Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Sometimes the only reward for taking the easy path is — it’s easy; but where does it get you.

RICH MAN, POOR MAN
"So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried." [Luke 16. 22]

The LORD Y’SHUA related this story, not as a parable, but as a fact that literally happened. Otherwise, this illustration is the only one that was not so identified as being a parable. We can learn much from this isolated account from the contrast between these two dramatically different men, their death, and destinies. Notice that only one of the participants name is given, that of Lazarus.

The rich man surrounded himself with luxury, he "clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day." [v. 19] Lazarus, the beggar, struggled each day "full of sores, who was laid at his gate, desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores." [Luke 16. 20 – 21]

As life goes, no one can escape the grave and in the passage of time, both died. This is when their deaths made an immense difference that actually heightened the knowledge we gain in reading this testimony. The rich man died and was buried, "being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom." [Luke 16. 23] The rich man was fully aware of his wretchedly miserable condition, and that Lazarus, who had been carried by angels to his eternal abode, was in comfort. [Luke 16. 22] The interchange between the rich man and Abraham, and the timeless instruction of MESSIAH gave are well known. [see Luke 16. 24 - 31]

Note also the contrast between "carried" and "buried" in the context of the passage. The beggar’s body was no doubt unceremoniously dumped into a pauper’s grave with little to no mourning for his life ending. The rich man’s corpse was placed in a costly sepulcher, and his funeral attended by many friends and mourners. But as you look beyond the earthly spectrum. . . while the rich man begs for mercy and relief from torment, Lazarus, the poor man’s eternal spirit is literally carried off, transmit away into the presence of ALMIGHTY GOD, where he is now comforted. [v. 25] Not only for Lazarus, but for all who die in the LORD, "Death is swallowed up in victory." [1 Corinthians 15. 54]

Those who forsake the RIGHTEOUS REDEEMER will "be blotted out of the Book of Life, and not be written with the righteous." [Psalms/Tehillym 69. 28] Whereas the one "who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves ME, let him follow ME; and where I am, there MY servant will be also. If anyone serves ME, him MY FATHER will honor." [John 12. 25 - 26] Lazarus sets an excellent example for seeking true riches.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
We bow down and acknowledge before the KING of kings that there is none like YOU, our LORD and KING. For YOU stretched out the heavens like a tent and established the earth. O LORD our GREAT GOD, may we soon behold YOUR majestic glory when all abominations shall be removed and all false gods be ended. Then the world shall be perfected under YOUR rule and all mankind call on YOUR HOLY NAME. For to YOU every knee must bow and every tongue declare that you are GOD. We thank and praise YOU, our RIGHTEOUS LORD! Amen
Day 30 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness.


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The highest rewards for man’s toil is not what he gets for it, but what he becomes by it.  How lovely it is to be nothing when GOD is all! 

REDEEMED, INCORRUPTIBLE        
"For thus says the LORD — You have sold yourselves for no price, and shall be redeemed without money." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 52. 3 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

What a glorious promise, though we sold ourselves to the slavery of sin, the LORD Y’SHUA paid the price to redeem us back to HIMSELF.  Therefore, we should "conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of CHRIST, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." [1 Peter 1. 17 – 19] 

There is not enough wealth or riches in this world that could redeem even one single soul, for gold and silver are corruptible elements in a world under "the bondage of corruption." [Romans 8. 21]   For everything in the physical creation is decaying and dying.  In fact, one day all these "elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." [2 Peter 3. 10]  Yes, the LORD has warned that in HIS fierce anger, "all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of MY jealousy." [Zephaniah (Tsefanyah) 3. 8 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  

Furthermore, the seeds which transmit life are "corruptible seed" [1 Peter 1. 23], and all mankind is "corruptible man." [Romans 1. 23] Everywhere and everything in this universal falls under the principle of decay as one of its most basic laws — the law of increasing turmoil and instability. . . but GOD is still in complete control. 

However, in spite of the chaos and distortion in this corrupt world, some things are incorruptible. The greatest of these definitely being the  "incorruptible...WORD OF GOD which lives and abides forever." [1 Peter 1. 23]  Though "heaven and earth will pass away, but MY WORDS will by no means pass away." [Matthew 24. 35]  "The WORD of our GOD stands forever." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 40. 8]   "The LORD...will exalt HIS law and make it honorable." [Isaiah/Yeshayah) 42. 21], for HE has magnified HIS WORD above HIS NAME. [Psalms/Tehillym 138. 2]  HIS NAME and promises are above all things. 

We are redeemed, not by silver and gold, "but with the precious blood of MESSIAH, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." [1 Peter 1. 19]  The LORD GOD HIMSELF is the glorious " incorruptible GOD" [Romans 2. 23], and HE has "begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of JESUS CHRIST from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away." [1 Peter 1. 3 – 4]  We work, not as others, "to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown." [1 Corinthians 9. 25 ] 

At last, our dying bodies will finally be redeemed, "we shall all be changed — in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." [1 Corinthians 15. 51b – 53] 

We are opulently, pensively, marvelously redeemed by the most precious blood of the LAMB, the KING OF GLORY. . . how I love to proclaim it.
Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Bidding farewell to Sabbath…LORD our GOD, great, eternal, wonderful in glory, WHO keeps covenant and promises for those that love YOU with their whole heart, WHO is the LIFE of all, the HELP of those that flee to YOU, the HOPE of those who cry to YOU, cleanse us from our sins, secret and open, and from every thought displeasing to YOUR goodness — cleanse our bodies and souls, our hearts and consciences, that with a pure heart, and a clear soul, with perfect love and calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly to pray to YOU.  We thank YOU and in the MAGNIFICENT NAME of Y’SHUA we pray, Amen! Have an extra special week in the MASTER’S presence.
Day 28 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Egotism is nothing more than an antiseptic that dulls stupidity. 

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WELL      
"The LORD said to me (Moses), 'Gather the people to ME, and I will let them hear MY words, that they may learn to revere ME as long as they live on the earth, and that they may teach their children.'" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 10 Tanakh, Torah] 

How critically essential it is that parents not only know the ONLY TRUE & LIVING GOD, but that they teach their children to understand, honor and serve the BLESSED CREATOR. From the very beginning, the HOLY ONE has instructed and encouraged us to acknowledge HIM and experience the awesomeness of HIS PRESENCE. "That they should make them known to their children; that the future generation might know — children who would be born — that they may arise and tell their children, that they may set their confidence and hope in GOD, and not forget the works of GOD, but keep HIS commandments." [Psalms (Tehillym) 48. 5 - 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

GOD, the ALMIGHTY SOVEREIGN RULER is concerned about every person throughout all generations and HE has "been our DWELLING PLACE...a LITTLE SANCTUARY" [Psalms/Tehillym 90.1 & Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 11. 16] for all who will believe and follow faithfully.  That is why the GREAT & MIGHTY GOD repeatedly stresses that HIS absolute truths concerning the creation, HIS character, HIS great work of salvation, and HIS perfect plans for the ages to come be passed on faithfully from one generation to another. "You shall diligently teach your children the laws and commandments I charge you this day. You shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them serve as a symbol on your forehead; inscribe them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates — That your days and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land of which the LORD swore to your fathers to give them, like the days of the heavens above the earth." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 7 - 9; 11. 21 Tanakh, Torah] 

The GOD OF ETERNITY is concerned that we do not forget those precious truths which HE has given us. "Forever, O LORD, YOUR WORD stands firm in heaven. YOUR faithfulness endures to all generations; YOU established the earth, and it abides. They continue this day according to YOUR ordinances, for all are YOUR servants. Unless YOUR Law had been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction. I will never forget YOUR precepts, for YOU have preserved my life through them." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 89 - 93 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  The LORD Y’SHUA, the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the FIRST and the LAST pleads with us to "hold fast what you have...that no one may take your crown." [Revelation 2. 25; 3. 11] 

The true principle of great education that was given by the Apostle Paul is, "to be strong in the grace that is in MESSIAH Y’SHUA. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." [2 Timothy 2. 1 - 2]  And the crucifixion which shows GOD’S greatest love is especially to be taught forever, so that your children will prostrate themselves and bend their knees before the LORD. "Offspring shall serve HIM; the LORD’S fame will be proclaimed to the generation to come. They will declare HIS righteousness to people yet to be born, that HE has done this." [Psalms (Tehillym) 22. 30 - 31 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Oh that the ends of the earth would remember HIS wondrous works and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations worship before HIM. Let every generation see, and behold the face of GOD. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
 O FATHER in Heaven, YOU are our GUIDE even unto death. Grant us, I pray grace to follow YOU wherever YOU go.  In little daily duties to which YOU call us, bow down our wills to simple obedience, patience under pain or frustration, strict truthfulness of word and manner, humility, kindness; in great acts of duty or perfection, if YOU should call us to them, uplift us to self-sacrifice, heroic courage, laying down our life for the sake of YOUR Truth for our family, our children, our friends, or for our brother. Amen. 
This is the authorized Pesach Sheni (Second Passover, Iyyar 14) see Numbers 9:6-14
Day 29 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Greed, selfish desires, ambition, lust, and the like are all categories of madness. 

THE OHEL 
"You shall make cloths of goats' hair for a tent over the Tabernacle; make the cloths eleven in number." [Exodus (Shemot) 26. 7 Tanakh, Torah] 

The Ohel is the second covering of the Wilderness Tabernacle. The women who were wise-hearted spun goats' hair for its making. Bedouins today live in tents made of black goats' hair which has been woven into a canvas. They call it their "house of hair." 

In HOLY SCRIPTURES, the goat signifies the sin bearer, especially the Scape Goat. Black, representing man's old nature of sin. The black of the Ohel, the tent or second curtain, tells of Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH WHO was made the Sin-Offering; then the Ram's Skins dyed red — typical of Y’SHUA "MESSIAH THE SUBSTITUTE" WHO'S blood covers the blackness of our sin. The white linen of the Mishkan tells of MESSIAH'S righteousness (First, HE is righteous). 

At four of the set times or "Feasts of YEHOWAH" — Unleavened Bread, Feast of First-Fruits, Pentecost and the Day of Atonement there was a goat slain on behalf of the people's sins. Since the offensive odor of this animal signifies the stench of sin in the nostrils of the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, the priests were commanded to purify themselves from defilement by washing with water after handling it. [Numbers/B’Midvar 31. 20; Leviticus/Vayikra 16. 26 - 28] 

The LORD Y’SHUA is the ANTI-TYPE of the goats' hair curtain, for HE was "made sin," a stench to the GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN, upon that Roman Cross. Isaiah prophesies of this: "When YOU (FATHER GOD) make HIS (MESSIAH Y’SHUA) soul an offering for sin" — or rather, "HE (Y’SHUA) made HIMSELF an offering for guilt…and that through HIM the LORD'S purpose might prosper." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The LORD JESUS came in the likeness of sinful flesh, yet without sin, and died upon the Altar (as did the goat) on behalf of the people. Y’SHUA OF NAZARETH is the perfect SIN-OFFERING to ALMIGHTY GOD for us that "we might become the righteousness of GOD in HIM." [1 Corinthians 5. 21] 

Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH came as a PERFECT MAN to be THE SIN OFFERING because of the marvelous grace of our LOVING GOD to man in his weakness. We could never show enough gratitude and appreciation for HIS tender mercy to us! Sincerely, we do —Thank YOU, LORD! HalleluYAH! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Life begins with struggle; and when struggle ends life ends with it. This may well be the secret of Jewish continuity, which has outlived the countless nations and empires and ideologies that have done everything in their power to destroy us, and who survive only in the pages of history books. But even more than that, it is that very struggle that makes life worth living.. Comfort and complacency lead to apathy, and a life of apathy is scarcely better than no life at all. 
May the ETERNAL ONE remind us to be grateful, not just for the success, but even for the struggle. 
Seek the LORD while HE may be found, call upon HIM while HE is near. Diligently obey the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL, incline your ear to the MASTER and you will live. 
Day 25 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Being great does not excuse one from being good. 

EL SHADDAI — GOD ALMIGHTY 
"When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him — I am EL SHADDAI; walk in MY ways and be blameless before ME. I will establish MY covenant between ME and you, and will multiply you exceedingly." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Torah] 

The name EL SHADDAI (ALL-SUFFICIENT ONE, ALMIGHTY GOD) is the description of GOD used some forty-eight times in the OLD COVENANT, this text is its first occurrence. In the NEW COVENANT this name is used nine times, the last makes it clear to us that no Temple is in the Holy City, "for the LORD GOD, EL SHADDAI , and the LAMB are its Temple." [Revelation 21. 22] 

Accordingly, the first and last books of HOLY SCRIPTURE (First & Last indicates all Books in between) reiterates that our GOD is an OMNIPOTENT GOD, as SHADDAI means ALL-SUFFICIENT NOURISHER [comparable to breasts full of milk (shad in Hebrew means breast)]; the ALMIGHTY, MOST POWERFUL, a term exclusively for the one TRUE GOD. The Prophet Jeremiah prayed: "Ah, ADONEY YEHOWAH! Behold, YOU made the heavens and the earth with YOUR great might and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for YOU! YOU show lovingkindness to thousandth generation, but repay the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them — O GREAT and MIGHTY GOD, whose NAME is the LORD OF HOSTS, wondrous in purpose and mighty in deed." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

Sarah laughed to herself when GOD said she would bear a son in her old age, but EL SHADDAI respond — "Is anything too hard (wondrous, amazing, incredible, extraordinary) for the LORD? I will return to you at the same season next year, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son." [Genesis (Bereshith) 18. 14 Tanakh, Torah] Many years later, the angel told the virgin Miryam (Mary), engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the House of David, that she would have a SON. She questioned, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?" The angel answered, "with GOD nothing will be impossible." [Luke 1. 34 & 37] 

There are some things in EL SHADDAI that are emphatically impossible however, such as being tempted by evil [James 1. 13], HE cannot lie [Titus 1. 2], or deny HIMSELF [2 Timothy 2. 13]. Therefore, whatever HE does is right and whatever HE says is true. We may not always understand why or how HE does or says a certain thing, but in eternity we will learn that HE is able to do what HE says. Our GREAT GOD is omnipotent (all-powerful, supreme, invincible)! 

