Delrifkah: Thought FOR TODAY

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
"Enough" is as good as a feast! Happy and blessed is the man content
with little.

UNTIL I COME
"So he (a certain nobleman) called his ten servants and delivered to
them ten minas, and said unto them— Do business (occupy) till I
come." [Luke 19. 13]

With this parable, the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA was trying to teach HIS
disciples that they should stay busy using whatever abilities and
opportunities they had in the LORD'S service until HE returned. This
practical illustration is also suggested where Paul forewarned Timothy,
"No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this
life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier." [2 Timothy
2. 4] Paul is cautioning those who would be "good soldiers of MESSIAH"
against becoming involved in the "affairs of the world" if they are
really wanting to be pleasing to their COMMANDING OFFICER.

The LORD JESUS CHRIST says to stay busy with the practical affairs of
life until HE returns, then Paul affirms not to get involved with such
things — this is no real contradiction if the motivation is
considered. Whatever may be our vocation in life, as led by the MOST
HOLY ONE, we are to perform joyously and all the other daily
responsibilities of life diligently and faithfully for HIS sake.

However, if we allow these things to become an end in themselves or use
them for any other purposes than for HIS glory — we are then
becoming tangled up in the affairs of this life, which will vanish. The
LORD OF GLORY, blessed be HE , encourages us to "hold fast what you have
till I come. And he who overcomes, and keeps MY works until the end, to
him I will give power over the nations." [Revelation 2. 25 - 26] YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH desires that we be diligent in whatever HE has called us to
do until HE comes; for when HE comes, we will be judged on our
faithfulness.

"Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the LORD comes, WHO will
both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the
counsels of the hearts. Then each one's praise will come from GOD." [1
Corinthians 4. 5] The LORD YESHUA took up HIS cross intelligently,
voluntarily, deliberately and joyfully because HE knew it was the
FATHER'S will. Taking up our cross is to accept the will of GOD in
the same manner as MESSIAH did, fully knowing that it will involve some
degree of pain and discomfort as it did for our MASTER. However, it
will be worth it all, the trials of this life will soon be forgotten and
perfection will be to the faithful!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
If we spend our time judging others, we make no room for simply loving
them. Remember how surprisingly wondrous is our HEAVENLY FATHER'S
patience with us and learn from HIM and do likewise.

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 offer others harbor, we calm our own storms.

LOOKING BACK
"Listen to ME you that pursue justice, you who seek the LORD; look to
the ROCK you were hewn from, and to the quarry you were dug from."
[Isaiah (Yeshayah) 51. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

It is not good to dwell on the past continually — be it in pride of
past achievements, discouragements, past failures, or grieving over
losses. However, it is good to never forget what the LORD GOD has done
for us. In this instance Israel is reminded of Abraham and Sarah who
had been digged out of the pit of paganism, and cut out of the rock of
idolatry, and whom OMNIPOTENT CREATOR had greatly blessed.

Looking back, David wrote that the ALMIGHTY ONE "lifted me out of the
miry pit, the slimy clay, and set my feet on a rock, steadied my legs."
[Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The Apostle Paul looked
back and said, "You have heard of my former conduct in Judaism, how I
persecuted the Church of GOD...but when it pleased GOD, WHO...called me
by HIS grace to reveal HIS SON in me that I might preach HIM...they
glorified GOD in me." [Galatians 1. 13, 15 - 16, 24]

Whatever our own background may be — biased skeptics, openly
scandalous, shameful sinners, self-righteous hypocrites, swindlers —
the LOVING ALMIGHTY LORD GOD has indeed, if we are now saved by HIS
amazing grace, digged us out of a pit and set us on a SOLID ROCK, the
BLESSED REDEEMER, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. We were "strangers from the
covenants of promise, having no hope and without GOD in the world."
[Ephesians 2. 12] But the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, "has delivered us
from the power of darkness and translated us into the Kingdom of the SON
of HIS love." [Colossians 1. 13]

"Such were some of you" wrote Paul of such gross sins as fornication,
idolatry, homosexuality, adultery, and thievery, as well as covetousness
and drunkenness. "But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you
were justified in the NAME of CHRIST JESUS and by the SPIRIT of our
GOD." [1 Corinthians 6. 9 - 11] Looking back will help us to remember;
but more important is to look UP in humble thankfulness for the grace
and mercies of our MIGHTY & HOLY LORD GOD. It will be worth it all
when we see HIM. O, how I long to see YESHUA'S face, the LORD I
love!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Take upon yourself the yoke of the Kingdom of Heaven and give sanction
to one another to bless the CREATOR. Open your mouth in holiness and
purity, with song and psalm, and bless and praise, glorify and revere,
sanctify and ascribe sovereignty to the NAME of the DIVINE KING, the
GREAT, MIGHTY & AWESOME ONE. Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is
YOUR love for us and YOUR compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that
we may understand and fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED WORD.
Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments.
Thank YOU, HEAVENLY FATHER, for YOUR saving power, for from YOU comes
our help; draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully,
we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME.

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


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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
There is a fear of GOD which causes men to flee from HIM; and one which
causes them to dance before HIM with joyÂ…may you know the latter.

CREATOR OF DARKNESS
"I form light and create darkness, I make prosperity and create woe
— I the LORD do all these things." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 45. 7 Tanakh,
Nevi'im]

The Hebrew word "'ra" is translated woe or evil plainly meaning misery,
calamity, affliction, adversity — it never means sin. The ETERNAL
GIVER OF LIFE said, "cursed be the ground because of you"
[Genesis/Bereshith 3. 17] that the sorrows, pains and anguishes of life
might bring mankind to know his great need of the LOVING REDEEMER.
When sin has been removed in the New Earth, sin and evil, as well as the
curse on the ground, will be no more.

The same is true in the case with darkness since "GOD is LIGHT and in
HIM is no darkness at all." [1 John 1. 5] It was necessary for
ha'Kadosh Barukh Hu (the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE), to create darkness so
there would be a distinction between day and night. The heavenly
darkness became the background for the sun, moon and stars to serve
their function for "signs and for set times - the days and the years."
[Genesis (Bereshith) 1. 14 Tanakh, Torah] Also, it was for man's
benefit while on earth, for he would need nightly rest as well as his
daily food.

Therefore, the darkness enveloping the earth at its time of creation
[Genesis/Bereshith 1. 2] was not a judgment on the earth because of the
fall of the Devil as some have taught. Like everything else created by
our TREASURED LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, it was "very good" [Genesis/Bereshith
1. 31] — created for a special and helpful purposes. The evil
implications of darkness came later when evil men and demons found they
could better promote their deceptions under cover of darkness. However,
the light of the LORD GOD is available to overcome and conquer the
darkness when needed and desired, "The darkness is not dark for YOU; the
night is as light as day; darkness and light are the same." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 139. 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"For it is GOD WHO commanded light to shine out of darkness, WHO has
shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the GLORY OF
GOD in the face of MESSIAH YESHUA" [2 Corinthians 4. 6], the MAGNIFICENT
ONE "WHO is the BRIGHTNESS OF HIS GLORY and the PRECISE IMAGE OF HIS
PERSON." [Hebrews 1. 3] Blessed be the LORD GOD forever and ever. And,
may HE fill you who trusts in HIM with all joy and peace and hope by the
power of the HOLY SPIRIT.

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. May 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 Shavua — have a good week!

This evening begins a Fast Day (18 Tammuz 5772 — July 08, 2012
[sundown to sundown]), remembering the walls of Jerusalem being
breached. May the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL bless you abundantly.

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 LORD, for being my REFUGE.

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 not believing that the ALMIGHTY can, it's knowing that HE will.

CUSTOMS MIZRACH
"The many peoples and the multitudes of the nations shall come to seek
the LORD OF HOSTS in Jerusalem and to pray before the LORD." [Zechariah
(Zecharyah) 8. 22 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The "Mizrach" (rising of the sun the east) is a Jewish custom to
turn toward Jerusalem during the time of prayer. "When YOUR people go
out to battle against their enemy, by wherever way YOU send them, and
they pray to the LORD in the direction of the City which YOU have
chosen, and of the House which I have built to YOUR NAME, O hear in
heaven their prayer and supplication and uphold their cause." [1 King
(Melakhim Alef) 8. 44 - 45 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In BIBLE days, worshipers in the Temple in Jerusalem faced the Holy of
Holies; those in the City itself turned toward the Temple Court; those
in Israel faced in the direction of Jerusalem; those outside Israel
turned toward the Land of Israel. GOD'S Dwelling Places (Wilderness
Tabernacle & Temple) always faced the East as the Lord comes to HIS
Temple from the East. It is noticed that when Daniel prayed three times
a day to the LORD GOD, he opened his windows toward Jerusalem.
[Daniel/Danyel 6. 10]

Jerusalem is the spiritual center on the earth. The love for Jerusalem
is admonished in the words of the Psalmist: "If I forget you, O
Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill! If I do not remember you,
let my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not exalt
Jerusalem above my chief joy." [Psalms (Tehillym) 137. 5 - 6 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

The ALMIGHTY ONE commands prayer for this CITY OF THE GREAT KING
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you. Peace
be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 122. 6 - 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Upon your walls, O Jerusalem,
I have set watchmen, who shall never be silent by day or by night. O
you, LORD'S watchmen, do not keep silent, take no rest and give no rest
to HIM, until HE establishes Jerusalem makes her renowned on earth."
[Isaiah (Yeshayah) 62. 6 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

When the PRINCE OF PEACE comes to earth again, prayers for the peace of
Jerusalem will be answered. Prayers for peace to come to the heart of
the Jew will be realized when he recognizes YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, his
PRINCE OF PEACE, and accepts JESUS OF NAZARETH as the long-awaited
MESSIAH OF ISRAEL and the SAVIOR-REDEEMER of mankind!

This peace which the SUPREME GOD desires for both Jew and Gentile was
purchased at tremendous cost, even the precious life-blood of the LORD
JESUS. Isaiah, the Jewish prophet, describes this "But HE
(MESSIAH) was wounded because of our transgressions, HE was bruised
because of our iniquities. HE bore the chastisement for our peace, and
by HIS stripes we were healed." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 5 Tanakh,
Nevi'im] The MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE has much to say concerning the Land
of Israel (Eretz Yisroel) of which Jerusalem is the center. The REVERED
BIBLE prophetically describes its boundaries and also foretells its
destruction and restoration. When restored, Israel shall cover an area
of 300,000 square miles. The Land boundaries are from the River of Egypt
to the Euphrates and from Hethlon to Kadesh. [Genesis/Bereshith 15. 18;
Numbers/Vayikra 34. 2 - 15; Ezekiel/Yehezke- El 48. 1 - 35;
Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 31. 38 - 40]

This Land was never to be sold to any other people "The land must
not be sold beyond reclaim, for the land is MINE; you are but strangers
resident with ME." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 25. 23 Tanakh, Torah] Thus, the
Land belongs to the OMNIPOTENT CREATOR and HE gave it to the Jews. They
are the heirs to the Land of Israel. Speaking to the people of the
land, the Jews, ALMIGHTY GOD foretells through the Prophet Moses
"I will take you to be MY people, and I will be your GOD. And you shall
know that I, the LORD, am your GOD WHO freed you from under the burdens
of the Egyptians. I will bring you into the land which I raised MY hand
(swore) to give to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; and I will give it to you
for a possession, I the LORD." [Exodus (Shemot) 6. 7 - 8 Tanakh,
Nevi'im]

Zion comes from a root which means a dry, barren place or arid
wilderness. In this, its original condition, it is a type of the land
and the people of Israel. But owing to the great power and skill of the
GREAT HUSBANDMAN, the MESSIAH YESHUA, this dry ground will be
transformed into a fruitful garden and the spiritually barren people
brought to full bloom! [Ezekiel/Yehezke- El 36. 6 - 12, 15, 30, 34 - 35]

It has been said that the TRUE & LIVING GOD was through with the Jewish
people and that they would never return to the Promised Land. However,
they are wrong! Moses wrote GOD'S WORD concerning the scattering of
Israel; and the desolation of the land. [Deuteronomy/ Devarim 28. 64 - 65
with Leviticus/Vayikra 26. 32 - 33]

Even as every one of the prophecies concerning the Dispersion of natural
Israel were literally and are being literally fulfilled, just so the
Re-gathering and Restoration of natural Israel must literally come to
pass. As it was prophesied that a literal; people were literally
scattered among literal nations and suffered literal persecution and
this was all literally fulfilled, just so these same prophets foretold
that Israel would just as literally be preserved from extinction or
assimilation, and would in the End Time, just before the return of their
MESSIAH YESHUA, be brought back again as a nation into their own land!
[Leviticus/Vayikra 26. 44 - 45]

The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL is gathering the Jews from the four corners of
the earth even as HE said HE would! Israel is back in the Land! GOD
INVINCIBLE has kept HIS WORD literally! [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 30. 10 - 11]

The Land of Israel has been passed from nation to nation. When it was
in the hands of the Gentiles it remained undeveloped, untouched. Why?
Because it is not Gentile property; because the TRUE GOD decreed that
under HIM the Jews would do the restoring and renewing "I will
restore of My people Israel. They shall build ruined cities and inhabit
them; they shall plant vineyards and drink their wine; they shall till
gardens and eat their fruits. And I will plant them upon their soil,
nevermore to be uprooted from the soil I have given them, and they shall
know ME said the LORD your GOD." [Amos 9. 14 - 15 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The prophecy of Isaiah 18. 3 contains an important notice to all the
people of the world in the last days "All you who live in the world
and inhabitant the earth, when a banner is raised in the hills, take
note! When a ram's horn is blown, give heed!" [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 18. 3
Tanakh, Nevi'im] In other words, when the flag (banner) is lifted up in
the mountains of Jerusalem and the ram's horn blown, let all the nations
take notice. In 1920, the Flag of Judah was flown from the Tower of
David and the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem blew the Ram's Horn which sounded
out over the land!

