praise YOU for YOUR many gifts of grace. Therefore, with trembling
reverence I place my body and soul, my spiritual life on the flaming
altar of devotion, as an offering to YOU, the ONLY ONE WHO'S supreme
greatness no mind can conceive or be sufficiently grateful. There is
peace, rest and unending happiness in the wonderful light of YOUR
PRESENCE. Thank YOU, for being my REFUGE. Blessing and glory and wisdom,
thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to the LORD our GOD
forever and ever, Amen & Amen!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
A miracle is not the suspension of natural laws...it is the operation of
the HIGHER POWER.
PORTRAIT OF MESSIAH' S BIRTH
"Then the LORD spoke to Moses — On the first day of the first month
you shall set up the Tabernacle of the Tent of Meeting." [Exodus
(Shemot) 40. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Torah]

This OLD TESTAMENT Sanctuary pictures the WORD WHO became FLESH and
TABERNACLED among the Israelite people. The ALMIGHTY LORD GOD said that
the month of Nisan (March/April) was the beginning of the months for
you. "This month shall be your beginning of months; it shall be the
first month of the year for you." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 2Tanakh, Torah]

GOD is always first "Thus says the LORD, the KING OF ISRAEL, their
REDEEMING ONE, the LORD OF HOSTS — I am the FIRST and I am the LAST
and there is no god besides ME." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 44. 6 Tanakh,
Nevi'im] "In the beginning GOD…" [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 1] "In
the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was
GOD." [John 1. 1] HE does all things well and always in order. HE was
born into the human family, chosen and called of GOD to be our HIGH
PRIEST.

The Tabernacle of GOD portrays THE MAN, MESSIAH YESHUA filled with the
SHEKINAH GLORY OF GOD, for this Sanctuary at Sinai taught that the TRUE
TEMPLE OF GOD, YESHUA, would personally appear in the flesh.
[Malachi/Malakhi 3. 1-3] YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is the Anti-type of
this sacred building in WHOM was fulfilled the will and desire of GOD to
dwell with HIS people. "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] Not only was GOD with
HIS people, but HE also was within them!

YESHUA was born the LAMB OF GOD — sheep are seasonal breeders (in
autumn), the young being born in the springtime around March/April. [The
only exception is the Dorset horn breed of sheep which breed anytime of
the year.] And, MESSIAH died as the LAMB OF GOD. "Your lamb shall be
without blemish, a male of the first year." [Exodus/Shemot 12. 5] A
lamb, being born in the spring would be a yearling and available for the
Passover Sacrifice the following year. The MESSIAH died at the
appointed time, the PERFECT PASSOVER SACRIFICE for our sins.

In GOD'S order of things, HE is always first! If YESHUA was born on
the first day of the first month, it would correspond to the setting-up
of the Tabernacle, the Tent of Meeting in the Wilderness. This
characterizes "GOD' S presence among us" and MESSIAH being born into
the human family was definitely "IMMANU&# 39;EL — GOD with us."

The promise to Haggai may have been the timing of Elizabeth conceiving
in her old age — "Take note from this day forward, from the
twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, from the day when the foundation
was laid for the LORD'S TEMPLE — consider it..." John the Baptiser
could have been the remarkable one that Haggai spoke of when he stated
that "...from this time forward, you will be blessed." [Haggai (Chagai)
2. 18 - 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] John was the forerunner, the foundation
being laid, the Elijah announcing the coming of MESSIAH, the TEMPLE.
Elizabeth was in her sixth month of pregnancy when Miriam (Mary) went to
be with her from Nazareth. Thus, it was around the month of Tammuz (our
June) — the timing was near the Feast of Shavuoth, at the end of
wheat harvest.

Recalling the story of Ruth & Boaz. Ruth was the childless widow and
Boaz became her "ga' al (kinsman-redeemer. ..a ga'al connects
redemption with conception). " Boaz covered Ruth with his mantle (Hebrew:
kanaph — wing, an edge, a garment of bed clothing, skirt) [Ruth/Roos
3.3-12] equivalent to the SPIRIT OF THE LORD overshadowing (cast a
shadow, envelope in a haze of brilliance, invest with preternatural
(supernatural) influence) Miriam causing her to conceive, her GA'AL.
Through the union of Ruth & Boaz the lineage and household of David
began. Through this line the MESSIAH would come. . . the GA'AL
(GOD'S REDEEMER) for mankind, born in Bethlehem.

"Three times you shall keep a Feast to ME in the year: You shall observe
the Feast of Unleavened Bread (Passover)…and the Feast of Harvest
(Shavuoth).. .and the Feast of Ingathering/ Booths (Sukkoth). Three times
a year all your males shall appear before the SOVEREIGN, the LORD."
[Exodus/Shemot) 23. 14 – 17]

Consider the timing of the birth of YESHUA: Joseph was a righteous man
and obeyed the Laws of GOD. So he would have traveled to Jerusalem for
the Passover as required. When the edict was issued to go to their
hometown to register for taxation, Joseph was required to go to
Bethlehem, his home town where the CHILD was born. Since Bethlehem is
only about five miles from Jerusalem, they both could have gone there
together just a few days after Miriam delivered. Was YESHUA conceived
on Shavuoth and born nine months later, that Spring, at the time when
lambs are born?

If Miriam was overshadowed and the CHILD placed in her womb at the time
of the Feast of Harvest, she could have traveled to Bethlehem with her
the father, and perhaps even Joseph as they would be traveling to attend
the Feast in Jerusalem; and she chose to stay with Elizabeth instead of
going on with them. She did stay with Elizabeth for three months, which
would have made Elizabeth' s due date sometime in Tishri (our
September). Miriam would now be three months into her pregnancy by the
time of the fall Festivals of the LORD. Again her father and Joseph,
along with all the Jewish males would be traveling to Jerusalem. After
the Feasts, they would return to their home in Nazareth with Miriam once
again joining them on their return trip.

If YESHUA was indeed born on 1st of Nisan, Joseph would have found
suitable lodging for his wife and the CHILD with relatives in Bethlehem;
then he would be free to attend the Festival in Jerusalem on the 14th of
Nisan after caring for his wife and the CHILD. Miriam would be in a
house for the 41 days time of her impurity after childbirth. [see
Leviticus/Vayikra 12. 1 – 4] The BABY was circumcised on the 8th day
— near the time the lambs would have been chosen for the Passover
sacrifice; then presented in the Temple after the days of Miriam's
purification were over. During that time, the wise men found them in a
house. [Matthew 2. 11]

Although no one knows for sure when MESSIAH was born, this gives us
something to think about. MESSIAH' S birth was important and
necessary for HIM to come as our KINSMAN-REDEEMER, but HIS death and
resurrection surpass that fact, for it is through HIS substitutionary
death that life is possible for who-so-ever will accept HIS atonement
and partake of the new life we have in HIM.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
LORD, may it be YOUR will that the new month bring us a life of peace, a
life of goodness, a life of blessing, a life of health, and a life of
prosperity. May this day lead us to search the hidden recesses of our
hearts. May it arouse us to examine all our thoughts and deeds in the
light of YOUR truth, that we may know wherein we have strayed from YOUR
way. And when we have learned our shortcomings and that the burden of
our sins weighs us down, grant us the strength and courage to turn from
the evil of our ways and to seek the SHELTER of YOUR FATHERLY love and
forgiveness — Amen!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Loneliness is ultimate only in the absence of ALMIGHTY GOD. HE can see
inside us, can understand us at levels that elude our friends, our
familyeven our own selves. GOD overflows boundaries and assures us
that we are not alone.

