Delrifkah: Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Faith doesn't get you around trouble, it gets you through it!

LAG B'OMER
"And from the day on which you bring the sheaf of Elevation Offering
— the day after the Sabbath — you shall count off seven weeks.
They must be complete." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 23. 15 Tanakh, Torah]

Lag b'Omer means "the 33rd day of the (counting of the) Omer." The Omer
(a unit of measure) was a Barley Offering, which was brought in the
Temple on the day we start counting, the second day of Passover, to the
day before Shavuoth, seven full weeks. This period is known as the
"Counting of the Omer." {Lag b'Omer this year is May 10, 2012, 18
Iyar 5772 on the Hebrew Calendar.}

Every night, from the second night of Passover to the night before
Shavuot, we recite a mitzvah (blessing) and state the count of the Omer
in both weeks and days. The counting is intended to remind us of the
link between Passover, which commemorates the Exodus, and Shavuoth
(Pentecost), which commemorates the giving of the TORAH. It reminds us
that the redemption from slavery was not complete until we received the
TORAH (The Law).

Lag b'Omer is the 33rd day of counting the Omer. The word "lag" means
"33" as it is comprised of the Hebrew letters lamud and gimmel
corresponding to the numerical values of thirty and three. The Omer
Period is a time of heightened spiritual sensitivity and growth. The
closer Shavuot (Pentecost) draws, the greater our anticipation grows for
the climactic celebration of the "GIVING OF THE TORAH" — the
watershed (dividing) event of Jewish history.

However, the greater the potential there is for growth and building, the
greater the potential for destruction. Consequently, in eras when the
Jewish People have not lived up to their potential, the Omer Period has
become one of tragedy: In the time of Rabbi Akiva, who witnessed the
destruction of the Second Temple and who was the greatest TORAH Sage of
his generation from the era of the MISHNAH; 24,000 of his disciples died
in an epidemic. The underlying spiritual cause of the epidemic was the
student's lack of respect for each other. This sad event and others took
place during the Counting of the Omer. As a result, the Omer Period has
become one of semi-mourning in which we don't hold weddings or
festivities, nor do we shave or get haircuts. But because the epidemic
was suspended on the 33rd day, Lag b'Omer — Lag b'Omer (18th day of
Iyar — Sunday, May 22 this year) has become a joyous day of
celebration, a minor holiday commemorating a break in the plague.

After all his students died, Rabbi Akiva started over and began teaching
other students. One of his foremost students was Rabbi Shimon
bar-Yochai, the author of the ZOHAR. The ZOHAR (interpreted: "The
Shining Light"), is the basis of the secret teachings of the TORAH.
Some people light bonfires on Lag b'Omer and sing songs in honour of
Rabbi Shimon bar-Yochai, who revealed the teachings of the ZOHAR to the
world on Lag b'Omer.

In Israel, there are picnics, feasting, dancing, singing, and bonfires
are lit — an unusual memorial but one that the rabbi instructed his
students to observe. Many people wait until their son is three before
cutting his hair, and on the Lag b'Omer of his third year, they cut the
boy's hair. There is also a custom that children play with bows (keshet
in Hebrew — the same word as rainbow) on Lag b'Omer. And of recent,
it is a national day honoring Israeli Defense Force reserve soldiers, in
appreciation for their motivation and willingness to share the load.

As believers in MESSIAH YESHUA, the LORD GOD ETERNAL, we can celebrate
the GREAT KEEPER OF THE VINEYARD, for HE carries all our burdens and has
set us free as we release our heavy load of sin to HIM.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Lag b'Omer is a day characterized as "thankfulness within
thankfulness — modeh ani" or a day to celebrate gratitude.
Our prayer is that GOD fill the coming days with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE.

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

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

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Some minds are like concrete, thoroughly mixed up and permanently set.

SINCE THE BEGINNING
"When YOU did awesome wonders we dared not hope for, YOU came down, the
mountains quaked at YOUR PRESENCE. Such things had never been heard or
noted since the beginning of the world. No eye has seen them, nor have
men heard or perceived them, O GOD, but YOU, WHO act for those who trust
and wait for YOU." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 64. 4 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Paul, drawing from this beautiful OLD COVENANT promise, applied it to
believers everywhere of all generations who are guided by the HOLY
SPIRIT OF GOD. "Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into
the heart of man the things which GOD has prepared for those who love
HIM." [1 Corinthians 2. 9] We will receive the special rewards
especially prepared for us in its proper time.

We were chosen "in HIM before the foundation of the world, that we
should be holy and without blame before HIM in love." [Ephesians 1. 4]
For YESHUA "saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to
our works, but according to HIS OWN purpose and grace which was given to
us in MESSIAH YESHUA before time began." [2 Timothy 1. 9] The ETERNAL
ONE, the HOPE OF ISRAEL even had our redemption from sin planned with
the precious blood of CHRIST. The LORD JESUS, GOD'S PRECIOUS BELOVED
SON "was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was
manifest in these last times for you." [1 Peter 1. 19 - 20]

Although GOD is infinite and may seem far away, HE is always right by us
in everyday life. Such wondrous love is not comprehendible, it is beyond
our understanding; but such marvelous things await those who diligently
seek God, the MIGHTY ONE OF JACOB. Those who wait for HIM and are found
faithful can rejoice, for "your reward will be great, and you will be
sons of the MOST HIGH." [Luke 6. 35]

The LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH and the HEAVENLY FATHER are both worthy
of abundantly rich blessings: "Worthy is the LAMB WHO was slain to
receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory
and blessing! Blessing and honor and glory and power be to HIM WHO sits
on the Throne, and to the LAMB, forever and ever! Amen" [Revelation 5.
12 - 13] "Blessing and glory and wisdom, thanksgiving and honor and
power and might, be to our GOD forever and ever. Amen" [Revelation 7.
12] Worthy is our LORD GOD MOST HIGH, worthy of all praises, let all
who have breath praise the HOLY ONE for HE is praiseworthy, Amen!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
We are called to be heirs of GOD in MESSIAH YESHUA. There is no higher
calling in all of creation. Everything happening in our lives is
intended to prepare us for this high calling by working in us the nature
of the MASTER DESIGNER. CHRIST JESUS is the ANSWER to every human
problem, and HE is the ANSWER to every problem we're now facing, and
those that are about to come upon us. It is not just that HE has the
answers, but HE is the ANSWER. If we are living in the knowledge that
the ONE we serve is over all rulers and authorities and dominions, why
should we fear? Every challenge is an opportunity to grow in faith, so
a key to the victorious life is to not waste our trials…let them
strengthen us as we continue in our "higher calling."

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. . .
Choose hope over despair.

DELIGHT IN THE LAW
"Blessed (happy) is the man who has not followed the counsel of the
wicked, or taken the path of sinners, or joined the company of the
insolent; rather, the TEACHING of the LORD is his delight, and he
studies and recites that teaching day and night." [Psalms/Tehillym 1. 1
- 2]

The Law should be a joy and a delight to anyone who really loves the
LORD GOD. The Law is not harsh or burdensome as some may think, though
grace has set us free from the curse of the Law. The Apostle Paul even
said of grace, "for I delight in the Law of GOD according to the inward
man." [Romans 7. 22] "The Law is holy and the commandment holy and just
and good." [Romans 7. 12] David testified that "the TEACHING of the
LORD is perfect, renewing life…the precepts of the LORD are just,
rejoicing the heart; the instruction of the LORD is radiant, lighting
the eyes." [Psalms (Tehillym) 19. 7 - 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

There are numerous extraordinary testimonies in Psalms 119 expressing
the advantages of God'S Law. "Happy (Hebrew: 'esher) are those whose
way is blameless, who follow the Teaching (Law) of the LORD...Open my
eyes that I may perceive the wonders of YOUR Teaching...May YOUR tender
mercy reach me that I might live, for YOUR Teaching (Law) is my
delight...Oh how I love YOUR Teaching! It is my study and contemplation
all the day...Those who love YOUR Teaching enjoy well-being and
encounter great peace; they encounter no adversity." [Psalms (Tehillym)
119. 1, 18, 77, 97, 165 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The COMMANDMENT (Law) of GOD was not set aside when MESSIAH YESHUA came,
obvious from HIS first remark of the Law in the NEW COVENANT. The LORD
JESUS said, "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the
Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 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 - 18]
Furthermore, the Law is not for Jews only, for its first mention in the
OLD COVENANT affirms, "There shall be one Law for the citizen (Jew) and
for the stranger (Gentile) who dwells among you." [Exodus (Shemot) 12.
49 Tanakh, Torah]

The purpose of the Law is to convict, the Law cannot and does not save.
The Law defines what sin is and shows us our urgent need of the SAVIOUR.
We are saved by grace alone through faith alone. "For whoever shall keep
the whole Law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all."
[James 2. 10] But, "CHRIST has redeemed us from the curse of the Law,
having become a curse for us (for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who
hangs on a tree')." [Galatians 3. 13] "The ScRIPTURE has confined ALL
UNDER SIN, that the promise by faith in JESUS CHRIST might be given to
THOSE WHO BELIEVE." [Galatians 3. 22]

Our LOVING AlmightY GOD is holy and just, and HIS Law is not a burden,
but is a delight -- restoring the soul, and bringing true fulfillment,
righteousness and great peace to those who love it.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Draw me to YOU with the breath of love, swiftly shall I come to stand
within YOUR radiance that I may attain the sweetness of all intimacies
in YOUR PRESENCE. My soul aches to receive your love. . . only by the
tenderness of YOUR PURE LIGHT, MOST HOLY LORD can I be healed. . .
engage my soul in YOUR service that I may taste the ecstasy of YOUR
perfect righteousness. "Be'Ezrat ha'shem with the help of GOD"
my soul will be exalted and greatly rejoice.
Today is the Jewish Calendar: 15th Iyyar, 5772 the 30th day of the
Omer

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. . .
Love is more then something you say, it's something you do.

MOMENT IN TIME
"He shall bring the bull to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, before
the LORD, and lay his hand upon the head of the bull. The bull shall be
slaughtered before the LORD, and the anointed priest shall take some of
the bull's blood and bring it into the Tent of Meeting." [Leviticus
(Vayikra) 4. 4 - 5 Tanakh, Torah]

This verse refers to the "sin offering" that must be killed by the
person who is offering it, not the priest. The priest could perform the
other rituals of the sacrifice, including burning the remains of the
bullock outside the camp, but when offering a "burnt offering"
[Leviticus/Vayikra 1. 1 - 5] or a "peace offering" [Leviticus/Vayikra 3.
1-2], the one making the offering had to kill the animal being offered.
In each, before the sacrifice was slain, the one making the offering was
to lay his hands upon the head of the bullock, signifying the transfer
of his own sin and guilt to the innocent creature being offered.

How exclusively unique is the timing of the coming of the PRINCE OF
PEACE, in the flesh, and HIS perfect atoning death on the cross. The
nation of Israel was not free, being ruled by Gentiles, the Romans. The
Jews did not have the power to execute a prisoner, only the Romans
could. Because the LORD JESUS came, not only to die and redeem HIS
Jewish people, HE came to redeem the Gentiles also.

