Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Never mind the dark night sky — focus instead on the stars sparkling with light and talk to the ONE WHO created them. 

SOVEREIGN GOD     
"And YEHOWAH said to him (Moses) — Who gives man speech?  Who makes the mute or deaf, seeing or blind?  Is it not I, ADONEY?  Now go, and I will be with you as you speak and will instruct you what to say." [Exodus (Shemot) 4. 11 - 12 Tanakh, Torah] 

When Moses complained of his inability to speak eloquently for the LORD GOD OF ABRAHAM before Pharaoh, the LORD divinely rebuked him.  It had been 40 years since Moses lived in Egypt and was fluent in the Egyptian language.  But now, 40 years later, the Egyptian tongue had nearly become foreign to him since he spoke the dialect of the Midianites ever since his flight there.  He once was a powerful general leading the Egyptian army, but now he was a lowly keeper of his father-in-laws sheep. 

Not only Moses does the SOVEREIGN ONE rebuke, but to each one of us who would dare question HIS mighty wisdom for creating us as we are, innate defects, handicaps, or whatever.  With our very limited knowledge of GOD’S purposes and our very short-range view of eternal priorities, we are totally unprepared to judge HIS ways with us. 

When the disciples asked Y’SHUA, the BELOVED RABBI, why a man had been born blind, HIS reply was, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of GOD should be revealed in him." [John 9. 3]  And another time when Miryam (Mary) and Marta (Martha), the sisters of Lazarus of Bethany came to tell HIM that the one HE loved was sick, Y’SHUA answered them — "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of GOD, that the SON OF GOD may be glorified through it."  [John 11. 4] 

As he was being stoned, the unwavering, enthusiastic commitment of Stephen’s faith, to a certain extent, led to Paul’s conversion.  Although it was difficult for the other followers of MESSIAH to accept Paul (previously called: Saul) because of the part he had played in Stephen’s death, Y’SHUA reminds us in another incident: "What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this." [John 13. 7] 

The INFINITELY MAJESTIC CREATOR is not changeable or unreliable, HE is sovereign (absolute, superior, supreme).  Whatever HE does is right and whatever HE allows is for a holy purpose.  "But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against GOD?  Will the thing formed say to HIM WHO formed it, "Why have YOU made me like this?"  Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?" [Romans 9. 20 - 21] 

It should be enough for now to know that the GENTLE MASTER knows and that when suffering or sorrow comes for HIS sake, it is "for our profit, that we may be partakers of HIS holiness." [Hebrews 12. 10] 

Indeed, we can count it all joy when we fall into various trials, for it is the testing of our faith that produces patience, and it’s perfect work will make us complete, lacking nothing. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  We bid farewell to Sabbath.  It has been an especially blessed week of Unleavened Bread, for which we praise the BELOVED GOD OF HEAVEN for providing all our needs and being our ABUNDANT PROVIDER!  
  O LORD GOD ETERNAL, be a SHELTER for YOUR people, and the STRENGTH of the children of Israel, that they shall all know YOU.  Be gracious to us; we have waited for YOU.  Be our secure arm each morning and our Salvation in the times of trouble.  Keep us ever mindful of YOU that we serve YOU with all our being.  Humbly, we thank YOU for being our GREAT & MIGHTY GOD!  
  Be a witness of the wonders of the LORD GOD and a blessing to others during the week as you allow the LIGHT of Y’SHUA to shine through you.  
  Day 7 of L’ Omer, Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread- Day 8)  This is Yizkor Pesah, the last day of Passover/Feast of Unleavened Bread, ending at dusk — be reminded of your commitment to obey GOD in holiness and integrity of life.  We are overwhelmingly grateful for ALMIGHTY GOD’S goodness and grace to us, truly HIS mercies endure forever.  Now, go forth and proclaim the GOOD NEWS as the BELOVED ONE commissioned while it is still day.  
  Enjoy a blessed week serving the MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE, our GREAT GOD & SAVIOR. 

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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. 

Email:  delrifkah@gmail.com 



A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
One’s Jewish identity is often a liability, not an asset. 

SPIRITUAL CIRCUMCISION     
In the HEBREW SCRIPTURES GOD gave a number of pictures concerning a new beginning, a new life which HE promised to HIS children.  The most important one of these pictures is the rite of circumcision.  This is the oldest and most sacred of our Jewish instructions.  Many of you, my Jewish people, know the Hebrew word "brith (bris)."  The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL made this Covenant with Abraham: 

"And GOD said to Abraham —  As for you, you and your descendants to come throughout the ages shall keep MY Covenant.  Such shall be the Covenant between ME and you and your descendants offspring to follow which you shall keep: every male child among you shall be circumcised.  You shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and it shall be the sign of the Covenant between ME and you.  And throughout the generations, every male among you shall be circumcised at the age of eight days, he who is born in your house or bought with money from any foreigner who is not your descendant.  He who is born in your house and he who is bought with your money must be circumcised, and MY Covenant shall be in your flesh for an Everlasting Covenant.  And the uncircumcised male child, who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken MY Covenant." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 9 - 14 Tanakh, Torah] 

You know the custom of our people: how that when a boy is eight days old, there is a great celebration.  When the child is brought in for circumcision, all those who are gathered for the occasion call out: “Blessed be he who comes in the name of the LORD.”  Then the baby is placed upon a chair which is called The Chair (or) Throne of Elijah.  We Jewish people had been taught that Elijah was the Messenger of the Covenant who was to announce the coming of MESSIAH.  This promise of GOD is recorded in the HOLY SCRIPTURES. 

The person who performs the circumcision recites a prayer which begins: “This is the Chair of Elijah…for YOUR salvation, O LORD, I have waited…”  At the Bris, the Jewish boy is given his Hebrew name which is his legal or ritual name.  It is permitted to add a non-Hebrew name to this Hebrew name and many of our fellow Jews are called by either of them. 

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

O my Jewish people — do you not see what GOD is teaching you by this Covenant with Abraham?  HE desires to cut away all your old life of ritual and ceremony so that HE can give you a NEW life — a NEW beginning.  And HE is trying to show you that the coming of the MESSIAH will do that very thing for you if you will only believe! 

It does not matter if you are born a natural Jew and have gone through the ceremony of circumcision in the flesh.  GOD does not recognize you as a TRUE Jew until your heart is circumcised — that is: the old life has been cut away by believing in Y’SHUA — JESUS OF NAZARETH as your MESSIAH. 