EL SHADDAI did create the universe and all things by HIS spoken word and fashioned mankind into HIS OWN IMAGE. Since we are fearfully and wonderfully made, we should not desecrate HIS handiwork. "Behold, I am YEHOWAH, ELOHEY of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for ME?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 27 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Absolutely nothing! EL SHADDAI does all things well! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Good Sabbath! We praise and bless YOUR O GOD, for lovingly and graciously giving YOUR Holy Shabbat to all peoples. 
Sabbath of Sh’Mini – “Eighth” [Reading: Leviticus 9:1 - 11:47; 1 Samuel 20:18-42; Matthew 3:11-17] 
May we be witnesses of the God'S care, love, and glorious presence through the days ahead. Enter each day with joy in our hearts and confidence that SOVEREIGN KING rules and reigns. And, because of HIS great mercy, HE will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us — our IMMANU’EL, the ANOINTED ONE OF GOD is with us! My soul will continually bless the MOST HOLY LORD God for HE alone is worthy of all praise, reverence, rapturous adoration, and exaltation. 
Day 13 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
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. 

TWENTY-TWO COMMANDMENTS 
"You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation." [1 Thessalonians 5. 5 - 6, 8] 
1. Do not sleep; watch and be sober. 
2. Put on faith and love, and hope of salvation. 
3. Comfort one another. 
4. Edify one another. 
5. Recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the LORD and admonish you, 
6. Esteem them in love for their works. 
7. Be at peace among yourselves. 
8. Warn those who are unruly. 
9. Comfort the fainthearted. 
10. Uphold the weak, 
11. Be patient with all. 
12. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. 
13. Rejoice always. 
14. Pray without ceasing. 
15. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of GOD in MESSIAH Y’SHUA for you. 
16. Do not quench the SPIRIT. 
17. Do not despise prophecies. 
18. Test (prove) all things; hold fast what is good. 
19. Abstain from every form of evil. (Reach for maturity, sanctify yourselves, be holy!) 
20. Pray for us. 
21. Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. 
22. Read this epistle to all the holy brethren. 

"Now may the GOD of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST. HE WHO calls you is Faithful, who also will do it. The grace of our LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH be with you. Amen" [1 Thessalonians 5. 6 – 28] 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Truly, the LORD is exceptionally good, HIS mercy is eternal, HIS faithfulness and truth is for all generations. 
GOD’S hand is continually in our life. HE has called you and is now waiting for you to take that step of faith and believe. Walk boldly in the light and warmth of GOD'S compelling love. And, may the HOLY ONE fill you with HIS perfect peace, wonderful joy and indescribable happiness. Our prayer for each of you is to have firsthand knowledge of our living salvation through our GREAT MESSIAH, KING Y’SHUA. 
Yom Ha'Zikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day begins at evening. 
Day 17 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com  



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Failure is only postponed success as long as courage coaches ambition. [Herbert Kaufman] 

CHOICE FOR GLORY      
"How can you say — We are wise, and we possess the Law of the LORD? — Assuredly, for naught has the pen of the scribe labored working falsehood. The wise shall be put to shame, shall be dismayed and caught; see, they reject the WORD OF THE LORD, so their wisdom amounts to nothing." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 8. 8 - 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH prayed, "I thank YOU, FATHER, LORD OF HEAVEN AND EARTH, that YOU have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, FATHER, for so it seemed good in YOUR sight." [Luke 10. 21]   "GOD has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and GOD has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty." [1 Corinthians 1. 27]  The HOLY ONE judges all who reject HIS WORD; furthermore they are unworthy of everlasting life. 

"But only in this should one glory...that he is earnestly devoted to understand and know ME. For I the LORD act with lovingkindness, justice, and righteous equity in the world; for in these I delight — declares the LORD." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 9. 24 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of CHRIST JESUS my LORD, for WHOM I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain CHRIST." [Philippians 3. 8] 

The LORD MOST HIGH, the GOD OF ISRAEL, knows those who fear HIM, HIS eye is ever on those who confidently delight in HIS mercy.  The ALMIGHTY ONE will deliver their soul from death.  By virtue of HIS great goodness to us, we rejoice continually in HIS HOLY NAME wherein we place our trust and hope.  "Blessed is the nation whose GOD is the LORD, the people HE has chosen to be HIS OWN inheritance. The LORD looks down from heaven; HE sees all mankind. From HIS dwelling-place HE gazes on all the inhabitants of the earth — HE WHO fashions the hearts of them all, WHO discerns all their doings." [Psalms (Tehillym) 33. 12 - 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

We should earnestly pray for the SPIRIT OF WISDOM and revelation in the knowledge of the LORD JESUS that our understanding be enlightened, and "that you may know what is the hope of HIS calling, what are the riches of the glory of HIS inheritance, and the exceeding greatness of HIS power toward us who believe" [Ephesians 1. 18 - 19]   The words of wisdom we speak are from the LIVING GOD, "the hidden wisdom which GOD ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the LORD OF GLORY. But as it is written — Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man the things which GOD has prepared for those who love HIM. But GOD has revealed them to us through HIS SPIRIT. For the SPIRIT searches all things, yes, the deep (height, intense wisdom, enormous extent, hidden secrets) things of GOD." [1 Corinthians 2. 7 - 10]   Don’t quote only one verse, keep reading to complete the thought which, this case in point, states: "GOD has revealed them to us through HIS SPIRIT."  The OLD COVENANT also supports this truth, "The secret things belong to the LORD our GOD, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law." [Deuteronomy/Devarim 29. 29] 

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom." [James 3. 13]  The one who is approved by the LORD ETERNAL is commended, not the one who praises himself.  "He who glories, let him glory in the LORD." [2 Corinthians 10. 18] That is giving tribute and honor to the ONE to WHOM all praise is due. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
 May you have blessed assurance knowing that YEHOWAH, our GREAT GOD is the LORD of your life; oh, return to HIM with your whole heart.  May each of you be delivered from troubles and harm, or strengthened to go through it and be stronger in the LORD because of it. Heal us O LORD, make us righteous in YOUR sight. 
 We hold you in our hearts dear friends, and cover you in our prayers. Go forth victoriously proclaiming the goodness of the SAVIOR.
Day 23 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Being great does not excuse one from being good. 

EL SHADDAI — GOD ALMIGHTY 
"When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him — I am EL SHADDAI; walk in MY ways and be blameless before ME. I will establish MY covenant between ME and you, and will multiply you exceedingly." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Torah] 

The name EL SHADDAI (ALL-SUFFICIENT ONE, ALMIGHTY GOD) is the description of GOD used some forty-eight times in the OLD COVENANT, this text is its first occurrence. In the NEW COVENANT this name is used nine times, the last makes it clear to us that no Temple is in the Holy City, "for the LORD GOD, EL SHADDAI , and the LAMB are its Temple." [Revelation 21. 22] 

Accordingly, the first and last books of HOLY SCRIPTURE (First & Last indicates all Books in between) reiterates that our GOD is an OMNIPOTENT GOD, as SHADDAI means ALL-SUFFICIENT NOURISHER [comparable to breasts full of milk (shad in Hebrew means breast)]; the ALMIGHTY, MOST POWERFUL, a term exclusively for the one TRUE GOD. The Prophet Jeremiah prayed: "Ah, ADONEY YEHOWAH! Behold, YOU made the heavens and the earth with YOUR great might and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for YOU! YOU show lovingkindness to thousandth generation, but repay the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them — O GREAT and MIGHTY GOD, whose NAME is the LORD OF HOSTS, wondrous in purpose and mighty in deed." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

Sarah laughed to herself when GOD said she would bear a son in her old age, but EL SHADDAI respond — "Is anything too hard (wondrous, amazing, incredible, extraordinary) for the LORD? I will return to you at the same season next year, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son." [Genesis (Bereshith) 18. 14 Tanakh, Torah] Many years later, the angel told the virgin Miryam (Mary), engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the House of David, that she would have a SON. She questioned, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?" The angel answered, "with GOD nothing will be impossible." [Luke 1. 34 & 37] 

There are some things in EL SHADDAI that are emphatically impossible however, such as being tempted by evil [James 1. 13], HE cannot lie [Titus 1. 2], or deny HIMSELF [2 Timothy 2. 13]. Therefore, whatever HE does is right and whatever HE says is true. We may not always understand why or how HE does or says a certain thing, but in eternity we will learn that HE is able to do what HE says. Our GREAT GOD is omnipotent (all-powerful, supreme, invincible)! 

EL SHADDAI did create the universe and all things by HIS spoken word and fashioned mankind into HIS OWN IMAGE. Since we are fearfully and wonderfully made, we should not desecrate HIS handiwork. "Behold, I am YEHOWAH, ELOHEY of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for ME?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 27 Tanakh, Nevi'im] Absolutely nothing! EL SHADDAI does all things well! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Good Sabbath! We praise and bless YOUR O GOD, for lovingly and graciously giving YOUR Holy Shabbat to all peoples. 
Sabbath of Sh’Mini – “Eighth” [Reading: Leviticus 9:1 - 11:47; 1 Samuel 20:18-42; Matthew 3:11-17] 
May we be witnesses of the God'S care, love, and glorious presence through the days ahead. Enter each day with joy in our hearts and confidence that SOVEREIGN KING rules and reigns. And, because of HIS great mercy, HE will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us — our IMMANU’EL, the ANOINTED ONE OF GOD is with us! My soul will continually bless the MOST HOLY LORD God for HE alone is worthy of all praise, reverence, rapturous adoration, and exaltation. 
Day 13 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Life is short, break man’s rules and follow GOD’S rules:  Forgive quickly, Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably. 

MY HOLY NAME       
"So I will make MY HOLY NAME known in the midst of MY people Israel, and never again will I allow MY HOLY NAME to be profaned. Then the nations shall know that I am YEHOWAH QADOWSH YISRAEL (the LORD, the HOLY ONE in Israel)." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 39. 7 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

The OLD COVENANT is replete using the wonderful name of GOD, QADOWSH YEHOWAH — the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL, most often used during the days of the later kings of Judah.  The strong emphasis on this particular name is probably because of the prevalent un-holiness of the nation of Israel during those years — which finally culminated in the captivity of Judah itself. 

As stated, GOD repeatedly stresses HIS holiness: "For our shield belongs to the LORD, and our KING to the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL." [Psalms (Tehillym) 89. 18 Tanakh, Kethuvim; also see 71. 22; 78. 41]  "For Israel is not forsaken (widowed), nor Judah, by his GOD, the LORD OF HOSTS, though their land was filled with sin against the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 51. 5 Tanakh, Nevi’im; also see 50:29]  "For HE WHO made you will espouse you — HIS NAME is YEHOWAH TSEBAOVT (LORD OF HOSTS) — The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL will redeem you — HE is called ELOHEY (GOD) of all the earth." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 54. 5 Tanakh, Nevi’im; Isaiah describes GOD as the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL at least 27 times] 

And, we are commanded to be like our CREATOR, "I am YEHOWAH ELOHEYHEM (the LORD your GOD). You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 11. 44 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  "As HE WHO called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written — Be holy, for I am holy." [1 Peter 1. 15 - 16] 

The final occurrence of this MAJESTIC NAME is especially emphasized as the ANCIENT HERO in Israel given of the prophesied invasion of Israel when Gog, the Prince of Rosh of the Land of Magog whom the LORD GOD is against "will advance upon MY people Israel, like a cloud covering the land. It will be in the latter days that I will bring you against MY land, that the nations may know ME when, before their eyes, I manifest MY holiness through you, O Gog!" [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 38. 16 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

At that time, says the LORD, "On that day, when Gog sets foot on the soil of Israel — MY raging anger shall flare up. For I have decreed in MY jealousy and in the fire of My blazing wrath I have spoken: Surely in that day a great earthquake shall befall the land of Israel. The fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the beasts of the field, all creeping things that creep on the ground, and all men who are on the face of the earth shall quake at MY PRESENCE. Mountains shall be thrown down, the steep places shall fall, and every wall shall crumble to the ground. — I will summon the sword against Gog throughout all MY mountains — says the LORD GOD — and every man's sword will turn against his brother. I will punish him with pestilence and bloodshed; I pour torrential rain, great hailstones, and sulfurous fire down on him, his hordes, and the many peoples with him. Thus I will magnify MY greatness and MY holiness, and make MYSELF known in the eyes of many nations. Then they shall know that I am YEHOWAH (the LORD)." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 38. 18 - 23 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

At last, the time is coming when the PRECIOUS NAME OF THE LORD will no longer be polluted, corrupted or dishonored and "from that day forward the House of Israel shall know that I YEHOWAH ELOHEYHEM (the LORD am their GOD). . .Assuredly, thus says the LORD GOD — I will now restore the captives of Jacob, and have mercy on the whole House of Israel; and I will be zealous for MY HOLY NAME...I will never again hide MY face from them; for I will pour out MY SPIRIT upon the House of Israel — declares ADONEY YEHOWAH (the LORD GOD)." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 39. 22, 25, 29 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

Such a glorious day that will be, when GOD cleanses us from all our iniquities, when the HOLY ONE is revered in all nations, and in truth we are HIS holy people.

 
Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
We pray that the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD be gracious to us that we may understand and fulfill the Teaching of HIS HOLY WORD.  May HE enlighten our eyes in HIS  Law that we may cling to HIS commandments. Unite our hearts to love and revere YOU and teach us YOUR WORDS and wisdom.  LORD YOU are our PRAISE, our STRENGTH, our FORTRESS, and our REFUGE  in days of affliction and at all times.
 May you have a heart to know the LORD Y’SHUA, that HE is the LORD of your life; oh, return to HIM with your whole heart.  May each of you be delivered from trouble and harm, or strengthened through it. Heal us O LORD, make us righteous in YOUR sight.  
Nothing can be achieved in haste. The spreading tree and the soul of man grows slowly to perfection. May the LORD GOD teach you patience that you may endure every trial HE allows to make you strong.
May the HOLY ONE fill you with HIS perfect peace, amazing joy and happiness each day.
Day 24 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Failure is not the opposite of success – it is a part of it!  Failures just steer us from taking the wrong path IF one learns from it. 