This follows the pattern that was president for the "sin offering"
described in Leviticus where the one for whom the offering is made, must
be guilty of killing the sacrifice, both Jew and Gentile are guilty of
crucifying the GREATEST SACRIFICE, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, once for all.

The Jewish authorities planned and demanded MESSIAH'S death [Matthew 26.
3 - 4], and the Gentile Pilate and his Roman soldiers consented and
carried out HIS execution. [Matthew 27. 26, 35] Thus, the death of the
LORD YESHUA on the cross was effective for both Jew and Gentile —
the whole world — following the set pattern of the requirement the
MASTER DESIGNER planned from the beginning of time.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Shabbat, be reminded that there is light and joy,
gladness and honour for all of GOD'S people. Be sure to take some of
Sabbath's sweetness with you for a blessed week. We gratefully
acknowledge, O LORD, our GOD, that YOU are our CREATOR & PRESERVER, the
ROCK of our life and the SHIELD of our help. We render thanks to YOU for
our lives which are in YOUR hand, for our souls which are ever in YOUR
keeping, for YOUR wondrous providence and for YOUR continuous goodness,
which YOU bestow upon us day by day. Truly, YOUR mercies never fail and
YOUR loving-kindness never ceases. Therefore, we confidently, and most
gratefully put our trust in 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/

Thought FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Don't seek to be seen; but seek to shine that others may see.

CHASTISEMENT of OUR PEACE
"HE (YESHUA ha'MASHIACH) was wounded because of our sins
(transgressions) , HE was bruised because of our iniquities (sin,
wickedness). HE bore the chastisement (punishment) for our peace that
made us whole, and with HIS stripes we were healed." [Isaiah (Yeshayah)
53. 5 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Isaiah 52:13 through Isaiah 53:12 contain the clearest and fullest
exposition of the substitutionary sacrifice of the LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH for our sins found in the HOLY SCRIPTURES. The PRECIOUS
LAMB that was slain in our place.

The two most important themes focused on in Isaiah are Law & Judgment
and Grace & Salvation paralleling all the other books of both the OLD &
NEW COVENANTS. The prophecies of John the Baptist's coming to prepare
the way of MESSIAH are there along with the prophecies of things to
happen before the second coming of the LORD JESUS CHRIST along with the
New Heavens and the New Earth.

The central theme of Isaiah records MESSIAH YESHUA'S chastisement upon
HIMSELF for our peace. Salvation is the very heart of the GOSPEL.
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH was "wounded. . . pierced through" as with great
spikes and "bruised — crushed to death" for our sins that we could
receive peace and reconciliation of being restored with GOD ALMIGHTY
because the LORD JESUS was "chastised" in our place. {Hebrew: "musar"
means discipline, punishment, correction, chastening, a shameful
humbling.} YESHUA, the CRUCIFIED ONE "was delivered up because of our
offenses, and was raised because of our justification. " [Romans 4. 25]

The WONDERFUL SHEPHERD & OVERSEER of our soul, "bore our sins in HIS OWN
BODY on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for
righteousness by WHOSE stripes you were healed." [1 Peter 2. 24] And,
we are forever "healed" of our malignant, lethal sin-sickness because HE
received the harsh blows of the Roman whip that caused the "stripes"
that should have been unleashed upon us.

Oh! the unfathomable, immeasurably wondrous love the HOLY OMNISCIENT
CREATOR has for us!

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!"

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 part of human nature to think wise things and do extravagantly
foolish ones.

PERFECT REST OR RESTLESSNESS
"One day when the sons of GOD presented themselves before the LORD, and
Satan also came along with them. And the LORD said to the Adversary—
Where have you been? —Satan answered the LORD— From roaming to
and fro on the earth, walking back and forth on it." [Job (Iyob) 1. 6
– 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Satanic activity is clearly seen in this remarkable scene in the
heavenlies. Satan, being in complete opposition to GOD and HIS Perfect
Plan of Salvation, never rests. However, unlike the BLESSED
OMNIPRESENT GOD OF HEAVEN, the evil one is a finite (restricted,
limited), though very powerful and brilliant, created being. So, to
accomplish his goal, he is never at rest, but continues going from place
to place and working deception after deception, bringing everyone he can
under his diabolical manipulation, influence, and control.

Thus, the MERCIFUL, ALMIGHTY GOD urgently warns us to "be sober, be
vigilant (watchful, on your guard); because your adversary the devil
walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him,
steadfast in the faith." [1 Peter 5. 8 – 9a]

The same is true of the demonic spirits who have followed Satan in his
rebellion against the RIGHTEOUS & HOLY ONE. They never rest until they
can take possession of some person's body and mind, then control
that person's behavior as they will. "When an unclean spirit goes
out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none.
Then he says— I will return to my house from which I came. —And
when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then he goes
and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and
they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than
the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation." [Matthew
12. 43 - 45]

Those who yield to the pressures of these evil spirits and of the devil
himself, are characterized with the same restlessness, and it is the
unsaved who usually find themselves in such a state. They will find a
desperate destiny where "They have no rest day or night, who worship the
beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name."
[Revelation 14. 11]

True, perfect and peaceful rest is found only in the LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH, with HIS complete forgiveness, blood-washed cleansing, and
gentle guidance. The MERCIFUL INTERCESSOR bids us— "Come to ME, all
you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take MY
yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and
you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and MY burden is
light." [Matthew 11. 28 - 30] That yoke is the yoke of instructions for
service and obedience. Wearing the MASTER'S yoke will bring you
into perfect peace and rest for your soul.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Welcome Sabbath, come, let us welcome the Bride of the Week. . .may its
radiance illumine our hearts as we kindle the candles of Sabbath!
Light is the symbol of the DIVINE, the LORD is my LIGHT and my
SALVATION. Light is the symbol of the DIVINE in man; the spirit of man
is the light of the LORD.
Light is the symbol of the DIVINE Law, for the commandment is a Lamp and
the Law is a Light. Light is the symbol of Israel's mission. I, the
LORD, have set you for a covenant of the people, for a light to the
nations. Thus, in the spirit of our ancient tradition that hallows and
unites Israel in all lands and all ages, let us go forth with the light
of GOD'S WORD to the nations as HE commanded.

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 only a fool who has never felt like one.

SUFFERING FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS
"But and if you suffer for righteousness sake, happy are you; and be not
afraid of their terror, neither be troubled." [1 Peter 3. 14]

Few CHRISTians in America have actually suffered physical persecution or
martyrdom and tribulation for the cause of the LORD JESUS. However,
HOLY SCRIPTURES emphasize that "all who desire to live godly in MESSIAH
YESHUA will suffer persecution" of some kind, particularly that "in the
last days perilous times will come." [2 Timothy 3. 12, 1] Persecution
is not something we look for, but we should understand it, and react
appropriately when it comes. As the world descends deeper into
humanism and occultism, we may even face physical persecution as many
CHRISTians in communist, Muslim and other pagan lands already have.
These influences are increasingly flooding into America and the entire
world daily, setting us up for the same persecutions and GOD'S just
wrath.

Indeed, the hour of tribulation is here. SCRIPTURES warn that we will
suffer tribulation. [1 Thessalonians 3. 4] But, "do not fear any of
those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed.. you will be tested
and you will have tribulation. Be faithful until death, and I will give
you the Crown of Life." [Revelation 2. 10] Through it all we are
encouraged to "be of good cheer, I (MESSIAH YESHUA) have overcome the
world." [John 16. 33]

Peter, who once was fearful and denied the Lord OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, warns
us not to fall into the same reaction. Do not be afraid or troubled,
Peter stressed, instead — "REJOICE!" Unusual counsel, but very good
advice. "Rejoice to the extent that you are partakers of CHRIST'S
sufferings; that when HIS glory is revealed, you may be glad with
exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the NAME of JESUS, blessed are
you; for the SPIRIT OF GLORY and of GOD rests upon you." [1 Peter 4. 13
- 14]

The only time we are to fear is in reference to failing to enter GOD'S
rest. "Therefore, since a promise remains of entering HIS rest, let us
fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it...Looking diligently
lest anyone fall short of the grace of GOD; lest any root of bitterness
springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled; lest there
be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of
food sold his birthright." [Hebrews 4. 1; 12. 15 - 16] This warning
should only motivate continued obedience.

YESHUA, the GREAT SHEPHERD said, "Blessed are you when they revile you
and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for MY
sake. Rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in
heaven." [Matthew 5. 11 - 12] And, "do not cast away your confidence,
which has great reward." [Hebrews 10. 35] The Apostle Paul, who
suffered great persecution and finally martyrdom, warned that we should
be "in no way terrified by your adversaries. ..for to you it has been
granted on behalf of MESSIAH, not only to believe in HIM, but also to
suffer for HIS sake." [Philippians 1. 28 - 29]

"And they overcame him (Satan, the Accuser) by the blood of the LAMB and
by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the
death." [Revelation 12. 11] What joy and a glorious honor await those
of us who hold-fast and overcome!

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 KING. We will examine our ways and test
them, and return to YOU, O MOST HIGH.

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


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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The truly righteous ones do not complain about evil, but rather add
justice; they do not complain about heresy, but rather add faith; they
do not complain about ignorance, but rather add wisdom. [Rabbi Avraham
Yitzchak ha'Cohen Kook]

GRACE, THE GIFT
"GOD resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." [1 Peter 5. 5]

Grace is first found in Genesis/Bereshith where "Noah found grace in the
eyes of the LORD" [6. 8], and is a treasured free gift only given by our
LOVING CREATOR. The grace of LORD GOD MOST HIGH is freely given, not
something that can be earned, for it is unmerited favor. Salvation is
one thing we never deserve or any of the other blessings HE provides,
but "the gift (Hebrew: "chen/chanan" — grace) of GOD is eternal
life." [Romans 6. 23] "For by grace you have been saved through faith,
and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of GOD, not of works, lest
anyone should boast." [Ephesians 2. 8 - 9] "For you know the grace of
our LORD JESUS CHRIST, that though HE was rich, yet for your sakes HE
became poor, that you through HIS poverty might become rich." [2
Corinthians 8. 9]

Since the ALMIGHTY GOD of all flesh, through MESSIAH YESHUA has lavished
such abundant grace to us, we likewise should manifest grace to others.
But such grace in us is no more achievable by human effort then is GOD'S
abundant grace toward us. Grace is always the GRACIOUS Gift OF GOD
— to be received in faith and humility, never in pride. And grace
is given through faith and is most attractive to and most effective for
the poor in spirit. "To such a one I will look: To the poor and
brokenhearted (contrite, ashamed spirit), who is concerned about MY
WORD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The unconditional
promises of the MIGHTY GOD OF HOSTS cannot be earned; they can only be
received freely.