The LORD SUPREME is gathering the Jews back to Eretz Yisrael (Land of
Israel the Land of Promise) for a specific purpose, not only to
cultivate it, to cause "the desert to bloom as the rose" not only to
have a homeland, but GOD is bringing this dispersed and wandering people
back in readiness for the return of their MESSIAH! "For the LORD shall
build up Zion; HE has appeared in all HIS glory." [Psalms (Tehillym)
102. 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

There is an amazing prophecy concerning Jerusalem given by YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH HIMSELF which will be fulfilled "Jerusalem will be
trampled by Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled."
[Luke 21. 24] It was during first week in June 1967 that the Old
City of Jerusalem came into the hands of the Jews who are an independent
nation, Israel. This is the first time Jerusalem has been in the hands
of an Independent Israel since 597 BC. Yet, Jerusalem and the Temple
Mount will continue to be trampled by the Gentiles until the end of the
Great Tribulation and the start of the 1,000-Year Reign of MESSIAH, the
Kingdom Age. We can continue to stand on the WORD OF THE LORD for it
is truth and life.

can continue to stand on the WORD OF THE LORD for it is truth and life.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Welcome Shabbat! Come, let us go out to greet the Sabbath Queen;
Sabbath presence, let us welcome. We honor & praise the LORD YESHUA,
the BLESSED ONE, WHO gives true Sabbath peace & rest; and separates the
sacred from the ordinary.
The children of Israel are to keep Sabbath, to observe it throughout
their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between ME and
the children of Israel forever. It is our heritage. May it bring rest
and joy, peace and comfort to your dwellings, our beloved family; and
through it may the HOLY NAME OF THE LORD GOD be praised WHO sanctifies
the Sabbath. Enjoy the delight of the Kedushat Shevi'it Sabbath
Holiness!

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. . .
In life we often discover what we did not know we were seeking.

HOLY ANOINTING OIL (Part 1 of 2)
"The LORD spoke to Moses saying— Take choice spices: five hundred
weight of flowing myrrh, half as much — two hundred and fifty —
of fragrant Cinnamon, two hundred and fifty of aromatic Calamus cane,
five hundred — by the sanctuary weight — of Cassia, and a hin
(about a gallon) of Olive Oil. Make of this a sacred anointing oil, a
compound of ingredients expertly blended, to serve as sacred anointing
oil." [Exodus (Shemot) 30. 22 - 23 Tanakh, Torah]

[In most cases BIBLICAL spices are uncertain as to what they really
were. But, they are concluded to be comparable to many of the spices of
today with different names. A Shekel is a weight and also the name of a
coin. The Shekel in this passage, according to medical language equals
9 drops. Thus, 500 shekels would be 4,500 drops.]

The Tabernacle study began with ALMIGHTY GOD'S desire to dwell withIN
HIS people by the filling of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD and now ends with
the anointing oil and the GLORY CLOUD filling the finished Sanctuary.

The LORD MOST HOLY instructed that the Tabernacle, with all its
features, be built and every detail of the services, as well as the
clothing of the priests be made "according to the pattern" Moses saw on
the mountain. And this was done as LOVING MASTER commanded.
Nevertheless nothing supernatural occurred until the directions for the
anointing oil were carried out and everything received this ointment.
Only then did the HOLY SPIRIT begin to move in HIS HOLY HABITATION!

MYRRH is first spice, a bitter plant, but from which sweetness was
obtained after it was bruised. The word is taken from the Hebrew "mor"
which means "to drop on from a container above" or in other words, it is
distilled. It was to be pure, the best of the myrrh which exudes
spontaneously from the bark. The inferior myrrh comes out more
abundantly by splitting the bark. Myrrh was used as a perfume, as a
medicine for deadening pain [Mark 15. 23], for preparing the dead for
burial [John 19. 39 - 40], as a modifier of other medicines, and for
purification. Through the power of the ETERNAL SPIRIT, MESSIAH YESHUA
gave HIMSELF freely. HE was made "sin or bitter." But, from HIS
bruising, comes forth the sweetness of the HOLY SPIRIT. JESUS the
BELOVED SON was dead, HIS body was anointed with the myrrh. YESHUA is
our purification. [Hebrews 9. 13 - 14] HIS life that HE gave was sweet
to GOD THE FATHER, sweet to the saints, and HIS life is a healing
medicine for those who are sick in spirit, soul or body.

SCRIPTURE records that during six of the twelve months for Esther's
preparation and purification to be among the number who were to stand
before the king, she was rubbed down daily with this spice.
[Esther/Ester 2. 12] It was Hadassah, the one who gave forth the
fragrance of myrrh, who was chosen to be his bride queen. As we stand
before KING JESUS, the holy anointing oil with the sweet smell of myrrh
should be upon our garments of salvation. Freely are we to give
ourselves even as MESSIAH freely gave. . . DIE TO SELF for "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] We are to apply this
anointing oil daily, to purify ourselves even as the LORD YESHUA is
pure, as we prepare for the Marriage Supper of the LAMB!

SWEET CINNAMON is the second ingredient. Cinnamon bark comes as upright
rolls. It is used for flavoring, as a medicine, and it is a stimulant.
The fragrance, no doubt counter-acted the stench of the butchering,
burning and cooking of animals in the Tabernacle Court. Though the
Cross of CHRIST JESUS revealed an ugly and awful death, yet there was
fulfillment in it of the burning, scorched flesh of all the OLD COVENANT
sacrifices which was acceptable to GOD on behalf of the people because
of the "cinnamon fragrance" which accompanied it.

We are instructed to "present our bodies as a living sacrifice upon
GOD'S Altar which is our reasonable service." [Romans 12. 1] Though
there is sin, death, and decay included in this offering; yet by the
application of the cinnamon this is all counteracted and we become a
sweet smelling savor in the nostrils of the HOLY LIVING GOD. [2
Corinthians 13. 14]

Cinnamon has a warm, sweet, pleasing, and peculiar aroma. YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH, with the HOLY SPIRIT or "DIVINE CINNAMON" resting upon HIM,
gave forth that feeling of warmth which is sweet, pleasing and peculiar.
This is the case with those whose lives have been anointed with the
Cinnamon

The third ingredient, SWEET CALAMUS grows in Arabia and India; it is a
fragrant cane whose root is highly prized as a spice. [Song of Songs
(Shir ha'Shirim) 4. 14; Ezekiel/Yehezke- El 27. 19] The root word means
"to stand upright" - hence, a cane or reed. It usually grows in miry
soil. The more this bark is beaten the sweeter is its fragrance. How
like the LORD MESSIAH WHO grew in the mire of this world UPRIGHT and
FRAGRANT to ALMIGHTY GOD. The MAN OF SORROWS was beaten, humiliated,
spit upon and nailed to the Cross of Agony. Yet, HE prayed on behalf
of HIS persecutors, "FATHER, forgive them for they know not what they
do." [Luke 23. 34] We are to do as the BELOVED ONE did: "Love your
enemies, pray for them that spitefully use and persecute you" [Matthew
2. 39] were HIS commands. The more we are persecuted the sweeter are we
to be by the enablement of the COMFORTER, the HEAVENLY CALAMUS.

CASSIA, the fourth spice, is derived from a root word meaning "to split"
and refers to the rolls of bark being split. It is said to resemble
cinnamon and to be of the same family, but to be less fragrant. It was
used for flavoring and as a medicine. It was a bitter medicine, but one
which purges that it may heal. This aromatic bark comes from a shrub
which grows only on great heights of around 8,000 feet. As this plant
flourished, where other plants could not grow, so we see at Calvary's
height the perfection of HOLY & TRUE ONE in HIS faithfulness. In the
place of YESHUA'S sacrifice for sin, there was yielded a peculiar
fragrance such as from no other death. Coming from the heights of
Calvary, is the HOLY COMFORTER WHO elevates the receiver to heavenly
places above the elements of the world.

Four spices were to be combined with a "hin (6 quarts)" of pure olive
oil. The "vehicle" of these four ingredients for their exhibition was
the olive oil, a symbol of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD. All true witnesses
to the graces and excellencies of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH must be in
and by the HOLY SPIRIT. The spices are dry apart from the oil.

Oil also is a lubricant which is used to heal and energize as well as to
aid in giving light and fire. This is characteristic of the HEAVENLY
ENABLER in the life and ministry of YESHUA, the ROCK of our Salvation,
and HIS saints.

There are four principal spices with the oil. In the four corners of
the earth, OMNIPOTENT GOD anoints HIS own with the HOLY SPIRIT. "The
promise is to as many as the LORD our GOD will call." [Acts 2. 39]

. . . to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Let not your heart be troubled, glorify YESHUA, the BREAD OF LIFE, the
TRUE KING of all ages — allow HIS SPIRIT to comfort and transform
your life. HE can!

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 are three crowns to which people aspire: The Crown of TORAH
scholarship comes with a quick mind and a sound memory. The Crown of
Priesthood comes with birth into the tribe of Levi. The Crown of
Royalty comes with royal birth or the seizing of power. But a good name
transcends them all, for it is open to all.

HOLY ANOINTING OIL (Part 2, conclusion)
"Make a sacred anointing oil, a compound of ingredients expertly
blended, to serve as sacred anointing oil." [Exodus (Shemot) 30. 25
Tanakh, Torah]

The holy anointing oil was different oil than that which was used for
the lamps. Though these lamps were filled with the pure olive oil for
light, yet the holy ointment must be applied as ALMIGHTY GOD directed.
After MESSIAH YESHUA was baptized of the SPIRIT at the Jordan River,
this anointing upon HIM became evident for special services by the
"GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT" working through HIM on behalf of the people. It
was prophesied by Isaiah concerning this unction (act of anointing in
consecration and dedication) from on High, "The SPIRIT OF THE LORD GOD
(Pure Olive Oil) is upon ME because the LORD has anointed ME (Anointing
Oil); HE has sent ME as a herald of joy to the humble, to bind up the
wounded of heart to proclaim release to the captives, freedom to the
imprisoned, to proclaim a year of the LORD'S favor and a day of
vindication by our GOD; to comfort all who mourn." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 61.
1 - 2; Luke 4. 18]

Believers are baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT (Pure Olive Oil) and through
the GIFTS & FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT (Anointing Oil) works for GOD in
specific and special occasions on behalf of the people are accomplished.
[1 John 2. 20; 2 Corinthians 1. 21] As we abide in CHRIST JESUS, this
will become operational as the appointment demands. [1 John 2. 27]

The ointment was to be a compound after the art of the apothecary, the
manufacture of perfumes by such a man talented to do so. Only the HOLY
SPIRIT can combine "HOLY SPICES" with "DIVINE OIL" in proper proportion
and make the spiritual application to our lives. HE is the HEAVENLY
APOTHECARY WHO compounds the Holy Ointment.

In studying the ingredients for the Holy Anointing Oil, we can see
several similarities which speak to us symbolically of the PERSON and
WORK of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD:
1. All four spices, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Calamus, and Cassia, were
imported from another country. This other country is Heaven.
The HOLY SPIRIT was sent from heaven.
2. They were not only fragrant, but were used in healing as a
medicine. The ANOINTING breaks every yoke of bondage.
3. They brought forth fragrance upon bruising or crushing. YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH was crushed, the fragrance of the
HOLY SPIRIT came from HIM...and so it is with us.
4. They grew in great heights and were erect plants standing upright.
The HOLY SPIRIT is from above.
5. They were all mixed with the oil. The work of the HOLY SPIRIT comes
from the HOLY SPIRIT.
6. They were to be mixed by an apothecary, an artist in the
manufacturing of perfumes. The spices are the works or acts
of the HOLY SPIRIT; the APOTHECARY is the HOLY SPIRIT HIMSELF.
7. The mixture was all called holy. GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT, compounds
this mixture.
8. They all were combined into one measure of oil. The Gifts and
Fruits come from ONE HOLY SPIRIT.
9. All are called "principal spices." All the works, fruits and gifts
of the SPIRIT are "PRINCIPAL SPICES."
Moses was to use this Anointing Oil on the Wilderness Tabernacle and all
that pertained to it. Moses is a type of MESSIAH WHO sends the DIVINE
COMFORTER to us. [Deuteronomy/ Devarim 18. 15]

Only the LOVING CREATOR GOD could compound a Holy Anointing Oil for HIS
people. It was not manufactured through the brilliance of man's mind.
Human intelligence had nothing to do with the enablement of DIVINE
POWER. This anointing oil is holy, even as OMNIPOTENT ETERNAL ONE is
holy, and is only to be poured upon HIS people to whom HE has given HIS
holiness. It is not to be imitated by any man, neither to be poured
upon one who was a stranger to ALMIGHTY GOD. The EVER-LIVING HOLY ONE
OF ISRAEL alone has made it and HE only is able to anoint HIS OWN
special, and distinctively unique people.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
GOD'S answers are wiser than our prayers.