Here is GOD’S pronouncement upon our Jewish forefathers in the words of Jeremiah:  "Behold, the days are coming — says the LORD — that I will punish all who are circumcised with the uncircumcised — Egypt, Judah, Edom, the people of Ammon, Moab, and all who are in the farthest corners, who dwell in the wilderness.  For all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the House of Israel are uncircumcised of heart (for their minds are blocked to GOD’S commandments)." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 9. 25 - 26 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

Our FATHER GOD wants to give you a new life, a new heart.  This is made possible when your heart believes in Y’SHUA, and your mouth confesses HIM to be your RIGHTEOUS PRIEST, your MESSIAH-KING.  Then it will be possible for you to love the LORD GOD with all your heart and soul.  GOD promises this to you in your own JEWISH SCRIPTURES:  "Then the LORD your GOD will circumcise your heart and the hearts of your descendants to love the LORD your GOD with all your heart and soul, in order that you may live." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 30. 6 Tanakh, Torah] 

The NEW COVENANT tells us who is a TRUE Jew.  The Jewish apostle Paul wrote by GOD’S inspiration:  "For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the SPIRIT, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from GOD." [Romans 2. 28 - 29] 

My fellow Jew [and friends], will you not heed the voice of the LORD?  HE commands you to circumcise the foreskin of your heart so the OLD LAW is cut away and a NEW LAW takes its place.  The ordinances, rituals, ceremonies and sacrifices under the OLD COVENANT are fulfilled in the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL — Y’SHUA, the GALILEAN.  Why don’t you accept a NEW BEGINNING for yourself?  Accept HIS life, HIS love, HIS peace, HIS righteousness.  Let HIM come into your heart and life as HE so desires to do.  HE will do so if you but ask HIM! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  Thank YOU LORD GOD for filling the heart with marvelous joy and peace, for giving us strength of faith in YOU for even greater tasks.  Our confidence rests solely in YOU, our GREAT, ETERNAL, WONDERFUL LORD.  YOU are the LIFE of all, the HELP of those that flee to YOU, the HOPE of those who cry to YOU.  Cleanse us from our sins, secret and open, and from every thought displeasing to YOUR goodness — purify our bodies and souls, our hearts and consciences, that with a pure heart, and a clear soul, with perfect love and calm hope, we may venture confidently and fearlessly to pray to YOU. Amen  
Day 9 of L’ 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. . .
Intellectual confidence and moral courage is essential to bring conversation to its necessary conclusion; and to be a follower of CHRIST is to identify with MESSIAH Y’SHUA as LORD & SAVIOR. 

GOD IS TRUTH     
"For what if some (Jews) did not believe?  Will their unbelief make the faithfulness of GOD without effect?  Certainly not! Indeed, let GOD be true but every man a liar.  As it is written — That YOU may be justified in YOUR WORDS, and may overcome when YOU are judged." [Romans 3. 3 - 4] 

Paul is confirming that Jews and Gentiles all have faults, that is why we so need a RIGHTEOUS SAVIOR to redeem us from sins grip.  He is also adamant that no matter what error mankind makes, GOD is true to HIS NAME.  Knowing this, unfortunately numerous followers of MESSIAH are so intimidated by the arrogant unbelief of the supposed intellectuals of the world that they either reject or compromise or ignore the difficult teachings of HOLY SCRIPTURE.  This is a most grievous devastating error on their part, for all of GOD’S sayings are justified and HE will surely triumph over all those who presume to judge HIM and HIS LIFE-GIVING WORD. 

The genuine facts of the EXALTED, ALL-WISE GOD are not determined by popular vote or by the majority of opinions of so-called intellectuals.  Truth is determined and substantiated by the MASTER CREATOR HIMSELF, and none other.  The Hebrew word, ‘emeth is unsurpassed denoting constancy, certain, true, truthful, trustworthy, faithful, right, sure, verity, reality, genuine, authentic, real, legitimate.  When YOU speak, LORD, YOU are found just and blameless when YOU judge. [Psalms/Tehillym 51. 4]   "For the WORD OF THE LORD is right, HIS work is done in truth.  HE loves what is right and just; the earth is full of the LORD’S faithful care." [Psalms (Tehillym) 33. 4 -5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The only accurate standard of truth is the WORD OF GOD.  It is good to explain GOD'S WORD to those open to hearing truth, but never reason it away or compromise just to accommodate being accepted by the world’s philosophy, varied beliefs, interpretations or ways of thinking.  "Truth is the essence of YOUR WORD, and every one of YOUR righteous judgments are eternal." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 160 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

"But the LORD is the TRUE GOD; HE is the LIVING GOD, the EVERLASTING KING." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 10. 10a Tanakh, Nevi'im]  "And we know that the SON OF GOD has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know HIM WHO is true; and we are in HIM WHO is true, in HIS SON JESUS CHRIST.  This is the TRUE GOD and ETERNAL LIFE." [1 John 5. 20] 

The LORD Y’SHUA affirmed that HE is "the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE." [John 14. 6]  Then HE prayed for HIS faithful followers — "Sanctify them by YOUR truth.  YOUR WORD is truth." [John 17. 17]  "He who has received HIS testimony has certified that GOD is true." [John 3. 33] 

Our prayer is that we all openly, boldly, honestly and confidently declare the whole word of GOD as we must to a lost and dying world!  Now to the INFINITE GOD alone WHO is wise, be glory through Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH forever. Amen. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  O LORD, our GUIDE even unto death, grant us, we pray, grace to follow YOU through our lives.  In our daily duties, bow our wills to simple obedience, grant patience under pain or frustration, strict truthfulness of word and deed, humility, kindness; in great acts of duty or perfection, if YOU should call us to them, uplift us to self-sacrifice and courage to lay down our life for YOUR truth’s sake, or for our brother.  Thank YOU, our HEAVENLY FATHER, for YOUR righteousness and keeping us under YOUR sheltering wing.  
  Have a blessed Z'Man Simchataynu — the time of our rejoicing!  May your joys increase as you draw nearer to our GREAT ETERNAL GOD, the LORD OF GLORY.  
  Day 8 of L’ 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. 

Email:  delrifkah@gmail.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
When we cannot find our ignorance, you can be sure we have lost our wisdom.

ADVANTAGES WITH GOD
"What advantage then has the Jew, or what is the profit of circumcision? Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed the ORACLES OF GOD." [Romans 3. 1 - 2]

All the nations of the world are loved by GOD. [John 3. 16] Therefore, as an example to the world, the LOVING MIGHTY CREATOR chose one nation through which HE would convey HIS WORD to everyone and use them as an example for the others. The Jews — descendants through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob — were given the honor of bringing both the WRITTEN WORD and the LIVING WORD (Y’SHUA THE REDEEMER) into the world. As always, with privileges come great responsibility. Although most Jews deny both the inspiration of the HOLY SCRIPTURE and the INCARNATE DEITY of Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH. "Shall their unbelief make the faith of GOD without effect? GOD forbid!" [Romans 3. 3 - 4]

The ORACLES OF GOD refers to the actual supernatural utterances (Hebrew: naba' — prophesy) given by the SPIRIT OF GOD through a human intercessor. This indicates that the OLD COVENANT should be regarded as being verbally inspired by the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD OF HOSTS.

In Book of Hebrews, emphasis is put on the importance of the first principles of the ORACLES OF GOD rebuking those believers who have neglected to learn even the foundational truths of the perfect and accurate SCRIPTURES: "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the ORACLES OF GOD; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the WORD OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." [Hebrews 5. 12 - 14]

The word oracles (revelation, prophesy) is used again in the NEW COVENANT: "If any man speak, let him speak as the ORACLES OF GOD." [1 Peter 4. 11] Here, Peter is urging anyone with the spiritual gift of teaching to see that his instructions conform fully to the WORDS of OMNIPOTENT GOD as revealed in HOLY SCRIPTURE. Moses "received the LIVING ORACLES to give to us." [Acts 7. 38] For that reason there is special notice that the first five books of HOLY WRIT (TORAH) are especially singled out as the "LIVING WORDS" of CREATOR GOD...and they are our life.