A proud person can never be gracious, as the HOLY OMNIPOTENT ONE will
never give HIS gifts to those who are proud. "To fear the LORD is to
hate evil; I hate pride, arrogance, the evil way, and duplicity
(treachery, dishonest, lies) in speech." [Proverbs (Mishle) 8. 13
Tanakh, Kethuvim] "At scoffers HE scoffs, but to the lowly HE shows
grace." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 34 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "A man's pride will
humiliate him, but the humble in spirit will obtain honor." [Proverbs
(Mishle) 29. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

"As you abound in everything — in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in
all diligence, and in your love for us — see that you abound in this
grace also." [2 Corinthians 8. 7] Never forget! —all GOD'S
blessings come by HIS grace alone. HE gives grace to the humble, not to
the proud.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
The prayer of faith is a sincere, sweet, and quiet view of divine,
eternal truth. The soul rests quiet, perceiving and loving GOD; sweetly
rejecting all the imaginations that present themselves, calming the mind
in the DIVINE PRESENCE, and fixing it only on the ALMIGHTY ONE.

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


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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Deciding "not to choose" is still making a choice.

SEARCH! GET UNDERSTANDING
"They (the Levites) read from the scroll of the TEACHING OF GOD,
translating it and giving the sense; so they (the people) understood the
reading." [Nehemiah (Nechemah) 8. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

When Ezra read the BOOK OF THE LAW OF MOSES, the Levites would explain
the teaching to the people [Nehemiah/Nechemah 8. 7], so they could
understand it literally. "Then the people answered —Amen!
Amen!— with hands upraised. Then they bowed their heads and
prostrated themselves before YEHOWAH with their faces to the ground."
[Nehemiah (Nechemah) 8. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

If people, especially true CHRISTians, would spend more time reading
God'S Word, they too would perceive and understand the many treasures in
it. The congregation of Israel in Ezra's time found the Word both vital
and interesting as "the people were weeping as they listened to the
words of the TEACHING." [Nehemiah (Nechemah) 8. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
Then, "standing in their places, they read from the scroll of the
TEACHING OF YEHOWAH their GOD for one-fourth of the day, and for another
fourth they confessed and prostrated themselves before the LORD their
GOD." [Nehemiah (Nechemah) 9. 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Today we have the entire WORD OF GOD written down and easily obtainable
for the reading. Therefore, CHRIST-like- ones should be even more
concerned and we should have a better understanding. The narratives of
the OLD COVENANT are understood in the wonderful light of the NEW
COVENANT. You will find love, humbleness, peace, pearls, roses
diffusing their scent, blessedness, resurrection and heavenly treasures.
Also, you will find that the MOST HIGH GOD is leading us into and
victoriously through the battles in this wilderness.

One simply needs to read the HOLY SCRIPTURES and believe it literally,
and accept it. Keep in mind that the understanding of the WORD OF THE
LORD comes by careful study of the LIFE-GIVING WORD OF THE LIVING GOD
because, "precept (rule, guideline) must be upon precept, precept upon
precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little."
[Isaiah/Yeshayah 28. 10]

In reality, SACRED SCRIPTURES are not hard to understand, just hard to
believe and obey. The BIBLE was written with the important objective of
being understood and well-established into our being. The HOLY SPIRIT,
it's WRITER, lives within the true believer. "The HELPER, the HOLY
SPIRIT, WHOM the FATHER will send in MY NAME, HE will teach you all
things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you."
[John 14. 26] It is our responsibility, however, to put HIS WORD into
our minds by READING THE WORD!!!

May the mind-set of your heart ever be like that of King David who said,
"Oh, how I love YOUR TEACHING! It is my meditation all the day...to do
what pleases YOU, ELOHEY, is my desire; YOUR TEACHING is in my inmost
parts." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 97; 40. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Seek the
LORD, the MIGHTY GOD OF ISRAEL and live.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
O magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt HIS NAME together. HIS glory
is in the earth and in the heavens. HE is the STRENGTH of all HIS
servants, the PRAISE of them that truly love HIM, the HOPE OF ISRAEL,
the people HE brought near to HIMSELF. HIS Law is a Tree of Life to them
that lay hold of it, and the supporters thereof are happy. Its ways are
ways of pleasantness, and all its paths are peace. HalleluYAH!

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. . .
Gentle words work better then hard ones.

DETERMINED
"I have chosen the way of faithfulness and truth; I have set YOUR
judgments before me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 30 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

As we who are called by the MASTER'S NAME, "CHRIST-like- ones"—
should examine our weaknesses and failures (sins) daily and determine to
do better daily with the help of the LORD GOD, the MIGHTY ENABLER. It
is helpful to remember some of the affirmative declarations made by the
stylist of Psalm 119 — an acrostic praise of the SCRIPTURES —
and determine to make these our desires as well.

We are compelled to deliberately choose the WAY OF TRUTH, by being
careful and honest in all our words and relationships. "Turn my heart
to YOUR decrees and not to love of gain." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 36
Tanakh, Kethuvim], and we should make this our prayer; since
covetousness is sin which easily overwhelms and plagues us.

We must never be ashamed of the TRUE & LIVING GOD nor of HIS SACRED
WORD, then we can, like the psalmist say: "I will speak of YOUR
testimonies, and not be ashamed in the presence of kings" for "YOU are
just when YOU speak and blameless in YOUR judgment." [Psalms (Tehillym)
119. 46; 52. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

Furthermore, we need to have fellowship with all true believers who
earnestly seek to keep HIS LIFE-GIVING WORD. "I am a companion to all
who fear YOU, to those who keep YOUR precepts." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119.
63 Tanakh, Kethuvim] When the RIGHTEOUS ONE is chastising, testing and
purifying us we should not complain. "I know, O LORD, that YOUR rulings
are just; rightly have YOU humbled me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 75
Tanakh, Kethuvim]

No matter what happens, we should resolve to trust GOD ALMIGHTY, just as
Job did— "Though HE slay me, yet will I trust in HIM." [Job (Iyob)
13. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] We can even echo the sweet term of the
psalmist, "YOU are my HIDING PLACE, my PROTECTION and my SHIELD; I hope
in YOUR WORD." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 114 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

We can believe implicitly in the WRITTEN WORD of the ALL-WISE AUTHOR OF
CREATION, for we are convinced that "GOD be true but every man a liar"
[Romans 3. 4], and we are justified in HIS WORD as overcomers. "Truly
by all Your precepts I walk straight; I hate every false way." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 119. 128 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

We can fully trust the LORD GOD and knowingly choose to believe HIS Holy
Word for they are life. "This is my comfort in my affliction, that YOUR
WORD has preserved me." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 50 Tanakh, Kethuvim]
"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears MY WORD and believes in HIM
WHO sent ME has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but
has passed from death into life." [John 5. 24] "Let YOUR hand help me,
for I have chosen YOUR precepts." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 173 Tanakh,
Kethuvim]

Like Paul, may we say: "I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor
angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to
come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able
to separate us from the love of GOD which is in CHRIST JESUS our LORD."
[Romans 8. 38 - 39] Our AMAZING REDEEMER is faithful and I am
determined to follow HIM. Live holy that your name will be inscribed in
the LAMB'S BOOK OF LIFE!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
May you be a witnesses of the MOST HOLY ONE'S care, love, and indwelling
presence. Our prayer is that you are faithfully dedicated to THE ONE WHO
is the LIGHT of the world.

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. . .
While there is life, there is hope.

BLINDED MINDS
"But even if our GOSPEL is veiled (hidden), it is veiled to those who
are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not
believe, lest the light of the GOSPEL of the glory of MESSIAH YESHUA,
WHO is the IMAGE OF GOD, should shine on them." [2 Corinthians 4. 3 - 4]

The Devil, that evil dragon, is the "ruler of this world" [John 12. 31],
the wicked one "who deceives the whole world." [Revelation 12. 9] It is
sobering to realize that this horrendously vile ruler and his demonic
cohorts have the power to blind the minds of unbelievers, preventing
them from comprehending even the simplest elements of the SAVING TRUTH
of our precious LORD JESUS. "The wicked will do wickedly and none of the
wicked will understand; but the wise will understand." [Daniel (Danyel)
12. 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "He who is wise will consider these words, he
who is prudent (Hebrew: biyn — to discern, careful, sensible) will
take note of them. For the ways of the LORD are right; the righteous can
walk in them, while sinners stumble on them." [Hosea (Hoshea) 14. 9
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

However, MESSIAH YESHUA, the HOLY ANOINTED ONE can make the blind to
see! In answer to prayer and through the faithful presentation of the
WORD OF TRUTH, "the FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, the FATHER OF
GLORY, may give you the SPIRIT OF WISDOM and revelation in the knowledge
of HIM, the eyes of your hearts understanding being enlightened; THAT
YOU MAY KNOW." [Ephesians 1. 17 - 18]

The LOVING SAVIOR, YESHUA of Nazareth, desires that people come to HIM,
therefore, HE gives HIS witnesses weapons that can even overcome Satan,
and open the eyes of the spiritually blind. The spiritual weapons are
truth and righteousness, peace and faith, the WORD and prayer.
[Ephesians 6. 11, 13 - 18] "For the weapons of our warfare are not
carnal, but mighty through GOD to the pulling down of strongholds;
casting down imaginations of reasonings, and every high thing that
exalts itself against the knowledge of GOD, and bring into captivity
every thought of our mind, to the obedience of CHRIST." [2 Corinthians
10. 4 - 5]

Even though old slew-foot, the Devil, is far more intelligent and
powerful than we, or those we seek to reach, our MAGNIFICENT OMNIPOTENT
LORD GOD still enables us to recapture their minds, and bring them to
CHRIST THE ADORED REDEEMER, as we proclaim HIS truth, by HIS amazing,
saving grace and in HIS NAME! Even now, the choice is still for every
individual to make.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Whoever walks upright, works righteousness and speaks the truth will
abide in the LORD'S Tabernacle and dwell in HIS holy hill. Watch and
pray that you may be found worthy. Be encouraged and stand strong, the
LORD MESSIAH YESHUA our KING is coming soon!

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


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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
In order to be a realist in Israel, you must believe in miracles. [David
Ben-Gurion]

AUTHOR OF PEACE
"GOD is not the AUTHOR of confusion but of peace." [1 Corinthians 14.
33]

"The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gently,
willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and
without hypocrisy. The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those
who make peace." [James 3. 17 - 18] The whole world and our personal
lives remain in confusion, turmoil, and strife; and the source is that
Old Dragon, Satan, "the god of this world." [2 Corinthians 4. 4]

The only ONE WHO can bring true peace is the ONE WHO is the AUTHOR OF
PEACE. HE is "the GOD OF PEACE WHO brought up our LORD JESUS from the
dead." [Hebrews 13. 20] Moreover, HE is "the MIGHTY GOD, the
EVERLASTING FATHER, the PRINCE OF PEACE." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 9. 6
Tanakh, Nevi'im] Melchizedek ("my King is righteous") was the KING OF
SALEM or KING OF PEACE [Hebrews 7. 2] and HE is "the LORD OF PEACE." [2
Thessalonians 3. 16] Melchizedek was, at least a type of the incarnate
MESSIAH, if not in fact the obvious pre-incarnate appearance of the LORD
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the SON OF MAN.