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 man sins except for his own advantage; but, the advantage is in this
life only.

WAIT ON THE LORD
"Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount
up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not grow weary, they shall
march and not grow faint." [Isaiah/Yeshayah) 40. 31] Bless the
LORDÂ…Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth
is renewed like the eagle's." [Psalms (Tehillym) 103. 1, 5 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

To say this another way, "The ALMIGHTY satisfies you with good things in
the prime of life, so that your youth is renewed like the eagles." This
is such a lovely promise from GOD'S HOLY WORD, as it is easy to grow
weary and faint in our mortal bodies, even when doing the work of the
GREAT & MIGHTY LORD GOD. The answer: Wait upon the LORD!

The Hebrew word "kavah" means "wait for" or "look for." It is
translated "waited for" the second time it is used in the BIBLE when the
dying patriarch, Jacob cried out: "I waited for YOUR deliverance
(salvation), O LORD." [Genesis (Bereshith) 49. 18 Tanakh, Torah]

The first time it is used, amazingly, is in connection with the Third
Day of Creation when the OMNIPOTENT CREATOR said— "Let the water
below the sky be gathered into one area, that the dry land may appear."
[Genesis (Bereshith) 1. 9 Tanakh, Torah] That is, the all-encompassing
waters of the original creation, divided on the Second Day of Creation,
now are told to wait patiently, perhaps stated, until GOD formed the
various heavens (atmosphere, outer-space) before dealing again with the
waters.

In Psalm 40, we can get a clearer insight as to the meaning of "kavah"
where it is used to picture the foreshadowed MESSIAH YESHUA, "I waited
patiently for (put my hope inÂ…) YEHOWAH; and HE inclined toward
(listened to) me and heeded my cry." [Psalms (Tehillym) 40. 1 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

"The ETERNAL GOD OF HEAVEN, the HIGH & LOFTY LORD, the CREATOR of the
earth from end to end, HE never grows faint or weary, HIS wisdom cannot
be fathomed." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 40. 28 Tanakh, Nevi'im] HIS gracious
promise is that we can "renew our strength" (rather to exchange our
weakness for HIS strength) by "waiting on HIM." We wait patiently for
the LORD YESHUA, draw nearer to HIM, look for HIM, cry to HIM and trust
HIM with remarkable confidence. In turn, our WONDERFUL LORD renews our
strength! HalleluYAH!

The ultimate renewal of our strength will be when we receive our new
bodies and we rise "like the eagles" when the ALMIGHTY ONE catches away
those who are found worthy. "For the LORD HIMSELF will descend from
heaven with a shout, with the voice of an arch-angel, and with the
trumpet of GOD. And the dead in CHRIST will rise first. Then we who are
alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to
meet the LORD in the air. And thus we shall always be with the LORD." [1
Thessalonians 4. 16 - 17]

"Behold, I tell you a mystery— We shall not all sleep, but we shall
all be changed — in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the
last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised
incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on
incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this
corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on
immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is
written— Death is swallowed up in victory." [1 Corinthians 15. 51 -
54] This will happen at our SOVEREIGN LORD'S appointed time. Meanwhile,
wait on the LORD for it will surely come. HalleluYAH, what blessed
hope!!!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Firm confidence in GOD'S eternal commitment does much to banish all
fears to such an extent that it is extremely difficult to imagine how a
believer who believes the Holy Scriptures can be easily moved.
Shalom alechem b'Shem YESHUA ha'MASHIACH — Peace be to you
in the NAME OF JESUS THE CHRIST! May the grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST
be with you always — for you are our glory and joy.

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 the wisest first answer to any question; the second is
compassion.

DO YOU NOT CARE?
"And HE (JESUS) was in the stern of the ship, asleep on a pillow. And
they awoke HIM and said to HIM— TEACHER, do YOU not care that we are
perishing?" [Mark 4. 38]

There are times when we have great problems and our HEAVENLY FATHER
seems to ignore our prayers. However, the LOVING GOD OMNIPOTENT cares
about HIS OWN dear children, even about the sparrow. If there is not
some clear reason why HE fails to answer, such as sin in our lives, then
perhaps it is simply a test of our faith to refine us, just as was in
Job's case.

When the disciples thought the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA did not care, HE
rebuked them saying, "Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no
faith?" [Mark 4. 40] Miryam (Mary) and Martha sent word to the BELOVED
MASTER that their brother Lazarus was deathly ill, but HE "stayed two
more days in the place where HE was." [John 11. 6] "Did I not say to
you that if you would believe you would see the Glory of GOD?" [John 11.
40]

A woman of Canaan, one day, cried out to the LORD YESHUA for mercy on
her demon-possessed daughter, "But HE answered her not a word. And HIS
disciples came and urged HIM saying— Send her away, for she cries
out after us. " She kept calling on JESUS though HE seemed not to care.
Finally YESHUA said to her, "O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to
you as you desire. And her daughter was healed from that very hour."
[Matthew 15. 23, 28]

The disciples, Lazarus' sisters, and the Canaanite woman all wondered at
the attitude of the BELOVED LORD; but the fact was that HE did care.
And finally, the LORD JESUS did calm the storm, raised Lazarus from the
dead, and healed the Canaanite woman's daughter. MESSIAH'S delay was to
test and strengthen their faith.

Our wonderful FAITHFUL & TRUE WITNESS test us also, "that the
genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that
perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor,
and glory at the revelation of MESSIAH YESHUA." [1 Peter 1. 7] May we
be fully persuaded that "when HE has tested me, I shall emerge pure as
gold." [Job (Iyob) 23. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This comes from obeying the
LIFE-GIVING WORD OF GOD, living pure and knowing that our hearts are
right with the MOST HIGH GOD.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
LORD, righteousness belongs to You. . . but to our leaders and us, shame
of face because we have sinned wickedly against YOU. Disaster and
confusion has come upon us, yet we have not made our sincere prayer
before YOU, O LORD our GOD, nor have we turned from our iniquities to
understand YOUR TRUTH. Therefore, we are bewildered and angry for
disaster is upon us as appropriate judgment is come due. In YOUR
righteousness, MOST HOLY ONE, bring us to our knees before total
destructions becomes our lot.

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. . .
Economic liberty can produce the evil of greed; political liberty the
evil of pride; religious liberty the evil of authority; and liberty can
also produce an excuse for laziness.

NO KING IN ISRAEL
"In those days there was no king in Israel, every man did as he
pleased." [Judges (Shofetym) 17. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In the Book of Judges, we are told four times that "there was no king in
Israel in those days" [Judges/Shofetym 17. 6; 18. 1; 19. 1; 21. 25],
suggesting that the book was either authored by Samuel (the last judge)
or by someone of a later generation. The first and last of these texts
add, "every man did as he pleased." Tribal leaders were following the
ways of humanistic thought leading people away from the knowledge of
GOD. Therefore, the HOLY ONE delivered them to their enemies who put
them under oppression. The ALMIGHTY INFINITE GOD raised up judges from
the different tribes to lead the people out of bondage on occasions of
widespread repentance and prayer.

Between these periods were times of oppression from Israel's enemies,
and there was moral and spiritual turmoil among the people. They did
have a KING, but refused HIM, as did the men in the parable who "sent a
delegation after HIM saying— We will not have this MAN to reign over
us." [Luke 19. 14] They demanded a human king, and Samuel rebuked them
for adamantly declaring, "No, we must have a king reigning over us—
though the LORD your GOD is your KING." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 12. 12
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

We can and should be critical of the ancient Israelites for rejecting
the ETERNAL ONE as their KING and each man doing as he pleased; and
then, we should TAKE WARNING because this is exactly what people are
doing today. "There is no fear of GOD before their eyes" and they are
"lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of GOD." [Romans 3. 18; 2
Timothy 3. 4] When every man believes "what makes him comfortable" and
does "what he feels like doing" he has, in consequence, become his own
god — or unmistakably is practicing humanism.

To develop the mind-set of MESSIAH means submission, obedience,
servant-hood and sacrifice, all of which mean making choices , every one
of which are hard. But when we decide that the attitude and mind-set of
the LORD is right, we have the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD working in us to
assist in endeavoring to bring our mind-set in line with HIS.

Ancient humanism was an empty religion, and so is modern humanism. They
wanted a human king and today's world will yield to a humanistic king to
lead them on to a final deadly confrontation with the true "KING of
kings and LORD of lords." It is wiser to worship the ETERNAL KING OF
GLORY, believe the INSPIRED WRITTEN HOLY WORD OF GOD, and submit to HIS
leadership before it is too late!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
May the MOST HIGH LORD GOD anoint and empower you daily. Remember,
worship is always essential– and our focus is on JESUS, THE ONE WHO
is our ROCK, our FORTRESS, our LIGHT & SALVATION, our soon-returning
MESSIAH & KING. Come into HIS PRESENCE with thanksgiving and enter HIS
courts with praise.

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. . .
It is the Fruit, not the Experiences and careful rehearsing of details,
that matter in a CHRIST-ian's life; since only the Fruit is the
clearly identifiable evidence of being born anew.

MESSIAH, MEDIATOR, REDEEMER
"If a resident or stranger among you becomes prosperous, and one of your
kinsmen who dwells by him becomes poor, and sells himself to the
stranger or sojourner close to you, or to a member of the stranger's
family, he shall have the right of redemption even after he has given
himself over. ONE OF HIS KINSMEN SHALL REDEEM HIM, ANYONE OF HIS FAMILY
WHO IS OF HIS OWN FLESH SHALL REDEEM HIM." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 25. 47 -
48 Tanakh, Torah]

The LORD MESSIAH YESHUA is the REDEEMER of mankind. HE became as one of
us so HE could, by HIS sacrificial death, deliver us from sin and
Satan's hold. "Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh
and blood, HE HIMSELF likewise shared in the same, that through death HE
might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and
release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject
to bondage. For indeed HE does not give aid to angels, but HE does give
aid to the seed of Abraham. Therefore, in all things HE had to be made
like HIS brethren, that HE might be a merciful and faithful HIGH PRIEST
in things pertaining to GOD, to make propitiation for the sins of the
people. For in that HE HIMSELF has suffered, being tempted, HE is able
to aid those who are tempted." [Hebrews 2. 14 - 18]

What YESHUA, the HOPE OF ISRAEL, knew by HIS omniscient knowledge, HE
wanted to know by experience, thus making HIMSELF perfect. "It was
fitting for HIM, for WHOM are all things and by WHOM are all things, in
bringing many sons to glory, to make the CAPTAIN of their salvation
PERFECT THROUGH SUFFERINGS." [Hebrews 2. 10]

"For there is one GOD and one MEDIATOR between GOD and men, the MAN
CHRIST JESUS, WHO gave HIMSELF a ransom for all, to be testified in due
time." [1 Timothy 2. 5 - 6] "JESUS THE MEDIATOR of the NEW COVENANT."
[Hebrews 12. 24]

"Now HE (YESHUA ha'MASHIACH) has obtained a more excellent ministry,
inasmuch as HE is also MEDIATOR of a BETTER COVENANT, which was
established on better promises." [Hebrews 8. 6] "If anyone sins, we
have an ADVOCATE with the FATHER, JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS. And HE
HIMSELF is the PROPITIATION (redemption) for our sins, and not for ours
only but also for the whole world." [1 John 2. 1 - 2]

"HE has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of HIMSELF. And as it
is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so CHRIST
was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for
HIM HE will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation."
[Hebrews 9. 26 - 28]

"When the fullness of the time had come, GOD sent forth HIS SON, born of
a woman, born under the Law, to redeem those who were under the Law,
that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons,
GOD has sent forth the SPIRIT OF HIS SON into your hearts, crying
out— ABBA, FATHER!" [Galatians 4. 4 - 6]

Marvelous! Awesome! Wonderful! is our GIFT OF SALVATION and GOD'S
amazing love!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Sabbath, we celebrate Melave Malka (end of
Sabbath) by praying that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, will
bless you abundantly. Help us, O our GOD, to banish from our hearts all
pride and vain-glory, all confidence in worldly possessions, all
self-sufficient leaning upon our own reason. Fill us with the spirit of
meekness and the grace of modesty, that we may become wise in the fear
of YOU. May we never forget that all we have and prize is but lent to
us, a trust for which we must render account to YOU. O HEAVENLY FATHER ,
put into our hearts the love and fear of YOU, that we my consecrate our
lives to YOUR service and glorify YOUR NAME in the eyes of all men. May
some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout the week. Shavua
Tov — 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. . .
Procrastination: Something you do when you don't.