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
O LORD our GREAT GOD and GOD of our fathers, grant that our worship be acceptable to YOU. May we, sanctified through YOUR commandments, become sharers in the blessings of YOUR HOLY WORD. Teach us to be satisfied with the gifts of YOUR goodness and gratefully rejoice in all YOUR mercies.
We praise 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 HOLY NAME.
Day 5 of L’ Omer, Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread - Day 6)
We wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread.
"Chag Sameach — Good Holiday

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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. . .
The older you are the more like yourself you become.

KEEPING CLEAN
"When they enter the Tent of Meeting they shall wash with water, that they may not die; or when they approach the altar to serve, to turn into smoke an offering by fire to the LORD, they shall wash their hands and feet, that they may not die. It shall be a Law for all time for them — for him and his offspring — throughout the ages." [Exodus (Shemot) 30. 20 - 21 Tanakh, Torah]

The hands and feet represent the "work" and "walk" of the priests. Their work and walk must be clean when they enter the service of HOLY GOD or they would die. Even though the Priests had met with the MIGHTY CREATOR at the Altar of Sacrifice and had been cleansed of their sins; yet ever afterward, there was daily defilement that must be washed away.

Even after we have been cleansed of our sins on acceptance of the LORD JESUS as our BLESSED SAVIOR, we must keep on being cleansed by the WRITTEN WORD OF GOD daily in order that we may walk with our HOLY GOD and have fellowship with HIM. Y’SHUA said, "He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean." [John 13. 10] MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the MIGHTY ROCK of our salvation fulfilled the service of the priest; not in washing HIS OWN feet, but in washing the feet of others. [John 13. 14]

In our LORD'S time, people returning from the public baths found it necessary to wash their feet which had become soiled from walking through miry streets. So the CHRIST-like-one has been cleansed once for all. But in walking through the world, he often contracts defilement, and therefore needs daily cleansing. Though once clean, unless he keeps himself cleansed, can again become dirty.

In the old country there is a special sidewalk for the Jews to walk on who were coming home from the Temple. So the priests of GOD MOST HIGH are to walk in a special way after they are washed for the LORD will not have fellowship with uncleanness. It is necessary that believer-priests bathe in the LIFE-CLEANSING WORD every day. "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and having our body washed with pure water." [Hebrews 10. 22]

Aaron's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, died - not only because they offered strange fire in the Holy Place, but also they neglected to wash at the Laver before their entrance and service there. They failed to regard the SOVEREIGN ALMIGHTY GOD as "holy" and also failed to glorify HIM before all the people.

We criticize those who never avail themselves of the opportunity to wash their physical bodies, and consider them offensive to our sight and smell. But what a stench in the very nostrils of the AWESOME GOD are HIS children who never give themselves a spiritual bath at the Laver! GOD OMNIPOTENT has provided a beauty bath for HIS royal priests and it is expected that they wash in the WORD OF GOD before they perform any service to HIM. The PURE WORD OF GOD is here for us that we might be able to be cleansed thereby. "If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." [1 John 1. 9]

The OLD COVENANT priest was required to wash each time before he could perform a service. This was "a statute forever." And the NEW COVENANT priests continually apply the WATER OF THE WORD, which is required for a state of continual holiness, a continual communion with GOD OF MERCY. [Philippians 3. 12 - 14; 1 Corinthians 9. 24 - 27; 1 Timothy 6. 17 - 19]

Revelation 15:2 records the last mention of the Laver in the HOLY WRIT; it is in Heaven described as "a Sea of Glass." The Redeemed of the LORD stand on the Sea and sing of the LAMB. In Heaven, the Altar of Sacrifice and the Laver never are forgotten. The ALTAR bears witness that "without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin." The LAVER testifies that "without holiness, no man shall see the LORD." We shall behold HIM, our SAVIOR, LORD & KING, face to face. What a day that will be!

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Welcome Sabbath — Queen of the week! As we kindle the candles of Sabbath may its radiance illumine our hearts!
Sabbath of Pesach – “Festival of Passover” [Reading: Deuteronomy 14:22-16:17; Numbers 28:19-25; Isaiah 10:32 – 12:6; John 20:15-20]
We give thanks to YOU for YOU are the LORD our GOD and the GOD of our fathers; YOU are the ROCK of our lives, the SHIELD of our salvation through every generation. We give YOU praise for our lives which are committed into YOUR hands, and for our souls which are in YOUR charge, and for YOUR miracles, which are daily; for YOUR wonders and YOUR benefits, which are wrought at all times, evening, morning, and noon. O YOU WHO are all-good, whose mercies fail not; YOU, MERCIFUL ONE, whose loving-kindnesses never cease, we have ever hoped in YOU. For all these things YOUR NAME, O our KING we continually bless and exalt for ever and ever.
Day 6 of L’ Omer, Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread- Day 7)

We wish you a blessed and sweet day of Unleavened Bread.
"Chag Sameach — Good Holiday!"

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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. . .
The one who cannot escape the consequences of the OLD COVENANT, is the one who will not accept the blessings of the NEW.

BLOOD COVENANT
"Now may the GOD of peace WHO brought up our LORD JESUS from the dead, that GREAT SHEPHERD of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant." [Hebrews 13. 20]

The Hebrew word "beriyth" translates to covenant, treaty, agreement, pledge, testament, divine ordinance or contract. The theme of THE COVENANT is expressively significant in the book of Hebrews more then any other book in the NEW COVENANT. It is especially one for the allotment of an inheritance, which is the most significant of all covenants.

This NEW COVENANT is also called "a Better Covenant." [Hebrews 7. 22; 8. 6] "For this is the covenant that I will make with the House of Israel after those days, says the LORD: I will put MY Laws in their mind, and write them on their hearts; and I will be their GOD, and they shall be MY people. I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more." [Hebrews 8. 10, 12 — quoting Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 31. 33]

The LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH is "the MEDIATOR of the NEW COVENANT, by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions under the FIRST COVENANT, that those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance" [Hebrews 9. 15], “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. 9]

The OLD COVENANT was signed by ALMIGHTY GOD HIMSELF: "When the sun set and it was very dark, there appeared a SMOKING OVEN (Hebrew: 'ashan tannuwr), and a FLAMING TORCH (Hebrew: 'esh lappiyd) which passed between those pieces. On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram saying — To your offspring I assign this land, from the River of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates." [Genesis (Bereshith) 15. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Torah; see all Genesis/Bereshith 15]

The NEW COVENANT is everlasting and our inheritance is eternal, for the blood of this COVENANT was made with the infinitely precious blood of the LORD Y’SHUA "WHO has been perfected forever" [Hebrews 7. 28] WHOM GOD has raised from the dead and now "HE continues forever...an UNCHANGEABLE PRIESTHOOD, since HE always lives to make intercession" for all who "come to GOD through HIM." [Hebrews 7. 24 - 25] Even now, won't you come and surrender your life to the MASTER?