GENERATIONS OF PRAISE       
"May they always have such a heart in them, to revere ME and follow all MY commandments, that it may go well with them and with their children forever!" [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 5. 29 Tanakh, Torah] 

Each generation of people tends to regard its own times as the most significant of all, toward which all past history has been merely a preparation.  The fact is, however, that the MOST HIGH & HOLY GOD "has been our  DWELLING PLACE, our SHELTER and PROTECTION in all generations" [Psalms/Tehillym 90. 1], and EL SHADDAI is equally concerned about generations yet to come. 

This is why the MARVELOUS CREATOR stresses repeatedly that the great truths concerning HIS creation, HIS character, HIS great work of salvation, and HIS eternal plans for the ages to come be transmitted faithfully from one generation to another. "For HE (EL SHADDAI) established a decree in Jacob, ordained a Law in Israel, charging our fathers to make them known to their children, that the future generation might know — children yet to be born — and in turn declare them to their children that they might put their confidence in ELOHIYM and not forget HIS great deeds." [Psalms (Tehillym) 78. 5 - 7 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   "One generation shall praise YOUR works to another and declare YOUR mighty acts. The glorious majesty of YOUR splendor and YOUR wonders." [Psalms (Tehillym) 145. 4 - 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The OMNISCIENT KING ETERNAL is concerned that we not loose what HE has given us, HIS PRECIOUS WORD.  "Forever, O LORD, YOUR WORD stands firm in heaven. YOUR faithfulness is for all generations; YOU have established the earth, and it stands. They stand this day to carry out YOUR rulings, for all are YOUR servants." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 89 - 91 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The LORD JESUS declared, "But hold fast what you have till I come. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown." [Revelation 2. 25; 3. 11]    Paul taught of the greatest principle for true education, "the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." [2 Timothy 2. 2] 

The description of MESSIAH Y’SHUA'S crucifixion and resurrection was the eye-witness testimony of all the Apostles; and is the foundation of our faith and hope for eternal life. "For to this end CHRIST died and rose and lived again, that HE might be LORD of both the dead and the living." [Romans 14. 9]   "Offspring shall serve HIM; the LORD'S fame shall be proclaimed to the generations to come; they shall tell of HIS beneficence, HIS righteousness to people yet to be born, for HE has done this." [Psalms (Tehillym) 22. 31 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

"Be careful to heed all these commandments that I enjoin upon you; thus it will go well with you and with your descendants after you forever, for you will be doing what is good and right in the sight of the LORD your GOD." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 12. 28 Tanakh, Torah] 

With the situation in Israel today where the world seeks to divide the Land with the false hope that Israel can "give land for peace" — we must look up and know that Y’SHUA, the BLESSED REDEEMER & RIGHTEOUS JUDGE of both the people and the land is soon to return.  Then and only then will there be peace and the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL will reign forevermore. HalleluYAH!!!  
Come quickly LORD JESUS! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
As we bid farewell to Shabbat, may you have a good week — a week of peace...may gladness reign and joy increase.
Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is YOUR love for us and YOUR compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that we may understand and fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED TRUTH. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Thank YOU for YOUR saving power, for from YOU comes our help. Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR HOLY & PRECIOUS NAME.  We trust that you will experience a GOD-filled week — GOD be with you! 
Day 21 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
CHRISTian opportunism is more than an attitude or virtue — it is a whole pattern of living that has its roots in a passion for souls. 

EXALT & ESTEEM      
"For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as GOD has dealt to each one a measure of faith." [Romans 12. 3] 

Today there is so much importance placed on teaching self-esteem, but this is the cause of many personal problems — the problem is that individuals are so aggrandized with themselves, thinking more highly of themselves and less on valuing others and serving the TRUE & LIVING GOD OF HEAVEN.  This, however, is not a BIBLICAL perspective, the WORD OF LIFE commands that we should, "let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." [Philippians 2. 3 - 4] 

The Apostle Paul could have been one of the greatest teachers and leaders in the religion/political life of the Jewish people, yet he made the declaration — "But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for MESSIAH. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH my LORD, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain MESSIAH and be found in HIM, not having my own righteousness, which is from the Law, but that which is through faith in MESSIAH, the righteousness which is from GOD by faith; that I may know HIM and the power of HIS resurrection, and the fellowship of HIS sufferings, being conformed to HIS death, if by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead." [Philippians 3. 7 - 11] 

Moses, though once a prince of Egypt, chose MESSIAH and the people of GOD instead. "By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of GOD than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of CHRIST greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward." [Hebrews 11. 24 - 26] 

In the same way, the Apostle James assures us in his writings, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." [James 1. 2 - 4]  Definitely, trials are to test your faith, that we may come forth as pure gold just as Job conveyed, "When HE has tested me, I shall come forth as gold." [Job/Iyob 23. 10] 

Therefore, if we would truly conform to the will of the LOVING MASTER for our lives, we should be esteeming others more than cultivating self-worth in ourselves, cherish the benefit of knowing and serving Y’SHUA our REDEEMER more than all the riches and fame of this present world; and count it a joyful privilege when we are enabled to grow more like the MESSIAH through the trials and testings HE permits us to share...exalt (praise, worship, honor, admire), exult (take pride in, rejoice, glory), and highly esteem the LORD our GOD! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
 Walk unwavering in the WAY OF HOLINESS execute righteous judgment, and you will avoid retribution from GOD WHO is HOLY!
The grace of our LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH be with your spirit every moment of each day; and may the SPIRIT OF HOLINESS delight your soul. Thanks be to GOD, the ALL-KNOWING ONE that our times are in HIS hand and HE will guide and sustain us even unto the end.
 Abundant blessings and joy unspeakable now and always from our home to yours. 
This is Rosh Chodesh – the new moon starting the month of Iyyar.
Day 16 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Our need is not religion, we need a SAVIOR. 

HARD HEARTS      
"Later HE (MESSIAH YESHUA) appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and HE rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen HIM after HE had risen." [Mark 16. 14] 

Many people, including numerous CHRISTians, are afflicted with the spiritual hardening of the heart, and there are several references to this fact in the HOLY SCRIPTURES.  The first was in Egypt's unbelieving Pharaoh — The LORD said to Moses, "I will harden his heart so that he will not let the people go." [Exodus (Shemot) 4. 21 Tanakh, Torah] Then when the children of Israel did escape Pharaoh's persecutions, they also contracted this debilitating attitude: "Do not be stubborn and harden not your heart, as at Meribah, and as in the day of Massah, in the wilderness, when your fathers put ME to the test, tried ME, though they had seen MY deeds." [Psalms (Tehillym) 95. 8 - 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Even the disciples of the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH were rebuked by HIM for their hardness of heart.  Regardless of the OLD COVENANT prophecies, and JESUS' own frequently repeated promise that HE would rise from the dead, the disciples forsook HIM and fled into hiding when HE was arrested.  Some were even skeptical and doubted the first reports of MESSIAH'S resurrection until they saw HIM for themselves.  HIS rebuke, in essence, compared their unbelief with hardness of heart. 

If this "hardness of heart" and "unbelief" could exist in the eleven disciples, it could surely happen to us IF we allow it.  Beware! brethren, for fear that there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the LIVING GOD!   We need to "exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today" lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. Today, if you will hear HIS voice — Listen!!! do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion." [Hebrews 3. 12 - 13, 15]  We are partakers of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, if we hold fast to the beginning of our confidence (faithfulness) and remain steadfast to the end. 

The GREAT & MIGHTY GOD is the HOLY ONE WHO fights for us in our wilderness, WHO changes our bitter waters into sweet, WHO speaks to us in our daily lives and is our very LIFE'S BREAD.  How can we help but love the EVER-LIVING LORD GOD with all our heart and follow HIS commands! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
O LORD GOD of mercy, we trust in YOU. In deep humility we approach YOUR Throne and lay our supplications before YOU. Strengthen our faith in YOU, that with wisdom and courage we may do YOUR will. Help us to right the wrongs we have done to others and give us the grace to pardon those who offend us. Enlighten our minds with YOUR truth and touch our hearts with YOUR mercy. May this day summon our energies to the fulfillment of YOUR perfect plan for our life and may it bring our souls the inner peace in which alone the voice of YOUR SPIRIT is heard. Be with us. O GOD, and receive us in YOUR boundless love for YOU alone are our HOPE and SUPPORT. Amen 
Day 15 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
When a man leaves the synagogue, he should not march with hasty steps; but when he goes to the synagogue, it is right to run.  [Talmud] 

JUDGING DOCTRINAL HERESY      
"Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our LORD JESUS CHRIST, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." [Romans 14. 17 - 18] 

We must exercise sound BIBLICAL discernment and judgment in order that we are able to mark and avoid those professing CHRISTian teachers and leaders who are promoting doctrinal heresy, who cause divisions among true CHRISTian believers.  This judgment must only be based on the doctrine which you have learned from GOD’S HOLY WORD, "lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words." [Colossians 2. 4] 

"If they do not speak according to this WORD (Law & Testimony), it is because there is no light in them." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 8. 20]  "Thus says the LORD — Stand in the ways and consider, inquire about the old paths, where the good way is, walk it; and you will find rest for your souls." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 6. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Decisions are not to be based on supposed scholarship, tolerance, or eloquence, for such teachers "by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." Instead, we must know and apply GOD’S WORD, the HOLY SCRIPTURES.  "The works of the LORD are great, within reach and studied by all who desire and have pleasure in them. HIS work is splendid, honorable and glorious, and HIS righteousness is everlasting." [Psalms (Tehillym) 111. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  We must be like the Bereans who, when they heard new teachings, "they received the WORD with all readiness, and searched the SCRIPTURES daily to find out whether these things were so." [Acts 17. 11] 

Today, sadly but true most who call themselves followers of MESSIAH (CHRIST-like-ones) have compromised with the so-called scientific world view of evolutionary humanism that controls all secular schools and colleges, preferring to remain on good terms with "the rulers of this age" and only understand the "wisdom of this age...being wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked" [1 Corinthians 2. 6 w/Revelation 3. 17]; thereby trying to avoid the "the offense of the cross." [Galatians 5. 11]  The cross is offensive because it brands man as a hell-deserving sinner; and the only way of salvation is a humbling acknowledgment of Y’SHUA, the REJECTED CREATOR as their personal SAVIOR WHO died for their sins. 

Deception is done simply for personal gain and prestige serving, "their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." [Romans 16. 18]  "Let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as HE is righteous. Whoever sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning." [1 John 3. 7 - 8] 

The faithfully dedicated BIBLE-believing CHRISTian, will not be deceived by the good words of the deceptive swindlers, but will mark and avoid him. MESSIAH Y’SHUA even taught this truth by asking questions, "Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch?" [Luke 6. 39] 

Be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. And the GOD of peace will crush Satan and those who mislead under your feet shortly. [Romans 16. 19 - 20]  May the grace of the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH be with you always! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
O YEHOWAH, we thank and bless YOUR NAME forever. Amen
As we bid farewell to Shabbat with the Havdalah (“difference”) Service, we use all of our senses: we taste the wine, smell the spices, see the shadows of candles, hear prayers & songs, and touch family and friends as we wish them a “Tov Sha-vu-a (Good Week).” 
Grace: GOD’S acceptance of me; Faith: my acceptance of HIM; Peace: my acceptance of myself; Love: acceptance of HIS acceptance; Fellowship: your acceptance of me.
Day 14 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Being great does not excuse one from being good. 


EL SHADDAI — GOD ALMIGHTY       
"When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him — I am EL SHADDAI; walk in MY ways and be blameless before ME. I will establish MY covenant between ME and you, and will multiply you exceedingly." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Torah] 

The name EL SHADDAI (ALL-SUFFICIENT ONE, ALMIGHTY GOD) is the description of GOD used some forty-eight times in the OLD COVENANT, this text is its first occurrence.  In the NEW COVENANT this name is used nine times, the last makes it clear to us that no Temple is in the Holy City, "for the LORD GOD, EL SHADDAI , and the LAMB are its Temple." [Revelation 21. 22] 

Accordingly, the first and last books of HOLY SCRIPTURE (First & Last indicates all Books in between) reiterates that our GOD is an OMNIPOTENT GOD, as SHADDAI means ALL-SUFFICIENT NOURISHER [comparable to breasts full of milk (shad in Hebrew means breast)]; the ALMIGHTY, MOST POWERFUL, a term exclusively for the one TRUE GOD.  The Prophet Jeremiah prayed: "Ah, ADONEY YEHOWAH! Behold, YOU made the heavens and the earth with YOUR great might and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for YOU! YOU show lovingkindness to thousandth generation, but repay the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them — O GREAT and MIGHTY GOD, whose NAME is the LORD OF HOSTS, wondrous in purpose and mighty in deed." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 


Sarah laughed to herself when GOD said she would bear a son in her old age, but EL SHADDAI respond — "Is anything too hard (wondrous, amazing, incredible, extraordinary) for the LORD? I will return to you at the same season next year, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son." [Genesis (Bereshith) 18. 14 Tanakh, Torah] Many years later, the angel told the virgin Miryam (Mary), engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the House of David, that she would have a SON. She questioned, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?" The angel answered, "with GOD nothing will be impossible." [Luke 1. 34 & 37] 

There are some things in EL SHADDAI that are emphatically impossible however, such as being tempted by evil [James 1. 13], HE cannot lie [Titus 1. 2], or deny HIMSELF [2 Timothy 2. 13]. Therefore, whatever HE does is right and whatever HE says is true. We may not always understand why or how HE does or says a certain thing, but in eternity we will learn that HE is able to do what HE says.  Our GREAT GOD is omnipotent (all-powerful, supreme, invincible)! 

EL SHADDAI did create the universe and all things by HIS spoken word and fashioned mankind into HIS OWN IMAGE.  Since we are fearfully and wonderfully made, we should not desecrate HIS handiwork. "Behold, I am YEHOWAH, ELOHEY of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for ME?" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 27 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  Absolutely nothing!  EL SHADDAI does all things well! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Good Sabbath!  We praise and bless YOUR O GOD, for lovingly and graciously giving YOUR Holy Shabbat to all peoples.
Sabbath of Sh’Mini – “Eighth” [Reading: Leviticus 9:1 - 11:47; 1 Samuel 20:18-42; Matthew 3:11-17] 
May we be witnesses of the GOD'S care, love, and glorious presence through the days ahead. Enter each day with joy in our hearts and confidence that SOVEREIGN KING rules and reigns.  And, because of HIS great mercy, HE will continue to use us as HIS messengers of the GOOD NEWS to the perplexed and depraved world around us — our IMMANU’EL, the ANOINTED ONE OF GOD is with us!  My soul will continually bless the MOST HOLY LORD GOD for HE alone is worthy of all praise, reverence, rapturous adoration, and exaltation. 
Day 13 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

 
Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
It is hard to learn from a mistake that you do not acknowledge making. 