CUSTOMS— T'FILLIN (PHYLACTERIES)
"You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as
frontlets between your eyes." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 8 Tanakh, Torah]
"It shall be as a sign to you on your hand and as a memorial between
your eyes, that the LORD'S Law may be in your mouth; for with a strong
hand the LORD has brought you out of Egypt." [Exodus (Shemot) 13. 9
Tanakh, Torah]

"T'fillin" is a Hebrew word taken from the singular— t'filla,
meaning prayer. The use of the T'fillin by Orthodox Jews today is based
on an interpretation of SCRIPTURES: "Therefore you shall lay up these
words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on
your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes."
[Deuteronomy (Devarim) 11. 18 Tanakh, Torah]

These (T'fillin) phylacteries (Greek meaning "to keep safely") consist
of two square boxes of black leather stitched over the box holding the
parchment with 12 stitches representing the 12 tribes of Israel. One is
worn on the left arm towards the heart, and the other worn on the
forehead where the hair growth starts. The head box contains four
compartments which hold parchments inscribed with BIBLICAL passages
(Exodus/Shemot 13. 1-10; 13.11-16; Deuteronomy/ Devarim 6. 4-9; 11.
13-21). The box for the arm has only one compartment to hold one sheet
on which all the four passages are written. These are fastened at the
brow (seat of thought) and left arm (instrument of action) near the
heart (seat of feeling) by long leather straps attached to them. This
signifies desire for obedience to the First Commandment— "You shall
love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, and with
all your might." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 5 Tanakh, Torah] So it
teaches that all thoughts, feelings, and actions are to conform to the
will of ALMIGHTY GOD. The devout Jew believes that by binding one of
these phylacteries on the arm and placing the other on his forehead each
morning, he is truly fulfilling the Mosaic requirement!

The usual phylacteries (T'fillin) are quite small, but the very devout
Jew makes "broad his phylacteries" by using larger ones. T'fillin is
reverenced as highly as the SCRIPTURES for it contains the SACRED NAME
OF THE LORD (YEHOWAH) not less than 23 times. One of the prayers every
devout Jew repeats daily while wearing T'fillin is— "I believe with
a perfect faith that MESSIAH, blessed be HIS NAME, will come speedily
and though HE tarry, I shall continue to wait for HIM."

In putting the T'fillin on the body, the arm is taken first since this
is the order in Deuteronomy 6:8 — the box is fixed firmly on the
naked left arm, upon the biceps muscle (denoting strength), above the
elbow, and when this is done, the worshiper recites the benediction,
"Praised are YOU O LORD, KING OF THE UNIVERSE, WHO has sanctified us
with HIS commandments and enjoined upon us the commandment of the
T'fillin."

Formed in the leather strap of the hand phylactery is the Hebrew letter
yod — in the phylactery for the head, the Hebrew letter daleth —
and embossed on the box the Hebrew letter sheen. These three letters
spell "SHADDAI", the ALL-SUFFICIENT, ALMIGHTY ONE. Jews feel that by
applying the phylacteries they are placing the very NAME of GOD upon
themselves.

The hand phylactery is wound about the arm seven times and in succession
three times about the middle finger (showing the three-pronged letter of
the sheen), once about the fourth, once above the middle, and finally
around the whole hand. While this is done the following words are
recited— "I betroth you to me forever; I betroth you to me in
righteousness, in judgment, in kindness and in mercy. I betroth you to
me in faithfulness and you shall know the LORD."

The tefillah shel rosh (phylactery for the head) is put on next. The
box is placed on the forehead above the nose and the strap is fixed at
the back of the neck exactly above the middle of the neck. The end of
the straps hang down over the shoulders to the front of the body. These
Tefillin are removed in reverse order from that in which they are put
on.

While wearing the phylacteries, the worshiper petitions the HOLY ONE to
consider the performances of the commandment regarding the T'fillin as
though all six hundred and thirteen commandments, of which he feels the
Law of Moses consists, had been faithfully executed.

In the days of the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, the T'fillin (phylacteries) were
more in use than today. The spiritual leaders who desired their
religiosity to be noticed, would make their phylacteries larger than was
customary. These Pharisees, Sadducees and Hebrew Scribes claimed
attention so as to elevate themselves to a higher position in the eyes
of the people. They made a show of their supposed devotion to the LORD
GOD in order that they, in turn, would receive some of that same
devotion from Israel! JESUS rebuked them for this: "But all their
works they do to be seen by men. They make broad their Phylacteries. "
[Matthew 23. 5]

How like these Jewish religious leaders have been ALL classes of people
over the face of the earth! For in the heart of the natural man there
is a noisy outcry for attention, for adoration. "Please notice me"
— "See what I have done" — "Am I not devout?" are thoughts in
the minds of many who claim to be followers of the lowly NAZARENE WHO
made HIMSELF of no reputation and received not honor among men! They
are "broadening their phylacteries" to be seen, to be heard, to be
praised even as the Pharisees of old! More accurately, we must love
the Lord in spirit and in truth, and avoid ostentatious (pretentious,
hollow, vain) form that exalts man and self.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Welcome Shabbat! — Come, let us go out to meet the Sabbath Queen,
Sabbath presence, let us welcome. O FATHER in Heaven, in YOUR great
love YOU appointed for us a day of rest, that in YOUR PRESENCE we may
regain that freedom of the soul which comes through obedience to YOUR
commandments. Quickened by YOUR spirit, may we learn how to ennoble the
things of earth by sanctifying them to YOUR service. We honour & praise
the LORD YESHUA, the BLESSED ONE, WHO separates the sacred from the
mundane and gives true Sabbath peace & rest; where there is wonderful
joy in living in "Kedushat Shevi'it" . . . Sabbath Holiness!

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. . .
Taking away restrictions and limits does not produce liberty — it
produces anarchy.

DARK WATERS, THICK CLOUDS
"HE bent the sky and came down, thick cloud beneath HIS feet. HE mounted
a cherub and did fly; HE was seen gliding on the wings of the wind. HE
made pavilions of darkness about HIM, thick dripping clouds, huge
thunderheads of dark waters." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 22. 10 - 12
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In this mysterious passage, David writes the words of this song to the
LORD after the MIGHTY ETERNAL ONE saved him from the hands of his
enemies. [Psalms/Tehillym 18] "HE (YEHOWAH) reached down from on high,
HE took me; HE drew me out of the mighty waters; HE saved me from my
fierce enemy, from foes too strong for me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 18. 16 -
17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This song is much more then an eloquently
well-spoken poetry. David saw the LORD in a vision and was enabled to
write, "the SPIRIT OF THE LORD has spoken through me, HIS message is on
my tongue." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 23. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] David was
speaking of the LORD GOD MOST HIGH unleashing the great powers of mighty
waters in judgment on a corrupt world yet delivering Noah at the time of
the Great Flood. When David wrote Psalms/Tehillym 29, he also spoke
plainly of the Noahic Flood (Hebrew: mabbuwl).

The Hebrew word "ruwach" means "wind or spirit" so this phrase could
refer to "the WINDS OF THE SPIRIT." In the first reference to "the
SPIRIT OF GOD" [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 2], HE is seen as "moving" in the
presence of the original ancient waters, the word being the same as that
for the beating movement of the wings of a great bird. This vibrating
motion suggests the generating of mighty waves of energy flowing out
from the SPIRIT to energize the newly created order of Genesis/Bereshith
1. Correspondingly, the DIVINE ENERGY flows out again from the SPIRIT
at the time of the Great Flood, this time in Destruction rather than
CREATIVE POWER.

The references to waters and darkness may refer to the condensation and
precipitation of the extensive vapor canopy implied by "the water which
was above the expanse." [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 7] When great torrents
of rain suddenly poured through "the gateways of heaven and the deep"
— continuing at utmost severity for forty days until the "thick
clouds" were emptied and the waters covered the whole earth —
fifteen cubits higher then the highest mountain. Then the waters
subsided for one hundred and fifty days; at that time the Noah's Ark
came to rest on the Mounts of Ararat. The Great Flood continued to
subside until the first day of the tenth month when the tops of the
mountains were visible.

The waters covered the earth until all air-breathing life perished
except for Noah and his family who were rescued in the Ark. ALMIGHTY
GOD is able to save HIS oWN in times of HIS wrath, great distress and
through the coming tribulation.

The GREAT & LOVING GOD does hear our voices in HIS Holy Temple and
answers when our cry reaches HIS ears. "In my distress I called on the
LORD, cried out to my GOD; in HIS Temple HE heard my voice; my cry to
HIM reached HIS ears." [Psalms (Tehillym) 18. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
MESSIAH YESHUA, our HORN OF RESCUE is mighty to save. "For the eyes of
the LORD are on the righteous and HIS ears are open to their prayers;
but, the face of the LORD is against those who do evil." [1 Peter 3. 12]
Therefore, let us be righteous that the HIGH & EXALTED ALMIGHTY GOD OF
CREATION will listen to our prayers.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
It is only in the deliverance of MESSIAH that there is freedom; but it
is under HIS LORD-ship that HIS freedom is offered — freedom only
according to the principles of GOD'S WORD…not freedom to do
whatever one wishes. Enjoy perfect fellowship with the MIGHTY GOD of all
grace; may HE complete, establish, strengthen and settle you. Then and
only then will you have joy in the LORD JESUS the SOON-COMING KING, WHO
came to give us life most abundantly.

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. . .
Regard as enormous the little wrong you did to others, and as trifling
the great wrong done to you. [The Talmud]

PREPARED HEARTS
"For Ezra had dedicated himself to study the TEACHING OF THE LORD, and
to do it, and to teach Laws and rules to Israel." [Ezra 7. 10 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

To seek, obey, and then teach others the life-giving words of the
ALMIGHTY as found in HOLY SCRIPTURE does not come natural to anyone. As
with Ezra as our example, we must prepare our hearts.

The Hebrew word "kuwn" means prepare be firmly established, securely
determined, to stand erect — thus showing a special effort being
made. "The LORD OF HOSTS, the JUST JUDGE, tests the thoughts, mind,
and the heart." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 11. 20 Tanakh, Nevi'im] However,
no one is naturally inclined to stand up for the WORD OF GOD. For by
nature man's heart is "most devious...it is perverse, and desperately
wicked, who can fathom it?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 17. 9 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

However, Ezra did, in the court of a pagan king and in the midst of the
enemies of GOD'S people in a far country, and among those of his own
nation who broke faith and fell from grace. Ezra prepared his heart,
aligning it in unyielding faith on the Laws and Promises of the HOLY
ONE. Because he did, he could say with certainty, "thanks to the care
of the LORD my GOD, I was encouraged as HIS hand was upon me." [Ezra 7.
28 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

In contrast, King Rehoboam's rebellion and sin led to the dividing of
Israel into two kingdoms and finally into the captivity. These
judgments came because, unlike Ezra, Rehoboam "did what was wrong, for
he had not set his heart to seek the LORD." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin
Bet)12. 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Therefore, our hearts need to be prepared to seek GOD and HIS WORD.
But, how do we get them wisely prepared? First, we must come to the
LIVING GOD in true humility, humbly and meekly: "LORD, YOU will listen
to the desire of those lowly humbled, YOU will make their hearts firm,
YOU will incline YOUR ear to hear." [Psalms (Tehillym) 10. 17 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

CREATOR OMNIPOTENT GOD alone is the ONE WHO can enable us to prepare our
hearts! "The preparations of the heart is man's, but the answer of the
tongue, depends on the LORD." [Proverbs (Mishle) 16. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
We are compelled to prepare our hearts to seek and serve Omnipotent GOD,
if we humbly call on Him, He desires to do the enabling.

The promise of the EVER-FAITHFUL GOD stands, even to those who have been
disbursed among the nations, though they have been unfaithful, and it
includes all who desire to find HIM — "But if you search for the
LORD your GOD, you will find HIM , if only you diligently seek HIM with
all your heart and soul." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 29 Tanakh, Torah]
There is no GREATER TREASURE to be found.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
When things around you appear dark and terrifying, hold on to the
promises of LORD GOD. HE is in complete control, and will never fail
us— it's all for the good…ha'kol l'tova.

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. . .
Where the repentant sinners stand, the haughty, self-righteous may not.

TOUCH NOT MY ANOINTED
"He (David) said to his men— The LORD forbid that I should do such a
thing to my lord (King Saul) —the LORD'S anointed— that I should
raise my hand against him; for he is the LORD'S anointed." [1 Samuel
(Shemuel Alef) 24. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

These words have been widely misused, distorted and misappropriated as
warnings to any who would presume to question or rebuke an erring pastor
or other CHRISTian leader. In Israel's government there were three
groups of men specially chosen by the ALMIGHTY SUPREME ONE and then
anointed for their specific office — prophet, priest or king. And
indeed, the LORD GOD OF HOSTS did not permit anyone to do them wrong;
"HE allowed no one to oppress them and reproved kings on their account.
—Do not touch MY anointed ones; do not harm MY prophets." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 105. 14 - 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] King David first delivered
this psalm into the hands of Asaph on the day they brought the Ark of
GOD into Jerusalem and put it in the Tabernacle that David had erected.
[1 Chronicles/Dibre Hayamin Alef 16]

Moreover, all three offices were completely fulfilled in YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH. The Levitical Priesthood has been abolished as YESHUA OF
NAZARETH is now our ETERNAL HIGH PRIEST. The Prophetic office ceased as
an official office with the completion of the HOLY SCRIPTURES; and the
LORD JESUS has inherited David's throne to reign as KING throughout
eternity.