CROWNED WITH BLESSINGS
"YOU crown the year with YOUR bountiful goodness, fatness is distilled
in YOUR paths." [Psalms (Tehillym) 65. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

At the end of each day, CHRIST-like- ones should stop and count their
blessings. If done fairly and fully, no matter what problems may have
occurred, one would have to confess that GOD OMNIPOTENT, as always, had
crowned it with goodness.

There are many SCRIPTURES to speak of GOD'S abundant blessings in the
CHRISTian life: Bless GOD MOST HIGH, "HE redeems your life from the
Pit, HE crowns you with steadfast love and tender mercy." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 103. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Even our tests, trials, and
persecutions are always in the framework of ALMIGHTY GOD'S great grace
and love. The LORD MESSIAH YESHUA wore a crown of thorns so we might be
crowned with mercy and salvation.

Consider the following verses also: "For YOU surely bless the righteous
man, O LORD, encompassing him with favor like a shield." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 5. 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The word encompassing is the same
Hebrew word ('atar) as crown meaning to surround or protect. Also in
the believers crown are the MASTER'S grace and glory. "She (wisdom)
will adorn your head with a wreath of grace; crown you with a glorious
diadem." [Proverbs (Mishle) 4. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Believers also have the wonderful testimony that "YOU (HEAVENLY FATHER)
have made HIM (JESUS, THE ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD) a little less than
the angels, and crowned HIM with glory, majesty and honor." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 8. 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] For the redeemed one's MOST-TREASURED
crown is the LORD YESHUA HIMSELF. "In that day the LORD OF HOSTS, shall
become a CROWN OF GLORY and a DIADEM OF GLORY for the remnant of HIS
people." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 28. 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Nearly all CHRISTians have an abundant amount of material blessings to
be thankful for. If not in substance, INVINCIBLE GOD has crowned with
us goodness and favor, with lovingkindness and tender mercies, with
grace and glory and honor best of all with HIS OWN PRESENCE.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget HIS bounties. Bless the
LORD, O my soul, all my being, bless HIS HOLY NAME!" [Psalms (Tehillym)
103. 2, 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "The LORD has established HIS Throne in
heaven, and HIS sovereign rule is over all." [Psalms (Tehillym) 103. 19
Tanakh, Kethuvim] HalleluYAH! Praise the GLORIOUS ONE for HIS
constantly abiding peace and contentment.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Sabbath, our prayer is the LIVING FOUNTAIN refresh
and sustain each of you, our cherished friends. May the LIGHT of the
HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, fill your up-coming week with a yearning desire
to submit to HIS inscrutable will and give you strength for your daily
tasks.

Grant some of the sweetness of Sabbath be a part of each day as you
share the knowledge of wisdom of the LOVING MASTER with others. Tov
Shavuahave a good week!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Wise people talk because they have something to say; fools because they
have to say something.

HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL
"I will make MY HOLY NAME known among MY people Israel, and never again
will I let MY HOLY NAME be profaned. And the nations shall know that I
AM the LORD, the HOLY ONE in Israel." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 39. 7
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

This WONDERFUL NAME OF GOD, "QADOWSH ha'SHEM" (HOLY, THE NAME), was
often used during the days of the later kings of Judah. The strong
emphasis on this particular name during the later period of Judah's
kingdom probably was because of the prevalent un-holiness of the nation
during those years, finally culminating in the captivity of Judah
itself. CREATOR GOD stressed again and again that HE was the "HOLY ONE"
and that "you shall sanctify yourselves and be holy, for I am holy."
[Leviticus (Vayikra) 11. 44 Tanakh, Torah] {In Hebrew, the word for
holy is either "qadowsh/ qadosh" — translates sacred, set apart.}

This theme is prominent in most of the 33 passages where this MAJESTIC
NAME is used; but it is especially emphasized in its final incident.
The context of this latter passage is the prophesied invasion of Israel
by "Gog of the land of Magog" who will "advance upon MY people of Israel
like a cloud covering the earth...in the latter days." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 38. 2, 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] At that time, says the LORD,
"a terrible earthquake shall befall the land of Israel; and I will
manifest MY greatness and MY holiness, and make MYSELF known in the
sight of many nations. And they shall know that I am the LORD." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 38. 19, 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Then at last, HIS people will never pollute HIS HOLY NAME any more and
"from that time on, the House of Israel shall know that I the LORD am
their GOD — when they dwell in their land secure and untroubled,
when I have brought them back from among the peoples and gathered them
out of the lands of their enemies and have manifested MY holiness
through them in the sight of many nations. They shall know that I the
LORD am their GOD when, having exiled them among the nations, I will
gather them back into their land and leave none of them behind. I will
never again hide MY face from them, for I will pour out MY SPIRIT upon
the House of Israel, declares the LORD GOD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 39.
22, 29 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Beyond doubt, this will fully come about when our wonderful LORD MESSIAH
YESHUA returns and sets up HIS Kingdom. Are you looking for HIS return?
It is sure to happen soon, HIS coming for HIS Church is so very near!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Eternal is YOUR power, O LORD, YOU are mighty to save. In lovingkindness
YOU sustain the living; in the multitude of YOUR mercies, YOU preserve
all; YOU uphold the falling, heal the sick; bring freedom to the
captives and keep faith with YOUR children in death as in life. Who is
like unto YOU, ALMIGHTY GOD, AUTHOR of life and death, SOURCE of
salvation? Praised are YOU, O LORD, WHO has implanted within us immortal
life. How can we help but worship, adore and praise YOU our HOPE, our
SALVATION!

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
There is never a wrong time to do the right thing.