WATCH THEREFORE 
"Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the SON OF MAN is coming." [Matthew 25. 13] 

The LORD JESUS, Yâ€SHUA haâ€MASHIACH HIMSELF commanded every believer to watch for HIS return. No matter the situation, the time or the place — all who believe are steadfastly charged to watch for Yâ€SHUA'S coming. "Therefore you also be ready, for the SON OF MAN is coming at an hour you do not expect." [Matthew 24. 44] 

Since we do not know the day, hour or minute, we are to be watching always.. "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the SON, but only the FATHER. Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. Watch therefore — lest, coming suddenly HE find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all — WATCH!" [Mark 13. 32, 33, 37] This uncertainty should motivate and encourage faithfulness in the believer. If the believer starts to think, "My MASTER is taking a long time in coming" [Luke 12. 45], there is a very clear and present danger that he will be enticed with sinful temptations and ungodly worldly passions, leading to a falling away. 

Our moment-by-moment attitude and objective should be to "live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the BLESSED HOPE — the glorious appearing of our great GOD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST, WHO gave HIMSELF for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for HIMSELF a people that are HIS very own, eager to do what is good." [Titus 2. 12 - 14] 

John records the promise of MESSIAH Yâ€SHUA, "Beloved, now we are children of GOD; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when HE is revealed, we shall be like HIM, for we shall see HIM as HE is. And everyone who has this hope in HIM purifies himself, just as HE is pure." [1 John 3. 2 - 3] 

May we remain faithful and continually "abide in HIM; that when HE appears, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before HIM at HIS coming." [1 John 2. 28] The LORD commands, "Obey MY voice, and I will be your GOD and you shall be MY people; walk only in the way that I have commanded you, that it may go well with you." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 7. 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im] All who are born of HIM patiently live righteously. Wait diligently for GOD'S notable appointed time, the LORD Yâ€SHUA ha'MASHIACH will return. Will you be found devoted, faithful and humbly watching? HE is worth waiting for! 


Shaâ€alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Worship, honor, adoration, glory and majesty belong to YOU, our FATHER, the ONLY TRUE & LIVING GOD. We ask YOU through the HOLY SPIRIT, to direct our thoughts to YOU and sanctify us in Truth, YOUR WORD is TRUTH. Burn that Truth into our soul to exalt and glorify YOUR SON, JESUS WHO'S we are and WHO we serve. Thank YOU LORD for YOUR faithfulness and YOUR redeeming love! 
This is Yom HaSho`ah – Holocaust Remembrance Day 
Day 12 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.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 Yâ€SHUA, 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 haâ€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 Benâ€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 Benâ€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/Zecharyah 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 Yâ€SHUA. 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 Yâ€SHUA. 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 Yâ€SHUA 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 Yâ€SHUA 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 Yâ€SHUA 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! 

Shaâ€alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
In YOUR mercy, O LORD, remember us and all YOUR children as we enter a new week. O LOVING FATHER, 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 every heart, from the smallest to the greatest. Then shall mankind do YOUR will and the reward of righteous service shall be peace. 
This is the 17th of Nisan – the 3rd day after Passover when MESSIAH raised victoriously from the grave, this is the Feast of Firstfruits. 
Omer Day 2 / Chol HaMoâ€ed (Festival Weekday) - Pesach/Unleavened Bread 

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


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for dinner. 

NEW CREATION 
"For behold, I am creating a New Heavens and a New Earth; the former shall not be remembered, they shall never come to mind. Be glad then and rejoice forever in what I am creating. For I create Jerusalem as a joy, and her people as a delight. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and have pleasure in MY people." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 65. 17 - 19 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] 

Though thought otherwise, the spiritual values are much more important than the material, as most people think that must live in the real world. However, the fact is, we are not living in the real world at all, but in a world that is dying and soon will completely be burned up and vanish away. "Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look upon the earth beneath; though the heavens will vanish away like smoke, and the earth wear out like a garment, and those who dwell in it die like gnats, MY salvation will be forever, and MY righteousness will not be abolished." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 51.. 6 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] "Both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." [2 Peter 3. 10] "The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of GOD abides forever." [1 John 2. 17] 

This is not the world that the MOST HIGH ALMIGHTY GOD created, since that world was "very good." [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 31] But because "sin entered into the world, and death by sin" [Romans 5. 12], "the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now." [Romans 8. 22] In fact, this world is not even as it was soon after GODâ€S curse, for "the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished " [1 Peter 3. 6] 

This present-day world is now under the dominion of Satan, who is "the prince of this world" [John 12. 31] and of "all the kingdoms of this world." [Matthew 4. 8] The LORD, Yâ€SHUA haâ€MASHIACH came to and "gave HIMSELF for our sins, that HE might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our GOD and FATHER, to WHOM be glory forever and ever. Amen." [Galatians 1. 4 - 5] Clearly, this world will not even come to mind as "the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of GOD." [Romans 8. 21] 

Therefore, we must "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." [Romans 12. 2] It is imperative that we "live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our GREAT GOD and SAVIOR CHRIST JESUS, WHO gave HIMSELF for us, that HE might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for HIMSELF HIS own special people, zealous for good works." [Titus 2. 12 - 14] 

"I am your HOLY ONE, the LORD, your KING, the CREATOR of Israel." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 43. 15 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] "For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before ME — says YEHOWAH — So shall your descendants and your name remain." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 22 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] If we have been born anew in the LORD Yâ€SHUA, our true citizenship is in the world to come and we are HIS ambassadors in this alien land. 

Shaâ€alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
May you know the joy and happiness that only comes from the righteousness of our LORD MESSIAH Yâ€SHUA. 
Our prayers are that the HOLY ONE be with you this day and always and may your days be lived in peace and truth. 
Omer Day 5/Pesach Day 5 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread) 
Chol Hamoâ€ed (Festival Weekday) 

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


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Great opportunities disguise themselves as unsolvable problems. Unsolvable, that is, without GODâ€S wisdom. That is where the ALMIGHTY ONE does HIS greatest work…the more impossible the situation, the greater are HIS accomplishments. 

PASSING THROUGH THE SEA 
"But the children of Israel had walked on dry land in the midst of the sea, the waters forming a wall for them on their right and on their left. So the LORD delivered Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians. Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the shore of the sea." [Exodus (Shemot) 14. 29 – 30 Tanakh, Torah] 

Looking for a natural explanation instead of believing what HOLY SCRIPTURES accurately accounts for is what humanists and liberal theologians try using to explain this Red Sea crossing. Those who deny the literal account of GODâ€S wonders say the Israelites simply crossed over on a shallow portion of the Sea of Reeds, which is at the extreme northern end of the west arm of the Red Sea before it became the Suez Canal. 

However, this was another of GODâ€S extraordinary miracles, and it happened just as is clearly reveal in the WORD OF TRUTH — it was not a mere wind storm that drove the shallow waters seaward. "Moses held out his arm over the Sea and the LORD drove back the sea with a strong east wind all that night, and turned the sea into dry ground. The waters were split, and the Israelites went into the midst sea on dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left." [Exodus (Shemot) 14. 21 – 22 Tanakh, Torah] 

A great path opened up through the deep waters, they were supernaturally restrained as a wall of water was on both sides of the wide pathway, and it was deep enough to drown all of Pharaohâ€s army when the waters collapsed on top of them after the "Chosen of the LORD" were safely across. Yes, it is the LORD GOD "WHO dried up the Sea, the waters of the great deep; that made the depths of the Sea a road for the redeemed to cross over." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 51. 10 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] 

The passage was through the Eastern arm of the Red Sea, which enabled the Israelites to cross "from the Red Sea...into the Wilderness of Shur." [Exodus/Shemot) 15. 22] A miracle of such a enormous magnitude is nothing less than the creative power of the ALMIGHTY ONE WHO created a force of energy that was powerful enough to hold the deep waters to be firm walls standing against the force of gravity. 

Later generations continued to look back on this event as being colossal and awesome proof of the MASTER CREATORâ€S divine call of Israel. The Song of Moses declares such praises: "YOUR right hand, O LORD, is glorious in power; YOUR right hand, O LORD, shatters the enemy! In the greatness of YOUR excellence YOU shatter YOUR opponents; YOU sent forth YOUR wrath; it consumed them like stubble. At the blast of YOUR nostrils the waters piled up; the floods stood upright (Hebrew: natsab — stand firm, fast, still, stay up) like a wall; the depths congealed (Hebrew: qapha†— set firm, hardened, thicken, settle) in the heart of the Sea." [Exodus (Shemot) 15. 6 – 8 Tanakh, Torah] 

Centuries later, the Apostle Paul recalled this extraordinary miracle — "Moreover, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware that all our fathers were under the cloud, all passed through the sea, all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the Sea, all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that SPIRITUAL ROCK that followed them, and that ROCK was MESSIAH. But with most of them GOD was not well pleased, for their bodies were scattered in the wilderness....all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition (warning, instruction), upon whom the ends of the ages have come." [1 Corinthians 10. 1 – 5, 11] 

Who is like YOU, glorious in holiness, KING OF GLORY in all that YOUR hands have established? The LORD shall reign forever and ever, there is none like our GREATLY MAGNIFICENT & AWESOME GOD. 

Shaâ€alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Welcome Sabbath of Pesach – “Festival of Passover† [Reading: Deuteronomy 15:19 - 16:17; Numbers 28:19-25; Isaiah 10:32 – 12:6; John 20:15-20] 
The final days of Passover celebrate the splitting of the sea. This year, letâ€s celebrate a journey through our own waves, a redemption from our own personal Egypt, and understand that our biggest barricade to freedom was never actually the sea; it was ourselves. As we celebrate Passover, we leave behind the constrictions of Egypt and break through our own personal barricades, which at times may seem as vast as the sea. GOD WHO brought us out of Egypt and split the sea is surely capable of delivering us from our own personal troubles. With effort and faith, nothing is out of reach. 
Omer Day 6/Pesach Day 7 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread) 
Chol Hamoâ€ed (Festival Weekday) 

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

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard rather than the bellowing shout of a foolish ruler. 

CAPTIVATING EXPERIENCE 
"I, Koheleth (the Assembler of sayings) son of David, was king in Jerusalem over Israel. I set my mind to study and search with wisdom all that happens under the sun. An unhappy and burdensome task that, which GOD gave men to be concerned with that they may be exercised." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 1. 12 - 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

These words are from Solomon himself, the one who asked the MOST HOLY LORD GOD for wisdom to rule the people of Israel. The RIGHTEOUS ONE gave him his request, plus more. "Because you have asked for the wisdom and knowledge to be able to govern and judge MY people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you; and I will grant you also wealth, property and glory, the like of which no king before you has had, nor shall any after you have." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 1. 11 - 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Solomon experienced every human experience possible with forethought. His planned intention was to experience the effect it would have on ones life. [Ecclesiastes/Kohelet] His ultimate downfall was in taking an assorted collection of wives, who turned him from the ONLY TRUE GOD. This happened after the ETERNAL MASTER had warned Solomon not to "multiply wives, lest his heart go astray" and they would lead him into idolatry. [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 17. 17; 7. 1 - 5] 

Solomon confessed that wisdom strengthens the wise — and all this he proved by his own wisdom and experience. Yet, "wisdom" was far from him. King Solomon was put to shame, and in the end, his wisdom amounted to nothing. "All this I tested with wisdom. I thought — I will be wise — but it eludes me." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 7. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Solomon's conclusion: "Remember your CREATOR! Revere and fear GOD and keep HIS commandments! This is the whole duty of mankind." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 12. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

However, a truly WISE HOLY GOD/MAN came to be perfected, in fact, by the things HE experienced. "JESUS, WHO was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that HE, by the grace of GOD, might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting for HIM, for WHOM are all things and by WHOM are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the CAPTAIN of their salvation perfect through sufferings." [Hebrews 2. 9 - 10] 

MESSIAH Yâ€SHUA left HIS place in Glory and became a MAN that HE might (and I say this reverently) "be made" perfect. This GREAT ETERNAL LOVING CREATOR Of everything, WHO knows all things (omniscient) could not die. Although HE had the knowledge of death, HE thought it important to know by experience. According to the Law, a kinsman could redeem a brother. [Leviticus/Vayikra 25. 48 - 49] The LORD Yâ€SHUA ha'MASHIACH, our KINSMAN REDEEMER, bought us back after we sold ourselves into sin. 

CHRIST JESUS, "WHO, in the days of HIS flesh, when HE had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to HIM WHO was able to save HIM from death, and was heard because of HIS godly fear, though HE was the SON, yet HE learned obedience by the things which HE suffered. And having been perfected, HE became the AUTHOR of eternal salvation to all who obey HIM." [Hebrews 5. 7 - 9] The DELIVERER is now seated at our FATHER'S right hand and is interceding for us as the GREAT HIGH PRIEST. "For the Law appoints as high priests men who have weakness, but the WORD OF THE OATH, which came after the Law, appoints the SON (KING Yâ€SHUA, the MESSIAH) WHO has been perfected forever." [Hebrews 7. 28] 

MESSIAH Yâ€SHUA is LORD and is preeminent over all. HE was, in all points, tempted as we are. . . yet never sinned. "For we do not have a HIGH PRIEST who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." [Hebrews 4. 15] "Indeed, a GREATER than Solomon is here" [Matthew 12. 42; Luke 11. 31] . . . HIM we should hear and be quick to obey. 


Shaâ€alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
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 praise to YOUR HOLY NAME and thank YOU for Yâ€SHUA, our REDEEMER.
Day 10 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com 


Thought FOR TODAY 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY... 
One is truly blind when you cannot see what is wrong with what GOD calls sin. 