The LORD JESUS CHRIST is all of these, the AUTHOR OF PEACE, the LORD OF
PEACE, the PRINCE OF PEACE, the KING OF PEACE and the incredible GOD OF
PEACE; and our only SOURCE OF PEACE!

Some day very soon, "HE shall speak peace to the nations; HIS dominion
shall be from sea to sea, from the River to the ends of the earth."
[Zechariah (Zecharyah) 9. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] In that day, we are
reminded that, "the GOD of peace will crush Satan under your feet."
[Romans 16. 20] "In token of abundant authority and of peace without
limit, upon David's throne and over HIS Kingdom, that it may be firmly
establish in justice and in equity now and evermore from that time
forward, even forever. The zeal of the LORD OF HOSTS shall perform
this." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 9. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] What a glorious day
that will be!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Be blessed as we bid farewell to Shabbat! May the ALMIGHTY ONE, WHO
separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins, guide our life,
fill our upcoming week with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE. Refresh yourself and
others through HIS wisdom & discernment, love & kindness — that some
of the sweetness of Sabbath be experienced daily.
If you perceive something so important to be willing to sacrifice your
own life for it, then your life has weight and purpose and direction;
because until you know what you are willing to die for, you have not yet
begun to live.
Tov Shavua — Have a good week!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. [The
Psalms]

JOYFUL SOUND
"Blessed (Hebrew: `esher — happy) are the people who know the
joyful sound! O LORD, they walk in the light of YOUR countenance. They
rejoice in YOUR NAME all day long; they are exalted through YOUR
righteousness. " [Psalms (Tehillym) 89. 15 - 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

This great Psalm is extolling GOD'S marvelous works of creation and
then HIS promises of redemption. "O LORD, GOD OF HOSTS…The heaven is
YOURS, the earth also is YOURS; the world and all its fullness— YOU
established them. The north and the south— You created them."
[Psalms (Tehillym) 89. 11 - 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The incredibly first
"joyful sound" was heard when the ELOQUENT CREATOR "laid the earths
foundations" and the "morning stars sang together and all the sons of
GOD shouted for joy!" [Job (Iyob) 38. 4, 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The
angels, the assembly of holy beings of the MIGHTY GOD sang of "YOUR
wonders" and YOUR marvels were "praised by the heavens."
[Psalms/Tehillym 89. 5]

There was also a joyful sound when YESHUA, the PRINCE OF PEACE was born,
and the angels came bringing "I bring you good tidings of great joy
which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the
city of David a SAVIOR, WHO is CHRIST THE LORD...and suddenly there was
with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD." [Luke 2.
10 - 11, 13]

Every time a soul is saved, there is great joy and sounds of
rejoicing— "I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in
heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons
who need no repentance" [Luke 15. 7] —the TRUE VINE so fervently
declared. And the most wonderful sound of joy on earth will be when the
LORD comes again. "And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come
to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall
obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away."
[Isaiah (Yeshayah) 35. 10; 51. 15 – 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

"With trumpets and the blast of the horn; joyfully raise a shout before
the LORD, the KING." [Psalms (Tehillym) 98. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Even
now as always, "my soul shall joyfully exult in the LORD; rejoice in HIS
salvation." [Psalms (Tehillym) 35. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] There is such a
joyful sound in hearing and knowing these cherished words, "JESUS
saves!"

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Good Sabbath! Come my dear friend to meet the Bride, the Sabbath
presence, let us welcome! Those who keep the Sabbath and call it a
delight shall rejoice in GOD'S Kingdom.
O INFINITE & MERCIFUL CREATOR , firm in the faith we are emboldened to
seek YOUR PRESENCE, and we are assured that we shall find YOU if, with
sincere hearts, we seek YOU. As the flowers of the field drink of the
dew of heaven and of the radiance of the sun, so would we, lifting our
spirits unto YOU, drink of the pure fountains of holiness. In YOU alone
our souls rejoice, for YOU are our life and our song. Amen.
Circumstance is a glove in which THE ALMIGHTY ONE hides HIS hand. May
you experience an extraordinary and blessed Sabbath!

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Smooth seas don't make skillful sailors.

TEN LOST TRIBES OF ISRAEL
"In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria. He
carried the Israelites to Assyria and settled them in Halah, at the
River Habor, at the River Gozan, and in the towns of Media." [2 Kings
(Melakhim Bet) 17. 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im; also see 18. 9-12]

Ever since the ten tribes of the Northern Kingdom of Israel were taken
to Assyria in captivity by the Assyrian king, there has been wide-spread
speculations and various clans of people claiming to be the lost tribes
of Israel. However, if one would diligently read the WRITTEN WORD OF
GOD, they would see clearly the coming together of all Twelve Israelite
Tribes forming one Jewish Nation.

The other two tribes, Judah and Benjamin, were later taken captive to
Babylon, but eventually they returned to rebuild Jerusalem and establish
their nation in the Land of Promised once again. "Then he (Asa)
assembled all the people of Judah and Benjamin and those of Ephraim,
Manasseh, and Simeon who sojourned among them, for many in Israel came
over to him when they saw that the LORD GOD was with him. They assembled
together in Jerusalem... and brought sacrifices to the LORD that day.
They entered into a covenant to worship the LORD GOD of their fathers
with all their heart and with all their soul." [2 Chronicles (Dibre
Hayamin Bet) 15. 9 - 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

{An interesting thought regarding Judah and Benjamin: Ever since Judah
stood as surety for Benjamin — Genesis/Bereshith 43. 9, they have
been together. . . their boarders in the Land of Israel, even in
captivity. Ezra 4.1;10. 9; Nehemiah/Nechemah 11. 4}

There were many GOD-fearing Israelites within the ten tribes who
decidedly chose to stay with Jerusalem, after Jeroboam led the ten
tribes away from Rehoboam to establish his Northern Kingdom. "The
priests and the Levites, from all their territories throughout Israel,
took their stand with him (Rehoboam).. .for Jeroboam and his sons had
prevented them from serving the LORD...From all the tribes of Israel,
those who set their heart to seek the LORD GOD OF ISRAEL followed the
Levites to Jerusalem to sacrifice to the LORD GOD of their fathers." [2
Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 11. 13, 15 - 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

GOD'S RECORD OF EVIDENCE gives numerous accounts, even in the NEW
COVENANT, that most of the deported ten tribes, or their descendants,
eventually came back to the Land of Promise and were all called Jews
(from the name Judah) in the time of MESSIAH YESHUA. Such as, the
prophetess Hannah (Anna), Phanuel's daughter, of the tribe of Asher
[Luke 2. 36]; and the Apostle Paul of the tribe of Benjamin.
[Philippians 3. 5]

Though most Jews cannot trace their lineage since the time the Temple
was destroyed and all records burned. However, the ALL-WISE, OMNISCIENT
MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE, still has a people who are called according to
HIS will. HE knows those who are HIS and of what tribe they are from.
As recorded in the last book of HOLY SCRIPTURE— "And I heard the
number of those who were sealed; and there were sealed one hundred and
forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel."
[Revelation 7. 4] Although Dan and Ephraim are not shown in this
numbering (deliberately for a specific reason), the tribes are accounted
for, the ten tribes were never lost at all. Our GREAT & MIGHTY GOD is
still in control, and HIS WORD is accurate, faithful, perfect, exact and
completely reliable. . . Believe It!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
"Return, O LORD, to the ten thousands of the families of Israel."
[Numbers/B'Midvar 10. 36]
O LORD GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guile. Be
my SUPPORT when grief silences my voice, and my COMFORT when anguish
bends my spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with
perfect faith in YOU. Guide me by the light of YOUR counsel, and let me
ever find rest in YOU, my ROCK, my REDEEMER and my PORTION. All praise,
thanks and glory belong to YOU, ALMIGHTY KING of all ages.

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 simple maidservant saw miracles on the Red Sea which even Ezekiel did
not envision.

THOSE RESPONSIBLE — GOD the FATHER (Part 3 of 4)
Without the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of ALMIGHTY GOD, there
could have been no crucifixion scene for it was foreordained before the
foundation of the world that the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD would be "cut
off." Jews and Gentiles were gathered together against YESHUA , the MAN
OF SORROWS, "to do whatever YOUR (GOD'S) hand and YOUR purpose
determined before to be done." [Acts 4. 28] The HOLY ONE HIMSELF,
blessed be HE, was responsible for the death of the LORD YESHUA, the
UNIQUE ANOINTED ONE! In the very beginning it was GOD, the OMNISCIENT
PRE-INCARNATE WORD OF GOD WHO slew an animal in the Garden of Eden,
shedding its blood to provide coats of the skin to clothe and cover Adam
and Eve. This prefigures the "GREATER SACRIFICE" which the HIGH & LOFTY
ONE was to give for the redemptive atonement to "whosoever" will accept
HIS free gift. Before the creation of the earth it was in the mind of
the HEAVENLY FATHER that the SON would come to be come as HE was the
ONLY PERFECT SUBSTITUTE to die that those, believing on HIM, could live.
This SINLESS LAMB was "slain before the foundation of the earth" by the
determinate counsel of ALMIGHTY OMNIPOTENT GOD!

"The LORD (GOD THE FATHER) has laid on HIM (GOD THE SON) the iniquity
and guilt of all of us. But the LORD (FATHER GOD) chose to bruise HIM
(MESSIAH YESHUA); HE (GOD THE FATHER) put HIM (GOD THE SON) to grief and
crushed HIM. HE (LORD YESHUA) made HIMSELF an "OFFERING" for sin and
guilt, that HE might see offspring and have long life, and that by HIS
hand the LORD'S purpose might prosper." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 6, 10
Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Who bruised the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL? WHO put HIM to grief, and made HIS
soul an offering for sin? The MAJESTIC LORD GOD ALMIGHTY! MESSIAH
YESHUA HIMSELF foretold that, out of HIS great love, GOD would put HIM
to death, "YOU (GOD THE FATHER) commit ME (GOD THE SON) to the dust of
death." [Psalms (Tehillym) 22. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The LORD GOD
ETERNAL could have prevented that awful scene on Golgotha's Cross by
sending legions of angels in defense of JESUS, HIS "ONLY BEGOTTEN SON."
HE could have, but as it is written, "HE WHO did not spare HIS OWN SON,
but delivered HIM up for us all." [Romans 8. 32] "When HE (YESHUA)
came into the world, HE said— Sacrifice and offering YOU did not
desire, but a body YOU have prepared for ME. —YESHUA continued—
"Behold, I have come to do YOUR will, O GOD. — HE takes away the
first that HE may establish the second. By that will we have been
sanctified through the offering of the body of JESUS CHRIST once for
all." [Hebrews 10. 5, 9 - 10]

At JESUS' trial, Pilate told HIM that he had the power to release or
crucify HIM. YESHUA answered, "You could have no power at all against
ME unless it had been given you from above." [John 19. 11] "For GOD so
loved the world that HE GAVE HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, that whoever (Jew or
Gentile) believes in HIM should not perish but have everlasting life!"
[John 3. 16]

The crucifixion is not a "historical misunderstanding" nor is it a
"tragic event which ended in defeat." The Cross of Golgotha is a
FULFILLMENT of a DIVINE Decree made before the foundation of the world!
The death of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is prophesied and we see the
manner of that death portrayed in type and symbol throughout the OLD
COVENANT; the furniture of the Wilderness Tabernacles was designed by
the LOVING CREATOR, then directed by the ALMIGHTY ONE, the LION OF
JUDAH, to be placed in the formation of a Cross!