ENTERING GOD'S SABBATH
The GREAT ETERNAL ALMIGHTY GOD has a Sabbath for all believers, HE is
our precious MESSIAH YESHUA. The LORD YESHUA HIMSELF declared that HE
was the SABBATH and all who come to HIM are no longer bound, but can
have rest. "Come to ME all you who labor and are heavy laden and I will
give you REST. Take MY yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle,
meek and lowly in heart, you will find REST for your souls." [Matthew
11. 28 - 29]

There are different words for GOD'S Sabbath (Hebrew: "nuach" —
comforted, to settle down) where CREATOR GOD was comforted in HIS work
of creation. "For in six days the LORD made the heavens and earth and
sea, and all that was in them, and HE rested the seventh day; therefore
the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it." [Exodus (Shemot) 20.
11 Tanakh, Torah] The SUPREME HOLY ONE was "refreshed&quo t; (Hebrew:
"shabbat- naphash" — rested, refreshed) in the work of the creation
HE had done. "HE ceased from work and was refreshed." [Exodus (Shemot)
31. 17 Tanakh, Torah]

MESSIANIC Jews dedicate Sabbath to reading Kiddush (sanctification) over
wine, besides the lighting of candles. Similarly, it is concluded in
synagogues and home by making the Havdalah (separation) benediction.
The family gathers around the father, one child holding a twisted candle
while another holds the Besamim (spice box). The father places his
hands upon the heads of his children and blesses them; and he sings a
hymn of praise to his faithful wife. Even as the priest ministered in
the Holy Place, so does the Jewish father minister in his home. He
raises the goblet of wine to proclaim the holiness of Sabbath— Thank
YOU, CREATOR GOD for this holy day and for the days of work and asks for
light and joy and gladness and honor, inhales the fragrance of the
spices and recites a blessing for the good things of life; — brings
his hands close to the light, bending his fingers to make a shadow, so
as to distinguish between light and darkness and he offers thanks to the
HOLY ONE for creating light. Then, with the greeting, "Gut woch (happy
or good week)" —the ceremony is concluded. The Sabbath spirit,
however, lingers on as the family sing several melodies, the favorites
being about MESSIAH YESHUA and Elijah.

The cup of Wine (which is allowed to overflow into a saucer) represents
the unbounded grace of SOVEREIGN GOD. The Spices indicate the pleasure
in the Sabbath and are a substitute for the incense used in the ancient
Temple at the time of prayer, while the Light is a reminder of GOD'S
creation of the First Day, to which the approaching days of the week
correspond. The placing of the hands over the candles when reciting the
words "between light and darkness" is to illustrate the words by showing
the light inside the hands, and the shadow outside them.

To the believer in the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, the Light is symbolical of
THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD (JESUS) WHO does separate from the darkness of
sin and translates into the Kingdom of the Sun (YINNON — the SON)!

The Wine pictures the GRACE OF GOD through the blood of the EVERLASTING
COVENANT which belongs to all who believe. The Incense expresses the
words of the Psalmist— "In YOUR PRESENCE is fullness of perfect joy;
delights and pleasures are ever in YOUR right hand." [Psalms (Tehillym)
16. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

What a wealth of meaning the Day of Rest (Sabbath) has for those who
have entered into the NEW COVENANT, who have found their freedom, their
delight, their rest in the LORD OF THE SABBATH, who have ceased from
their own labors for salvation and now are leaning upon the EVERLASTING
ARMS!

"Therefore, let us be diligent to make every effort to enter that REST,
lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. "
[Hebrews 4. 11] "For he who has entered GOD'S REST also rests from his
own work as GOD did from HIS." [Hebrews 4. 10] We trust in the work
already done; we rest in the finished work of CHRIST JESUS on Calvary' s
Altar which fulfilled the OLD COVENANT prophesies! We will fully
experience the ultimate of GOD'S SABBATH REST in the Kingdom Age when we
behold our LORD & KING face-to-face.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Welcome Shabbat ha'Chodesh (Sabbath of the new moon)! HEAVENLY
FATHER accept our rest and on this Sabbath Day renew us for YOUR good
and bless us with YOUR joy and gladness. Blessed are YOU, our LORD GOD,
WHO sanctifies the Sabbath, Israel and all who love YOUR PRECIOUS SON,
YESHUA our ANOINTED SAVIOR, the GLORIOUS COMFORTER, WHO gives true
Sabbath peace and rest. To you we bow the head and bend the knee and
magnify the KING of kings, the HOLY ONE, praised be HE.
The book of Leviticus entreats us — "Keep Sabbath and reverence the
Sanctuary of the LORD your GOD." It is a mitzvah for every Jew, single
or married, young or old, to observe Shabbat. The unique status of
Shabbat is demonstrated by its being the only one of the holy days to be
mentioned in the Ten Commandments. ... Shabbat observance involves both
positive and negative mitzvot, i.e., doing and refraining from doing.

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Faith is being certain of what we hope for.

ACCEPTABLE TIME
"For He says In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the
day of salvation I have helped you. Behold, now is the accepted time;
behold, now is the day of salvation." [2 Corinthians 6. 2]

If you are content with your life just as it is, you neglect your
spiritual need thinking you will deal with eternity just before you die.
Deferring, putting-off, indifference, and all other types of
procrastination is the major deadly sin of unbelievers. Even if one
understands the LIFE-GIVING WoRD and realizes their need of salvation,
they still put off making a decision or commitment.

This, however, is a critically dangerous behavior or thought. ScripturE
tells us, "you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your
life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then
vanishes away. Instead you ought to say If the LORD wills, we shall
live and do this or that. But now you boast in your arrogance. All such
boasting is evil. Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do
it, to him it is sin." [James 4. 14 - 17]

The sin of indifference (lack of interest, unconcerned) then becomes the
sin of neglect, then the ultimate unforgivable sin of permanent
rejection and unbelief. The HOLY ONE has warned: "Walk in the Spirit,
and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts
against the Spirit, and the SPIRIT against the flesh; and these are
contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you
wish." [Galatians 5. 16 - 18]

"Heed hIS voice today, do not be stubborn and harden your hearts."
[Psalms (Tehillym) 95. 7 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This warning from
the psalmist was considered so important that the writer of Hebrews
quoted it three times over. Such an emphasis suggests that there is
indeed a great danger in resisting GoD'S call to salvation. There
may be another opportunity, but it is a haughty and arrogant action to
presume on the ALMIGHTY ONE'S patient, long-suffering mercy.

Today is the day of salvation. The accepted time is now! We must "work
out our own salvation with fear and trembling" [Philippians 2. 12]
not leaning on others, but on the LORD JESUS alone. We must learn to
walk and stand alone instead of leaning on any other person or
influence. Our spiritual duties must be our own hearts actions. Our
free gift of salvation must be received by grace; and though we are
hated by all men for CHRIST'S sake, whoever endures to the end shall
be saved. [Mark 13. 13]

Keep in mind, "Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be
thought worthy who has trampled the SON OF GOD underfoot, counted the
blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and
insulted the SPIRIT OF GRACE?" In view of the fact that, "It is a
fearful thing to fall into the hands of the LIVING GOD." [Hebrews 10.
29, 32] Nevertheless, he who endures to the end shall be saved. So,
make your daily choice shrewdly, decide wisely, and establish your
directions with care. . . now! May our LOVING HEAVENLY FATHER guide
your choice each day along the way.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Many are the enemies that have risen against us, but trusting in YOU, O
GOD, we are confident that we will never be dismayed. Continue to
instill courage and steadfastness in our faith and trust in YOU. Uphold
us, sustain us and may we always walk undaunted in the path of loyalty
as YOUR redeemed children. As we bend the knee to YOU alone, we give
YOU thanks for always hearing our prayer giving bold confidence as we
strive unceasingly for the triumph of truth. In YOUR PRECIOUS NAME,
JESUS, we ask these things. Amen

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Peace is not a season, it is a way of life.