PERFECT TIMING 
"The righteous man perishes, and no one considers and takes it to heart; pious men are taken away, and no one gives thought that because of evil, the righteous was taken away." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 57. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Typically, the death of a promising young man or woman seem perplexingly tragic. This is true and even more painful in the sudden death of a child. HOLY SCRIPTURE tells of an incident when it was a blessing in the case of the child of Jeroboam since his little son was the only one of that household who would be mourned. "As for you (Ahijah speaking to the wife of Jeroboam), go back home; as soon as you set foot in the town, the child will die. And all Israel shall mourn for him and bury him, for he alone of Jeroboamâ€s family will be brought to burial, because in him there is found something good toward LORD, the GOD of Israel." [1 Kings (Melakhim Alef) 14. 12 - 13 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] 

A CHRISTian can be confident in GODâ€S total plan for their lives no matter their age for they will not be "cut off before their time" for we are confident that no event will occur before the MAGNIFICENT CREATORâ€S perfect timing, for HE "works all things after the counsel of HIS OWN will." [Ephesians 1. 11] We know that GOD loves us greatly because HE sent HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON WHO HE dearly loved to die for us. Therefore, "all things work together for good to those who love GOD, to those who are the called according to HIS purpose. For whom HE foreknew, HE also predestined to be conformed to the image of HIS SON." [Romans 8. 28 - 29] "The Gospel, according to the power of GOD, WHO has 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 Yâ€SHUA before time began." [2 Timothy 1. 8 – 9] "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of GOD commit their souls to HIM in doing good, as to a FAITHFUL CREATOR." [1 Peter 4. 19] 

Indeed, the ALL-KNOWING ONE has allowed the righteous to perish and the merciful to be taken away to spare them from "the evil to come" either increasing tribulation in the world, or even the further growth of developing sin in their own lives. It may be that their untimely departure "to depart and be with CHRIST…is far better" [Philippians 1. 23] and will be used of GOD to lead others to MESSIAH and salvation. It also should give their loved ones greater and more enthusiastic incentive to learn more of the WORD OF GOD and HIS gracious promises, as well as to forsake sin in their own lives. In situations where death seems to have been hastened because of a great zeal for the LORD, the friends and loved ones can rejoice that the martyrâ€s "crown of life" [Revelation 2. 10] is awaiting them. 

Many other things that we cannot yet understand may exist "For who has known the mind of the LORD? Or who has become HIS counselor? Or who has first given to HIM and it shall be repaid to him? For of HIM and through HIM and to HIM are all things, to WHOM be glory forever. Amen" [Romans 11.. 34 - 36] However, we do know that not even a sparrow "falls to the ground apart from your FATHER'S will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." [Matthew 10. 29 - 31] 

Though we may now not fully understand, we can rest in the fact that our ALMIGHTY HEAVENLY KING OF GLORY does all things well. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
May the MOST HIGH LORD GOD anoint and empower you daily. Remember, worship is always essential– and our focus is on Yâ€SHUA, the ONE WHO is our ROCK OF AGES, our FORTRESS, our LIGHT & SALVATION, our soon-returning MESSIAH & KING. Come into HIS PRESENCE reverently with thanksgiving and enter HIS courts with praise. 
Day 11 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY...
One is truly blind when you cannot see what is wrong with what GOD calls sin. 

PERFECT TIMING       
"The righteous man perishes, and no one considers and takes it to heart; pious men are taken away, and no one gives thought that because of evil, the righteous was taken away." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 57. 1 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Typically, the death of a promising young man or woman seem perplexingly tragic. This is true and even more painful in the sudden death of a child.  HOLY SCRIPTURE tells of an incident when it was a blessing in the case of the child of Jeroboam since his little son was the only one of that household who would be mourned. "As for you (Ahijah speaking to the wife of Jeroboam), go back home; as soon as you set foot in the town, the child will die. And all Israel shall mourn for him and bury him, for he alone of Jeroboam’s family will be brought to burial, because in him there is found something good toward LORD, the GOD of Israel." [1 Kings (Melakhim Alef) 14. 12 - 13 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

A CHRISTian can be confident in GOD’S total plan for their lives no matter their age for they will not be "cut off before their time" for we are confident that no event will occur before the MAGNIFICENT CREATOR’S perfect timing, for HE "works all things after the counsel of HIS OWN will." [Ephesians 1. 11]  We know that GOD loves us greatly because HE sent HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON WHO HE dearly loved to die for us.  Therefore, "all things work together for good to those who love GOD, to those who are the called according to HIS purpose. For whom HE foreknew, HE also predestined to be conformed to the image of HIS SON." [Romans 8. 28 - 29]  "The Gospel, according to the power of GOD, WHO has 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 Y’SHUA before time began." [2 Timothy 1. 8 – 9]  "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of GOD commit their souls to HIM in doing good, as to a FAITHFUL CREATOR." [1 Peter 4. 19] 

Indeed, the ALL-KNOWING ONE has allowed the righteous to perish and the merciful to be taken away to spare them from "the evil to come" either increasing tribulation in the world, or even the further growth of developing sin in their own lives.  It may be that their untimely departure "to depart and be with CHRIST…is far better" [Philippians 1. 23] and will be used of GOD to lead others to MESSIAH and salvation.  It also should give their loved ones greater and more enthusiastic incentive to learn more of the WORD OF GOD and HIS gracious promises, as well as to forsake sin in their own lives.  In situations where death seems to have been hastened because of a great zeal for the LORD, the friends and loved ones can rejoice that the martyr’s "crown of life" [Revelation 2. 10] is awaiting them. 

Many other things that we cannot yet understand may exist "For who has known the mind of the LORD? Or who has become HIS counselor? Or who has first given to HIM and it shall be repaid to him? For of HIM and through HIM and to HIM are all things, to WHOM be glory forever. Amen" [Romans 11. 34 - 36]  However, we do know that not even a sparrow "falls to the ground apart from your FATHER'S will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." [Matthew 10. 29 - 31] 

Though we may now not fully understand, we can rest in the fact that our ALMIGHTY HEAVENLY KING OF GLORY does all things well. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
May the MOST HIGH LORD GOD anoint and empower you daily. Remember, worship is always essential– and our focus is on Y’SHUA, the ONE WHO is our ROCK OF AGES, our FORTRESS, our LIGHT & SALVATION, our soon-returning MESSIAH & KING. Come into HIS PRESENCE reverently with thanksgiving and enter HIS courts with praise.   
Day 11 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard rather than the bellowing shout of a foolish ruler. 

CAPTIVATING EXPERIENCE       
"I, Koheleth (the Assembler of sayings) son of David, was king in Jerusalem over Israel. I set my mind to study and search with wisdom all that happens under the sun. An unhappy and burdensome task that, which GOD gave men to be concerned with that they may be exercised." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 1. 12 - 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

These words are from Solomon himself, the one who asked the MOST HOLY LORD GOD for wisdom to rule the people of Israel.  The RIGHTEOUS ONE gave him his request, plus more.  "Because you have asked for the wisdom and knowledge to be able to govern and judge MY people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge are granted to you; and I will grant you also wealth, property and glory, the like of which no king before you has had, nor shall any after you have." [2 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 1. 11 - 12 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Solomon experienced every human experience possible with forethought.  His planned intention was to experience the effect it would have on ones life. [Ecclesiastes/Kohelet]  His ultimate downfall was in taking an assorted collection of wives, who turned him from the ONLY TRUE GOD.  This happened after the ETERNAL MASTER had warned Solomon not to "multiply wives, lest his heart go astray" and they would lead him into idolatry. [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 17. 17; 7. 1 - 5]

Solomon confessed that wisdom strengthens the wise — and all this he proved by his own wisdom and experience.  Yet, "wisdom" was far from him.  King Solomon was put to shame, and in the end, his wisdom amounted to nothing.  "All this I tested with wisdom. I thought — I will be wise — but it eludes me." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 7. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  Solomon's conclusion: "Remember your CREATOR! Revere and fear GOD and keep HIS commandments! This is the whole duty of mankind." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 12. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

However, a truly WISE HOLY GOD/MAN came to be perfected, in fact, by the things HE experienced.  "JESUS, WHO was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that HE, by the grace of GOD, might taste death for everyone. For it was fitting for HIM, for WHOM are all things and by WHOM are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the CAPTAIN of their salvation perfect through sufferings." [Hebrews 2. 9 - 10] 

MESSIAH Y’SHUA left HIS place in Glory and became a MAN that HE might (and I say this reverently) "be made" perfect.  This GREAT ETERNAL LOVING CREATOR Of everything, WHO knows all things (omniscient) could not die.  Although HE had the knowledge of death, HE thought it important to know by experience.  According to the Law, a kinsman could redeem a brother. [Leviticus/Vayikra 25. 48 - 49]  The LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, our KINSMAN REDEEMER, bought us back after we sold ourselves into sin. 

CHRIST JESUS, "WHO, in the days of HIS flesh, when HE had offered up prayers and supplications, with vehement cries and tears to HIM WHO was able to save HIM from death, and was heard because of HIS godly fear, though HE was the SON, yet HE learned obedience by the things which HE suffered. And having been perfected, HE became the AUTHOR of eternal salvation to all who obey HIM." [Hebrews 5. 7 - 9]  The DELIVERER is now seated at our FATHER'S right hand and is interceding for us as the GREAT HIGH PRIEST.  "For the Law appoints as high priests men who have weakness, but the WORD OF THE OATH, which came after the Law, appoints the SON (KING Y’SHUA, the MESSIAH) WHO has been perfected forever." [Hebrews 7. 28] 

MESSIAH Y’SHUA is LORD and is preeminent over all.  HE was, in all points, tempted as we are. . . yet never sinned. "For we do not have a HIGH PRIEST who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." [Hebrews 4. 15]  "Indeed, a GREATER than Solomon is here" [Matthew 12. 42; Luke 11. 31] . . . HIM we should hear and be quick to obey.

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
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 praise to YOUR HOLY NAME and thank YOU for Y’SHUA, our REDEEMER.  
Day 10 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Make peace with the past so it doesn’t mess up your present. 

MISHKAN COVERING  (Part 2 of 2)      
"As for the lower cover of the Tabernacle, make it of ten strips of cloth; make these of fine twisted linen, of blue, purple, and crimson yarns, with a design of cherubim worked into them." [Exodus (Shemot) 26. 1 Tanakh, Torah] 

The cherubim (according to Ezekiel's vision) had four faces. [Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 1. 10; 10. 21]  These Four Creatures are among the highest in the world — The Lion among wild beasts; the Ox among tame cattle, the Eagle among birds; and Man among all creatures; but, GOD is supreme over all.  The OX, LION, MAN and EAGLE tell us of the Four-Fold Ministry of the UNIVERSAL MESSIAH: 

THE OX  (MESSIAH is symbolized as the SERVANT in Mark's Gospel) is the patient, enduring SERVANT of man.  The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA came as a "SERVANT" — HE is the BELOVED SAVIOR/REDEEMER.   Y’SHUA serves mankind with HIS wonderful salvation.  HE came, not to be ministered to, but to minister and give HIS life a ransom for many. [Matthew 20. 28] 

THE LION  (The LORD JESUS is shown as the KING in Matthew's Gospel) is the king of beasts.  Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH has power and dominion on the earth.  Our WONDERFUL LORD is called "The LION of the tribe of Judah."  HE has all dominion and did exercise this power while on earth as KING OF THE JEWS.  HE came to destroy the works of Satan. [1 John 3. 8]  CHRIST JESUS is the GREAT PHYSICIAN. 

THE EAGLE  (John's text shows CHRIST JESUS to be the SON OF THE LIVING GOD) is the king of the birds, soaring high into the heavens and most feared by the snake.  JESUS is the KING of kings.  HE is the MIGHTY BAPTIZER with the HOLY SPIRIT [Matthew 3. 11] causing HIS people to rise on wings into the Heavens with HIM. 


THE MAN  (Luke pictures Y’SHUA, the SON OF MAN) Daniel saw Y’SHUA coming in the Clouds of Glory calling HIM the "SON OF MAN."  When the LORD JESUS came the first time, HE was rejected of man; but when HE returns, HE will be THE MAN over men, the PRAISEWORTHY RULER over mankind.   All the governments of the world shall be upon HIS shoulder. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6]   Our SOVEREIGN LORD will reign forever and ever! 

According to Jewish teachings:  "The encampment of Israel around the Tabernacle was marked by banners or standards picturing the four-faces of the cherubim. The banner of the first three tribes bore the outline of a Lion, the second pictured Man, the third was an image of an Ox, and the fourth was the emblem of an Eagle — thus representing the same idea as the cherubim in the Holiest, the Veil, and the Tabernacle Coverings." 

This PROMISED MESSIAH is the fulfillment of all these emblems and designs. HE is the STANDARD or BANNER heading all HIS redeemed.  Y’SHUA‘S SOVEREIGN NAME is YEHOWAH-NISSI, "The LORD, my BANNER." [Exodus/Shemot 17. 15] 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
O LORD GOD OF HOSTS give us the kindness to hear with compassion, to offer support, loving comfort, and care; give us the courage to do what is needed, the wisdom to choose what is right and most fair; give us the vision to see what is possible; give us the faith that will help pave the way for a present that’s hopeful, a future that’s peaceful — give us the heart to bring joy to each day.  
Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world of YOUR creation. May YOUR will be fulfilled and YOUR sovereignty revealed in the days of our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel, Amen.  May YOU be blessed forever, even to all eternity. May YOU, MOST HOLY ONE, be blessed, praised & honored, extolled & glorified, adored & exalted above all else. Blessed are YOU beyond all blessings & hymns, praises & consolations that may be uttered in this world, Amen. 
Day 8 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 which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Be a disciple of Aaron, loving and pursuing peace, loving your fellow man and attracting him to the study of TORAH. [Hillel] 

MISHKAN COVERING  (Part 1 of 2)      
"As for the lower cover of the Tabernacle, make it of ten strips of cloth; make these of fine twisted linen, of blue, purple, and crimson yarns, with a design of cherubim worked into them." [Exodus (Shemot) 26. 1 Tanakh, Torah] 

This covering is first of four made especially for the Tabernacle in the Wilderness — the LORD GOD wishes to dwell with HIS people.  The Hebrew word for tabernacle is "mishkan"  and the word "sheka" means "to dwell."  Combined, one gets the word SHEKINAH meaning the place where GOD dwells.   The DIVINE ONE gives instructions concerning this curtain before any specifications for the other coverings of the building.  GOD'S dwelling is first "…in the beginning, GOD" — HE begins from HIMSELF. 