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
As a CHRISTian, we inherit life, real life, abundant and eternal; free to be salt, light and an ambassador for the glory of the ALMIGHTY ONE, free to live like MESSIAH, but more so, to become like HIM. How wonderfully glorious!
Nitzavim – Stand, all of you this day before the LORD your GOD! – see Deuteronomy 29:9 – 30:20
Day 4 of L’ Omer, Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread- Day 5)
We wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread.
"Chag Sameach — Good Holiday

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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. . .
Courage is fear that has said its prayers.

PASSOVER GREETINGS
A Blessed & Happy Passover to all our friends and family.
. . . As you remember the bitterness of slavery in Egypt and the sweetness of redemption through the TRUE & LOVING GOD, may you know HIS deliverance and freedom today.
. . . As you remember the matzo and the HOLY ONE'S provision of manna in the wilderness,
may you know that HE offers us spiritual nourishment because of the LORD Y’SHUA, WHO is the BREAD OF LIFE.
. . . As you remember the blood of the Passover lamb that protected the Jewish people from the Angel of Death, may you be blessed through Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, the LAMB OF GOD WHOSE shed blood saves all, Jew and Gentile, who trust in HIM.
. . . As you raise up the Cup of Redemption & Blessing and speak the words, "Next Year In Jerusalem!" May your eyes be lifted to witness the coming of the KING, the LORD JESUS, our BLESSED HOPE, the PRINCE OF PEACE..
Remember, "HIS mercy endures forever."


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
Bidding farewell to Sabbath Pesach — “Festival of Passover” and preparing to begin the “Counting of the Omer” this evening as we remember - there is light and joy, gladness and honor for all of GOD’S people as we celebrate Passover. May the HOLY ONE bless and fill you with HIS Holy Commandments and call us to occupy ourselves with the LIFE-GIVING WORDS OF TORAH. And, may your ever-growing faith grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin.
Blessings to each of you this Passover/Resurrection Season and always. Be blessed as you encourage each other and celebrate Passover together in GOD’S loving-kindness.
We also wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread. This is the 1st Day of L’Omer.
Shalom! Shalom!

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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 http://www.delrifkah.com/



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

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

Although the cultic doctrine of the Sadducees, at the time of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, denied a bodily resurrection, the Israelites of the OLD COVENANT knew different. For the promise has always been known to the people of GOD MOST HIGH.

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

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

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

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


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
The LORD Y’SHUA died on the cross so we could be saved from an eternity of utter loneliness, separated from the ONE WHO loves us far more than we deserve and far more than we can imagine. And HE died so we could share HIS love with everyone. May we live as willingly for HIM as HE joyously laid down HIS life for us! O the love of JESUS — truly there is light & joy, gladness & honour for the people of GOD, our GOD reigns victoriously! Praise HIS dear name forever.
Day 3 of L’ Omer, Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread- Day 4)
We wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread.
"Chag Sameach — Good Holiday!"

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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 http://www.delrifkah.com/


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

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

Although the cultic doctrine of the Sadducees, at the time of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, denied a bodily resurrection, the Israelites of the OLD COVENANT knew different. For the promise has always been known to the people of GOD MOST HIGH.

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

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

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

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


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
The LORD Y’SHUA died on the cross so we could be saved from an eternity of utter loneliness, separated from the ONE WHO loves us far more than we deserve and far more than we can imagine. And HE died so we could share HIS love with everyone. May we live as willingly for HIM as HE joyously laid down HIS life for us! O the love of JESUS — truly there is light & joy, gladness & honour for the people of GOD, our GOD reigns victoriously! Praise HIS dear name forever.
Day 3 of L’ Omer, Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread- Day 4)
We wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread.
"Chag Sameach — Good Holiday!"

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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 http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The evidence of two witnesses is as good as that of one hundred. 

EYE WITNESSES     
"Therefore, of these men who have accompanied us all the time that the LORD JESUS went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John to that day when HE was taken up from us, one of these must become a witness with us of HIS resurrection." [Acts 1. 21 - 22] 

The most important event since creation itself was the Resurrection of the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, and it was vital that the witness of HIS chosen apostles focus especially on this great event.  They must believe with confidence in HIS BODILY resurrection, having been with HIM throughout HIS ministry, heard HIS predictions of HIS death and resurrection, then seen the infallible proofs, especially the empty tomb and HIS post-resurrection appearances.  All the original eleven disciples and the chosen replacement for Judas, namely Matthias, satisfied these requirements, as well as Saul (who became Paul) later on. 

After the coming of the promised HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD at Pentecost (Hebrew: Shavuoth), "with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA. And great grace was upon them all." [Acts 4. 33]   The resurrection proved that Y’SHUA OF NAZARETH was GOD THE CREATOR, SAVIOR & REDEEMER due to the fact that ONLY THE CREATOR OF LIFE COULD DEFEAT DEATH. 

Paul saw the risen LORD on the road to Damascus and was taught of HIM for three years in Arabia. [Galatians 1. 15 - 18]  "Am I not an Apostle? am I not free? have I not seen JESUS CHRIST our LORD? are you not my work in the LORD?" [1 Corinthians 9. 1]   Only those who had seen the risen REDEEMING ONE and had been specifically chosen by HIM could be accurate, reliable and factual —  Apostles  — for they must be credible witnesses of HIS resurrection.   And, they were! 

Peter's eyewitness account:  "We are witnesses of all things which HE (CHRIST JESUS) did both in the land of the Jews and in Jerusalem, WHOM they killed by hanging on a tree.  HIM, GOD raised up on the third day, and showed HIM openly, not to all the people, but to witnesses chosen before by GOD, even to us who ate and drank with HIM after HE arose from the dead." [Acts 10. 39 - 41] 

Paul's witness was: "GOD raised HIM (Y’SHUA) from the dead.  HE was seen for many days by those who came up with HIM from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are HIS witnesses to the people.  And we declare to you glad tidings — that "PROMISE" which was made to the fathers.  GOD has fulfilled this for us their children, in that HE has raised up JESUS." [Acts 13. 30 - 33]  "Then last of all HE was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time." [1 Corinthians 15. 8; also 1 - 11] 