VOICE BEHIND
"Then shall your light burst through like the dawn and your healing
spring forth speedily; your VINDICATOR shall march before you; the
PRESENCE OF THE LORD shall be your rear guard. Then, when you call, the
LORD will answer; when you cry, HE will say Here I am." [Isaiah
(Yeshayah) 58. 8 - 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Not only does our LOVING SAVIOR go before us on life's journey, HE also
protects behind us. Like the SHEKINAH GLORY CLOUD of old, HE is a LIGHT
to lead by day and a PILLAR OF FIRE behind us to guard by night.

ALMIGHTY GOD'S glory, like the GLORY CLOUD in the wilderness, is the
faithful believer' s REAR GUARD as he advances. The CLOUD was identified
also as "THE ANGEL OF GOD" WHO both "went ahead the camp of Israel" then
"took up a place behind them." [Exodus/Shemot 14. 19] We have this
gracious assurance, "For you will not depart in haste, nor will you
leave in flight; for the LORD is marching before you, the GOD OF ISRAEL
is your REAR GUARD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 52. 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

IF we listen, we can also hear HIS LIFE-GIVING WRITTEN WORD, both in HIS
leading ahead and directing our steps behind. "Whenever you deviate to
the right or to the left, your ears will hear the command from behind
you This is THE WAY, follow it!" [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 30. 21 Tanakh,
Nevi'im] This was how it was with the Apostle John on the Isle of
Patmos: "I was in the SPIRIT on the LORD'S Day, and heard behind me a
GREAT VOICE, as of a trumpet." [Revelation 1. 10]

With the TRUSTWORTHY- INFALLIBLE GUIDE going before us and an
INVINCIBLE-UNCONQUE RABLE GUARD behind us, why should we hesitate to
follow the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH? HE "guides me in right paths
as befits HIS NAME" and promises to "renew my life." [Psalms/Tehillym
23. 3] If only we would prepare our hearts, the promises for the
righteous from our FAITHFUL GOD are endless and our lives would be
brighter than the noonday and none could make us afraid because the HOLY
ONE is our HOPE & STAY (CONFIDENCE) , our EVER-PRESENT HELP.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
O GOD, WHO alone is all good, WHOSE mercies fail not; WHOSE
loving-kindnesses never cease, we have all our hope and trust in YOU.
We bless YOU, our SALVATION and our HELP, our GOD to WHOM thanksgiving
is due. We are ever grateful that YOU dwell in us! HE, MESSIAH YESHUA,
will lift the people and prove that HIS WORD & Law are valid. Be
perfect that you may have boldness in the Day of Judgment.

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Perform an act, and you reap a habit, establish a habit and you harvest a character, initiate a character and you obtain a destiny.

SIN'S COVERING, THE LAMB
"The LORD GOD made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them." [Genesis (Bereshith) 3. 21 Tanakh, Torah]

When Adam and Eve sinned, the LORD GOD HIMSELF made the first sacrifice to cover their guilt. Most likely two sheep were killed to make clothing for the couple, as the Proverbs reveals: "The lambs will provide your clothing, and the he-goats, the price of a field." [Proverbs (Mishle) 27. 26 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Because they knew they were naked and ashamed, they tried to cover themselves with fig leaves, yet their sense of guilt remained. For without the shedding of blood there is no atonement for sin. "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you for making expiation for your lives upon the altar; it is the blood, as life, that makes atonement." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 17. 11 Tanakh, Torah] Human works can never make us presentable to the BLESSED GOD MOST HOLY, only HE can provide appropriate covering for "we have all become like an unclean thing, and all our virtues like a filthy rag. We are all withering as leaves, and our iniquities, like the wind, carry us off." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 64. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Torah] It is because of our iniquities that we are consumed; if the LORD had not fashioned the PERFECT COVERING OF RIGHTEOUSNESS for us by providing HIS LAMB before the world was ever formed. [1 Peter 1. 19 - 21]

The clothing for the first couple, prefiguring GOD'S OWN SON, was the SACRIFICIAL LAMB that was pure, perfect and spotless that was willing to die for the offensive transgressions of the whole world; whereby YEHOWAH greatly rejoiced to "cloth me with the garments of salvation, wrapped me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorned with ornaments, like a bride decorated with finery." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 61. 10 Tanakh, Torah]

"Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men" [Romans 5.12]; there is by this ONE IMMACULATE MAN justification from sin granted as we are willing to accept HIS atoning blood of grace. "According to the Law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of (innocent) blood there is no remission." [Hebrews 9. 22]

Because of the extraordinary price the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, JESUS, the ROCK OF OUR SALVATION paid, we can once again walk with the GREAT GOD OF CREATION and our lives can be gloriously changed, just as was the lives of Adam and Eve. When we really see "the precious blood of MESSIAH, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" [1 Peter 1. 19] spilled in sacrifice for our redemption, our lives also are forever changed. HIS blood covered me with righteousness and clothed me with salvation, therefore I shout triumphantly with exuberant joy.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
All goodness and truth are YOURS, YEHOWAH, O LORD, SOVEREIGN of the Universe. May no evil estrange us from YOU , nor error darken our vision of YOUR purposes. Help us to discern YOUR justice and to understand YOUR will. In adversity and in prosperity, let YOUR Law be a lamp to our feet to illumine our path. May we so labor in YOUR service that our lives become a hymn of praise to YOU. Amen


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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
We make our future by the best use of the present.

EZEKIEL' S VISION (Part 5 of 6) —
LED BY THE SPIRIT — "And when the Creatures moved forward, the
wheels moved at their sides; and when the Creatures were borne above the
earth, the wheels were borne too. Wherever the SPIRIT impelled them to
go, they went — wherever the SPIRIT impelled them — and the
wheels were borne alongside them; for the SPIRIT OF THE CREATURES was in
the wheels. When those moved, these moved; when those stood still, these
stood still; and when those were borne above the earth, the wheels were
borne alongside them - for the SPIRIT of the Creatures was in the
wheels." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 19 - 21 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The ministry of the LORD JESUS displayed the truth of these verses. As
MESSIAH YESHUA walked on this earth, HE was led in all things by the
SPIRIT OF GOD. This reality in HIS life is shown from the very
beginning of HIS ministry: "Then JESUS was led up by the SPIRIT into
the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil." [Matthew 4. 1]

DEATH — "Above the heads of the CREATURES was a form, an expanse,
with an awe-inspiring gleam as of crystal was spread out above their
heads. Under the expanse, each had one pair of wings extended toward
those of the others; and each had another pair covering its body. When
they moved, I could hear the sound of their wings like the sound of
mighty waters, like the sound of SHADDAI (THE ALMIGHTY ONE) a tumult
like the sound of an army. When they stood still, they would let their
wings droop. From above the expanse over their heads came a sound. When
they stood still, they would let their wings droop." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 1. 22 - 25 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