OMNISCIENT ALMIGHTY GOD begins HIS instructions for its building with the ceiling.  From the highest, GOD OMNIPOTENT comes down from Heaven, to earth.  Each covering represents the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD. 

The Mishkan (Tabernacle) was to be of fine-twisted linen.  Twined refers to the work of bleaching the linen, then twisting it to force the water out.   Fine denotes spotlessness, innocence, and faultlessness as is seen in MESSIAH, the ANOINTED ONE. [Matthew 27. 3 - 4; 1 Peter 1. 19; 2. 22; 2 Corinthians 5. 21]   Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH was righteous, loved righteousness, and did right in all things. [Hebrews 1. 9]   HE is the "RIGHTEOUS BRANCH." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 53. 11; Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 23. 5; Luke 23. 47; 1 John 2. 1] 

This was the ceiling and completed the building.  Without this covering that Holy Structure would be open and unfinished.  So, when we step into the LORD Y’SHUA, HE makes us righteous. [1 Corinthians 1. 30]  The ANOINTED ONE completes us, for we are covered over by HIM and called "the very righteousness of GOD in HIM." [2 Corinthians 5. 21] 

The colors of this curtain are significant.  First, the curtains themselves are of White Linen.  This tells of MESSIAH'S righteousness.  Blue is typical of Heaven, a serene color closely linked with gold, which represents DIVINITY. [Exodus/Shemot 28. 6, 15; 39. 2, 5, 8]  JESUS came from Heaven.  This is the first color, GOD is first.  Scarlet is last; it is the color significant of earth.  "Adam" is literally translated as "red earth." JESUS, the SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, is the "LAST ADAM."  HE not only came from Heaven (blue), but HE came from earth (red). 

Purple is the blending in-between color, blending the red and blue harmoniously.   Purple is the royal color and is the emblem of heavenly and earthly glory.  The LORD MESSIAH is as the purple, for HE is the GOD-MAN (blue-red).  HE is the ROYAL ONE (purple), the KING of the Jews (red), and the KING of kings (blue).  The EXALTED ONE said, "…with cherubim of CUNNING WORK shall you make them." Cunning work is a weaving which penetrates both sides.  This represents workmanship of a more skillful and costly kind than needlework.  The SKILLFUL WEAVER is the HOLY SPIRIT.  The glory of GOD is hidden to all who stand outside the LORD Y’SHUA. 

These elaborate curtains were to hide the sacred furniture and services of the sanctuary from those on the outside.  Only those who enter the Tabernacle saw the glory, beauty exhibited by the colors and design of the inner curtains, the beautiful gold-covered boards and furniture, etc.   GOD THE FATHER is only known in MESSIAH Y’SHUA.   Here on the inside, the skillful weaving is predominate in the PERSON, LIFE and MINISTRY of the LORD JESUS.   The cunning weave of the colors perfectly blended together with the design of the cherubim all tell us of the perfect work of the HOLY SPIRIT. 

The "Curious Work" of GOD in this first curtain also speaks of the ministry of the HOLY SPIRIT in the believer. [Ephesians 2. 10; 4. 24; Colossians 3. 10]   We are HIS workmanship and are identified with MESSIAH in the cunning work.  By the HOLY SPIRIT, we are born of HIM, caught up in the curtain, inter-twined with CHRIST THE REDEEMER, woven in HIM and partakers of the divine nature!   The Mishkan curtain covered the boards of the building.  The GREAT ENABLER, the HOLY SPIRIT covers, envelopes, submerges the church, and baptizes the believer with HIMSELF.  This is the great desire and promise of the HEAVENLY FATHER. 

. . . to be continued 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
This is 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 that the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD is gracious to us and we can understand and fulfill the Teaching of HIS WORD. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Unite our hearts to love and revere YOU and to learn YOUR WORDS and wisdom.  LORD, YOU are my PRAISE, my STRENGTH, my FORTRESS, my REFUGE — in days of affliction and at all times.
 May you have a heart to know Y’SHUA, that HE is the LORD of your life; oh, return to HIM with your whole heart. May you be delivered from trouble and harm, and when it comes - strengthened through it. Heal us O LORD, make us righteous in YOUR sight we pray. Amen. 
Step into the week with courage and confidence that GOD is with you and you will be overflowing with blessings; may gladness reign and your joy increase.
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.
Omer Day 7/Pesach Day 8 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)
Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday) 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for dinner. 

NEW CREATION       
"For behold, I am creating a New Heavens and a New Earth; the former shall not be remembered, they shall never come to mind. Be glad then and rejoice forever in what I am creating. For I create Jerusalem as a joy, and her people as a delight. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and have pleasure in MY people." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 65. 17 - 19 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

Though thought otherwise, the spiritual values are much more important than the material, as most people think that must live in the real world.  However, the fact is, we are not living in the real world at all, but in a world that is dying and soon will completely be burned up and vanish away. "Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look upon the earth beneath; though the heavens will vanish away like smoke, and the earth wear out like a garment, and those who dwell in it die like gnats, MY salvation will be forever, and MY righteousness will not be abolished." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 51. 6 Tanakh, Nevi’im]   "Both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." [2 Peter 3. 10]  "The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of GOD abides forever." [1 John 2. 17] 

This is not the world that the MOST HIGH ALMIGHTY GOD created, since that world was "very good." [Genesis/Bereshith 1. 31]  But because "sin entered into the world, and death by sin" [Romans 5. 12], "the whole creation groans and travails in pain together until now." [Romans 8. 22]  In fact, this world is not even as it was soon after GOD’S curse, for "the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished " [1 Peter 3. 6] 

This present-day world is now under the dominion of Satan, who is "the prince of this world" [John 12. 31] and of "all the kingdoms of this world." [Matthew 4. 8] The LORD, Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH came to and "gave HIMSELF for our sins, that HE might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our GOD and FATHER, to WHOM be glory forever and ever. Amen." [Galatians 1. 4 - 5]  Clearly, this world will not even come to mind as "the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of GOD." [Romans 8. 21] 

Therefore, we must "not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." [Romans 12. 2]   It is imperative that we "live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our GREAT GOD and SAVIOR CHRIST JESUS, WHO gave HIMSELF for us, that HE might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for HIMSELF HIS own special people, zealous for good works." [Titus 2. 12 - 14] 

"I am your HOLY ONE, the LORD, your KING, the CREATOR of Israel." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 43. 15 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  "For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before ME — says YEHOWAH — So shall your descendants and your name remain." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 22 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  If we have been born anew in the LORD Y’SHUA, our true citizenship is in the world to come and we are HIS ambassadors in this alien land. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
May you know the joy and happiness that only comes from the righteousness of our LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA. 
Our prayers are that  the HOLY ONE be with you this day and always and may your days be lived in peace and truth.
Omer Day 5/Pesach Day 5 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)
Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday) 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The conscience is a delicate instrument which becomes deranged by misuse. 

YES & AMEN      
"For all the promises of GOD in HIM are YES! and in HIM AMEN! to the glory of GOD through us." [2 Corinthians 1. 20] 


The word "Amen" is a most remarkable word; it was translated directly from the Hebrew word "aman" which is related to the word for believe or faithful.   Therefore, it came to mean "sure, truly, so it will be" an expression of absolute trust and confidence. 

Also in the Hebrew interpretation, Amen is an acrostic — "EL MELECH NE'EMAN"  or, "The LORD is a TRUSTWORTHY KING." Blessed be HE and blessed be the GLORIOUS NAME OF THE LORD forever and ever!  "Let the NAME of YEHOWAH be blessed now and forever. From east (rising of the sun) to west (its going down) the NAME of YEHOWAH is praised." [Psalms (Tehillym) 113. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

One of the titles of MESSIAH Y’SHUA is "THE AMEN." In the Book of Revelation, the last of HIS Letters to the seven churches begins with a distinguished greeting from the GLORIFIED LORD:  "These things says the AMEN, the FAITHFUL and TRUE WITNESS, the BEGINNING of the creation of GOD." [Revelation 3. 14]   We can be absolutely certain that HIS WORD is always faithful and true, because HE is the CREATOR of all things, HE is our "ETERNAL AMEN." 

Every promise of the LORD GOD in CHRIST JESUS is "YES! & AMEN!" — as strong an affirmation of truth as can be expressed in a language.  Therefore, it is extremely meaningful that the HOLY SCRIPTURES close with a thunderous AMEN! "The grace of our LORD JESUS be with you all. Amen!" [Revelation 22. 21]   All who read these LIFE-GIVING Words can know beyond all reasoning that the entire BOOK of books is absolutely true and trustworthy. Amen!  Read and believe (obey), it is the GREATEST MESSAGE (REVEALED TRUTH) ever told!  "Blessed be YEHOWAH ELOHEY of Israel forevermore, from eternity to eternity! Amen and Amen." [Psalms (Tehillym) 41. 13; 89. 52 Tanakh, Kethuvim] There is indescribable overwhelming joy in obeying and serving the LOVING LORD GOD OF THE UNIVERSE. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
Praised are YOU, O LORD GOD, for great is YOUR love for us and YOUR compassion boundless. Be gracious to us that we may understand and fulfill the teachings of YOUR REVERED WORD. Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments. Thank YOU for YOUR saving power, for from YOU comes our help. Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness. Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME. 
Omer Day 4/Pesach Day 5 (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)
Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday) 


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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
If the TORAH is an empty thing, it is because of you, because you don’t know how to expound it. [Genesis Rabbah 1:1]  If you have not found a place for it in your life, it is because you have chosen not to allow its words to enter your heart, your soul, your mind, or your life — where it belongs.




DEATH & RESURRECTION      
"I know that my REDEEMER lives, in the end HE will stand and testify at last on earth. And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see GOD, WHOM I shall see for myself, and my own eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" [Job (Iyob) 19. 25 - 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

When David's infant son died, he exclaimed: "I shall go to him, but he will never come back to me." [2 Samuel (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 12. 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im] And speaking to the LORD GOD, David said, "Then I, justified, will behold YOUR face; awake, I am filled with the vision of YOU." [Psalms (Tehillym) 17. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  David knew that he would be like the LORD at the resurrection.  He, being a Jew, believed in the resurrection from the dead even as another fellow Jew after him believed and wrote:  "Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the SAVIOR, the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, WHO will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to HIS glorious body, according to the working by which HE is able even to subdue all things to HIMSELF." [Philippians 3. 20 - 21]

When the ALMIGHTY ONE, blessed be HE, appeared to Moses in the burning bush, "I AM — HE said — the GOD of your fathers, the GOD OF ABRAHAM, the GOD OF ISAAC, and the GOD OF JACOB." [Exodus (Shemot) 3. 6 Tanakh, Torah]  The LORD OF HOST, meant that HE was still their GOD, the ETERNAL ONE, even though they no longer wandered the earth; they continued to be living individuals. [Matthew 22. 32; Mark 12. 26-27; Luke 20. 37-38]  

The OLD COVENANT prophets ultimately knew there would be an end to the grave and that there would be a bodily resurrection of the dead.  "Oh, let YOUR dead revive! Let corpses arise! Awake and shout for joy, you who dwell in dust — for YOUR dew is like the dew on fresh herbs, YOU make the land of the shades come to life." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, some to reproaches, to everlasting abhorrence." [Daniel (Danyel) 12. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] They looked forward to the coming of JESUS CHRIST, the KING OF GLORY WHO would, by HIS substitutional death, provide the means of redemption from sin and death for those who will believe.

By HIS death, the LORD Y’SHUA atoned for our sins, taking away the sting of death.  "He who believes in HIM is not condemned." [John 3. 18]   "This is the will of HIM WHO sent ME, that everyone who sees the SON and believes in HIM may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day." [John 6. 40]

How exceedingly important it is that we experience the resurrection to Everlasting Life, and not be among those who will awake to shame, reproach and everlasting contempt. Those who refuse OMNIPOTENT GOD'S FREE GIFT OF ETERNAL LIFE made possible in the Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, will have nothing but eternal separation from our LOVING GOD, "death and hell will be cast into the Lake of Fire." [Revelation 20. 14]

Why anyone would deliberately make this destructive choice is troublesome and beyond intelligent comprehension.  More willingly, Choose Life today!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
With the conclusion of Sabbath, comes the Dawn of the New Day for our LORD is alive and reigning forevermore!  HalleluYAH to the KING!
We bow the head and bend the knee and magnify the KING of kings, WHO gave HIS life to redeem us from all our sins, blessed and praised be HE. Amen!  
The celebration of Passover should serve to remind us of our departure from the past and our commitment to obey GOD all the way to HIS Promised Land in holiness and integrity of life. On Passover our mission is to see ourselves as if we are leaving Egypt. We must walk in the very same footsteps as our ancestors did, turning away from the dominant culture, and turning to the LIFE-GIVER WHO’S moral code is taught in the TORAH. This is how we discover real freedom and liberate our souls from the shackles of cultural servitude.
Have a blessed Passover-Resurrection Season!

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The 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 Y’SHUA, 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/Zecharyah 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 Y’SHUA.  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 Y’SHUA.  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 Y’SHUA 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 Y’SHUA 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 Y’SHUA 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!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
In YOUR mercy, O LORD, remember us and all YOUR children as we enter a new week. O LOVING FATHER, 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 every heart, from the smallest to the greatest. Then shall mankind do YOUR will and the reward of righteous service shall be peace.
This is the 17th of Nisan – the 3rd day after Passover when MESSIAH raised victoriously from the grave, this is the Feast of Firstfruits.
Omer Day 2 / Chol HaMo’ed (Festival Weekday) - Pesach/Unleavened Bread

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Woe! Woe! Woe! To the man whose ADVOCATE becomes his JUDGE.