When the Israelites were commanded to take up the Tabernacle to travel
to another place which the LORD would show them, they were to march with
the furniture in a Cross formation. When the people of Israel observed
that first Passover in Egypt, they were to kill an innocent, blameless,
spotless lamb, then take the blood and strike it on the two side posts
and the lintel of their houses. Taking the blood from the basin and
striking it on the lintel, the upper part of the doorframe and on the
two side posts again fashions the "Cross!" [Exodus/Shemot 12. 22]

The Breast of the Wave Offering which is waved (side-to-side motion),
and the Thigh of the Heave Offering which is raised and lowered
(up-and-down motion) . . . "their gift to the LORD, their sacrifice
offerings of peace" [Exodus/Shemot 29. 27-28], also form the semblance
of a Cross. Thus the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, through HIS death on a Cross
became the PEACE OFFERING reconciling us back to our RIGHTEOUS & HOLY
GOD.
"O how I thank YOU, my BLESSED REDEEMER, my LORD and my GOD!"

. . . to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Remembering Yom Ha'Zikaron, the day on which Israel honors its
fallen servicemen and women. Scheduling Yom Ha'Zikaron is observed
on the 4th day of the month Iyar on the Hebrew calendar (corresponding
to April 25th this year), always one day before Israel Independence Day
on the 5th day of Iyar, the anniversary of the Proclaiming of the State
of Israel in 1948. It is intended to remind people of the price paid for
independence and of what was achieved with the soldiers' sacrifice.
When things around you appear dark and terrifying, hold on to the
promises of LORD GOD. HE is in complete control. "The ROCK! — HIS
deeds are perfect; Yes! all HIS ways are just; a FAITHFUL GOD, never
false, true and just is HE." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 4 Tanakh, Torah]
Great and mighty is our MERCIFUL & LOVING GOD!

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.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Let your ears hear what your mouth says.

THOSE RESPONSIBLE — EVERYONE! (Conclusion)
The crucifixion of the MESSIAH YESHUA OF NAZARETH is an event in which
the whole world took part. HIS Jewish disciples and well-wishers
forsook HIM and fled; Gentiles spat on HIM and mocked the LORD OF GLORY.
Jews delivered HIM to Pontius Pilate; Gentiles nailed YESHUA to
Golgotha's Cross. Jews cried, "Crucify HIM! Crucify HIM!" Gentiles
gambled for HIS seamless garment. Believing Jews wept at the foot of
the cross; Gentiles crushed the crown of thorns on His brow. Completed
Jews brought costly spices; Gentiles offered Him vinegar and gall.
MESSIANIC Jews were HIS pallbearers; Gentiles pierced HIS side. Thus,
both the Jews and Gentiles are ALL responsible for crucifying our LORD
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, GOD'S PRECIOUS oNLY-BEGOTTEN SON.

No one is exempt from responsibility in the death of MESSIAH YESHUA!
The Jewish prophet Isaiah wrote— "It was our sickness that HE was
bearing, our suffering that HE endured. We accounted HIM plagued,
smitten and afflicted by GOD; But HE was wounded because of our sins,
crushed because of our iniquities; HE bore the chastisement that made us
whole, and by HIS bruises we were healed... through the sins of MY
people, who deserved the punishment, HE was cut off from the land of the
living, it is their punishment that HE bore...and HE bore the guilt of
the many and made intercession for sinners." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 4 -
5, 8, 12 Tanakh, Nevi'im]

Before OMNIPOTENT GOD, the entire world is guilty of the crucifixion of
the LORD JESUS CHRIST. HIS suffering and death was necessary for our
salvation. According to the DIVINE PLAN, the INNOCENT ONE must die in
order that we might live. The SON OF RIGHTEOUSNESS must be made sin in
order that we might be made righteous in HIM. The MESSIAH must suffer
the wrath and judgment of the RIGHTEOUS MOST HOLY LORD GOD so that we
might be reconciled to our HEAVENLY MAKER, the LION OF JUDAH, the HOLY
ONE OF ISRAEL. This ONE WHO was the PERFECT SUBSTITUTE, the PERFECT
SACRIFICE, PERFECT RANSOM and PERFECT DELIVERER for our souls is YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH (JESUS CHRIST THE LORD — THE WORD — GOD INCARNATE
— IMMANU'EL). And we, Jew or Gentile, believing upon HIM and
accepting MESSIAH as MASTER & LORD of our life are pardoned from our
sins, are covered over by the blood of the PIERCED LAMB; and we receive
HIS life and righteousness!

With love comes an obligation, if we love the LORD JESUS, we will keep
HIS Commandments. Go, therefore, into all the world and tell this "GOOD
NEWS"...wholeness (holiness) is available for the asking!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Happy 64th Birthday, Israel! Remembering Yom ha'Atzmaut, Israel's
Independence Day — Israel's unique determination, tough
resistance, courage and integrity and ingenuity. Though nominally
celebrated on the 5th day of Iyar (×"' ×`×�ייר) in the
Hebrew calendar (corresponding to April 26th this year) — the
anniversary of the day in which Israel independence was proclaimed, when
David Ben-Gurion publicly read the Israeli Declaration of Independence.
http://en.wikipedia .org/wiki/ David_Ben- Gurion
<http://en.wikipedia .org/wiki/ David_Ben- Gurion> Yom ha'Atzmaut centers
around the declaration of the establishment of the State of Israel on
the 14th of May 1948. Our hope is not yet lost — to be a free nation
in our own land.

The sword comes into the world because of justice being delayed,
because of justice being perverted, and because of those who render
wrong decisions. Nevertheless, when the power of the holy people is
completely shattered, then MESSIAH will come. [see Deuteronomy/ Devarim
32.35; Habakkuk 1.4; Psalms/Tehillym 11.3; Daniel/Danyel 7.21; 8.24;
12.7; Revelation 13.7]
May Almighty God'S love and peace shine out of each of us,
...bright enough for all to see
...clear enough for all to follow.

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 time of trouble one tends to make vows; in time of comfort to change
one's mind.

THOSE RESPONSIBLE — MESSIAH (Part 2 of 4)
"I am the GOOD SHEPHERD. The GOOD SHEPHERD gives HIS life for the sheep.
Therefore MY FATHER loves ME because I lay down MY life that I may take
it again. No one takes it from ME, but I LAY IT DOWN of MYSELF. I have
power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I
have received from MY FATHER." [John 10. 11, 17 - 18]

YESHUA, the ANOINTED ONE, was not forced to die. HE consented to it,
for HIS FATHER had so commanded. When Peter took a sword and used it to
defend his BELOVED MASTER, JESUS rebuked him — "Put up your sword
into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which MY FATHER has given
ME?" [John 18. 11] Our WONDERFUL LORD drank the full cup of bitterness
so we would not have to.

It was prophesied in the OLD COVENANT that the MESSIAH would give
HIMSELF over to suffering and death. "I offered MY back to the floggers,
and MY cheeks to them that tore out MY beard, I did not hide MY face
from the shame of insult and spittle." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 50. 6 Tanakh,
Nevi'im] Yes, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH gave HIS head to wear the
thorns for you; HE gave HIS cheeks to be smitten for you. "Let HIM
offer HIS cheek to the smiter; let HIM be surfeited with mockery."
[Lamentations (Ekhah) 3. 30 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

JESUS, the MAN OF SORROWS, gave HIS eyes to weep over your sins; HE gave
HIS tongue to pray for you; HE gave HIS back to be ploughed for you.
"Plowmen plowed across MY back; they made long their furrows." [Psalms
(Tehillym) 129. 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

YESHUA, the MERCIFUL REDEEMER OF ISRAEL, then gave HIS side for you to
be pierced with a spear; HIS hands opened to the cruel nails; and HE
gave HIS soul, an offering for you. Yes, HE clothed HIMSELF in a human
body that HE might have it to offer sacrificially for you. "Therefore,
when HE came into the world, HE said — Sacrifice and offering YOU
did not desire, but a body YOU have prepared for ME." Then HE
added—"Behold, I have come to do YOUR will, O GOD. — HE takes
away the first that HE may establish the second. By that will we have
been sanctified through the offering of the body of JESUS CHRIST once
for all." [Hebrews 10. 5, 9 - 10]

YESHUA ha'MASHIACH possessed a human heart that it might be broken and
allowed HIS life's blood to be poured out that it might freely flow
giving HIS LIFE for the world! Who-so-ever will may freely receive this
PRECIOUS ATONEMENT for sin. Now is the acceptable time, now is the day
of salvation.

. . . to be continued
Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Rejoice and magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt HIS NAME
together. HIS glory is in the earth and in the heavens. HE is the
strength of all HIS servants, the praise of them that truly love HIM,
the HOPE of Israel and the whole world. HalleluYAH!
Chazaq ve'Emats! — Be strong and very courageous, that you may
observe to do according to all the Law which Moses MY servant commanded
you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may
prosper wherever you go. This BOOK OF THE LAW shall not depart from your
mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe
to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make
your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
[Joshua/Yehoshua 1.7-8]

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. . .
Happy are those whose youth has not shamed their old age!

THOSE RESPONSIBLE — SATAN (Part 1 of 4) —
One of the parties responsible for the death of the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA
is Satan. We read of him in the very first promise of the coming
MESSIAH, where ALMIGHTY GOD spoke to the Serpent and said, "And I will
put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her
SEED (JESUS, the ANOINTED ONE); HE shall crush your head, and you will
bruise HIS heel." [Genesis (Bereshith) 3. 15 Tanakh, Torah]

The Old Serpent (Satan) would bruise the heel of the BLESSED REDEEMER,
and according to the prophecy, this was done. Literally and precisely,
in no other death but crucifixion would the heel of an individual
actually be bruised! CHRIST JESUS' heel did crush the head of the Old
Serpent (defeating him by HIS death, then raising victoriously from the
grave); and MESSIAH'S "heel" — in crushing the Serpent's head, was
"bruised" as it was DIVINELY foretold!

It is the Devil who seeks to prevent OMNIPOTENT HOLY GOD'S plan and to
confuse the minds of the people. This Prince of Darkness is the evil
one who entered into the heart of Judas, planted hatred and aroused
jealousy in the Sadducees and Pharisees. He not only stirred them up,
but also promoted the lying scheme of the LORD JESUS' crucifixion.