Anointing in the NEW COVENANT is now accomplished in every true believer
— "Now HE WHO establishes us with you in CHRIST and has anointed us
is GOD, WHO also has sealed us and given us the SPIRIT in our hearts as
a guarantee." [2 Corinthians 1. 21 - 22] No longer are we dependent on
special instructions and guidance from priests and prophets, for we have
the WRITTEN WORD OF GOD, and the anointing of the HOLY SPIRIT. "The
anointing which you have received from HIM abides in you, and you do not
need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you
concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has
taught you, you will abide in HIM." [1 John 2. 27]

CHRIST-like- ones can and should learn and grow spiritually from godly
teachers of the PRECIOUS SCRIPTURES and faithful pastors of the flock.
But all, leaders as well as learners, must continually be subject to
correction from GOD'S HOLY WRITTEN WORD, not as being lords over ETERNAL
ONE'S heritage (those entrusted to you), but by "being examples to the
flock." [1 Peter 5. 3] "I make your priesthood a service of dedication"
—says the LORD GOD OF ISRAEL. [Numbers (B'Midvar) 18. 7 Tanakh,
Torah]

It is a privilege and great honor to serve the ETERNAL KING OF CREATION!
Without a doubt, the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA is altogether lovely.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
The more we know about THE PLANNER, the more we can trust HIS plans.
Our GREAT GOD and GOD of our fathers, let our prayers come before YOU.
Turn not away from our supplication, for we are not so presumptuous and
stiff-necked as to say that we are wholly righteous and have not sinned,
for truly we have. The moral law is binding upon all of us at all times,
it demands purity and chastity during our entire life. Chastity, like
honesty, must be unconditional. It must not be limited to any age or
period of life. LORD, help us to see ourselves as YOU see us. Make us
conscious of our sins and failings; cause us to turn from our evil ways,
and give us strength to make amends for our wrong doings, and grant us
pardon for our sins.

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. . .
Integrity... either you have it or you don't.

STAND-WAIT-WITNESS
"It is not for you to fight this battle; STAND by, WAIT, and WITNESS
your deliverance by the LORD, O Judah and Jerusalem; do not fear or be
dismayed. Go forth to meet them tomorrow and the LORD will be with you."
[2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 20. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The Moabites, Ammonites and Edomites had organized a great army to come
against Judah. However, King Jehoshaphat and the inhabitants of Judah
came together to seek the LORD in prayer for deliverance, and God
ALMIGHTY answered in the Jewish people's favor. The SPIRIT OF THE LORD
spoke through Jahaziel ben-Zechariah declaring to them— "Do not be
afraid or be dismayed by this great multitude, for the battle is GoD'S,
not yours." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 20. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"Stand Still" were the instructions, and see the salvation of the Lord.
All their enemies were constrained by the HOLY REDEEMER WHO caused them
to fight and annihilate each other. Through prayer, the enemy was
defeated without the Israelites having to raise a hand. In the same way
after leaving Egypt, when the whole thing looked hopeless at the Red Sea
"Moses said to the people— Do not be afraid! Stand by and witness
the deliverance which the LORD will bring you today; for the Egyptians
whom you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for
you; you hold your peace!" [Exodus (Shemot) 14. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Torah]
The people obeyed and saw the sea divided, and the waters were a wall to
them on their right hand and their left; and Pharaoh, all of his army,
chariots and horsemen were overwhelmingly defeated, drowned in the midst
of the deep for the LORD OF HOSTS fought for Israel against the
Egyptians.

When Israel was tempted to call on pagan Egypt for help against godless
Assyria during Isaiah's day, the Holy ONE of ISRAEL said concerning
Israel's armies, "Rahab-Hem-Shebeth ("Their strength is to sit
still.")." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 30. 7 Tanakh, Torah] During a severe
storm at sea, the Apostle Paul warned the terrified centurion and
soldiers who were about to abandon the battered ship— "unless these
men stay in the ship, you cannot be saved" [Acts 27. 31] — in other
words, HALT! Because they obeyed and stayed onboard, God MOST HIGH
spared every man.

There are times for action, of course, but the rule is when we have done
all we can, stand still and trust the ALPHA & OMEGA to work out the
problem in HIS OWN good will and way. "Be still, and know that I am
ELOHIYM (GOD); I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in
the earth!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 46. 10] Remember, the MAGNIFICENT
CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE specializes in things thought impossible and is
able to do what no other power can. Be still and know that our GOD is
INCOMPARABLY SUPREME. HE is totally committed to being GOD, and those
who know this rejoice through faith!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Faith celebrates even before the victory is seen! Continue, O LORD GOD
in YOUR lovingkindness to them that know YOU; and YOUR righteousness to
the upright in heart! We desire to see the glory of the LORD, the
excellence of our GOD.

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
To make a long story short, don't tell it.

NEW BEGINNING
"Such shall be the covenant between ME and you and your descendants to
follow which you shall keep: Every male child among you shall be
circumcised. You shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and that
shall be the sign of the covenant between ME and you. And throughout
your generations, every male among you shall be circumcised at the age
of eight days. As for the homeborn slave and the one bought from an
outsider who is not of your offspring, they must be circumcised,
homeborn and purchased alike. Thus shall MY covenant be marked in your
flesh as an Everlasting Pact. And if any male who is uncircumcised fails
to circumcise the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off
from his kin; he has broken MY covenant." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 10 -
14 Tanakh, Torah]

The custom of my Jewish people is to have a great celebration, "brith
(also berith or bris) milah (covenant, bond or obligation of
circumcision) " when a boy is eight days old. As the child is brought in
for circumcision, all those who are gathered for the occasion call out:
"Blessed be he that comes in the NAME OF GOD." At every circumcision,
Elijah is supposed to be seated at the right hand of the "sandek (one
who holds the infant during the operation)." The "Mohel (one who
performs the circumcision) " recites a prayer which begins: "Zehu Kisei
Eliyahu" — "This is the Chair of Elijah...for YOUR SALVATION, O
LORD, I have waited" — these words must be said in a loud voice.
Jewish people are taught that Elijah was the Angel of the Covenant who
was to announce the coming of MESSIAH. And we know that this promise
of HOLY God is recorded in the HOLY SCRIPTURES. Immediately after the
"bris" the Jewish boy is given his Hebrew name and he enters into the
Covenant and becomes a rightful heir.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, we Jewish people have heard the
recital of a very important prayer asking the ALMIGHTY to send us the
MESSIAH WHO is the RIGHTEOUS PRIEST and to make us worthy of the days of
MESSIAH and of the life to come!

What is the ETERNAL ONE trying to teach us by this Covenant with
Abraham? Circumcision of the flesh is a type and shadow of a greater
experience of the heart. ALMIGHTY GOD desires to cut away all your old
life — the eighth day is the "morrow after the Sabbath" — the
day of Resurrection, the day of the New Creation. HE can give you a NEW
life — a NEW beginning and believing in MESSIAH YESHUA will do that
very thing for both the Jew and the Gentile, for all (who-so-ever- will)
are HIS people.

It does not matter if you are born a natural Jew and have gone through
the ceremony of circumcision in the flesh. The MIGHTY GOD OF ISRAEL &
JOSEPH does not recognize you as a TRUE Jew until your heart is
circumcised – more specifically - the old life has been cut away by
believing in the LORD JESUS, your MESSIAH, LORD & KING.

To our Jewish forefathers, the LOVING CREATOR GOD made a pronouncement
in the words of Jeremiah: "Behold, days are coming — declares the
LORD — that I will punish all who are circumcised with the
uncircumcised… for all the House of Israel are uncircumcised of heart
(their minds are blocked to GOD'S commandments) ." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah)
9. 25 - 26 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

GOD OMNIPOTENT wants to give you a new life, a new heart. This is made
possible when "with the heart one believes unto righteousness and with
the mouth confession is made unto salvation." [Romans 10. 10] Then it
will be possible for you to love GOD with all your heart and soul. He
promises in HIS HOLY WORD — "Then the LORD your God will circumcise
your heart and the heart of your offspring to love the LoRd your God
with all your heart and soul, in order that you may live." [Deuteronomy
(Devarim) 30. 6 Tanakh, Torah]

In the NEW COVENANT, the Jewish Apostle Paul wrote by GOD'S inspiration
telling us who is a true Jew: "For he is not a Jew who is one
outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but
he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart,
in the SPIRIT, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from
God." [Romans 2. 28 - 29] "For in CHRIST JESUS neither circumcision nor
uncircumcision avails anything, but a new creation." [Galatians 6. 15]

My fellow-Jewish and Gentile brethren, will you not heed the voice of
the LORD? Our COVENANT-KEEPING GOD commands you to circumcise the
foreskin of your heart so that the old law is cut away and a new law
takes its place. The ordinances, rituals, ceremonies and sacrifices
under the OLD COVENANT are fulfilled in the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL, the
deliverer who has come out of Zion — YESHUA OF NAZARETH, the SON OF
THE LIVING GOD! Why don't you accept a NEW BEGINNING for yourself?
Accept His Life, His Love, His Peace, His Righteousness, His
Joy…allow YESHUA to come into your heart as He so desires to do.
CHRIST will do so, and much more, if you but ask Him!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
YOURS, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, the glory, and the
victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens and in the
earth is YOURS; YOURS is the Kingdom, O LORD, and YOU are exalted as
head above all. All praise and honour are do YOU forever. Blessings to
all who love Zion!

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 are free men with the spirit of a slave; and slaves whose spirit
is full of freedom. Whoever trusts in the MOST HIGH GOD are free indeed;
while those who trust in themselves alone are slaves.

GO FORTH AND LEARN
"Gather the people to ME that I may let them her MY words, in order that
they may learn to revere ME as long a they live on earth, and may so
teach their children." [Deuteronomy (Bereshith) 4. 10 Tanakh, Torah]

The LORD GOD spoke these words to Moses on Mount Horeb (means sword).
GOD intends for HIS people to learn (Hebrew: lamad — diligently
teach, expert, instruct, skilful) to both hear HIS voice and to obey HIS
instructions. "But take utmost care and diligently keep yourself, lest
you forget the things you saw with your own eyes, lest they depart from
your mind as long as you live. And make them known to your children and
your children's children." [Deuteronomy (Bereshith) 4. 9 Tanakh,
Torah]

The most important thing we can learn in every society is to learn
(receive instructions) and understand the WORD OF GOD, and then obey
what is written. "For whatever things were written before were written
for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the
Scriptures might have hope...that you may with one mind and one mouth
glorify the GOD and FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST." [Romans 15. 4, 6]
Obedience to what we learn in SCRIPTURE is a incredible method of
learning many other things from the HOLY TEXT.

Don't be like the world, "always learning and never able to come to
the knowledge of the truth" [2 Timothy 3. 7], but come out from among
them and be separate unto the MOST HOLY ONE. "Learn to fear the LORD
your GOD" [Deuteronomy/ Devarim 31. 13]; "Learn to do good"
[Isaiah/Yeshayah 1. 17]; "learn doctrine (what you believe and hold to
be true)" [Isaiah/Yeshayah 29. 24]; "learn carefully the ways of MY
people, to swear by MY NAME." [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 12. 16]

Learn "not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be
puffed up on behalf of one against the other." [1 Corinthians 4. 6];
"learn not to blaspheme." [1 Timothy 1. 20]; "learn to show piety
(faithfulness, goodness, holiness) at home and to repay their parents"
[1 Timothy 5. 4]; also "learn to maintain good works, to meet urgent
needs, that they may not be unfruitful." [Titus 3. 14] These things do
not come naturally, they are learned.

Paul learned and taught us another essentially important lesson: "I have
learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased,
and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned
both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I
can do all things through CHRIST WHO strengthens me." [Philippines 4. 11
- 13]

MESSIAH YESHUA, the GREAT CREATOR, could only learn some things by
becoming a MAN, "HE learned obedience by the things which HE suffered.
And having been perfected, HE became the AUTHOR of eternal salvation to
all who obey HIM." [Hebrews 5. 8 - 10] Thus, we in turn must learn from
HIM. "Take MY yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and
lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." [Matthew 11. 29]
"For this is the love of GOD, that we keep HIS commandments. And HIS
commandments are not burdensome." [1 John 5. 3]

Learning to serve the MASTER of the Universe and obey HIS commands will
lead us to a better understand, a marvelous life in MESSIAH, and into
the presence of the glory and grace of our BELOVED where we, with a
glorious element of surprise and adoration, will see HIS wonderful,
all-together lovely face. Such treasures the CHRIST-like- ones have, for
we are incorrigibly (eternally, insuppressibly, inherently) confident in
the ONE we adore.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
As we bid farewell to Sabbath, our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE
dwells within us, bless you abundantly and guard you, our dear ones in
the coming week. May some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present
throughout each day so they are filled with love and unselfishness —
that happiness and contentment may abide in our homes.
Put together all the tenderest love you know of, the deepest you have
ever felt, and the strongest that has ever been poured out upon you, and
heap upon it all the love of all the loving human hearts in the world,
and then multiply it by infinity, and you will begin, perhaps, to have
some faint glimpse of what the love of GOD is. . . and now that you are
reminded of this again. . .have a good week and proclaim GOD'S
goodness to others throughout the day.