The Apostles were true eyewitnesses of MESSIAH Y’SHUA'S resurrection and multitudes have received eternal salvation because they believed their report.  Thank you, OMNIPOTENT LORD GOD ALMIGHTY for Y’SHUA,  YOUR "INDESCRIBABLE GIFT" to us! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  This is a GLORIOUS DAY as we continue to celebrating Y’SHUA’S victorious resurrection!  HE lives, rules, and reigns…HE is our LIVING HOPE.  
  Chol Hamo’ed — Intermediary Festival Days — commemorates our freedom:  Freedom from slavery.  Freedom from oppression.  Freedom from those who rise against the Jewish Nation to destroy it.  But GOD governs according to HIS righteous will.  Just is HE in all HIS ways, and wise are all HIS decrees.  May HIS Kingdom come and HIS will be done in all the earth.  Praised be the LORD of life, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE for evermore.  
  As is included in the timeless Haggadah (means showing forth; read at the Seder telling the story of Passover) we say:  “In every generation, our enemies rise up against us to destroy us.  But the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, saves from their hands.”  HE will also save those who come to HIM in complete repentance, HE will wash them white as snow and purify their spirits.  Hallelu’YAH!  
   In Leviticus 23, this day is called B’Yom Haneefchem Et ha’Omer – The Day you Bring in the Sheaf of the Wave Offering.  GOD commanded the people, "When you come into the land which I give to you, and reap its harvest." {The Bikkurim (firstfruits) of their barley is a wave offering. [Leviticus 23:10, Joshua 5:12]}  "Then you shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest...And you shall count for yourselves from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave offering: seven Sabbaths shall be completed.  Count fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall offer a new grain offering to the LORD (Yehowah)." [Leviticus/Vayikra 23:11, 15-16]  
  Day 2 of L’Omer. Chol Hamo’ed (Festival Weekday/Unleavened Bread)  
We also wish you a blessed and sweet week of Unleavened Bread.  "Chag Sameach — Good Holiday!" 

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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. . .
Hear counsel and receive instructions that you may be wise and consider your latter end. 

HE IS RISEN     
"HE is not here; HE IS RISEN! as HE said.  COME! see the place where the LORD lay." [Matthew 28. 6] 

The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH spoke frequently that HIS death was drawing near, and also proclaimed that HE would rise from the dead. [Matthew 17. 22 - 23]  Likewise, HIS cruel persecutors knew of this and tried to stop it by placing guards at the tomb. [Matthew 27. 63 - 66] 

The death of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the BLAMELESS, PERFECT LAMB OF GOD, should have been no surprise.  The LORD JESUS had frequently escaped attempts on HIS life.  King Herod tried to kill the PRINCE OF PEACE when HE was a BABY. [Matthew 2. 16]  Satan tried to persuade HIM to jump from the pinnacle of the Temple. [Matthew 4. 6]  The people of Nazareth attempted to throw HIM over a cliff [Luke 4. 29]; and the Pharisees sought to kill HIM on several different occasions. 

JESUS, the ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD came from heaven to earth to die!   But, CHRIST'S death had to be a special death.  HE was "the LAMB OF GOD slain from the foundation of the world." [Revelation 13. 8]   Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH came to do the "will of the FATHER" which included HIS sacrificial death and HIS triumphant resurrection to win the victory over hell and death.   "I am HE WHO lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen!  And I have the keys of Hades and of Death." [Revelation 1. 18]  At exactly the right time the PIERCED ONE, the MAN OF SORROWS, did die bearing our sins on the Cross of Calvary.  Then MESSIAH, JESUS OF NAZARETH, rose victoriously, just as HE said HE would! 

Even in the LORD JESUS' empty tomb, HE left the sign that HE was "risen, but would COME AGAIN."  When Peter and John ran to the tomb after hearing from Miryam (Mary) Magdalene that the tomb was empty, they both ran to the tomb and "found the linen cloths lying there, and the napkin that was on HIS face was not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself...and when the other disciple (John), came to the tomb...he saw and believed." [John 20. 1 - 10] 

To understand this completely, one must know the Jewish custom of folding the napkin after a meal.  This is done as a silent way of telling to the host/hostess that you are “thankful for the meal" and "hope for another invitation to dine" — in other words, they would come again.  The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA  knew this custom and was telling HIS followers, even using these burial wrappings, that HE would come again.  O, if only the rocks would have cried out, they would proclaim the same. 

The resurrection cannot be over emphasized for apart from JESUS' Resurrection, we have no assurance of HIS deity, no forgiveness of sins, nor life eternal.  "IF CHRIST is not risen, your faith is delusive; you are still in your sins!" [1 Corinthians 15. 17]  "HE (MESSIAH Y’SHUA), was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification." [Romans 4. 25] 

The enemies of the cross knew this and are still seeking to destroy the BREAD OF LIFE, denying HIS incarnation and virgin birth.  Mentally, priests and peoples still crucify the risen LORD OF GLORY and set guards over HIS grave, declaring HIM to be dead.  But, "HALLELUYAH! HE IS RISEN!"  We are assured of this fact — it is the skeptics, unbelievers, arrogant gossips and contemptuous tale bearer that are the ones on trial now.  They must come by way of the Cross of Calvary for salvation through the precious shed blood of the BLESSED REDEEMER, or they will be cast into eternal darkness where there will be wailing, weeping and gnashing of teeth. 

But we who know the BELOVED SAVIOR can celebrate together because our GOD lives, rules, and reigns forevermore! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  The LORD Y’SHUA is alive and reigning forevermore, now comes the Dawn of the New Day - HalleluYAH!  
OUR LORD Y’SHUA IS RISEN FROM THE DEAD!  Not the grave nor any other power on earth could hold HIM, LORD OF THE SABBATH, the PRINCE OF PEACE, the KING OF GLORY!  
  May we live as willingly for HIM as HE joyously laid down HIS life for us!  Oh the love of JESUS — truly there is light & joy, gladness & honor for the people of GOD, our GOD reigns victoriously! 
  Blessings to each of you as you continue to celebrating the Feast of Unleavened Bread and the RISEN KING.
Blessed Resurrection Day!  Because HE lives, we too shall live, Hallelu’YAH!  
Tonight Count Day 2 of L’Omer. Chol Hamo’ed (Festival of Passover/Unleavened Bread)  
We also wish you a blessed and sweet week of 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. . .
Our life is a vessel formed for two functions; one is to hold, the other is to pour. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  Welcoming Sabbath Pesach — “Festival of Passover” [Reading: Exodus 12:21-51; Numbers 28:16-25; Joshua 5:2 – 6:1; John 19:31 -20:1]
  Entering Sabbath 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.  
  We are praying for each of you that an abundance of rich blessings be yours this Passover & Feast of Unleavened Bread!  Remember the day of your departure from Egypt all the days of your life...we each must take the LAMB for ourselves!  
  Blessings to each of you this Passover/Resurrection Season and always. 

If you wish to be deleted from this mailing, please contact us direct and we will remove your name. Thank 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

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The two most important days in your life: The day you were born, and the day you were born anew — accepting MESSIAH Y’SHUA into your life, finding out why and how you are to live for HIM. 

WRAPPED IN LINEN     
"Then they took the body of JESUS, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury.  Now in the place where HE was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid.  So there they laid JESUS, because of the Jews' Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby." [John 19. 40 - 42] 

The Jews of Y’SHUA’S day prepared bodies for burial in a much different fashion than we do these days.  The word "bound" actually means "to bind, tie, coil, or wind" as the bodies were rolled up tightly in long strips of linen cloth.  The tightness of the winding can be understood from the raising of Lazarus after MESSIAH raised him back from the dead, "He who had died came out bound (or wrapped) hand and foot with grave clothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth.  Y’SHUA said to them, "Loose him, and let him go." [John 11. 44] 

On resurrection morning, after hearing the news of the missing body of the MASTER, Peter and John ran to the sepulcher.  "Simon Peter...went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, and the napkin that had been around HIS head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself.  Then the other disciple, who came to the tomb first, went in also; and he saw and believed." [John 20. 6 - 8] 

We, like John the Beloved, should recognize that only a miracle could account for the state of these linen clothes.  If thieves had stolen the body of the LORD JESUS, they would either have taken the clothes also, or the clothes would have been strewn around, not lying in the same location and shape as they had been when the body was present.  Until that time, John "did not know the SCRIPTURE, that HE must rise again from the dead" [v. 9], but when he saw the linen clothes he believed. 