When ELOHIYM created the universe, HE said there was to be "a firmament,
an expanse, in the midst of the water, that it may separate water from
water." [Genesis (Bereshith) 1. 6 Tanakh, Torah] After the creation of
the firmament, CREATOR GOD "called the expanse, Sky (Heaven)." [Genesis
(Bereshith) 1. 8 Tanakh, Torah] Over the LIVING CREATURES was a
firmament or expanse. The LORD JESUS performed HIS ministry under
HeavenÂ…on the earth. HE walked and talked as no man had ever done.
After YESHUA had calmed the wind and the waves, the disciples marveled,
saying, "WHO can this be? that even the winds and the sea obey HIM?"
[Matthew 8. 27] It was said of JESUS: "No man ever spoke like this
MAN." [John 7. 46] The uniqueness of the LORD MESSIAH is captured when
the sound of the CREATURES' wings is said to be "like the sound of
mighty waters of SHADDAI, the ALMIGHTY — a tumult like the din of an
army." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 24 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH was unique because HE IS GOD IN HUMAN FLESH.

A climactic point is reached at this place in the chapter. Wings have
pictured the protection of the ALMIGHTY ONE but the next two verses
state, "when they stood still, they would let their wings droop (let
down their wings)." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 24 - 25 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The LORD YESHUA, the HOLY ANOINTED ONE promised, "If I am lifted up from
the earth, I will draw all peoples to MYSELF." [John 12. 32] The
LIVING CREATURES STOOD STILL . . .JESUS went to the cross. It was at
that time, and at that time only in the life of YESHUA that the wings of
GOD'S protection were let down. The depravity and filth of sin of all
mankind were placed on HIM at Golgotha' s Calvary. In fulfillment
of the prophecy, "MY GOD, MY GOD, why have YOU abandoned ME? Why so far
from delivering ME and from MY anguished roaring?" [Psalms (Tehillym)
22. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] JESUS, the CHRIST OF CALVARY cried out at that
time — "ELI, ELI, lama sabachthani — that is, 'MY GOD, MY GOD,
why have YOU forsaken ME?'" [Matthew 27. 46] The crowning moment of
HIS ministry was coming, but first HE had to endure the crucifixion.
JESUS had to suffer, abandoned by GOD THE FATHER. However, the LORD
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH would soon rise as SOVEREIGN GOD OF THE UNIVERSE.

...to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Bidding farewell to Sabbath Parah! O LORD GOD OF HOSTS give us the
kindness to hear with compassion, to offer support, loving comfort, and
care; give us the courage to do what is needed, the wisdom to choose
what is right and most fair; give us the vision to see what is possible;
give us the faith that will help pave the way for a present that's
hopeful, a future that's peaceful — give us the heart to bring
joy to each day.
Tov Shavua — Have a good week!

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
O come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our
MAKER.

EZEKIEL' S VISION (Part 6 - Conclusion) —
RESURRECTION & ASCENSION — "Above the expanse over their heads was
the semblance of a throne, in appearance like sapphire; and on top, upon
this semblance of a throne, there was the semblance of a HUMAN (Man)
form. From what appeared as HIS loins up, I saw a gleam as of amber
— what looked like a fire encased in a frame; and from what appeared
as HIS loins down, I saw what looked like fire. There was a radiance all
about HIM." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 26 - 27 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Suddenly Ezekiel was transported above the firmament where he saw a
throne, and sitting on that throne was a MAN. From the scene of death
in verse 25, Ezekiel was ushered into an exalted setting. His vision
had clearly taken him through the resurrection of the LORD JESUS and HIS
ascension into Heaven, for Ezekiel now saw KING YESHUA sitting on a
throne. JESUS, the LORD ETERNAL, today is "seated at the right hand of
power far above all principality and power and might and dominion"
[Ephesians 1. 20 - 21] waiting to return to this earth as the VICTORIOUS
KING OF GLORY. The RIGHTEOUS MESSIAH' S present ministry is that of
INTERCESSOR (ADVOCATE) with the FATHER on behalf of the Saints. [1 John
2. 1]

In verses 26 and 27, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is described in all of HIS glory
being the exalted KING and MAJESTIC RULER OF HEAVEN & EARTH. The
brilliance of HIS HOLINESS is pictured here in Ezekiel just as it is in
Revelation 1:13-16 where YESHUA is shown as having the same glory as the
HEAVENLY FATHER seated on the throne. Revelation shows the scene of THE
THRONE and the ONE seated on the throne surrounded by an emerald rainbow
(depicting Eternal Life), "Immediately I was in the SPIRIT; and behold,
a throne set in heaven, and ONE sat on the Throne. And HE WHO sat there
was like a jasper and a Sardis stone in appearance; and there was a
rainbow around the Throne, in appearance like an emerald." [Revelation
4. 2 - 3] YESHUA is the PERFECT BLAMELESS LAMB WHO takes the scroll
from the hand of the ONE seated on the Throne. [Revelation 5. 5 - 7]

"Like the appearance of the bow which shines in the clouds on a day of
rain, such was the appearance of the surrounding radiance. That was the
appearance of the semblance of the PRESENCE OF THE LORD. When I beheld
it, I flung myself down on my face and I heard the VOICE of ONE
speaking." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 28 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

"The appearance of the bow which shines in the clouds on a day of rain"
would be the Rainbow round about the Throne. The rainbow was a pledge
of ELOHIYM' S faithfulness to HIS COVENANTS. "I have set MY bow in
the clouds, and it shall serve as a sign of the Covenant between ME and
the earth." [Genesis (Bereshith) 9. 13 Tanakh, Torah] The ALMIGHTY
BLESSED ONE sits upon the Throne. . . splendid, dazzling, and terrible;
but encompassed about by the Covenant of Grace.

Ezekiel' s response to what he saw is instructive for us today. Ezekiel
saw the glory of his EL SHADDAI, how impressive his OMNIPOTENT GOD is,
and he could respond in only one way. . . he fell on his face. In
submission and humility, Ezekiel prostrated himself before the AWESOME
LORD GOD, CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE. Down through the centuries, this has
been the only possible response for all men and women who have plain and
genuinely seen the glory of YEHOWAH in the risen LORD MESSIAH JESUS.

Throughout the pages of HOLY SCRIPTURE, we are shown the impressiveness
of MESSIAH LORD JESUS. In Ezekiel 1, we are given an overview of HIS
entire life and ministry. CHRIST JESUS came from Heaven to earth. HE
is the GOD/MAN. HE walked a perfect walk in obedience to the FATHER.
The LORD JESUS is the blessed forever REDEEMER — SAVIOR — KING
WHO will return as the LORD OF GLORY. MESSIAH YESHUA died for our sins,
but arose jubilantly victorious over death and is now seated at the
right hand of the OMNIPOTENT FATHER GOD. Anyone who sees the LOVING
MESSIAH, the LORD JESUS CHRIST OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES cannot help but
willingly fall in submission before HIM.