Many claim that the persecution and the suffering visited upon the Jews
today is because at the hour of crucifixion the people of Israel
shouted: "Let HIS blood be upon us and upon our children." [Matthew 27.
25] This was a wicked prayer (if it could be called a prayer) spoken
by unbelieving men. The blood of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH does not cry out
for vengeance or retaliation! IT WAS SHED FOR CLEANSING US FROM SIN,
and the LORD YESHUA willingly laid down HIS life, "that the world
through HIM might be saved." [John 3. 17] MESSIAH YESHUA, the ANOINTED
LORD OF GLORY took no notice of the aforementioned request for it was
said in ignorance. Rather, HIS great compassion was expressed when HE
cried— "FATHER forgive them, for THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY DO!" [Luke
23. 34]

Israel, as a nation, would have been doomed and no Jew could ever be
saved had they known HE was the MESSIAH and had rejected HIM. When
thousands of Jews were saved on Shavuoth (Day of Pentecost), JESUS our
GREAT HIGH PRIEST'S Prayer of Forgiveness from Golgotha's Cross was
answered and continues to be answered whenever a Jew or Gentile accepts
HIM as their MESSIAH, REDEEMER & LORD! [Acts 2. 1-42]
Great is HIS faithfulness.

. . . to be continued

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
The Amidah (Judaism's most central prayer, recited 3 times daily)—
"Sound the great Shofar to announce our freedom, raise the banner to
gather our exiles, and gather us together from the four corners of the
earth. Praised are YOU, LORD, WHO gathers the dispersed of HIS people,
Israel. And to Jerusalem, YOUR City, may YOU return in mercy. May YOU
dwell there as YOU have promised. Build it now in our day and forever,
and speedily reestablish the throne of David in her midst. Praised are
YOU, Lord, WHO builds Jerusalem. 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. . .
The righteous are held responsible for their generation.

MESSIAH ALONE —
"But by the grace of GOD I am what I am; and HIS grace toward me was not
in vain, but I labored more abundantly than they all. Yet not I, but the
grace of GOD which was with me." [1 Corinthians 15. 10]

The grace of the LORD GOD is nothing less than the unlimited love of the
SOVEREIGN HOLY ONE expressed in the GREATEST GIFT of HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN
SON, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH our SAVIOR & KING, WHO "poured out HIS life unto
death, and was numbered among the sinners, whereas HE bore the guilt of
many, and made intercession for the transgressors. " [Isaiah/Yeshayah 53.
12 Tanakh, Nevi'im] This is the unequivocally (undeniably definite)
undeserved love of the LOVING CREATOR GOD toward sinners.

If one were to review the writings, works and life of the Apostle Paul
you would conclude that he was one of the most dedicated and fruitful
CHRIST-like- ones who ever lived. But being a man, Paul had to wrestle
with the sin of pride by reminding himself, time and time again, that he
owed all to the grace, guidance and provision of GOD MOST HIGH.

Paul could well have boasted that he had laboured more abundantly than
any of the other apostles, but then he brought himself up short with the
reproof, "not I, but CHRIST!" All of his work and success in
fruit-bearing he owed completely to the loving grace of Almighty GOD.
Paul's great testimony concerning his new and changed life in MESSIAH
YESHUA was, "I have been crucified with CHRIST; it is no longer I who
live, but CHRIST lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh
I live by faith in the SON OF GOD, WHO loved me and gave HIMSELF for
me." [Galatians 2. 20] The transformed, righteous, powerful life Paul
now lived was not his own accomplishment, but absolutely and entirely
due to the indwelling SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD.

We should never boast of our own life, deeds or works, but to "reckon
ourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to GOD in MESSIAH YESHUA
our LORD." [Romans 6. 11] Remember always, it is "not I, but CHRIST"
— HE is to be our praise and testimony.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Sabbath, we wish to express our hope that the
upcoming week will be filled with Divine blessings as you allow the Holy
One of Israel to guide you through life. HE is worthy of all our praise
and worship, even in difficult times.
"Shavua Tov — Have a delightful and blessed 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. . .
When we offer others a hand, we are lifted.

LOVE — FAITH — JOY
"WHOM having not seen you love. Though now you do not see HIM, yet
believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory;
receiving the end of your faith — the salvation of your souls." [1
Peter 1. 8 - 9]

Peter had seen the LORD, so he was writing to those who had not. And
like those of MESSIAH'S time, we can have a personal relationship with
the HOLY CREATOR, even though we cannot physically see HIM now.
"Blessed are they that have not seen and yet have believed." [John 20.
29] Like them, we also have terrible trials and we are "tested by
fire." [1 Peter 1. 7] Our responses to YESHUA, while in the midst of
trials, should find us to the praise, honor and glory at the revelation
of MESSIAH YESHUA.

LOVE HIM Love makes trials bearable. "We love HIM because HE first
loved us." [1 John 4. 19] "Greater love (Hebrew: racham —love
deeply, tender affection; checed — mercy, compassion) has no man
than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." [John 15. 13]
"Who shall separate us from the love of CHRIST? Shall tribulation, or
distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril or sword?"
[Romans 8. 35] The LORD YESHUA, our FOUNTAIN OF LIVING WATER, loves us
too much to abandon us, and we should learn to love HIM in return.

BELIEVE HIM "YOU safely guard him in perfect peace whose confidence is
in YOU; whose trust (Hebrew: batach — believes) is in the LORD
alone." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 3 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Blessed is he who
trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. He shall be like a tree
planted by waters, sending forth its roots by a stream; it does not
sense the coming of heat, its leaves are ever fresh; it has no care in a
year of drought, it does not cease to yield fruit." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah)
17. 7 - 8] Beyond doubt, our faith is well founded.

REJOICE IN HIM "But rejoice (Hebrew: samach — merry, joyous,
brighten) to the extent that you partake of CHRIST'S sufferings; that
when HIS glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy." [1
Peter 4. 13] The proper response to trials brings inexpressible joy.

The end of such faith in our WONDERFUL LORD is the complete and absolute
supreme salvation of our souls with many triumphant victories of faith
along the way. . . and a joy this world could never know.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Good Sabbath! Welcoming the Queen of the Week like a beautiful bride.
Have a Day of peace and rest, love freely given — a rest of truth
and sincerity — a rest in peace and tranquility, in quiet and safety
— a perfect rest in which you find favor.
Our feet are standing at your gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem, built as a
City bound firmly together; where tribes once went up to give thanks
unto YEHOWAH, where thrones of justice were once set, thrones of the
House of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; may those who love her
prosper. May peace be in her walls, tranquility in her towers. May
ADONAI bless us from Zion and let us see the good of Jerusalem. Let us
see our children's children and peace upon Israel.
Have a peaceful, enriching Shabbat with an objective to bless others.

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 is a free man who remembers; and is free because he remembers.

FIRSTBORN OF EVERY CREATURE
"HE (MESSIAH YESHUA) is the IMAGE of the invisible GOD, the FIRSTBORN
over all creation." [Colossians 1. 15]

"I will appoint HIM first-born, highest of the kings of the earth."
[Psalms (Tehillym) 89. 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Let ME tell of the decree;
the LORD said to ME — YOU are MY SON, I have FATHERED YOU this day."
[Psalms (Tehillym) 2. 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This psalm is talking about
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. It could not have been referring to King
David, as some have suggested, because David was the eighth born son of
Jesse. [1 Samuel/Shemuel Alef 17. 12 - 14]

The majority, if not all cults claim that the LORD JESUS CHRIST was not
eternal, but merely the first created being — perhaps an Angel,
before becoming a MAN. However, the verse does not say HE was the
"first created of every creature" but "the first-born of every creature
(creation)." The next verse says that "by HIM were all things created."
[Colossians 1. 16] JESUS was not created (fashioned, bent, shaped,
produced, made), for HE HIMSELF, was and is the OMNISCIENT, OMNIPRESENT,
OMNIPOTENT CREATOR. "All things were made by HIM; and without HIM was
not anything made that was made." [John 1. 3]

The MESSIAH, YESHUA is born of GOD, HE was not made the "ONLY-BEGOTTEN
SON OF GOD." [John 3. 16] The Hebrew word "yachiyd" and the Greek word
"monogenes" means the same — only, brought forth, unique,
one-of-a-kind, not to be replaced. "No man has seen GOD at any time.
The ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, WHO is in the bosom of the FATHER, HE has
declared HIM." [John 3. 16; Hebrews 11. 17] The DEVOTED HEAVENLY
FATHER is omnipresent - though invisible, inaudible, inaccessible to the
physical senses. The ETERNALLY-EXISTING SON is the "iMAGE" of the
invisible FATHER, the ONE WHO declares, reveals, and embodies HIS
essence and personification. Although HE is always "in the bosom of
the FATHER," yet HE is eternally also "the brightness of HIS glory, and
the express (precise, exact) IMage of HIS PERSON." [Hebrews 1. 3] The
LORD JESUS is the UNCHANGING-LIVING WORD, WHO was "in the beginning with
GOD" [John 1. 2], and WHO always "was GOD." [John 1. 1]

Thus, the phrase, "FIRSTBORN of every creature" can be literally
translated as "BEGOTTEN before all creation." The eternal
inter-relationship of the PERSONS OF THE GODHEAD is beyond human
comprehension in its fullness; the best terminology human language can
use to describe it are "SON" and "BEGOTTEN." The LORD YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH, "the WORD made flesh" — is the ONLY-BEGOTTEN, ETERNAL
SON OF THE FATHER, forever shining forth as THE IMAGE of the otherwise
INVISIBLE GOD. As the firstborn has preeminence over his siblings,
MessiAH YesHUA has the preeminence over all creation; "And HE is the
head of the body, the church, WHO is the beginning, the FIRSTBORN from
the dead, that in all things HE may have the preeminence (supremacy,
superiority, incomparable, dominion, primary)." [Colossians 1. 18]

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Grant us peace, YOUR most precious gift, O ETERNAL SOURCE OF PEACE.
Bless YOUR people that we may be a stronghold of peace and proclaim YOUR
salvation. May contentment reign with each heart, health and happiness
in the homes of those YOU redeemed. Strengthen the bonds of friendship
and fellowship and plant virtue in every soul, and may the love of YOUR
HOLY NAME permeate every heart. Praised are YOU, O LORD, GIVER of peace.

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 love mankind is easy; to love man is hard. We need adversity, not
for the suffering it brings, but for the growth and deepened perspective
that comes from it.

YOM HA'SHOAH
"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not
love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I
have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all
knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove
mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my
goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have
not love, it profits me nothing." [1 Corinthians 13. 1 - 3]

A reflection as we remember and observe Holocaust Day of Memorial —
may the ALMIGHTY ONE, blessed be HE, remember forever our brothers and
sisters of the House of Israel who gave their lives for the
sanctification of the DIVINE NAME.