The LORD Y’SHUA, the PRECIOUS ANOINTED ONE miraculously rose from the dead.  John believed and we have his eyewitness testimony of that fact.  We can not do less, and by believing, we can fully trust in HIM with all our hearts, minds and souls. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  We are grateful to YOU, our LIVING SOVEREIGN ONE, for dying and raising from the dead because of YOUR overwhelming compassion for us!  
  The celebration of Passover should serve to remind us of our departure from the past and our commitment to obey GOD all the way to HIS Promised Land in holiness and integrity of life.  The Passover Seder is the most meaningful experience you can enjoy and should be a tremendous opportunity to express our overwhelming gratitude for ALMIGHTY GOD’S goodness and grace to us, and to renew our commitment to walk in loving obedience all the days of our lives.  May we always celebrate the ties of love and faith that bind us through MESSIAH Y’SHUA.  

  In cleaning for Passover this evening (the start of Nisan 13 [Exodus 12:15]), we are first and foremost fulfilling the mitzvah of biur chametz — getting rid of chametz (leavening).  Biur chametz is actually quite an easy mitzvah (good deed) in terms of physical exertion.  The TORAH says: "tashbisu se'or mibateichem — make all your sour dough rest."  Chametz must be as viewed as dust — ownerless and valueless.  
  This is also the day the MASTER celebrated the Seder early with HIS disciples and then is arrested. [Matthew 26:17-68]  
We greet you and wish you many abundant blessings this 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. . .
Inside each of us is a Pharaoh — inside every Pharaoh is a slave — inside every slave is a Moses. 
 
WHAT PASSOVER IS  (Part 1 of 2)   04/18/19
From the beginning of time OMNIPOTENT GOD has been saying to men — There is no way to approach ME except by coming with a lamb. Sacrifice was ordained by our HOLY LORD GOD and instituted by HIM in the beginning.  Adam and Eve had never seen death, they didn't know what it was like.  When they disobeyed the MASTER CREATOR, HE sacrificed a lamb to make a covering for them to hide their nakedness. ["Lambs will provide you with clothing." [Proverbs/Mishle 27. 26 Tanakh, Kethuvim]] 
 
When the ALMIGHTY ONE tested Abraham, HE said — "Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac; and go to the Land of Moriah and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you."  And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac, his son, and the two of them walked on together.  Isaac questioned his father, "Where is the lamb for the offering?"  Abraham replied — "GOD HIMSELF will provide the LAMB for the burnt offering, my son."[Genesis/Bereshith 22. 2, 7 – 8]  Abraham laid Isaac on the wood on the altar and raised his hand to slay him — but the LORD ETERNAL sent HIS Angel to stop the sacrifice and provided a substitute, a ram caught in the thicket by its horns. 
 
Abraham's descendants through Isaac became a great nation.  In the land of Egypt, the FAITHFUL PROVIDER said to HIS servant, Moses — "The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: This shall mark for you the beginning of months; it shall be the first of the months of the year for you.  Speak to all the congregation of Israel and say that on the tenth of this month each of them shall take a lamb to a family...a lamb to a household.  Your lamb shall be without blemish, a yearling male; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats.  You shall keep watch over it until the fourteenth day of this month; and all the assembled congregation of the Israelites shall slaughter it at twilight.  They shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it...and THE BLOOD SHALL BE A SIGN FOR YOU ON THE HOUSES WHERE YOU LIVE; AND WHEN I SEE THE BLOOD I WILL PASS OVER YOU.  For I will go through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike down all the first-born in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments — I am the LORD.  Now this day will be a memorial for all the children of Israel, and you shall celebrate it as a FEAST to the LORD throughout your generations you are to celebrate it as a permanent ordinance." [Exodus/Shemot 12]  
 
One day, the ALMIGHTY SOVEREIGN GOD called to Moses: "Come up to ME on the mountain — and Moses entered the midst of the cloud."  When he returned his face shone because of his time spend with the GOD OF HEAVEN.  The Law of the ETERNAL ONE had been revealed to man.  This Law was personally engraved by the LORD SUPREME.  The LOVING GOD OF CREATION, WHO is holy, had set forth requirements that must be met before HE could show mercy.  Sin must be punished, either in person or by a substitute.  Lambs, goats, and rams were Israel's substitutes.  The law was given to lead us to The LAMB.  The MOST HIGH GOD accepts us by means of the PERFECTSACRIFICE on the Altar (the Cross of Calvary). 
 
Prophets began to appear, they urged that sacrifice is not just a ritual — a vain repetition, but is a matter of the heart!  It was meant to be an outward expression of inner intentions.  It was the "SPIRIT" within which gave it all its value.  GOD ALMIGHTY looks at the intentions of the heart.  HE was heard to say, "What are your multiplied sacrifices to ME?  I have had enough...I take no pleasure in the blood of bulls, lambs or goats...bring your worthless offerings no longer...your hands are full of bloodshed..."Washyourselves clean!  Put away your evil doings from MY sight.  Cease to do evil; learn to do good.  Devote yourselves to justice; rebuke the oppressor; uphold and defend the orphan; show charity to the widow...Come!  let us reach an understanding; though your sins are like crimson, they can be turned snow-white; though they are red as dyed wool, they can become like fleece." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 1. 16 - 18 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 
 
Little by little the prophets understood...One day ALMIGHTY GOD was going to send HIS OWN SPECIAL LAMB in place of all the lambs and sacrificial animals —  "We all went astray like sheep, each going his own way; but the LORD visited upon HIM (Y’SHUA OFNAZARETH) the guilt and iniquity of all of us, HE was maltreated, yet HE was submissive.  HE did not open HIS mouth; like a sheep being led to slaughter, and a lamb silent before its shearers, HE did not open HIS mouth — but the LORD was pleased to crush HIM, putting HIM to grief that through HIM the LORD'S purpose might prosper — by HIS knowledge the RIGHTEOUS ONE, MY SERVANT will justify many, as HE will bear their iniquities.  HE made HIMSELF an offering for guilt." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 53 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   The LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the REDEEMER, COMFORTER OF ISRAEL, the HOLYONE bore the sins of many on HIMSELF.  How can we help but thank and praise the WONDROUS ANOINTED ONE, JESUS the BELOVEDSON OF GOD! 
 
. . . to be continued

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
A ravisher (a degenerate, a spoiler) must take the consequences, he must drink out of the vessel he abused. 