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/

CUSTOMS— MEZUZAH
"Inscribe them (the WORDS of the LAW) on the doorposts of your house and
on your gates." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 9 Tanakh, Torah]

Mezuzah is the Hebrew word for doorpost — to which place the
ceremonial object is fastened. The root word for Mezuzah is zuz which
means "to turn oneself about" — hence the meaning of the doorpost is
"that upon which hinges turn." This symbol of the Jewish profession of
faith is a small wooden, glass, ceramic or metal case of from two to six
inches in length containing a rectangular- piece of parchment inscribed
with passages from the HEBREW SCRIPTURES. The paper scroll inside the
case is really the Mezuzah and the Hebrew words on it must be written by
hand or ink on parchment or it is not a true Mezuzah. The case has a
small opening near the top and on the front of the tube through which
can be seen either the word for the ETERNAL ONE, "SHADDAI" — or the
Hebrew letter, shen (which also stands for GOD'S NAME which is written
on the Scroll no less than ten times) written on the back of the
parchment. The tube is affixed to the upper right-hand doorpost in a
slanting position in obedience to the commandment.

A pious Jew never enters or leaves the house without reverently placing
the fingertips of his right hand on the sacred word, "SHADDAI" and then
touching his lips. He kisses his fingertips after he touches the
Mezuzah, reciting: "May GOD guard my going out and my coming in now and
forever." [Psalms (Tehillym) 121. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This prayer
connects the Mezuzah to the DIVINE PRESENCE and DIVINE protection.

The Mezuzah after 4,000 years has now become the symbol of the Jewish
home. To the Jew it is a reminder of the need for sanctifying the home
by means of religious teachings, and of keeping the home unpolluted from
all evil. He is reminded of the blood of the lamb sacrifice, which was
struck on the doorposts by his forefathers in obedience to the command
of GOD OMNIPOTENT which kept the ancient Israelites from death and
destruction in Egypt.

Not only are the Jews to write the words of the Law upon their
door-posts and gates, but all who believe upon CREATOR GOD are
commanded, in a spiritual sense, to do likewise. For the HOLY ONE is
stressing by this statute the importance of His Word and the necessity
of this observance in the life of the believer. However, by the
blessing of the NEW COVENANT, the Law of the SUPREME ETERNAL ONE is
written, not upon objects of wood and stone or upon a piece of
parchment, but upon the fleshly tables of the heart!

The LORD OF GLORY commands that we "take to heart these instructions. "
[Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 6 Tanakh, Torah] It is more important to
have the WORD OF GOD fixed in the heart than to have it wrapped up in a
small box and nailed to the door of a house! The Mezuzah attached to
the doorpost of the believer's heart is a reminder to him of the
protecting power of GOD'S LAMB, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, WHO shed HIS blood
for all who will apply it to their heart's door in faith. The LORD
JESUS watches our coming in and our going out, our up-rising and our
down-sitting. Thank GOD! always HE is with us. It is the real PERSON
of the MESSIAH YESHUA WHO guards us and leads us by HIS SPIRIT! Praise
HIS HOLY NAME, Amen & Amen!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Good Shabbat! — Come, let us go out to meet the Sabbath Queen,
Sabbath presence, let us welcome. Our FATHER in Heaven, in YOUR great
love YOU appointed for us a day of rest, that in YOUR PRESENCE we may
regain that freedom of the soul which comes through obedience to YOUR
commandments. Quickened by YOUR spirit, may we learn how to ennoble the
things of earth by sanctifying them to YOUR service. We honour and
praise the LORD YESHUA, the BLESSED ONE, WHO separates the sacred from
the mundane and gives true Sabbath peace & rest.

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 biggest tragedy in life is to be oblivious (unaware, unmindful,
insensible) as to how much GOD loves you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
HEAVENLY FATHER, teach us to emulate YOUR OWN grace and mercy. Cause
YOUR TRUTH to fall upon our hearts like seed upon fertile ground. And,
may we learn to love YOUR Law ever more deeply and to find in it the
beauty of holiness. Remind us that YOU are the CENTER of our joy; thank
YOU again for YOUR great love and kindness to us. Amen!

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 past need not determine our future.

HE HAS COME
"Seventy weeks of years have been decreed for your people and your Holy
City until the measure of transgression is filled and that of sin
complete, until iniquity is expiated, and eternal righteousness ushered
in; and prophetic vision ratified and sealed, and the Holy of Holies
anointed. You must know and understand: From the issuance of the word to
restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the time of the MESSIAH NAGIYD (THE
ANOINTED PRINCE) is seven weeks; and for sixty-two weeks it will be
rebuilt, square and moat, but in a time of distress." [Daniel (Danyel)
9. 24 - 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Nearly 500 years prior to the date of the coming of MESSIAH, the Angel
Gabriel gave this remarkable prophecy to Daniel the prophet, predicting
the date of HIS coming. From the announcement to the coming of MESSIAH
THE KING, there would be 69 weeks, literally "sevens" meaning seven-year
periods in this context. Implying that MESSIAH would come as the
ANOINTED ONE 483 years after the commandment was given to rebuild
Jerusalem. This date was the timing when MESSIAH YESHUA entered
Jerusalem to be acknowledged as its PROMISED KING.

The letter or decree (command, authorization, etc.) for the rebuilding
of Jerusalem was during the time of Nehemiah: "In the month of Nisan,
in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes". . . when Nehemiah said to the
king— "if it pleases, let me have letters to the governors of the
provinces beyond the River, directing them to grant me passage until I
reach Judah; likewise a letter to Asaph the keeper of the King's Forest,
directing him to give me timber to make beams for the gatehouses of the
citadel which pertains to the Temple fortress and the City walls and for
the house I shall occupy. — The king granted them to me, thanks to
my GOD'S benevolent hand upon me." [Nehemiah (Nechemah) 2. 1, 7 - 8
Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The prophecy of Gabriel went on to say, "And after those sixty-two
weeks, the ANOINTED ONE will be cut off executed for a capital crime."
[Daniel (Danyel) 9. 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Or, to be specific —
although MESSIAH would come as promised, HE would be slain instead of
being crowned as KING. Since the 483-year period has long since
terminated, it is perfectly clear that MESSIAH must have already come,
and then been put to death at that time.

The terms of this remarkable prophecy have been precisely fulfilled in
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, ALMIGHTY GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON alone, and no one
coming later could have done so. No wonder the LORD JESUS wept over
Jerusalem, pronouncing her coming judgment, "For days will come upon you
when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and
close you in on every side, and level you, and your children within you,
to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another,
because you did not know the time of your visitation." [Luke 19. 43 -
44]

As we continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and Israel, we weep
also as did our BELOVED REDEEMER. All the while, we trust GOD'S perfect
omniscient planning, for "through their (Jews) fall, to provoke them to
jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their (Jews) fall
is riches for the world, and their (Jews) failure riches for the
Gentiles, how much more their (Jews) fullness!" [Romans 11. 11 - 12]
In this, we greatly rejoice.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Through the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, Israel will be renowned, joyous, famous
and glorious above all the nations on earth. [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 33.9]
As it goes for Jerusalem, so it will go for the rest of the world...do
not be deceived into thinking anything less. The HIGH & LOFTY CREATOR
promises a curse upon the nations that come against Jerusalem: "And it
shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the
nations that come against Jerusalem." [Zechariah/Zecharya h 12. 9]
ALMIGHTY GOD promises a blessing on those who bless Israel. Please join
us today and bless Israel with your prayers.

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. . .
You should live, if only to satisfy your curiosity.

A SECOND REMNANT
"In that day, my LORD will apply HIS hand again the second time to
redeeming HIS people, the ones outside the Holy Land, from Assyria and
Egypt, from Pathros and Nubia, from Elam and Shinar, from Hamath and the
coastlands of the sea." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

The prophet Isaiah lived during the time when the Ten Tribes of Israel
were being carried into captivity by the Assyrians, and about 150 years
before his own nation of Judah would be carried into exile by the
Babylonians. Yet in one of the most remarkable prophecies of HOLY
SCRIPT, the Prophet Isaiah promised that his people would someday return
and rebuild Jerusalem and its Temple. [see Isaiah/Yeshayah 44. 24 thru
45. 6] Furthermore, he even named the future emperor of Persia, the
nation which would succeed Assyria and Babylon as the dominant world
power, calling him "Cyrus." This great king, Cyrus, did accomplish
Isaiah's prophecy approximately 175 years after it was given. [Ezra 1. 1- 4]

Isaiah prophesied the first return from exile, then he foresaw that
ha'KADOSH BARUKH HU (the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE) would also set HIS
hand again the second time to recover the remnant of HIS people in the
distant future. . . the glorious future time of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH' S
reign over all the earth. "In all of MY Sacred Mount nothing evil or
vile shall be done; for the Land shall be filled with devotion to the
LORD as water covers the sea. In that day the ROOT of Jesse will stand
as a STANDARD to the peoples — Nations shall seek HIS counsel and
HIS place of rest will be glorious and honored." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11.
9 - 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The outcasts of Israel and Judah will return
home "from the four corners of the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 11. 12
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Pathros, Nubia (Cush), Elam, Shinar, and Hamath are ancient names of
nations identified now as Upper Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Iraq and Syria
respectively. Isaiah predicted an even greater exile and world-wide
homecoming long beyond that of the Babylonian captivity. These precise
facts could have come only from ALMIGHTY OMNISCIENT GOD HIMSELF. O,
HOLY LORD, how great YOU are! Behold, GOD is our SALVATION, we can
always trust in HIM and not ever be afraid.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
O GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guile. Be my
support when grief silences my voice, and my comfort when woe bends my
spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with perfect
faith in YOU. Help me to be strong in trial and temptation and to be
patient and forgiving when others wrong me. Guide me by the Light of
YOUR counsel, that I may ever find strength in YOU, my ROCK and my
REDEEMER. Thank 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. . .
In the beginning, GOD wished to render justice, but when HE observed
that the world could not rest on justice, so HE rendered mercy. [TALMUD,
Rosh ha'Shanah 17]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
We lift up our hearts and our hands to YOU, GREAT GOD in Heaven for YOUR
loving-kindness, O LORD, is mighty over us and we are ever thankfully
indebted to YOU, MOST MERCIFUL GOD. We will examine our ways and test
them, and return to YOU, O MOST HIGH.
"Nahamu, Nahamu Ami" . . . timeless words that are translated, "Comfort,
oh comfort, mY people." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 40.1]

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. . .
In order to be more, be willing to be less.

FATHER OF ALL
"Have we not all one FATHER? Did not one GOD created us? Why do we deal
treacherously with one another, profaning the covenant of our fathers?"
[Malachi (Malakhi) 2. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Malachi is the last prophet in the OLD COVENANT, sounding much like that
of Job who was perhaps the first stating, "Did not HE WHO made me in my
mother's belly make him (men)? Did not ONE form us both in the womb?"
[Job (Iyob) 31. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Malachi's message was primarily
directed to the Jews of the restoration who were backsliding after being
restored from their Babylonian captivity, and GOD'S rebuke of their
sinful behavior focused on the key to its correction. They needed to
remember, first of all, that they were all brothers, because they all
had the same LOVING HEAVENLY FATHER. This was not a reference to their
becoming spiritual children of OMNIPOTENT GOD by the new birth, but a
reminder of the even more basic fact that they had all been specially
created by CREATOR GOD in the first place. They should therefore be
united in GOD'S great calling of the Jewish people, GOD'S chosen,
bearing HIS message to the whole world. "The nations shall walk by your
light, kings, by your shining radiance. As you behold, you will glow;
your heart will throb and swell with joy — for the wealth of the
coastlands pass on to you, the riches of the Gentiles shall flow to
you." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 60. 3, 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Although Malachi's message was primarily for the Israelites, it also has
all men in view, as the center of GOD'S heart "For from where the sun
rises to where it sets, MY NAME is honored among the nations...said the
LORD OF HOSTS." [Malachi (Malakhi) 1. 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im] There was an
earlier covenant than the Mosaic and Levitical covenants — one which
ALMIGHTY GOD made with all men after the Great Flood, which has never
been withdrawn.

This Noahic Covenant, continuing for perpetual generations, does indeed
remind us that all men everywhere are brothers, created by the MASTER
DESIGNER, and responsible to HIM for their behavior toward one another,
and for their stewardship of the earth under HIS ownership. Thus,
Malachi's rhetorical questions remind us that the only way to resolve
problems among the nations of the world is, first of all, to remind and
try to convince them that they all were created by the ONE TRUE "LORD OF
HOST" — that they must someday answer to HIM for their every
thoughts, words, and deeds; and that the LORD GOD OMNISCIENT still loves
them as a father loves his children.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel;
and for the return of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH and HIS Kingdom!
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!

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. . .
GOD is the GOD of any problems you may have, as well as any success you
may experience. The believer's hope is born of confidence based on
the historical fact that GOD raised up MESSIAH from the dead — so HE
can certainly handle anything your bring to HIM.

OUR AMAZING HEAVENLY FATHER
"For in HIM (our FATHER in Heaven) we live and move and have our being,
as also some of your own poets have said— For we are also HIS
offspring." [Acts 17. 28]

In spite of the frequently used phrase, "the fatherhood of GOD and the
brotherhood of man" — there continues to be an invidious (odious,
unpleasant, horrible) and treacherous hostility between and inside most
nations around the world; this a brotherhood of man is merely ludicrous
(ridiculous, unbelievable, laughable) words.