IN HIS NAME
He wore the yellow star upon his arm
and heard the ugly taunts as he walked along.
The words he heard burned deep within his soul
as the burden of being Jewish took its toll.
His eyes reflected a sad and somber hue
as he wondered if any of these angry faces knew
that he was flesh and blood, a man like them
with fears and hopes and dreams. . ."O Jerusalem."
His mind returned to the dream of a Jewish home
a fleeting thought...a longing no more to roam —
but his mind was quickly brought back to the present
by the ugly taunts of a group of adolescents.
The badge upon his arm, a badge of shame
forced upon the Jew to him profane,
yet little did they know that deep inside
that Star of David held for him much pride.
There was a glint of knowledge in his eye
his noble heritage passed on by the Rabbi. . .
his line had boasted prophets, scribes and kings
and through the Jew, GOD would MESSIAH bring.
It was they who were chosen above all races
to transcribe HIS HOLY WRIT in sacred places.
In this his race was faithful, they'd been true
GOD'S knowledge and HIS WORD came through the Jew.
It was Moses who, to GOD, talked face to face
and HIS Laws were passed to man by the Jewish race.
So even though his back was bowed and bent,
and even though taunts followed where 'ere he went,
his spirit, deep within, was whole and strong
for to GOD'S chosen race he did belong.
He knew inside that he was by CREATOR GOD blessed
that it was HIS SEED selected above the rest
chosen by the ALMIGHTY to be a race apart
to show the loving-kindness of GOD'S heart.
Just then the words "CHRIST Killer" reached his ear
and these words cut through his soul, invoked a tear —
a phrase he'd learned to hate, but also fear
for it meant dire consequences drew near.
And so the wall of separation grew
between the blinded Gentiles and the Jew.
As the Gentiles used our LORD as an excuse
the "Apple of HIS Eye" to persecute.
They failed to reconcile a fact they knew —
that YESHUA was HIMSELF born a Jew.
And by no race, or man, was YESHUA killed
THE ROCK OF OUR SALVATION gave HIMSELF of HIS OWN free will.
But the Gentiles yet, still fail to understand
JESUS gave up HIS life at HIS OWN command.
It wasn't the Jew, oh don't you see
YESHUA ha'MASHIACH hung HIMSELF upon that tree.
HE sacrificed HIMSELF in benefit of man
to remove their sin, their final PASSOVER LAMB.
So how can the Gentile continue to blame the Jew
when YESHUA'S precious blood has cleansed them too.

Please stand with me and with the State of Israel this Yom ha'Shoah as
we pray that peace finally will come to Israel, the precious Jewish
people and the world.

As we remember the six million Jews who died in the Holocaust this "Yom
ha'Shoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day)" we can also remember those listed
in Hebrews 11 — the Hall of Faith Chapter — and be reminded how
precious life that is lived for ALMIGHTY LOVING LORD GOD is, blessed be
HE.

May we, like the Apostle Paul say, "in nothing I shall be ashamed, but
with all boldness, as always, so now also CHRIST will be magnified in my
body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is CHRIST, and to
die is gain." [Philippians 1. 20 - 21] Live as thought the next breath
is your last, before entering eternity. . . choose life and bear witness
that our GOD reigns.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
The date of Yom ha'Shoah, Holocaust Memorial Day, is marked on the
Hebrew date of Nissan 27th (April 19th this year on the Gregorian
calendar) — chosen to mark the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto
uprising. On this day we also remember the lives of the 6 million Jews
murdered during the Holocaust, and the experiences of those who survived
its horrors. Although the day became official by an act of Knesset, it
has been traditionally commemorated by Jewish communities around the
world. Some religious communities prefer not to commemorate the
Holocaust on this day, which falls in the generally happy month of
Nissan, but rather on Tisha b'Av (the 10th of Tevet) — which the
Chief Rabbinate of Israel fixed as the day for the recital of the
Kaddish Prayer for those murdered during the Holocaust whose date of
death is not known.

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. . .
Just as no steam or gas drives anything until it is confined — No
life ever grows until it is focused, dedicated and disciplined.

PEACE IN TRIBULATION
"HE (ELOHIYM) may well slay me, I may have no hope, yet will I trust in
HIM. Even so, I will argue my case before HIM. In this too, HE is my
salvation— That no impious man can come into HIS PRESENCE." [Job
(Iyob) 13. 15 - 16 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The HOLY ONE HIMSELF declared that the patriarch Job (Hebrew: Iyowb) was
the most blameless and upright man in all the earth who fears ELOHIYM
and shuns evil. [Job/Iyob 1. 8] Yet, Job was subjected to the most
severe testing that anyone (except for MESSIAH YESHUA) ever had to
endure. Job lost all his great possessions and family the same day,
then was afflicted for long span of time with a loathsome and painful
plaguing disease. Even his friends (?) no longer honored him and even
accused him of being a wicked sinner and an arrogant hypocrite. Worst
of all, the ALMIGHTY ONE Whom he had loved and faithfully served all his
life had apparently completely ignored his prayers for deliverance, or
at least for an understanding of why these sufferings were coming upon
him. Finally, a presumptuous young religionist falsely related what he
claimed was a divine message, that even GOD accused Job of sin and
hypocrisy.

Nevertheless, Job never lost his faith and integrity! Job confirmed, "I
know that my VINDICATOR (REDEEMER) lives; in the end HE will stand and
testify on the earth— This after my skin is destroyed, this I know,
that in my flesh. I myself, not another will behold GOD; I shall see
with my own eyes. How my heart years within me! ...Though HE slay me,
yet will I trust in HIM — HE too is my SALVATION." [Job (Iyob) 19.
25-27; 13. 15a & 16a Tanakh, Kethuvim]

With Job's life as an example for us today, we can know that GOD ETERNAL
is the ONE WHO created us and deserves absolute trust. HIS PRECIOUS
WORD, was given to us along with HIS endless love and great salvation
through faith in GOD'S ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, JESUS THE CHRIST OF CALVARY.
This is a segment of the promises we have set before us. Whatever our
plight, we know the MIGHTY ONE OF ISRAEL is in complete control. "By
day the LORD will command HIS loving-kindness and faithful care, so that
at night a song to HIM may be with me, a prayer to the GOD of my life."
[Psalms (Tehillym) 42. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] And with a song in the
night, we will ever have gladness of heart. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 30. 29]

As we go through this world and the difficulties and persecutions —
remember what our BLESSED REDEEMER taught us while HE was on earth: "But
these things I have told you, that when the time comes, you may remember
that I told you of them. And these things I did not say to you at the
beginning, because I was with you. These things I have spoken to you,
that in ME you may have peace. IN THE WORLD YOU WILL HAVE TRIBULATION;
BUT BE OF GOOD CHEER, I have overcome the world." [John 16. 4, 33]
Assuredly, we truly can put all our hope and trust in our LOVING LORD
YESHUA, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
With great love YOU have loved us, O our GOD, and with exceeding
compassion YOU have borne with us. Our fathers believed and trusted in
YOU; therefore you taught them the laws of life, and showed them the
ways of wisdom. We implore YOU, O MERCIFUL FATHER, to grant us
discernment, that we may understand and fulfill all the TEACHINGS of
YOUR WORD. Make us gladly obedient to YOUR commandments and fill our
hearts with love and reverence for YOU. In YOU we put our trust; we
rejoice and delight in YOUR help, for with YOU alone is salvation, and
peace in the soul of man. YOU have called us as teachers of YOUR Law;
YOU have chosen us for a holy mission to mankind; therefore do we
joyfully lift up our voices and proclaim YOUR magnificence. Praised are
YOU, O GOD, WHO has chosen us in love. We give praised to YOUR HOLY
NAME and thank YOU for YESHUA, our BELOVED REDEEMER.

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 lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.

HEAVEN'S PURPOSE
"A season is set for everything, a time for every experience under the
heaven. All human experiences are preordained by GOD, HE brings
everything to pass precisely at its time...HE preoccupies man with the
ATTEMPT to discover the times of future events. But without man ever
guessing, from first to last, all the things that GOD brings to pass
— Indeed, man cannot guess the events that occur under the sun. For
man tries strenuously, but fails to guess them; and even if a sage
should think to discover them he would not be able to guess them."
[Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 3. 1, 11; 8. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

We are strangers before ALMIGHTY GOD, and sojourners; our days on earth
vanish like shadows. The speedy flight of life and the gloom of the
grave should not dismay us, but instead it should teach us wisdom. It
should persuade us to put our trust in the SUPREME HOLY ONE OF HEAVEN,
WHO will not suffer HIS children to see destruction. For only the dust
returns to the dust; the spirit of man, which the RIGHTEOUS CREATOR has
breathed into us, returns to HIM, its EVER-LIVING SOURCE. Whoever
walks in the presence of HIS LIGHT, who holds fast to their testimony,
and endures to the end will be given their reward. When YESHUA
ha'MASHIACH comes back, HE has declared, "I am coming quickly, and MY
reward is with ME, to give to every one according to his work."
[Revelation 22. 12]

O, that we might die the death of the righteous and our end be like
theirs. [Numbers/B'Midvar 23. 10] Suffer us not to pass away in our
sins, LORD. [Numbers/B'Midvar 18. 22] "Teach us to count our days
rightly, that we may obtain a wise heart." [Psalms (Tehillym) 90. 12
Tanakh, Kethuvim] Bestow YOUR strength and understanding to all, small
and great, young and old that we may ever do what is right and honorable
in YOUR sight; and through unwavering faith be reconciled to YOU, O LORD
GOD, our LOVING REDEEMER & RIGHTEOUS KING.

"For GOD has committed them (Jews & Gentiles) all to disobedience, that
HE might have mercy on all (Jews & Gentiles who believe!). Oh, the depth
of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of GOD! How unsearchable
are HIS judgments and HIS ways past finding out!" [Romans 11. 32 - 33]

The sum of the matter— "Fear and revere GOD and keep HIS
commandments! For this applies to all mankind, it is their whole duty."
[Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 12. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] May we be found
faithfully doing our assigned task, revering the MOST HOLY ONE each day
of our lives.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
LORD, help us to break down the barriers which keep us from YOU—
falsehood & faithlessness, callousness & selfishness, injustice &
hard-heartedness. Awaken our soul to grateful acknowledgement of YOUR
grace which has bestowed upon us the gift of life, and make our pathway
come in safety to the coveted goal — YOUR LOVING PRESENCE.

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 first duty of love is to listen.