 

WASHING OTHER'S FEET     
"He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean." [John 13. 10] 

When Peter heard Y’SHUA, the GALILEAN speak these words to him, he understood that fellowship with MESSIAH Y’SHUA is gained by washing.  We must humble ourselves, admit our sinfulness and our desperate need of the MASTER'S cleansing.  Not only our own feet need washing, but we must also wash our brothers:  "If I then, your LORD and TEACHER, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.  For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you." [John 13. 14 - 15] 

GOD ETERNAL established the way for washing.  Moses was instructed to make a Copper Laver for Aaron and his sons to wash from.   And he was also instructed to wash them with water. [Exodus/Shemot 29. 4]   They were "to wash their hands and their feet in water drawn from it, that they may not die."  This ordinance was forever to them — to Aaron and his descendants throughout their generations. [Exodus/Shemot 30. 18 - 21] 

When the woman was scorned and ridiculed for washing the LORD JESUS' feet "with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head" [Luke 7. 38], her sins were forgiven her.  Y’SHUA said to HIS disciples — "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much.  But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little." [Luke 7. 47]   Thus implying that the one for whom much is forgiven, the same LOVES MUCH. 

If we apply this thinking to our present situation in life, should we not be as concerned about others as we are about self and be quick to wash the feet of others (forgive them), for we have been freely bathed (forgiven) of our indebtedness (complete inability to pay) to the ONE WHO is our PERFECT EXAMPLE, the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH. 

"But when the kindness and the love of GOD our SAVIOR toward man appeared not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to HIS mercy HE saved us, through the Washing of Regeneration and Renewing of the HOLY SPIRIT." [Titus 3. 4 - 5]   The LAVER we have available to us now is GOD'S HOLY WRITTEN WORD and the PURE WATER is freely available to wash from for our daily cleansing.   In HIS loving mercy, the MASTER DESIGNER has always been our PERFECT EXAMPLE. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  When things around you appear dark and terrifying, hold on to the promises of LORD GOD.  HE is in complete control.  "The ROCK! - HIS deeds are perfect; Yea, all HIS ways are just; a FAITHFUL GOD, never false, true and just is HE." [Deuteronomy/Devarim 32. 4]   
  Nothing can be achieved in haste, the spreading tree and the soul of man grows slowly to perfection.  Thus sang King David, "Trust in the LORD, wait patiently for HIM!" 

  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 alone comes our help.  Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness.  Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME, and thank YOU for coming in the likeness of man to redeem us. Amen!  
  As you prepare for Passover, we remember that 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." 

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. . .
Assiduously (diligently, attentively, tirelessly) desire to live in accordance with GOD’S HOLY WRITTEN WORD — not according to carefully revised and selected portions of it. 

HEART CONDITION     
"The LORD saw how great was man's wickedness on earth, and how every imagination and plan devised by his heart and mind was nothing but evil all the time.  And the LORD regretted that HE had made man on earth; and HIS heart grieved in sadness." [Genesis (Bereshith) 6. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Torah] 

These two verses describing the incurable wickedness of the ancient world, which finally brought on the global flood, contain the first two of over a thousand occurrences of the word "heart (Hebrew: leb)" in the HOLY SCRIPTURES.   Observe the contrast:  Man's heart was evil; the ALMIGHTY ONE'S heart was grieved. 

The heart is a physical organ, with its function of circulating the blood as basic to physical life.  "For the life of the flesh is in the blood." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 17. 11 Tanakh, Torah]   It is also used to refer to the innermost part of physical objects (the heart of the earth) — "For as Jonah was THREE DAYS and THREE NIGHTS in the belly of the great fish, so will the SON OF MAN be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." [Matthew 12. 40]   Almost always, the word heart is used symbolically as reference to the quality of the basic nature and deep essence of a person's being. 

In this first occurrence, it refers to the thoughts of the heart.  Somehow, before one thinks with his mind, he thinks with his heart, and the quality of his spirit in unspoken thoughts will determine the way he reasons with his brain.  The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA confirmed this — "For from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts." [Mark 7. 21] 

How very important it is then to maintain a heart that is pure.  How interesting that in the OLD COVENANT the first occurrence of "heart" refers to man's evil thoughts.  In contrast, the first occurrence of the word in the NEW COVENANT is where the BELOVED Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH gives HIS gracious promise, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see GOD." [Matthew 5. 8]  And the blessed are promised — "They shall see HIS face, and HIS NAME shall be on their foreheads.  There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the LORD GOD gives them light.  And they shall reign forever and ever." [Revelation 22. 4 - 5]   Such great joy awaits us, joy forevermore! 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  Praised are YOU, O LORD our GOD, RULER of the world, WHO has given us the law of truth and righteousness and has implanted within us everlasting life.  Praised are YOU, O LORD, GIVER of the Law.  We bow down and worship YOU, our ETERNAL KING!  How we long to see YOU and behold YOUR lovely face! 

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. . . 
Don’t use money to measure wealth. 

IN EXCHANGE 
"For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" [Matthew 16. 26 - 27] 

The lives of many people revolve around money, entertainment, and ordinary living never stopping to realize that it is their soul that is most important…where one will spend eternity. Some would even brag that they would exchange their soul for the imagined blessings of the great god, mammon (wealth, money). "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." [1 Timothy 6. 10] 

Similarly, countless are those who are greatly excited about their monthly profit-and-loss; but the LORD Y’SHUA asks whether there is really a profit, even if one acquires the wealth of the world and loose his own soul, the answer to such questions has to be — "NO!" For "the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of GOD abides forever." [1 John 2. 17] "Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look upon the earth beneath: For the heavens will vanish away like smoke, and the earth will grow old like a garment, and those who inhabit it will die like gnats. But MY salvation will be forever, My righteousness will not be abolished." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 51. 6 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

To lose one’s soul is to lose one’s life, for they are inseparable. Consequently, a life centered on money, wealth, or fame is not only a soul eternally lost, but a life wasted as well. "He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life." [John 12. 25] In contrast, if we lose our lives in MESSIAH, then we find true life, abundant life, eternal life beginning here and now, then continuing gloriously forever with our LORD & KING. Now, that is a great exchange. 

At times GOD blesses the follower of MESSIAH Y’SHUA with material wealth, but that should never be one’s motive to follow HIM. The Apostle Paul says, "Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the LIVING GOD, WHO gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." [1 Timothy 3. 17 - 19] 

Genuine and sincere followers of the LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH must be on guard careful to avoid false teachers {"contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints." [Jude 3]} and greedy motives, pursuing instead righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and the gentleness that befits a saint of GOD. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5 
LORD GOD MOST HIGH, YOU are my praise and my glory! Help us LORD, to break down the barriers which keep us from YOU. . . falsehood & faithlessness, callousness & selfishness, injustice & hard-heartedness. Thank YOU for YOUR tender mercies and YOUR amazing love. Hasten the day that we may behold the glory of YOUR might, when the world will be perfected under the Kingdom of YOU, our ALMIGHTY GOD & KING. 
Watch and pray, the LORD Messiah Y’SHUA is coming soon to set up HIS Kingdom. We pray for, and eagerly await MESSIAH’S coming each and every day. May peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, The descendants of HIS servants shall inherit it, and those who love HIS NAME shall dwell in it. Amen 

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

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

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
Without GOD’S permission, nothing happens. So, if we understand the why, we can go through the what.  Think about it! 