To the contrary, however, GOD is truly the FATHER of all men, for HE is
the INVINCIBLE CREATOR. "Have we not all one FATHER? Did not one GOD
created us?" [Malachi (Malakhi) 2. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] This
metaphorical question was declared by Israel in the last book of the OLD
COVENANT. GOD the LORD let it be known that it was HE "WHO created the
heavens and stretched them out, WHO spread forth the earth and that
which comes from it, WHO gives breath to the people upon it, and life to
those who walk thereon." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 42. 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

In the NEW COVENANT, the Apostle Paul affirmed this same glorious true
reality to the pagan Gentiles. "HE (the MASTER ARCHITECT) has made from
one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and
has determined their pre-appointed times and the boundaries of their
dwellings, so that they should seek the LORD, in the hope that they
might grope for HIM and find HIM, though HE is not far from each one of
us; for in HIM we live and move and have our being, as also some of your
own poets have said— For we are also HIS offspring... we are the
offspring of GOD." [Acts 17. 26 - 29]

However, the virulent (harsh, unpleasant, seriously severe) truth is
that most people have actually become "the sons of the wicked one (the
devil)" [Matthew 13. 38], as they prefer sin over salvation.
Intricately designed as we are, one can only become "sons of GOD" —
children of the HEAVENLY FATHER by being born anew, through confident
faith in MESSIAH YESHUA. "But as many as received HIM, to them HE gave
the right to become children of GOD, to those who believe in HIS NAME:
who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the
will of man, but of GOD." [John 1. 12 - 13]

Believers can now rejoice greatly in the wonderful truth that we have
the same AMAZING HEAVENLY FATHER. We have been "a new man who is
renewed in knowledge according to the image of HIM WHO created him,
where there is neither Greek nor Jew (religions division), circumcised
nor uncircumcised (cultural division), barbarian, Scythian (social nor
economic division), slave nor free (human division), but CHRIST is all
and in all." [Colossians 3. 10 - 11]

Our prayer for those who now are or someday will be fathers, that the
TRUE & LIVING GOD be your SOURCE & GUIDE in all principles: values,
morals, ethics, and doctrine; then to teach your children about THE
INCREDIBLE HEAVENLY FATHER and be genuine models of HIM to them.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
As we bid farewell to Sabbath at the Havdallah Ceremony, we use all of
our senses: We taste the wine, smell the spices, see the shadow of
candles, hear prayers and songs, touch family and friends as we wish
them a Good Week.
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

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. . .
All to often, men make the grave mistake of believing that one of the
spiritual gifts is being able to out-think GOD.

CUSTOMS— THE TITHE
"The generous person enjoys prosperity; he who satisfies others shall
himself be sated." [Proverbs (Mishle) 11. 25 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The "tithe" and offerings given cheerfully to express the liberal soul
which shall be made fat (prosperous) . All true giving is free-will
giving. When the Temple of Solomon was built, the people brought
freewill offerings the LORD GOD. Whenever the people of Israel were
true to Moses' system, they gave one-third of their time and the tenth
of their substances to GOD OMNIPOTENT and HIS cause!

In studying the history of the Jewish people, one clearly notices that
both their piety and their prosperity could always be measured by their
observance of the maaser or tithe. When they neglected this duty it
was because of their spiritual, physical and financial back-sliding, and
every repentance was marked by its renewal. Their purses measured their
religion!

The words "tithe, tithes, tithing" occur in the HOLY SCRIPTURE 36 times.
The "tenth" occurs 67 times. In 36 of these it has reference to the
proportion in "offerings." In every instance where rewards are
mentioned they are temporal, financial.

To summarize OLD COVENANT teaching on giving: First, a poll tax or
Temple tax of half a shekel for the festival services of the Sanctuary
which everyone paid whenever the numbering of the adult males took
place. Second, the tithes: The Levitical, or tenth of all produce of
the ground, flocks and herds of each tribe which went to the support of
the Levites; and out of which they themselves gave a tenth for the
support of those higher in office, the Priests. Every third year, for
those who lived a great distance from Jerusalem, who year-by-year stored
up their tithe in their own city until the third year in which they took
the accumulated tithe to Jerusalem for a celebration of rejoicing before
the Lord. It was used for the support of the poor, the helpless, the
widows, and the Levites. Third, the first-fruits. Forth, freewill
offerings. Taxes tithes and first-fruits were obligatory; the others
were voluntary. This makes it evident that the faithful Jew never gave
less than a tenth of his income, and some years he gave a great deal
more.

Under the Law, Levi, paid tithes to Melchizedek through Abraham.
[Hebrews 7. 9] The people, brothers of Levi, paid tithes through Levi
and Abraham to Melchizedek. So all paid the tithe. In MESSIAH YESHUA,
the Mosaic order was abolished and the order of Melchizedek
re-established! This order also is supported by the tithe.

The DIVINELY-inspired apostle Paul described the superiority of the NEW
COVENANT. If the LORD JESUS does not receive the tithe, HE is not only
inferior to Melchizedek but also to Levi. If JESUS, Who came in the
order of Melchizedek, does not receive the tithe, then the figure is
broken and incomplete. The conclusion is that as Abraham paid the
tithe, so those who believe, CHRIST-like- ones, the anti-type, should
honor the greater KING OF RIGHTEOUSNESS!

YESHUA ha'MASHIACH rebuked the religious leaders of HIS day: "Woe to
you, Scribes and Pharisees, HYPOCRITES! For you pay tithe of mint and
anise and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the Law:
justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, and not to
leaving the others (tithe) undone." [Matthew 23. 23]

Even the ANOINTED ONE paid the Temple tax, lest they offend those who
collect it: "Those who received the temple tax (half-shekel) came to
Peter and said— Does your TEACHER not pay the Temple tax?— he
said— Yes!" [Matthew 17. 24 - 27] Notice, Peter did not say, "I
think so." This was an annual tax imposed by the Law of Moses on every
male Jew over 20 years of age. "This is what everyone who is entered
in the records shall pay: a half shekel by the sanctuary weight - twenty
gerahs to the shekel as an offering to the LORD. Everyone who is entered
in the records, from the age of twenty years up, shall give the LORD'S
offering." [Exodus (Shemot) 30. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Torah]

When GOD'S people appreciate HIS grace revealed in the YESHUA, and have
become partakers of HIS DIVINE NATURE, they possess a spirit of
unselfishness and liberality. [Acts 2. 45; 4. 34 - 35]

The offerings of the ancient Israel brought them prosperity. [see
Malachi/Malakhi 3. 8 - 12] Just so, prosperity is closely connected
with the prompt and cheerful payment of debts to ALMIGHTY GOD and man by
the sons of the NEW COVENANT. The words of MESSIAH YESHUA remind us to:
"Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to GOD the
things that are GOD'S." [Luke 20. 25]

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Welcome Shabbat — Queen of the Week — last in creation, first in
thought. Exalt the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the KING OF GLORY, WHO
gives true Sabbath peace & rest.
Bless our country that it may ever be a stronghold of peace — may
contentment reign within its boarders, health in its homes, and firm
knowledge of YOU, LORD GOD. Plant virtue in every soul, and may the
love of YOUR NAME sanctify every home and every heart. Praised are YOU,
O LORD, GIVER of peace.

The last TORAH reading of the month is called Shelah, from the book of
Numbers/Yayikra. According to Rashi, a BIBLICAL commentator, on the
27th of Sivan (or June 17th this year), Moses sent out 12 men, one from
each tribe, to spy out the land of Israel. They spent 40 days checking
out the towns and countryside and collecting samples of the fruit of the
Land. When they returned, they reported that although the Land flowed
with milk and honey, the inhabitants were too powerful to overcome.
Only Joshua and Caleb gave a confident, optimistic report. As
punishment for believing the majority and not believing the ALMIGHTY
ONE, the children of Israel were forced to wonder the desert for 40
years, one year for each day of the spies' scouting expedition.

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. . .
May your fear of the ALMIGHTY CREATOR GOD be greater then your fear of
man.

SHAKEN EARTH
"And men shall enter caverns in the rock and hollows in the ground —
before the terror of the LORD and HIS dread majesty, when HE comes forth
to shake terribly and overawe the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 2. 19
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

From the time of the "Great Flood" when only Noah and his family were
saved, the earth has been in a state of instability and distress with
many earthquakes all over the world. The earthquakes that are to come,
however, will exceed anything ever yet experienced.

There is a "Great Earthquake" also prophesied in the Book of Revelation,
"I looked when HE opened the sixth seal, and behold, there was a great
earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon
became like blood. And the stars of heaven fell to the earth, as a fig
tree drops its late figs when it is shaken by a mighty wind. Then the
sky receded as a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and
island was moved out of its place. And the kings of the earth, the great
men, the rich men, the commanders, the mighty men, every slave and every
free man, hid themselves in the caves and in the rocks of the mountains,
and said to the mountains and rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the
face of HIM WHO sits on the Throne and from the wrath of the LAMB! For
the Great Day of HIS wrath has come, and who is able to stand?"
[Revelation 6. 12 - 17] When the ALMIGHTY ONE judges the earth, those
who reject the love of the MESSIAH YESHUA, the BLESSED REDEEMER, will
definitely remain unrepentant and will simply attempt to flee HIS anger,
never turning in repentance to HIM WHO alone can offer saving grace.

The HIGH & LOFTY GOD OF HEAVEN is long-suffering. Nevertheless, "the
Great Day of HIS wrath" will come! [Revelation 6. 17] For the LORD OF
HOSTS declares, "In just a little while longer I will shake the heavens
and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all the nations.
And the precious things of all the nations shall come here, and I will
fill this House with glory, said the LORD OF HOSTS." [Haggai (Chagai) 2.
6 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The earth is breaking, utterly breaking down;
the earth is crumbling, clean dissolved; the earth is tottering, moving
exceedingly; the earth is swaying like a drunkard; it is rocking
to-and-fro like a hut. Its iniquity shall weigh it down, and it shall
fall, to rise no more." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 24. 19 - 20 Tanakh, Nevi'im]
Finally there will come "a great earthquake, such a mighty and great
earthquake as had not occurred since men were on the earth...and the
cities of the nations fell…and every island fled away, and the
mountains were not found." [Revelation 16. 18 - 20]

If you belong to the JESUS, the LORD & KING, however, you will be
delivered from HIS wrath which is coming and only those things which
cannot be shaken may remain. In HIM alone, our REFUGE, can we stand.
"HE WHO testifies to these things says, Surely I am coming quickly.
Amen! Even so, come LORD JESUS! The grace of our LORD MESSIAH YESHUA be
with you all. Amen" [Revelation 22. 20 - 21]

Take the SAVIOR at HIS WORD, keep your sense of seriousness and you
won't lose your sense of wonder for HIS provision.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Rejoice with inexpressible joy all who, by faith, have received the LORD
YESHUA — the ULTIMATE, INDESCRIBABLE GIFT, our JOY & HOPE of Glory.

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. . .
Turn it and turn it again for everything is in it! The HOLY SCRIPTURES
are a gold mine of information!

KING ETERNAL
"Now to the KING ETERNAL, IMMORTAL, INVISIBLE, to GOD alone WHO is wise,
be honour and glory forever and ever. Amen" [1 Timothy 1. 17]

Such an incredibly GREAT & WONDROUS GOD we have. HIS character and
attributes are too abundant to number. The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL is both
eternal and immortal. "I AM that I AM (Hebrew: EhYAH-Asher- EhYAH)" the
LORD GOD called HIMSELF when speaking to Moses. [Exodus/Shemot 3. 14]

In due season, the IMMORTAL ONE, MESSIAH YESHUA the SUFFERING SERVANT
died to redeem mankind, then rose victoriously from the dead and now
"ever lives to make intercession for us." [Hebrews 7. 25] "The LORD
your GOD is gracious and merciful; HE will not turn HIS face from you IF
you return to HIM." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 30. 9 Tanakh,
Kethuvim] "The LORD is slow to anger and abounding in kindness;
forgiving iniquity and transgression. " [Numbers (B'Midvar) 14. 18
Tanakh, Torah] "The kindness of the LORD has not ended, HIS mercies
are not spent. They are renewed every morning - abundant is YOUR grace!"
[Lamentations (Ekhah) 3. 22 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Daniel called HIM the "ANCIENT OF DAYS" and described HIM with great
splendor and brilliance. [Daniel/Danyel 7. 9 - 14] In Revelation,
CHRIST JESUS is shown to be the SON OF MAN, THE FIRST & THE LAST, THE
SON OF GOD, the ONE WHO has the SEVEN SPIRITS OF GOD, the AMEN, the
FAITHFUL & TRUE WITNESS, the BEGINNING of the creation of GOD. [see
Revelation 1 - 4] Paul called HIM "the blessed and only POTENTATE, the
KING of kings and LORD of lords, WHO only had immortality, dwelling in
unapproachable light, WHOM no man has seen nor can see; to WHOM be
honour and everlasting power, Amen." [1 Timothy 6. 15 - 16]

Daniel's declaration of praise was: "Let the NAME of GOD be blessed
forever and ever, for wisdom and power are HIS. HE changes the times and
the seasons; HE removes kings and positions kings; HE gives the wise
their wisdom and knowledge to those who have compassion and
understanding. HE reveals deep, difficult and secret things. HE knows
what is in the secluded darkness, and light dwells with HIM. I
acknowledge and praise YOU, O GOD of my fathers." [Daniel (Danyel) 2. 20
- 22 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Show honor to our LOVING MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE by pursuing
righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness that
befits a man of GOD. How very wondrous and remarkable our LIVING HOLY
LORD is! Truly, there is none like our GOD! Amen & Amen

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
O ETERNAL KING , how great are YOUR signs, and how mighty YOUR wonders!
YOUR Kingdom is an Everlasting Kingdom, and YOUR dominion endures
throughout the generations. YOU satisfy the longing heart and fill the
hungry with good. Oh, that men would praise the LorD for HIS goodness
and for HIS kindness to the children of men. We humble ourselves before
YOU, HEAVENLY FATHER and entreat YOU to pardon our sins and grant us a
life of health, prosperity and blessings.