Ultimately, Ezekiel "heard the VOICE OF ONE that spoke." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 1. 28 Tanakh, Nevi'im] There is a natural progression:
Ezekiel saw — fell — heard. It is crucial that when a person
fully sees and comprehends the incomparable greatness of JESUS OF
NAZARETH, he will fall before the LORD and respond to MESSIAH' S leading.
Ezekiel was asked to do some strange things during his life
[Ezekiel/Yehezke- El 4. 1-6], but he never questioned his HEAVENLY
FATHER, the ALMIGHTY OMNIPRESENT GOD. . . Ezekiel was obedient!

When you see the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH of the HOLY SCRIPTURES, you
will also experience how great and impressive HE assuredly is. Now,
you will want to do whatever HE asks of you! First, the LORD YESHUA
requires you to accept HIM personally as your only SAVIOUR, REDEEMER &
LORD. . . then to follow HIM in obedience to HIS teachings as it is
written in HIS HOLY WRITTEN WORD. Then, when you understand how
absolutely, thoroughly, unconditionally remarkably great the LORD
MESSIAH YESHUA is, it won't be difficult to accept and follow the
GLORIOUS LORD JESUS implicitly. Amen! What a WONDERFUL SAVIOUR HE is!
Hallelu' YAH! such amazing love!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world of YOUR creation.
May YOUR will be fulfilled and Your sovereignty revealed in the days of
our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel speedily and in
our time. May YOU be blessed forever, even to all eternity. May YOU,
MOST HOLY ONE, be blessed, praised & honoured, extolled & glorified,
adored and exalted above all else. Blessed are YOU beyond all blessings
and hymns, praises and consolations that may be uttered in this world.
May peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all
Israel, Amen.

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
No matter how great the loss, this faith of ours always remains.

EZEKIEL' S VISION (Part 4 of 6) —
WHEELS & FIRE: "Such then was the appearance of the LIVING CREATURES,
their appearance was like burning coals of fire, and like torches. Fire
was moving about among the living creatures; the fire had a radiance,
and lightning issued from it. And the LIVING CREATURES ran and returned
as the appearance of a flash of lightning. As I gazed on the LIVING
CREATURES, I saw one wheel on the earth next to each of the Four-Faced
CREATURES. As for the appearance and structure of the wheels, they
gleamed like beryl. All four had the same likeness; the appearance and
structure of each was as of two wheels cutting through each other —
a wheel in the middle of a wheel. And when they moved, each could move
in any one of four directions; they did not turn aside when they moved.
Their rims were so tall they were frightening; for the rims of all four
were covered all over with eyes." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 13 - 18
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The LIVING CREATURES are presented as having the appearance of burning
coals of fire and torches. The NEW COVENANT tells us that "Our GOD is a
CONSUMING FIRE." [Hebrews 12. 29] The OLD COVENANT, David said, "The
LORD is my LIGHT." [Psalms (Tehillym) 27. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] MESSIAH
YESHUA, when addressing the Pharisees stated emphatically that HE is
"The LIGHT OF THE WORLD." [John 8. 12] The FIRE and the LIGHT went up
and down around the creatures. The LORD JESUS is "the BRIGHTNESS of HIS
(the FATHER'S) glory and the EXPRESS IMAGE OF HIS PERSON." [Hebrews 1.
3] Our MIGHTY GOD is a CONSUMING FIRE and the ETERNAL LIGHT.

The LIVING CREATURES "ran and returned." To return to a place, one has
to have been there before. At the beginning of this age, the SON OF
GOD stepped down from Heaven and for 33 years lived on this planet. As
the LORD YESHUA was leaving Har ha'Zeitim (the Mount of Olives) to
return to Heaven, an angelic messenger made the promise, "This same
JESUS, WHO was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like
manner as you saw HIM go into heaven." [Acts 1. 11] Ezekiel portrays
the return of KING JESUS when it stated that the LIVING CREATURES
"returned like the appearance of a flash of lightning." [v. 14] YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH HIMSELF stated, "as the lightning comes out of the east, and
shines even unto the west, so shall also the coming of the SON OF MAN
be." [Matthew 24. 27]

There is a vivid description of the wheels which symbolism declares a
basic truth about the person of the LORD YESHUA. Speaking of the birth
of the MESSIAH in Beit'Lehem, Micah said, "(THE ONE) WHOSE origin is
from of old, from ancient times." [Micah (Michah) 5. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
YESHUA is the EXALTED LORD, HE is Eternal! JESUS is GOD EVERLASTING.
The "likeness" ; represented by the "wheel upon the earth" is the GOD/MAN.
"A wheel in the middle of a wheel" represents the truth of the incarnate
SON in-dwelt by the SPIRIT OF YEHOWAH for power in HIS ministry.

The rim of the wheels being tall and frightening speak of the majestic,
awesome greatness of the PERSONAGE of JESUS. The eyes around the rims
speak of HIS omniscience; HE sees all, including the thoughts and
intents of the heart. JESUS is the WONDROUS LORD and is to be feared
and worshiped.

The wheels also speak of the power of the HOLY SPIRIT united with the
LORD JESUS CHRIST. "And I looked, and behold, in the midst of the
Throne and the four LIVING CREATURES, and in the midst of the elders,
stood a LAMB as though it had been slain, having seven horns and seven
eyes, which are the seven SPIRITS OF GOD sent out into all the earth."
[Revelation 5. 6] Zechariah declares that "those seven are the eyes of
the LORD, which scan to-and-fro ranging over the whole earth."
[Zechariah (Zecharyah) 4. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Ultimately, the Book of Revelation concludes in telling of the "Four
LIVING CREATURES full of eyes in front and in back. The first LIVING
CREATURE was like a lion, the second LIVING CREATURE like a calf, the
third LIVING CREATURE had a face like a man, and the fourth LIVING
CREATURE was like a flying eagle. The four LIVING CREATURES, each having
six wings, were full of eyes around and within. And they do not rest day
or night, saying— "Holy! Holy! Holy! LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, WHO was and
is and is to come!" [Revelation 4. 6 - 8]

. . . to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Welcome Sabbath Parah! —The Sabbath of the Red Heifer takes place on
the Shabbat before Shabbat ha'Chodesh, in preparation for Passover.
Numbers/B' Midvar 19:1-22 describes the parah aduman (red heifer) in
the Jewish temple as part of the manner in which the kohanim (priest)
and the Jewish people purified themselves so they would be ready (pure)
to sacrifice the Corban (gift or offering to GOD) Pesach.
As you celebrate the day, remember to continually give thanks in all
things and share some of the sweetness of Sabbath with those around you
daily.

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Sometimes one must sift through life like an archeologist looking for
any remnant of humanity.