PESACH (Part 1 of 2)
"Now the blood (of the lamb, or goat) shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, so no plague will destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 13 Tanakh, Torah]

The first Feast of the LORD is on the fourteenth day of the first month, Abib or Nisan (names of the months were changed at the time of Babylonian captivity from Abib to Nisan), and it is called Pesach (Passover). It commemorates the time when the children of Israel were slaves in Egypt. Israel cried out to GOD in their affliction, and HE raised up a deliver — Moses. "Now Moses, tending the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian, led the flock to the back of the desert, and came to Horeb (means sword or destruction), the Mountain of GOD. And the ANGEL OF THE LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was aflame, yet the bush was not consumed.
Then Moses said, "I will now turn aside and see this marvelous sight, why the bush does not burn." When the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, GOD called to him from the midst of the bush: "Moses, Moses!" And he answered, "Here I am." Then the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob declared to Moses — I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, to a land flowing with milk and honey." [Exodus (Shemot) 3. 1 – 4, 17 Tanakh, Torah]

In Egypt, Moses demanded that Pharaoh let GOD’S people go a three-day journey into the wilderness to hold a feast and make sacrifice to GOD. [Exodus/Shemot 3. 18; 5. 3; 8. 27] Pharaoh refused, so the ALMIGHTY gave Moses the authority to call down plagues on the land of Egypt. [Exodus/Shemot 4. 17; 7. 1 - 10. 23] After the first nine plagues, Pharaoh would still not let the Children of Israel go. [Exodus/Shemot 10. 24 - 29]

Finally the LORD OF HOSTS instructed that on the 10th day of the month of Abib (called Nisan after the Babylonian captivity), each household should take a male lamb, one year old, mature but young, without spot or blemish. [Exodus/Shemot 12. 3 - 5] The household was to keep its lamb for four days, during which time they were to inspect him and to make sure that he was perfect. [Exodus/Shemot 12. 3 - 4] "Now you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month. Then the whole assembly of the congregation of the Israelites shall kill it at twilight." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 6 Tanakh, Torah] In Hebrew, the phrase "in the evening (Hebrew: bain haarbayim - between the evenings)" would be used. This suggests the time, a point between the sun’s declining in the west and its setting (about 3 pm). In the Temple, the day was divided into quarters. The quarter between 12 noon and 3 pm was called the minor evening oblation, while that between 3 pm and 6 pm was called the major evening oblation. Therefore, "between the evenings" means between those two periods. The hours were counted from daylight (roughly 6 am) until sundown (around 6 pm). The ninth hour, when the LORD Y’SHUA was slain, would therefore be 3 pm, the same time the lamb was slain in Egypt.

In the doorway, one would lay their hand on the lamb, thereby identifying with it symbolically. The sacrifice was not for sin, but in complete obedience the GOD’S command. The laying on of hands is called "shemicha" in Hebrew and is referred to in the Book of Hebrews as being one of the elementary doctrines of the faith: "Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of CHRIST, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward GOD, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this we will do if GOD permits." [Hebrews 6. 1 - 3] The one performing "shemicha" is declaring that the sacrifice which is going to be presented to GOD, is offering the spotless lamb in his name, and that the fruit of the sacrifice shall be his.

Then the throat of the lamb is cut, its blood is applied to the lintel and to each side-post around the door. [Exodus/Shemot 12. 7] Then the lamb is roasted over an open fire on pomegranate branches. [Exodus/Shemot 12. 9] That night, the Jewish people in Egypt ate the lamb with bitter herbs and matzah (unleavened bread) as the LORD commanded. "Then they shall eat the flesh that same night; they shall eat it roasted in fire, with unleavened bread and bitter herbs." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 8 Tanakh, Torah] They were to eat with his staff in his hand, and his sandals on his feet (indicating one was to be eager, ready to go). [Exodus/Shemot 12. 11] The people were forbidden to go outside their houses [Exodus/Shemot 12. 22], for that night an Angel of Death was coming to Egypt. [Exodus/Shemot 12. 12, 23, 29]

The Angel of Death slew the firstborn sons in every house where the blood had not been applied, whether Egyptian or Jewish, royal or slave, human or animal. [Exodus/Shemot 12. 29] But GOD made a promise to the people within those houses which had the blood of the lamb on their doorposts. "For when the LORD passes through to smite the Egyptians; HE will see the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, and the LORD will pass over the door and not allow the Destroyer to enter into your houses and smite you." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 23 Tanakh, Torah] This is where the name Pesach (Passover) comes from. That night Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron in the night and said "Rise, depart from among my people, you and the Israelites with you! Go, worship the LORD as you said! Also take your flocks and your herds, as you have said, and be gone! And may you bring a blessing upon me also!" [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 31 - 32 Tanakh, Torah]

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
The MASTER celebrates Seder early with HIS disciples and then is arrested. [Matthew 26:17-68] Y’SHUA is tried, brutally beaten, executed on the cross, then buried. HE will be in the grave 3 nights and 3 days, victoriously rising from the dead the morning of the 3rd day.
Entering the Sabbath of the High Holy Days and recalling Ta’anit Bechorot – the Fast of the Firstborn that will begin at dawn. The Passover lamb would have been slaughtered, Exodus 12:6; Deuteronomy 16:6; and the Seder begins in the evening, Exodus 12:8
The HOLY ONE bless and fill you with HIS Holy Commandments and call us to occupy ourselves with the LIFE-GIVING WORDS of TORAH. And, may your ever-growing faith grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin.
The Seder experience is an opportunity to refocus and every moment of life is a gift from GOD above, we just need the eyes of faith to see it. Thru the ceremony, we eat bitter herbs that we can feel pain and that bitterness is actually a sign of redemption, a glimmer of freedom, for the worst kind of slavery is when we grow so accustomed to it that we get used to it. Passover is a time for personal change, we cannot do it, but the ALMIGHTY GOD of Israel can and will…just ask HIM to.
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 MASTER commissioned while it is still day.

"Happy Passover" to our precious family of friends. Blessings to each of you this Passover/Resurrection Season and always!
L'Chayim...To Life! Our love, Rabbi Del & Rifkah

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

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
If the TORAH is an empty thing, it is because of you, because you don’t know how to expound it. [Genesis Rabbah 1:1] If you have not found a place for it in your life, it is because you have chosen not to allow its words to enter your heart, your soul, your mind, or your life — where it belongs.

DEATH & RESURRECTION
"I know that my REDEEMER lives, in the end HE will stand and testify at last on earth. And after my skin is destroyed, this I know, that in my flesh I shall see GOD, WHOM I shall see for myself, and my own eyes shall behold, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" [Job (Iyob) 19. 25 - 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim]

When David's infant son died, he exclaimed: "I shall go to him, but he will never come back to me." [2 Samuel (Dibre Hayamin Bet) 12. 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im] And speaking to the LORD GOD, David said, "Then I, justified, will behold YOUR face; awake, I am filled with the vision of YOU." [Psalms (Tehillym) 17. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim] David knew that he would be like the LORD at the resurrection. He, being a Jew, believed in the resurrection from the dead even as another fellow Jew after him believed and wrote: "Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the SAVIOR, the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, WHO will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to HIS glorious body, according to the working by which HE is able even to subdue all things to HIMSELF." [Philippians 3. 20 - 21]

When the ALMIGHTY ONE, blessed be HE, appeared to Moses in the burning bush, "I AM — HE said — the GOD of your fathers, the GOD OF ABRAHAM, the GOD OF ISAAC, and the GOD OF JACOB." [Exodus (Shemot) 3. 6 Tanakh, Torah] The LORD OF HOST, meant that HE was still their GOD, the ETERNAL ONE, even though they no longer wandered the earth; they continued to be living individuals. [Matthew 22. 32; Mark 12. 26-27; Luke 20. 37-38]

The OLD COVENANT prophets ultimately knew there would be an end to the grave and that there would be a bodily resurrection of the dead. "Oh, let YOUR dead revive! Let corpses arise! Awake and shout for joy, you who dwell in dust — for YOUR dew is like the dew on fresh herbs, YOU make the land of the shades come to life." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 26. 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, some to reproaches, to everlasting abhorrence." [Daniel (Danyel) 12. 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] They looked forward to the coming of JESUS CHRIST, the KING OF GLORY WHO would, by HIS substitutional death, provide the means of redemption from sin and death for those who will believe.

By HIS death, the LORD Y’SHUA atoned for our sins, taking away the sting of death. "He who believes in HIM is not condemned." [John 3. 18] "This is the will of HIM WHO sent ME, that everyone who sees the SON and believes in HIM may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day." [John 6. 40]

How exceedingly important it is that we experience the resurrection to Everlasting Life, and not be among those who will awake to shame, reproach and everlasting contempt. Those who refuse OMNIPOTENT GOD'S FREE GIFT of ETERNAL LIFE made possible in the Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, will have nothing but eternal separation from our LOVING GOD, "death and hell will be cast into the Lake of Fire." [Revelation 20. 14]

Why anyone would deliberately make this destructive choice is troublesome and beyond intelligent comprehension. More willingly, Choose Life today!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
With the conclusion of Sabbath, comes the Dawn of the New Day for our LORD is alive and reigning forevermore! HalleluYAH to the KING!
We bow the head and bend the knee and magnify the KING of kings, WHO gave HIS life to redeem us from all our sins, blessed and praised be HE. Amen!
The celebration of Passover should serve to remind us of our departure from the past and our commitment to obey GOD all the way to HIS Promised Land in holiness and integrity of life. On Passover our mission is to see ourselves as if we are leaving Egypt. We must walk in the very same footsteps as our ancestors did, turning away from the dominant culture, and turning to the LIFE-GIVER WHO’S moral code is taught in the TORAH. This is how we discover real freedom and liberate our souls from the shackles of cultural servitude.
Have a blessed Passover-Resurrection Season!

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

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
There is so much that we could see in the physical as well as in the spiritual world if we would just let ALMIGHTY GOD touch our eyes! 

THE PROPHET 
"The LORD your GOD will raise up for you a PROPHET from among your own people, like myself (Moses); HIM you shall heed." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 18. 15 Tanakh, Torah] 

Prophecy Fulfilled: On the last and greatest day of the Feast (Sukkot/SIMCHAT TORAH), the MESSIAH LORD YESHUA stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to ME and drink. Whoever believes in ME, as the SCRIPTURE has said, streams of Living Water will flow from within him. — By this HE meant the SPIRIT, WHOM those who believed in HIM were later to receive. Up to that time the SPIRIT had not been given, since JESUS had not yet been glorified. On hearing HIS WORDS, some of the people said — "Surely this MAN is THE PROPHET." [John 7. 37 - 40] 

Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH is the only ONE WHO righteously executes the offices of Prophet, Priest and King. HE is the SUBSTANCE of GOD'S character stamped in HUMAN FORM. When JESUS, GOD'S ONLY BEGOTTEN SON speaks to us, HE fulfills the office of the SUPERIOR PROPHET; when YESHUA purged our sins, HE accomplished the perfect work of the PRIEST; and after carrying out the once-for-all sacrifice, the LORD JESUS sat down at the right hand of the MAJESTY on high, where HE sits as KING. [Hebrews 1. 1 - 3] 

MESSIAH, THE PROPHET: Speaking to Moses on Mount Horeb the LORD GOD said, "I will raise up a PROPHET for them from among their own people, like yourself; I will put MY WORDS in HIS mouth and HE will speak to them all that I command HIM; and if anyone fails to heed the words that HE speaks in MY NAME, I MYSELF will call him to account." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 18. 18 - 19 Tanakh, Torah] 

"The SPIRIT OF THE SOVEREIGN LORD is on ME, because the LORD has anointed ME; HE has sent ME as a herald of joy to the humble, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom to the captives and liberation from darkness to the imprisoned; to proclaim a year of the LORD'S favor and the day of vindication by our GOD; to comfort all who mourn." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 61. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"CHRIST, WHO has been appointed for you — even JESUS. HE must remain in heaven until the time comes for GOD to restore everything, as HE promised long ago through his holy prophets. For Moses said — The LORD your GOD will raise up for you a PROPHET like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything HE tells you. Anyone who does not listen to HIM will be completely cut off from among HIS people." [Acts 3. 20 – 23; Deuteronomy/Devarim 15. 15, 18, 19] 

"JESUS returned to Galilee in the power of the SPIRIT, and news about HIM spread through the whole countryside. HE taught in their synagogues, and everyone praised him. HE went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath Day HE went into the synagogue, as was HIS custom. And HE stood up to read. The Scroll of the Prophet Isaiah was handed to HIM. Unrolling it, HE found the place where it is written: — The SPIRIT OF THE LORD is on ME, because HE has anointed ME to preach GOOD NEWS to the poor. HE has sent ME to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the LORD'S favor. — Then HE rolled up the SCROLL, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on HIM, and HE began by saying to them — Today this SCRIPTURE is fulfilled in your hearing." [Luke 4. 14 - 21] 

"After the people saw the miraculous sign that YESHUA did, they began to say — Surely this is THE PROPHET WHO is to come into the world." [John 6. 14] 

MESSIAH, THE PRIEST: "I will raise up for MYSELF a FAITHFUL PRIEST, who will act in accordance with MY wishes and MY purposes. I will firmly establish HIS House, and HE will minister before MY ANOINTED forevermore." [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 2. 34 - 36 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"The LORD said to my Lord: Sit at MY right hand until I make YOUR enemies a footstool for your feet. — The LORD will stretch forth from Zion YOUR mighty scepter; hold sway over YOUR enemies. The LORD has sworn and will not relent, YOU are a PRIEST forever, after the manner of Melchizedek, a RIGHTFUL KING by MY decree.'" [Psalms (Tehillym) 110. 1 – 2, 4 Tanakh, Torah] 

"Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on JESUS, the APOSTLE and HIGH PRIEST WHOM we confess. But CHRIST is faithful as a SON over GOD'S House. And we are HIS House, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast." [Hebrews 3. 1, 6] 

"No one takes this honor upon himself; he must be called by GOD, just as Aaron was. So CHRIST also did not take upon HIMSELF the glory of becoming a HIGH PRIEST. But GOD said to HIM — YOU are MY SON. today I have become YOUR FATHER. And HE says in another place — YOU are a PRIEST forever, in the order of Melchizedek." [Hebrews 5. 4 - 6] 

MESSIAH, THE KING: "See, a time is coming — declares the LORD — when I will raise up a TRUE BRANCH to David's line. HE shall reign as KING and shall prosper, and HE shall do what is just and right in the land. In HIS days Judah will be delivered and Israel will dwell secure. This is the NAME by which HE shall be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS (VINDICATOR)." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"I have installed MY KING on Zion, MY Holy Mountain! I will proclaim the decree: the LORD said ME — YOU are MY SON; I have FATHERED YOU this day. Ask it of ME, and I will make the nations YOUR domain; YOUR possession, the ends of the earth. YOU will rule them with an iron scepter; shatter them like potter's ware." [Psalms (Tehillym) 2. 6 - 9 Tanakh, Torah] 