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 tradesman at his task need not rise before the most learned teacher.

ATTRIBUTES OF PRAYER
"When YOU hear the supplications that YOUR servant and YOUR people,
Israel, offer toward this place, give heed in YOUR heavenly abode —
give heed and pardon." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 6. 21 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

In Solomon's "Prayer of Dedication" for the Temple he petitions the
GREAT SOVEREIGN GOD OF ISRAEL at least eight times to "hear from
heaven." [2 Chronicles/Dibre Hayamin Bet 6. 21, 23, 25, 27, 30, 33, 35,
39] But how can GOD hear our prayers, especially those uttered in
silence? The answer— GOD is Omniscience (all-knowing) , Omnipresence
(always everywhere) and Omnipotent (all-powerful) . Even though the HOLY
ONE is on HIS Heavenly Throne, HE is also right here with us and in us,
as we allow! David prayed, "O LORD, YOU have examined me and know me.
YOU understand my thoughts from afar." [Psalms (Tehillym) 139. 1 - 2
Tanakh, Kethuvim] The ALMIGHTY MASTER can and does hear our prayers.
"Shall HE WHO implants the ear not hear? HE that formed the eye not
see?" [Psalms (Tehillym) 94. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

In a manner of speaking, the GREAT GOD OF ISRAEL hears the prayers of
HIS redeemed today even more directly than in David's time; for we, who
trust MESSIAH YESHUA, have been indwelt by the HOLY SPIRIT OF TRUTH.
"As GOD has said — I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will
be their GOD, and they shall be MY people." [2 Corinthians 6. 16] "The
eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and HIS ears are open to their
prayers; but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil." [1
Peter 3. 12]

The TRUE & LIVING GOD OF HEAVEN irrefutably can hear our prayers. But,
there comes a time when HE refuses to hear! "Had I an evil thought in
my mind, the LORD would not have listened." [Psalm (Tehillym) 66. 18
Tanakh, Kethuvim] "No, the LORD'S arm is not too short to save; or HIS
ear too dull to hear; but your iniquities have been a barrier between
you and your GOD. Your sins have made HIM turn HIS face away and refuse
to hear you." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 59. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

If we first "Live as HE requires" — then we can confidently ask
anything according to HIS will and "HE hears us. And if we know that HE
hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we
have asked of HIM." [1 John 5. 14 - 15]

Now is the time of salvation! Awake! You that are sleepy and ponder
your deeds; Remember your CREATOR and go to Him for forgiveness. Don't
be like those who miss reality in their hunt after shadows and waste
your years in seeking after vain things which can neither profit nor
deliver. Look well to your soul and consider your deeds; let each one of
you forsake his evil ways and thoughts, and return to the LORD GOD so HE
may have mercy on you. The LORD JESUS is waiting, even now!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Create in me a pure heart, O my GOD, and renew a right sprit in within
me!

I humbly bow before the ALMIGHTY & TRUE LORD GOD and thank and praise
HIM for the goodness HE lavishes on those who trust in HIM alone.
Praised is the GREAT GOD of our fathers, the MIGHTY & REVERED ONE, the
MOST HIGH GOD WHO imparts living-kindness on all creatures; and in love,
redeemed us for HIS NAME'S sake. We delight in YOU, O SOVEREIGN
ONE, our KING, HELPER, SAVIOR and PROTECTOR. Praised are YOU, O LORD,
my ROCK and my REDEEMER WHO rules in holiness.

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. . .
He that is hungry never finds the bread too hard.

DARKNESS OVER ALL
"Now it was about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over all the
earth until the ninth hour." [Luke 23. 44]

YESHUA, the SUFFERING MAN OF SORROWS, was nailed to the cross on the
third hour and HE died at the ninth hour. On the sixth hour a sudden
and complete, supernatural darkness caused the sun's light to fail.
This darkness settled down on the earth and remained for three hours and
then lifted and departed as abruptly. The sun was veiled as with
sackcloth for those three hours while the AUTHOR of all light,
physically and spiritually, was hanging on the cross

In Egypt, the ETERNAL ONE kept HIS OWN people in light while Egypt
experienced the plague of darkness. But when they crucified the LORD
JESUS, GOD'S PRECIOUS SON, that supernatural darkness which they had
escaped in Egypt came upon them in their own land. It is, however, a
greater miracle to produce darkness in the presence of light than light
in the presence of darkness. Light overcomes darkness, but darkness is
the negation of light.

The Explanation of This Darkness: In the light of the sun, men had put
forth every effort to humiliate the LORD YESHUA and make HIM suffer.
The Roman soldiers, hardened by such experiences, were just performing
another day's task. For the first three hours, the Jewish rulers and
the mob mocked, despitefully jeered, rebuked and reproached the LORD OF
GLORY. Then, on the sixth hour, man's energies ceased. There was
darkness and no man could work; the hearts of men were held by a
gripping terror. The soldiers stood aside in fear; the ruthless sneers
of the rulers' tongues were silenced. Stillness enveloped the scene.
Unspeakable horror hung over the cross while the mighty process of
nature rolled on; but, its MAKER had stepped in and intervened in HIS
creation. HE veiled the sun in sackcloth and spread the mantle of night
over the cross when the AUTHOR OF LIGHT was dying for our sins.

The first three hours were man's moment; but the last three hours were
ALMIGHTY GOD'S. With HIS intervention, the cruel cross became an altar.
The substitutionary death of GOD'S PERFECT LAMB is the fOUNDATION of all
GOD'S dealings with man — above all HIS actions to us —
revealing GOD'S best for us. MESSIAH YESHUA'S only compulsion was that
of love for those who were nailing HIM to the cross. Pilate wrote a
title above the cross: "THE KING OF THE JEWS" …but the HEAVENLY
FATHER veiled that inscription for the time being that John's words
might echo from the hilltops, "Behold! THE LAMB OF GOD WHO takes away
the sin of the world!" [John 1. 29]

In that period of darkness MESSIAH, our KINSMAN REDEEMER "was made sin
for us" and thereby HE fulfilled the prophecy of the SLAIN LAMB in
Isaiah 53. JESUS is the LAMB OF GOD, WHO willingly died upon GOD'S
appointed altar, working in beautiful harmony with the FATHER for the
sin of the world. That darkness speaks of the inscrutable, unfathomable
and unspeakable sufferings of CHRIST JESUS when HE became sin for us.
GOD slew HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON upon the altar — as it is written,
"smitten and afflicted by GOD" [Isaiah/Yeshayah 53. 4]; but HIS
suffering is unrecorded, for it is veiled in the darkness of Calvary.
As the darkness ceased about the ninth hour, there came the piercing and
anguished cry from the DYING LAMB, "ELI, ELI, lama sabachthani? " —
that is, "MY GOD, MY GOD, why have YOU forsaken ME?" [Matthew 27. 46]

In those last three hours, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH endured all the
sufferings of hell. HE plumbed the depths of pain, and HE bore the full
penalty of sin; GOD did not spare HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON but gave HIM
freely. When CHRIST bore our sin, substitution for sinful man was
perfectly accomplished and completed in the severe darkness of that
hour.

Looking back on YESHUA'S deepest hour of anguish, we cannot plumb the
depths of darkness to discern the dire distress of HIS soul; we can only
be eternally grateful that "The LORD was pleased to crush HIM; HE has
put HIM to grief. When HE made HIMSELF an offering for sin-guilt, that
HE might see HIS seed and arm of vindication, and have long life; and
that through HIM the LORD'S purpose might prosper." [Isaiah (Yeshayah)
53. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The LORD JESUS CHRIST loved me and gave HIMSELF
for me meeting the demands of a HOLY & JUST GOD.

The ALL-WISE ONE buried the sword of justice in the heart of MESSIAH
YESHUA. Now, the sword of justice is sheathed in HIS heart and ALMIGHTY
GOD is free to accept sinners who do no more than receive JESUS, HIS
BELOVED SON. The Cross of CHRIST was an Altar of Eternal Sacrifice
where GOD displayed HIS love by paying the penalty of sin HIMSELF which
HIS holiness demanded, for GOD was in MESSIAH YESHUA reconciling the
world to HIMSELF.
Such amazingly incredible love!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Vision looks inward and becomes duty; vision looks outward and becomes
burning desire; vision looks upward and becomes faith.

NO PLEASURE IN DEATH
"Repent, and turn (back to GOD) from all your transgressions; let them
not be a stumbling block of guilt for you. Cast away all the
transgressions by which you have offended, and get yourselves a new
heart and a new spirit that you may not die...For it is not MY desire
that anyone shall die; nor do I have any pleasure in the death of one
who dies — declares the LORD GOD. Repent therefore, and live!"
[Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 18. 30 - 32 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Ever since the fall of man, the ALMIGHTY ONE has done everything HE
could to win us back in reconciliation. HE is the TREMENDOUSLY
REMARKABLE CREATOR GOD; we are HIS creation. . . therefore we must be
obedient to HIS rules and come to HIM HIS WAY — not ours! HIS WAY
is through YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the only REDEEMER and HOPE of salvation
for the world. The LORD JESUS said, "I am the WAY the TRUTH, and the
LIFE. No one comes to the FATHER except through ME." [John 14. 6] Thus,
JESUS OF NAZARETH is the exclusive, there is no other way "for there is
no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."
[Acts 4. 12]

Repentance in the OLD COVENANT: "WASH yourselves clean; PUT AWAY your
evil doings from MY sight. CEASE to do evil; LEARN to do good; DEVOTE
yourself to justice; AID the wronged; UPHOLD the rights of the orphan;
DEFEND the cause of the widow. COME, reach an understanding with ME
— says the LORD GOD OF HEAVEN. Be your sins like crimson, they can
turn snow-white; be they red as dyed wool, they can become like fleece.
IF then, you agree and give heed, you will eat the good things of the
earth. But, IF you refuse and disobey, you will be devoured by the sword
— for it was the LORD WHO spoke." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 1. 16 - 18
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Repentance in the NEW COVENANT: The LORD YESHUA declared, "Unless you
repent you will perish" [Luke 13. 1 - 5] — "as many as have sinned
in the Law will be judged by the Law, for not the hearers of the Law are
just in the sight of GOD, but the doers of the Law will be justified."
[Romans 2. 13; see 2. 1 - 16] "For assuredly, I say to you, till
heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass
from the Law till all is fulfilled." [Matthew 5. 17 - 19] The HOLY ONE
OF ISRAEL, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the SAVIOR-REDEEMER- KING, the RIGHTEOUS
JUDGE wants a personal, intimate relationship with each of us!

The woman who was caught "in the act of adultery" [John 8. 2 - 12], is a
good example showing that RIGHTEOUS & HOLY GOD does not find pleasure in
the death of a sinner. The Law demanded that both she and her partner
(so how did he get away, already?) be put to death. [Leviticus/Vayikra
20. 10; Deuteronomy/ Devarim 22. 22 - 23] But, MESSIAH YESHUA did call
her to repentance saying, "neither do I condemn you; go and sin no
more." [John 8. 11]

Our transgressions and our sins weigh intensely heavy on us. How can we
survive? "As I live— declares the LORD GOD— it is not MY desire
that the wicked shall die, but that the wicked turn from his evil ways
and live. TURN BACK! Turn back! from your evil ways, that you may not
die, O House of Israel!" [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 33. 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Thank YOU, our LOVING MIGHTY GOD for YOUR amazing and indescribable
grace and mercies to us! YOUR tender mercies truly are too wonderful
for words!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Shabbat, we are praying for you our friends, both
Jew or Gentile. May you have a heart to know YEHOWAH, that HE is the
LORD of your life; oh, return to HIM with your whole heart. May each of
you be delivered from trouble and harm, or strengthened through it. Heal
us O LORD, make us righteous in YOUR sight. May the message of GOD'S
PRECIOUS WORD and the love of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH the SAVIOR bless
you and bubble-up in your heart to overflowing. Amen
Beloved brethren, we encourage you to stand firm and confident in the
LORD YESHUA. May you be filled with HIS wisdom, knowledge, righteous
discernment, and boldness especially as we go forth in the battle
against the enemies of our saving faith. Go forth victoriously into the
week and take some of Sabbath's sweetness 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/