EZEKIEL' S VISION (Part 3 of 6)
HIS PERSON & WORK: "Each of them had a Human face (at the front); each
of the four had a face of a Lion on the right; each of the four had the
face of an Ox on the left; and each of the four had the face of an Eagle
(at the back)." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In studying the life of the LORD YESHUA, we must look at the Four
GOSPELS: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Each GOSPEL sets a different and
distinct light of the life and ministry of our BLESSED REDEEMER; and
when taken together, they present a complete picture of HIM. The
GOSPELS reveal the meaning of Ezekiel' s creatures and their Four Faces

The GOSPEL of Matthew was written to the Jewish people and proclaimed
YESHUA as their KING; HE is the MESSIAH, the ANOINTED RULER. The
genealogy given in Matthew 1, shows that JESUS was in the royal line of
King David through HIS legal father, Joseph. The book of Matthew
portray Messiah YESHUA as King, the LION.

Mark's GOSPEL presents YESHUA as a SERVANT. There is no genealogy of
JESUS given in Mark because no one would be interested in the lineage of
a servant. The face of the Ox accurately pictures the truth of the LORD
YESHUA as a SERVANT.

Luke declares that the LORD JESUS is the PERFECT MAN and gives another
genealogy tracing HIM back through HIS Mother, Miryam (Mary); and her,
from Adam, the first man. There would definitely be great interest in
the genealogy of a PERFECT MAN. Therefore, there is no better choice to
portray YESHUA as a MAN than the face of a MAN.

John shows the CHRIST JESUS' DEITY, the SON OF THE MOST HIGH GOD. The
genealogy that John presents begins and ends with the ALMIGHTY
OMNIPOTENT CREATOR — "no beginning or ending" — HE has always
been. The fourth face is that of an EAGLE, which perfectly represents
John's teaching that MESSIAH YESHUA is the HOLY ETERNAL ONE. The eagle
is "king of the birds" — the most feared enemy of the snake.

The verse states, "the four had...the face of a LION on the right side;
the face of an OX on the left side." Two sides make up a whole. The
two-fold ministry of the LORD YESHUA is portrayed in the GOSPELS of
Matthew and Mark: JESUS came first as a SERVANT, and will one day
return as the SOVEREIGN KING. HE came the first time as the LAMB OF
GOD to die. . . and HE will return as the LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH to
reign forevermore.

DIRECTION & DELIVERANCE: "Such were their faces. As for their wings,
they were separated: Above, each had two touching those of the others,
while the other two covered its body. And each could move in the
direction of any of its faces; they went wherever the SPIRIT impelled
them to go, without turning, when they moved." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1.
11 - 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

"The wings stretched upward" speaks of our SAVIOR'S confident reliance
upon ELOHEY. "The wings covering the creatures" speak of the
ALMIGHTY' S complete protection. Two phrases repeated throughout the
remainder of the chapter, "they went every one straight forward" and
"wherever the SPIRIT impelled them to go, they went" — tell of the
one direction and purpose the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH had in HIS life.
HE went wherever the "SPIRIT OF YAH" led HIM. In all HIS entire life,
ANOINTED ONE never veered from the course that was set before HIM.

. . . to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
The CREATOR, PRESERVER and HEIR of the Universe has once for all made
purification of man's sin and gave him eternal salvation. So,
encourage one another. Even, so much the more, as you see the DAY OF
MESSIAH' S imminent return nearing. For infinite is HIS mighty power, HIS
ineffable (inexpressible, beyond words) glory, even so is HIS glorious
love. HalleluYAH! Grace be with you all. [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 10
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

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.

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Silence is a fence for wisdom. [Pirkei Avot 3:13]

EZEKIEL' S VISION (Part 2 of 6)
MAN or BEAST: "Out of the midst of it came the likeness of FOUR LIVING
CREATURES. And this was their appearance: They had the figures of a man.
However, each had four faces, and each of them had four wings; the legs
of each were (fused into) a single rigid leg, and the feet of each were
like a single calf's hoof, cleft in front, and their sparkle was like
the luster of burnished copper. They had human hands below their wings.
The four of them had their faces and their wings on their four sides.
Each one's wings toughed those of the other. They did not turn when they
moved, each could move in the direction of any of its faces." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 1. 5 - 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The creatures are symbolic of a Man — then it continues to describe
various aspects of the Creatures... wings, hands, and feet are mentioned.
Each characteristic is picturesque in its illustration of the ONE WHO is
GOD and became MAN. This is crucial to understanding the chapter.

In this chapter, wings are seen covering, joined, pointed up-or-down,
and described in a number of different ways. The many uses of wings
illustrate ALMIGHTY GOD'S care and protection. "HE will cover you with
HIS feathers; you will find refuge under HIS wings." [Psalms (Tehillym)
91. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] These creatures have wings covering their
bodies, picturing protection. MESSIAH YESHUA, in HIS earthly ministry,
was cared for and protected by the MIGHTY OMNIPOTENT GOD OF HEAVEN.

Their straight feet picture legs without joints, the feet could go in
only one direction. As is recorded: "Survey the course you take, and
all your ways will prosper. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep
your feet from evil." [Proverbs (Mishle) 4. 26 - 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
This is a counsel to believers to walk in straight paths; but, the
passage also is characteristic of the earthly walk of MESSIAH YESHUA.
The LORD JESUS always went in the direction HIS FATHER had laid out for
HIM. HE did not turn to the left or the right, but was perfect in all
HIS ways.

The sole of the creatures feet was "like the sole of a calf's foot; and
they sparkled like the color of burnished copper." The LORD YESHUA came
first as the "LAMB OF GOD" [John 1. 29], and someday soon, HE will
return as the "LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH." [Revelation 5. 5] The
calf's foot speaks of HIS "first coming" as the SAVIOR of the world.
In HOLY SCRIPTURE, copper indicate judgment and speaks of HIS "second
coming" as the SOVEREIGN JUDGE.

The hands under the wings speak of the accomplishment of JESUS' ministry
as a MAN. HE was protected and guided by FATHER GOD, but voluntarily
limited HIMSELF in HIS earthly ministry to that which HIS humanity would
permit. Verses five-thru-nine therefore speak of THE ONE WHO came from
Heaven, took on flesh, was led by the SPIRIT OF GOD, walked a perfect
path, and is both SAVIOR and SOVEREIGN LORD & KING.

. . .to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
The LORD shall yet comfort Zion and shall choose Jerusalem. The wise
serve the LORD OF GLORY out of their great love for HIM, in reverent
fear.

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.

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

EZEKIEL' S VISION (Part 1 of 6)
Chapter 1 of Ezekiel can be understood as you notice two things: The
words like and likeness are used 16 times in this one chapter, clearly
showing that the passage is a picture or illustration of something; and
that Ezekiel saw a vision of HOLY GOD. This fact is apparent from the
first and last verses, "The heavens opened and I saw visions of
ELOHIYM." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "...that was the
appearance of the semblance of the PRESENCE OF THE LORD." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 1. 28 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The Glory of the LORD has been
manifested in many ways: "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] Ezekiel saw the glory of the
FATHER in the PERSON of HIS SON, JESUS. From this vision, John
described for us the Life, Person and Ministry of the LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH.