"GOD, WHO at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by HIS SON, WHOM HE has appointed HEIR of all things, through WHOM also HE made the worlds. The SON is the radiant brightness of GOD'S GLORY AND THE EXPRESS (precise, exact) IMAGE of HIS PERSON, upholding and sustaining all things by HIS POWERFUL WORD, when HE had by HIMSELF purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the MAJESTY in heaven." [Hebrews 1. 1 - 3] 

The LORD Y’SHUA, blessed be HIS GLORIOUS NAME, was the PROPHET WHO revealed GOD'S truth; the PRIEST WHO provided GOD'S redemption; and the ETERNAL KING WHO imparts GOD'S power! Thus, Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH is exalted above all blessings and praise, the LIVING WORD! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Let us adore the LORD Messiah Y’sHUA — KING of kings & Lord of lords! All goodness and truth are YOURS, O LORD. May no evil estrange us from YOU, nor error darken our vision of YOUR purposes. Help us to discern YOUR justice and to understand YOUR will. In adversity and in prosperity, let YOUR Law be a Lamp to our feet to illumine our path. May we so labor in YOUR service that our lives become a hymn of praise to YOU. LORD GOD, direct our steps, correct us with judgments not in anger lest YOU bring us to nothing. We have an AWESOME GOD, and HE is on the throne ruling over the affairs of men. HE is worthy of all our praise and worship, even in these difficult times. We thank, adore and praise YOU with all our being! 
The TORAH requires us to remember the Exodus from Egypt every day. Such remembrance leads to gratitude, the core characteristic of the Jewish people. The very name "Jew" derives from the Hebrew name "Yehuda," which means "thank" or "acknowledge." [Yesterday was the 10th of Nisan – the day MESSIAH rode into Jerusalem on the donkey, and the people “chose their Pesach LAMB.” see Exodus 12:3 for Passover lambs selection] 
Pesach Sameach – Passover Joy 

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


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
To be a CHRISTian is not practicing a religion, it is a personal relationship with CREATOR GOD. You either have HIM or you don’t; you either trust and believe HIM, or you don’t. 

GENERATIONAL TEACHING 
"Heed my children, the instruction of a father; listen and learn discernment and understanding, for I give you good doctrine: Do not forsake my teaching. When I was a son to my father, the tender darling of my mother, he taught me." [Proverbs (Mishle) 4. 1 – 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

In this passage, Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived, credited his parents for instructing him in the way of wisdom. The famous insights into a virtuous woman are specifically attributed to his mother, Bathsheba: "The words of Lemuel (means "belonging to GOD" –a symbolic name for Solomon), king of massa (means "a burden, or tribute"), the utterance which his mother taught him." [Proverbs (Mishle) 31. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] However, this wisdom can be traced back even earlier in his family lineage. We know that the grandfather of Bathsheba (daughter of Eliam, wife of Uriah the Hittite- 2 Samuel 11:3) was the wise advisor, Ahithophel the Gilonite. [see 2 Samuel/Shemuel Bet 23. 34] HOLY SCRIPTURE records — "In those days, the advice which Ahithophel gave was accepted as if one had inquired at the oracle of GOD; that is how all the advice of Ahithophel was esteemed both by David and by Absalom." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 16. 23 Tanakh, Nevi’im] Ahithophel was a consultant to kings. 

ALMIGHTY GOD places the finest distinction on parents that will convey GOD’S wisdom and revelation to succeeding generations. Abraham was given special consideration, singling him out, because the HOLY ONE knew that he would "command his children and his household after him, to they keep the way of the LORD to do what is righteousness and justice." [Genesis (Bereshith) 18. 19 Tanakh, Torah] 

In the NEW COVENANT, we note that the apostle Paul’s "son in the faith" was beneficiary of such a godly inheritance. "I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also." [2 Timothy 1. 5] 

The Israelites were instructed: "You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might. And these words which I charge you this day shall be in your heart. You shall emphatically and meticulously teach them to your children. Recite them when you sit in your home, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you get up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. Inscribe them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 5 – 9 Tanakh, Torah] 

This loving, devoted instruction implies a continual action and will result in the children learning wisdom and discernment. They will develop the capability to store up treasures of understanding and fearing the GREAT GOD of creation. Blessings and wisdom are promised over and over to those who know, love and obey GOD'S WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
Praised and glorified is the name of the HOLY ONE, though HE is above all the praises which we can utter. HE is our GUIDE in life and our REDEEMER through all eternity. Our help comes from HIM, the CREATOR of heaven and earth. 
May we always celebrate the ties of love and faith that bind us through MESSIAH Y’SHUA. 
"L'Chayim - To Life" 
Del 'n Rifkah 

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

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Happiness is not dependent on happenings, but on relationships in the happenings. 

KISSES OF FORGIVENESS 
"But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants."' "And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son.' "But the father said to his servants, 'Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'" [Luke 15. 17 - 24] 

This story comes from the parable that MESSIAH Yâ€SHUA told about the lost son, more commonly known as the prodigals†son. The text continues stating that the father not only forgave the young son, but also had his servants quickly "bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found." [Luke 15. 22 - 24] 

The Robe is a covering of nakedness. The Ring shows ownership (we are a child of GOD). Sandals are symbolically illustrates our readiness for service.. Feasting on the fatted Calf indicates complete fellowship. When our sins are forgiven we receive the same for GODâ€S robe of righteousness covers our nakedness, our sins. 

We, the children of GOD MOST HIGH will be completely clothed in HIS righteousness by "the riches of HIS goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering" [Romans 2. 4], which led to provide our eternal salvation. For those who have been saved, Paul writes of "the riches of HIS glory on the vessels of mercy, which HE had prepared beforehand for glory." [Romans 9. 23] 

In seeing the great plan of GOD for both Jews and Gentiles, he exclaimed — "Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of GOD! How unsearchable are HIS judgments and HIS ways past finding out!" [Romans 11. 33] In CHRIST THE ANOINTED ONE are "hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." [Colossians 2. 3] 

When Paul wrote to the church in Ephesians, he reminded them that MESSIAH had redeemed them through HIS precious blood and forgave their sins "according to the riches of HIS grace" eager for them to understand "the riches of the glory of HIS inheritance in the saints." He told them that "GOD, WHO is rich in mercy" had saved them that sequentially "in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace in HIS kindness toward us in CHRIST JESUS." [Ephesians 1. 7, 18; 2.. 4, 7] 

In summarizing all these true riches which are — mercy, glory, grace, goodness, wisdom, knowledge, boldness, confidence — Paul spoke of "the unsearchable riches of CHRIST, and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in GOD WHO created all things through JESUS CHRIST; to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of GOD might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places." [Ephesians 3. 8 - 10] 

Truly, "For since the beginning of the world men have not heard or perceived by the ear, no eye has seen any GOD besides YOU, WHO acts for the one who waits for HIM." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 64. 4 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] "For behold! I am creating a new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 65. 17 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] "I am the LORD, your HOLY ONE, the CREATOR of Israel, your KING." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 43. 15 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] "For as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make shall remain before ME — says the LORD — So shall your descendants and your name remain." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 66. 22 Tanakh, Neviâ€im] Paul reestablished these texts by summarizing, "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] Thru HIS SPIRIT, GOD reveals HIS wondrous riches to man. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
O LORD, pardon the sins, transgressions and iniquities which we have committed before YOU. Purify us of all our errors and iniquities so that our life may be worthy of the name we bear and our home become a sanctuary consecrated to YOUR PRESENCE and dedicated to righteousness. Humbled by the sense of our weakness and our guilt, we ask YOU, O GOD of our fathers, to help us to serve YOU in sincerity and in truth; and in serving YOU, may our example help to lead many to YOU. 
On Passover we celebrate the Jewish people's redemption from a place of mere culture to a world of morality. They left behind the pyramids, hieroglyphics, advanced agriculture, and music of the dominant culture, and went out to the desert to learn the ethical precepts of genuine humanity and civilization, from the only true source, the CREATOR of humanity. Remember to celebrate your redemption. 
"Shalom! ...Blessed Pesach/Resurrection Memorial to each of you!" 

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

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
To avoid criticism — Do nothing! Say nothing! Be nothing! But even then. . . you will be criticized. 

RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT 
"It is HE WHO judges the world with righteousness, WHO rules the people in uprightness and with equity." [Psalms (Tehillym) 9. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

"It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment." [Hebrews 9. 27] Judgment is coming for every person whether you believe it or not; likewise, if you care or not it will happen!!! It is destined that we will all meet our MAKER, the MIGHTY CREATOR GOD, someday. 

"HE shall judge the world in righteousness" — for HE is altogether pure "WHOSE eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and cannot countenance (tolerate) wrongdoing. Why do YOU countenance treachery, and stand by idle while the one in the wrong devours the one in the right?" [Habakkuk 1. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim] "For HE is coming — HE is coming to rule the earth; HE will rule the world justly and HIS people with faithfulness and truth." [Psalms (Tehillym) 96. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim; 96. 10; 98. 9] 

If HOLY GOD does judge righteously, however, all are lost; for "there is none righteous; no, not one" and "cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the BOOK OF THE LAW, to do them." [Romans 3. 10; Psalms/Tehillym 14. 3 & Galatians 3. 10] 

But, "GOD was in MESSIAH Y’SHUA, reconciling the world to HIMSELF...and has made HIM WHO knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of GOD in HIM." [2 Corinthians 5. 19, 21] Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF ALMIGHTY GOD, our CREATOR-REDEEMER, has taken our judgment on HIMSELF and "there is therefore now no condemnation (judgment) to those who are in CHRIST JESUS." [Romans 8. 1] 

"The FATHER judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the SON." [John 5. 22] The OMNIPOTENT HOLY ONE is able to both "judge righteously" and yet "graciously save" all who receive MESSIAH Y’SHUA by faith: "Because HE has appointed a Day in which HE will judge the world in righteousness by that MAN whom HE has ordained. HE has given assurance of this to all men by raising HIM from the dead." [Acts 17. 31] Y’shua ha'Mashiach, the LORD OF GLORY, is not only our CREATOR and RIGHTEOUS JUDGE, HE is also our REDEEMER, MEDIATOR, ADVOCATE, SAVIOR and SOON-COMING VICTORIOUS KING! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
We bid farewell to Shabbat ha’Gadol with the Havdalah (difference) Service, using all of our senses: we taste the wine, smell the spices, see the shadows of candles, hear prayers & songs, and touch family and friends as we wish them a Tov Shavua — Good Week! 
We bless YOU, O GOD, our salvation and our help. Everything that lives shall give thanks to YOU forever and shall praise YOUR NAME in truth. YOUR NAME is RIGHTEOUS, and unto WHOM it is becoming to give thanks. May this Passover/Resurrection Season serve as a reminder to obey the HOY ONE completely and HE will bring us into the Promised Land. May we faithfully enjoy the tremendous opportunity of expressing our gratitude for the ALMIGHTY'S goodness and grace. Daily, let us renew our commitment to walk in loving obedience all the days of our lives. 

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


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
To avoid criticism — Do nothing! Say nothing! Be nothing!  But even then. . . you will be criticized. 

RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT      
"It is HE WHO judges the world with righteousness, WHO rules the people in uprightness and with equity." [Psalms (Tehillym) 9. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

"It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment." [Hebrews 9. 27]   Judgment is coming for every person whether you believe it or not; likewise, if you care or not it will happen!!!   It is destined that we will all meet our MAKER, the MIGHTY CREATOR GOD, someday. 

"HE shall judge the world in righteousness" — for HE is altogether pure "WHOSE eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and cannot countenance (tolerate) wrongdoing. Why do YOU countenance treachery, and stand by idle while the one in the wrong devours the one in the right?" [Habakkuk 1. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "For HE is coming — HE is coming to rule the earth; HE will rule the world justly and HIS people with faithfulness and truth." [Psalms (Tehillym) 96. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim; 96. 10; 98. 9] 

If HOLY GOD does judge righteously, however, all are lost; for "there is none righteous; no, not one" and "cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the BOOK OF THE LAW, to do them." [Romans 3. 10; Psalms/Tehillym 14. 3 & Galatians 3. 10] 

But, "GOD was in MESSIAH Y’SHUA, reconciling the world to HIMSELF...and has made HIM WHO knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of GOD in HIM." [2 Corinthians 5. 19, 21]   Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF ALMIGHTY GOD, our CREATOR-REDEEMER, has taken our judgment on HIMSELF and "there is therefore now no condemnation (judgment) to those who are in CHRIST JESUS." [Romans 8. 1] 

"The FATHER judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the SON." [John 5. 22]   The OMNIPOTENT HOLY ONE is able to both "judge righteously" and yet "graciously save" all who receive MESSIAH Y’SHUA by faith:  "Because HE has appointed a Day in which HE will judge the world in righteousness by that MAN whom HE has ordained. HE has given assurance of this to all men by raising HIM from the dead." [Acts 17. 31]  Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the LORD OF GLORY, is not only our CREATOR and RIGHTEOUS JUDGE, HE is also our REDEEMER, MEDIATOR, ADVOCATE, SAVIOR and SOON-COMING VICTORIOUS KING! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
 We bid farewell to Shabbat ha’Gadol with the Havdalah (difference) Service, using all of our senses: we taste the wine, smell the spices, see the shadows of candles, hear prayers & songs, and touch family and friends as we wish them a Tov Shavua — Good Week!
 We bless YOU, O GOD, our salvation and our help. Everything that lives shall give thanks to YOU forever and shall praise YOUR NAME in truth. YOUR NAME is RIGHTEOUS, and unto WHOM it is becoming to give thanks.  May this Passover/Resurrection Season serve as a reminder to obey the HOY ONE completely and HE will bring us into the Promised Land. May we faithfully enjoy the tremendous opportunity of expressing our gratitude for the ALMIGHTY'S goodness and grace.  Daily, let us renew our commitment to walk in loving obedience all the days of our lives. 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com