CHOOSE LIFE
"I call heaven and earth to witnesses against you this day: I have put
before you life and death, blessing and curse, CHOOSE LIFE — if you
and your descendants would live — by loving the LORD your GOD,
obeying HIS VOICE, and holding fast to HIM. For thereby you shall have
life and shall long endure upon the soil that the LORD your GOD swore to
your ancestors, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give to them." [Deuteronomy
(Devarim) 30. 19 - 20 Tanakh, Torah]

Just before his death, Moses reiterate the Law and the Covenant between
the ALMIGHTY ONE and HIS people which is summed up in the greatest
commandment: "You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart and
with all your soul and with all your might." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 5
Tanakh, Torah]

Moses also declared "surely, this INSTRUCTION which I enjoin upon you
today is not too baffling for you, nor is it beyond reach. It is not in
heaven, that you should say— Who among us can go up to the heavens
and get it for us and impart it to us, that we may observe it?—
Neither is it beyond the sea, that you should say— Who among us can
cross to the other side of the sea and get it for us and impart it to
us, that we may observe it?" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 30. 11 - 13 Tanakh,
Torah] There is nothing concerning this commandment that was hard to
understand. "No, the WORD is very close to you, in your mouth and in
your heart, to observe and do it." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 30. 14 Tanakh,
Torah]

Furthermore Moses instructed, "Take this BOOK OF TEACHING and place it
beside the Ark of the Covenant of the LORD your GOD, and let it remain
there as a witness against you. Well I know how defiant, rebellious and
stiff-necked you are; even now, while I am still alive in your midst,
you have been defiant toward the LORD; how much more, then, when I am
dead! Gather to me all the elders of your tribes and your officials,
that I may speak these words to them and that I may call heaven and
earth to witness against them." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 31. 26 - 28
Tanakh, Torah]

The denotable evidence that CREATOR GOD is the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE, GREAT
PROVIDER & LOVING SAVIOR-REDEEMER is all around us. We have more than
enough information to respond to HIS calling. These evidences, "HIS
invisible attributes are clearly seen" and were "since the creation of
the world, even HIS eternal power and GODHEAD" so those who reject are
absolutely "without excuse." [Romans 1. 20] To ignore the evidence of
the creation and the flood, one must be "willingly ignorant." [2 Peter
3. 5] Refusing or denying such clear evidence is foolishness, which
is a form of idolatry!

Even now, the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA is calling, "See, I set before you
this day life and prosperity, death and adversity." [Deuteronomy
(Devarim) 30. 15 Tanakh, Torah] The choice is between receiving a
"blessing" or a "curse." [vs. 16, 18] All reasonable and mindful logic
points to ALL-POWERFUL LORD GOD of the SACRED WRITTEN WORD being the
only ONE TRUE GOD. Therefore, "Choose Life! — if you and your
offspring would live — by loving the LORD your GOD, heeding HIS
COMMANDS, and holding fast to HIM. For thereby you shall have life, for
HE is your life." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 30. 20 Tanakh, Torah] In LORD
YESHUA, the absolute best is yet to be!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
Praised are YOU, YEHOWAH, our GOD, SOVEREIGN OF THE UNIVERSE for YOUR
love for us is great and YOUR compassion boundless. Unite our hearts to
love and revere YOU. We trust in YOU alone and rejoice in YOUR saving
power, for from YOU comes our help. YOU have called us to draw near to
YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully do we lift up our voices in
thanks and praise to YOUR WONDERFUL 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.

http://delrifkah.homestead.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The best way to get even is to forgive, and let the LORD handle it!

MESSIAH'S SECOND COMING
"As I looked on, in the night vision, ONE like the SON OF MAN, came with
the clouds of heaven! HE came to the ANCIENT OF DAYS and was presented
to HIM. Dominion, glory and kingdom were given to HIM; all peoples and
nations of every language must serve HIM. HIS dominion is an everlasting
dominion, that shall not pass away, and HIS kingship, one that shall not
be destroyed." [Daniel (Danyel) 7. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

The first time YESHUA, the WORD-MADE-FLESH, came, HE walked the earth in
humiliation; the second time HE is coming in a blaze of glory! The
first time JESUS came to die; the second time HE will come to judge and
reign. The first time the SON OF MAN came to redeem; when HE returns,
the LORD JESUS will claim those HE has redeemed. YESHUA came once that
HIS heel might be bruised by Satan; the RIGHTEOUS ONE must come again to
crush the serpent's head and with a rod-of-iron to dash HIS enemies to
pieces. YESHUA ha'MASHIACH came once to wear a crown of thorns. It
is prophesied that HE will come again to wear the diadem of universal
dominion. The first time, nails were hammered through HIS hands. When
HE returns HE will grasp the "SCEPTER OF SOVEREIGNTY" and shall reign
forever!

Orthodox Jewish theology teaches that there will be two MESSIAHS. The
first ONE (MESSIAH Ben'Yosef) is to be from the House of Joseph WHO
will be killed as HE leads Israel against the invading army who came
against the land of Israel. [Ezekiel/Yehezke- El 38 - 39] And, after the
Jewish people repent, ALMIGHTY GOD will provide the second MESSIAH
(MESSIAH Ben'David)from the House of David WHO will bring peace and
righteousness to the nation. The ancient Jewish commentators explain the
two descriptions of MESSIAH in the TANAKH (JEWISH OLD COVENANT) —
where HE is described as lowly and WHO will be pierced to death.
"Rejoice greatly! Fair Zion; Shout! Fair Jerusalem! Behold, your KING is
coming to you. HE is victorious, triumphant and having salvation, yet
humble, riding on an ass, on a donkey foaled by a she-ass...And I will
fill the House of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem with the SPIRIT
of grace and pity, compassion and supplication; then they shall look on
ME WHOM they have pierced; they will lament because of ME about those
who are slain, wailing over them as over a favorite son, showing bitter
grief over a firstborn." [Zechariah/Zecharya h 9. 9; 12. 10] Then in
Daniel where HE comes with the clouds of heaven. [TALMUD, Succah 52. 1]

However, nearly one out of every thirty verses in the HOLY SCRIPTURE
declares the Second Coming of JESUS, the SON OF MAN. To every mention of
HIS First Coming, HIS return is stated eight times! "Now when HE had
spoken these things, while they watched, HE was taken up, and a cloud
received HIM out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly
toward heaven as HE went up, behold, two men stood by them in white
apparel, who also said— Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up
into heaven? This same JESUS, WHO was taken up from you into heaven,
will so come in like manner as you saw HIM go into heaven." [Acts 1. 9 -
11]

These two men in white apparel were angels who announced the return of
YESHUA. The angels were not mistaken when they announced the MESSIAH'S
first advent. From Enoch down to the last prophet declared the second
appearing of the LORD YESHUA. The HOLY SPIRIT, by the mouths of the
apostles, repeatedly said: "JESUS is coming again!"

When the disciples were troubled because they were informed that YESHUA
would leave them, HE comforted them with these words: "Let not your
heart be troubled; you believe in GOD, believe also in ME. In MY
FATHER'S house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told
you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place
for you, I will come again and receive you to MYSELF; that where I am,
there you may be also." [John 14. 1 - 3] GOD'S WORD is true! Heaven
and earth shall pass away, but HIS WORD shall stand forever. "GOD is
not a man, that HE should lie or be capricious, nor mortal to change HIS
mind. Would HE speak and not act, promise and not fulfill?" [Numbers
(B'Midvar) 23. 19 Tanakh, Torah]

Some may term the second appearing of the ANOINTED ONE, the LORD YESHUA
as a spiritual coming; but the promise is "This same JESUS." When
MESSIAH ascended into heaven, HE was flesh and bones. After HIS
resurrection, HE appeared to HIS disciples who thought HE was a ghost.
Lovingly, the MASTER encouraged them to handle HIM and see, then HE said
— "A spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have." [Luke
24. 39]

The KING MESSIAH YESHUA will have the marks of the wounds in His body
also. Thomas (doubting this to be the LORD) was permitted to touch the
pierced hands and side of the risen REDEEMER to confirm HIS identity as
LORD & SAVIOR. Yes! this same flesh-and-bones JESUS shall come again as
HE promised HE would .

In view of that which is taking place around us, that which our LORD GOD
described would occur just before HIS Second Advent. Each of us who
have accepted YESHUA as our MESSIAH, LORD and personal SAVIOR can look
up, and lift up our heads rejoicing, for our complete and final
redemption draws near!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of
Israel!
As we bid farewell to Shabbat, may the ALMIGHTY ONE, WHO separates the
holy from the secular, forgive our sins!
This was Yizkor Pesah, the last day of Passover/Feast of Unleavened
Bread — be reminded of your commitment to obey GOD in holiness and
integrity of life. We are overwhelmingly grateful for ALMIGHTY GOD'S
goodness and grace to us, truly HIS mercies endure forever. Now, go
forth and proclaim the GOOD NEWS as the BELOVED ONE commissioned while
it is still day.
In YOUR mercy, O LORD, remember us and all YOUR children as we enter a
new week. O FATHER & REDEEMER, mindful of YOUR covenant, we pray that
YOUR love may never forsake us. Even as the rainbow recalls this
covenant, so may each new day bring to all men the thought of YOUR
gracious promise. Hasten the time when YOUR Law will be written in very
heart, from the smallest to the greatest. Then shall mankind do YOUR
will and the reward of righteous service shall be peace.

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. . .
Do not blame before you have examined the truth; understand first and
then rebuke.

TRIUMPHANT FAITH
"One LORD, one faith, one baptism." [Ephesians 4. 5]

Everyone has some kind of faith in something, be it a religion, one's
self, fate, evolution or in mankind. Even the atheist has faith in his
own reason. But, there is only one real faith that works for time and
eternity. True faith is confident trust in the ONE TRUE & LIVING GOD,
the LOVING Creator WHO made us, WHO will judge us, and WHO has paid the
definitive price to save us.

This faith is an understanding faith, for it is "by faith we understand
that the worlds were framed by the WORD OF GOD." [Hebrews 11. 3] It is
a saving faith, "for by grace you are saved through faith." [Ephesians
2. 8] Since "the just shall live by faith" [Galatians 3. 11] it is a
living faith and a growing faith "because your faith grows exceedingly"
[2 Thessalonians 1. 3], and a working faith because "faith without works
is dead." [James 2. 20]

True faith is a justifying faith (what makes us righteous in the sight
of the HOLY GOD) because, "being justified by faith, we have peace with
GOD through our LORD MESSIAH YESHUA." [Romans 5. 1] It is a protecting
faith because, with "the shield of faithÂ…you shall be able to quench
all the fiery darts of the wicked." [Ephesians 6. 16] It is a stable
faith, "for by faith you stand." [2 Corinthians 1. 24] It is also a
purifying faith, "purifying their hearts by faith." [Acts 15. 9] Faith
is asking, which receives answers to its prayers "in faith, nothing
wavering" [James 1. 6], and a strong faith, like Abraham who "did not
waver at the promise of GOD through unbelief, but was strengthened in
faith, giving glory to GOD." [Romans 4. 20]

CHRIST-like- ones confidently possess a triumphant faith. "For whatever
is born of GOD overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has
overcome the world — your faith." [1 John 5. 4] This faith, even
our faith is an understanding, saving, active, growing, justifying,
purifying, effective, protecting, stable, asking, strong, triumphant
faith! It is one thing to believe it, and another to know from
experience that this is true. May you have the personal joy of KNOWING
from experience.

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Good Sabbath! Come, my dear friend, let us go out to meet the Sabbath,
the Queen! Come, O Bride, the Sabbath presence is eagerly awaited, and
joyously welcomed!
May the HOLY ONE OF HEAVEN, blessed be HE, ever be praised.
Jewish Calendar: 21 Nisan 5772 – Remember to count your Omer!
Sweet blessings this day and always!

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/