TIME & PLACE OF THE VISION: "In the thirtieth year (the 30th year of
captivity), on the fifth day of the fourth month, when I was in the
community of exiles by the Chebar Canal, the heavens opened and I saw
visions of GOD. On the fifth day of the month — it was the fifth
year of the exile of King Jehoiachin — the WORD OF THE LORD came to
Ezekiel the priest, son of Buzi, by the Chebar Canal, in the land of the
Chaldeans. And the hand of the LORD came upon him there." [Ezekiel
(Yehezke-El) 1. 1 - 3 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

These verses introduce Ezekiel the priest. The time is around 593
BC/BCE, seven years before Jerusalem was captured by Babylon. Ezekiel
is in captivity and is standing at the River Chebar where he receives "a
vision of ELOHIYM." {This awe-inspiring vision unfolds for us in verses
4 – 28.}

FIRST COMING: "I looked, and lo, a stormy wind came sweeping out of the
North — a huge cloud and flashing fire, surrounded by a radiance;
and in the center of it, in the center of the fire, a gleam as of
amber." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 1. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Immediately Ezekiel looked and saw ONE coming from the North. The
terminology in this verse has been used before to speak of ELOHIYM and
HIS PRESENCE (KABOD/GLORY) . The ALMIGHTY spoke to Job "out of the
whirlwind." [Job/Iyob 38. 1] During the wilderness wanderings, the
HOLY LORD GOD revealed HIMSELF to the people of Israel through the
Tabernacle worship and HE led them through the movement of a CLOUD upon
the Tabernacle by day and a FIRE by night. [Exodus/Shemot 40. 34 - 38]

Also, the GREAT GOD OF ISRAEL indicated that HIS dwelling place is in
the North part of the universe, "For what lifts a man comes not from the
east, or the west, or from the south for ELOHIYM is HE WHO gives
judgment; HE brings down one man, HE lifts up another." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 75. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] These verses seem to confirm the
truth that our LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH came from the "North" — from
Heaven — when HE became MAN . . . DEITY took on the form of man
clothed in flesh.

...to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
We greet, salute, and encourage each saint in the LORD JESUS CHRIST
keeping you always in our prayers. Remember, life's challenges work out
for the best, when we recognize what appear to be obstacles as
opportunities to develop ourselves for the better. We realize that all
things come from the invisible hand of GOD OMNIPOTENT that guides our
life. May HIS grace be with you.

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The world will never be better. . . unless we are.

MAN'S INFAMOUS ADVERSARY
The stunning, elegantly beautiful Hadassah (Queen Ester) had been reared
by her cousin, Mordecai as his own daughter. [Esther/Ester 2. 15] When
she was chosen by King Ahasuerus as his Queen, Mordecai commanded her
not to reveal her identity as a Jewess to her husband or to any of the
court (for fear of death) — for the Jews were unpopular in Persia.
Hadassah obeyed Mordecai' s command in every respect until the time came
for the secret to be known.

A wicked man named Haman was made ruler over all the provinces in the
kingdom by order of the king. He required that all people bow to him to
give him homage, but Mordecai, being a Jew, could only bow before the
GOD OF ISRAEL and therefore provoked the wrath of the Prime Minister by
disobedience to his command. This enraged Haman to such a degree that
he sought to destroy, not only Mordecai, but all the Jews in the
province. He persuaded King Ahasuerus to decree the death of all Jews
because this one Jew did not bow to him.

Jewish people explain the casting of lots "Purim" like this: Haman,
having been warned that all enemies of the Jews had in the past met with
frustration, being superstitious, decided to cast lots to determine the
most favorable day for the slaughter. The "lots" indicated that day to
be the 13th day of the twelfth month, Adar. But it turned out that
Haman was hanged on the same gallows which he had previously prepared
for Mordecai, and all the Jews escaped a terrible massacre. The next
day, the 14th of Adar, the victory was joyously celebrated.

Esther had been willing to die for her people's salvation. The LORD
MESSIAH YESHUA was not only willing, but did die in order that HIS
people would be saved from eternal destruction! Then, just as HE said
HE would, YESHUA rose from the grave victoriously. HalleluYAH!

Haman, a hater of the Jews [Esther/Ester 3. 6], and Mordecai, the Jew,
are not mere figures in history. Ever since there have been Jews, there
have been Haman's throughout the centuries who have ever been their
enemies bent on their destruction. The Egyptians were the first people
on record to institute anti-Semitic practices. [Genesis/Bereshith 43.
32]

The real reason for the attack on the Jewish nation is given in the Book
of Revelation: "Now when the dragon saw that he had been cast to the
earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male Child."
[Revelation 12. 13] The Dragon hates and persecutes "the woman" that
brought forth the MAN-CHILD (YESHUA ha'MASHIACH) . It is the old
enmity, the serpent, against the chosen vessel through which the
"BRUISER of his head" was born into the world. But the ETERNAL ONE,
blessed be HE and blessed be HIS HOLY NAME, uses the wrath of the dragon
for HIS OWN purposes touching HIS people. Just as Joseph dealt with his
brethren in the time of famine, speaking roughly to them, accusing them
of being thieves, causing the cup to be found in innocent Benjamin' s
sack to awaken their slumbering consciences about the dark deed in the
background of their lives. Finally they cried, "We are truly guilty
concerning our brother" as their sin rose up before them. This is the
true cause of the wicked persecution of the Jews.

On the very first occasion that the Devil is mentioned by name, he is
described as standing up against Israel, "Satan arose against Israel and
incited David to number Israel." [1 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Alef) 21.
1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This is the secret of anti-Semitism. The Old
Dragon, Satan is the enemy of all mankind, but his hatred is directed
particularly against the Jews and all who love the GOD OF THE HEBREWS.

However, the national cultures and races of earth meet in the LORD JESUS
to discover we are brothers. The more a person loves YESHUA the
RIGHTEOUS KING OF GLORY, the more we love each other. The closer we get
to MESSIAH YESHUA, the closer we are bound to all men. Hate cannot live
in the light of the love of our WONDERFUL REDEEMER.

May ALMIGHTY GOD fortify the spirit of every reader of these lines
against the satanic influences abroad everywhere today, even robbing
many in the churches of a DIVINE BLESSING! Thus we must "be strong in
the LORD and in power of HIS might. Put on the full armor of GOD, that
you may be able to stand against the devil's schemes. For our
struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities,
against powers, against the rulers of this dark world and against the
spiritual forces of evil wickedness in heavenly place." [Ephesians 6. 10
- 12] The LORD JESUS CHRIST declared, "This is MY commandment, that
you love one another as I have loved you." [John 15. 12] Therefore, go
forth loving and being loved, the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD is with you!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
"Simcha Shel Mitzvah - Joy in doing good." 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! Remember, faith celebrates even before
the victory is seen!

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.

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