DON’T HIDE     
"If I hide my transgressions like Adam and other men do, by burying my iniquity in my bosom. . . Then let thistles grow instead of wheat, and stinkweed instead of barley." [Job (Iyowb) 31. 33, 40 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The patriarch Job lived long before Moses and the writings of the TORAH, yet he knew about Adam and his fall as well as GOD’S curse on the world because of Adam’s sin.  The name "Jowb" is an interesting one, in Hebrew it means "persecuted one" — in Arabic it would be either "to come back" or "repent/repentant one" — any of which applies to this grand old man of GOD. 

Job writes of death and of the curse comparable to Genesis: "Man born of woman is short lived and replete with trouble." [Job (Iyowb) 14. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "To the woman HE said: "I will make severe your sorrow in childbearing; in pain you shall bear children." [Genesis (Bereshith) 3. 16 Tanakh, Torah]  "All flesh will perish together, and mankind return to dust." [Job (Iyowb) 341. 15 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "In the sweat of your brow you shall get bread to eat until you return to the ground — for out of it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust you shall return." [Genesis (Bereshith) 3. 19 Tanakh, Torah] 

Obviously Job had some kind of access to the records of primeval history, either verbally from his ancestors or perhaps through actual written records of the ancient elders handed down from Adam to Moses. 

There is a number of references in Job to man’s original creation.  After speaking first of the beasts, the fowls of the air, and the fishes of the sea, Job asked: "Who among all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this?  In HIS hand is the life of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind." [Job (Iyowb) 12. 9 – 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   Elihu, the youngest of Job’s friends, also gave his testimony pertaining to matter as well declaring — "The SPIRIT OF EL has formed me, the breath of the SHADDAI sustains me." [Job (Iyowb) 33. 4 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 


The Book of Job was, in all probability, the first written of all the books of HOLY SCRIPTURE, possibly between Genesis 11 & 12 or not long after the time of Abraham.  Job gives abundant testimony of the knowledge of the TRUE & LIVING GOD and HIS marvelous creation was still the common heritage of mankind at that time.  Job knew the LORD and repeatedly refers to HIM as SHADDAI (the ALMIGHTY), and never tried to hide  anything from HIM, as did Adam.  Job knew that "He who covers his sins will not prosper; he who confesses and forsakes them will find mercy." [Proverbs (Mishle) 28. 13 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  Job’s ancient testimony is still true today, what he quoted must have been an early revelation from the ALMIGHTY ONE: "Behold, the fear of the LORD, that is wisdom, and to depart from evil is understanding." [Job (Iyowb) 28. 28 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

We, like Job must learn to trust in the goodness and power of GOD in adversity by enlarging our concept of the LORD YEHOWAH.  "When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my anguished groaning all the day long.  For night and day YOUR hand lay heavy upon me; my vitality was as in the summer drought.  Selah  Then I acknowledged my sin to YOU, I have not hidden my iniquity and guilt; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD" — and YOU forgave the guilt and iniquity of my sin." [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 3 – 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

 GOD, the HOLY ONE is sovereign and worthy of worship in whatever HE chooses to do

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  We pray that you experience the rest of love freely given — a rest of truth and sincerity — a rest in peace and tranquility, in quiet and safety — a perfect rest in which you find favor.  
  HEAVENLY FATHER, teach us to emulate YOUR OWN grace and mercy.  Cause YOUR truth to fall upon our hearts like seed upon fertile ground.  And, may we learn to love YOUR Law ever more deeply and to find in it the beauty of holiness. Amen
  May you have good health, much laughter, simcha (joy), few tears, memorable moments, and many rich blessings come from the MASTER daily. 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
A well timed reprimand from someone who loves you can guide you to a better course of action.

COVENANTS & SIGNS
"And GOD said to Noah — The rainbow shall be in the cloud, and I will look on it to remember the everlasting covenant between GOD and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth. This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between ME and all flesh that is on the earth." [Genesis (Bereshith) 9. 16 - 17 Tanakh, Torah]

The first mention of the word covenant (Hebrew: beriyth) is Genesis 6:18 — "I will establish MY covenant with you; and you shall go into the ark — you, your sons, your wife, and your sons' wives with you." The covenant was established after the Flood. This everlasting covenant was made with all the earth’s future populations and is still in effect which is symbolized by the continual beautiful bent rainbow through the sky after a rain. The bending seems to extend to the earth from the heavens, which is like a signature of GOD’S faithfulness. Figuratively, the bow depicts strength. This everlasting covenant is universal.

Avram (who’s name was changed to Avraham) and Isaac also received an everlasting covenant with the ONE WHO is the ETERNAL FOUNDATION. "I will establish MY covenant between ME and you and your descendants after you in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be GOD to you and your descendants after you. Also I give to you and your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger, all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession; and I will be their GOD." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 7 - 8 Tanakh, Torah] Circumcision was the token of this cutting of the covenant. It was a covenant between them and their descendants, the people of Israel, "and you shall be circumcised in the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between ME and you." [Genesis (Bereshith) 17. 11 Tanakh, Torah] This everlasting covenant is for a particular, peculiar people, the Jews.

There is still another everlasting covenant — this one with all the redeemed of all ages. "I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from doing them good; but I will put MY fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from ME. Yes, I will rejoice over them to do them good, and I will assuredly plant them in this land, with all MY heart and with all MY soul." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 32. 40 - 41 Tanakh, Nevi’im] This new and everlasting covenant applies to all the redeemed of the LORD. This time, the sign of the covenant is more than a token, it is by the precious blood of Y’SHUA, the GLORIOUS KEEPER WHO willingly and zealously laid down HIS life to save HIS lost, vulnerable sheep. "Now may the GOD of peace who brought up our LORD Jesus from the dead, that GREAT SHEPHERD of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do HIS will, working in you what is well pleasing in HIS sight, through JESUS CHRIST, to WHOM be glory forever and ever. Amen." [Hebrews 13. 20 - 21] This everlasting covenant is for who-so-ever will.

"Let YOUR hand be upon the MAN of YOUR right hand, upon the SON OF MAN whom YOU made strong for YOURSELF." [Psalms (Tehillym) 80. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Yes, our strength is in the LORD GOD OF JACOB alone!

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
We give thanks to YOU for YOU are the LORD our GOD and the GOD of our fathers; YOU are the ROCK of our lives, the SHIELD of our salvation through every generation. We give YOU praise for our lives which are committed into YOUR hands, and for our souls which are in YOUR charge, and for YOUR miracles, which are daily; for YOUR wonders and YOUR benefits, which are wrought at all times, evening, morning, and noon. O YOU WHO are all-good, whose mercies fail not; YOU, MERCIFUL ONE, whose loving-kindnesses never cease, we have ever hoped in YOU. For all these things YOUR NAME, O our KING we continually bless and exalt for ever and ever.

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 LORD GOD has not cast aside even one life.  HE sent the LORD JESUS as HIS WAY for each of us to return to HIM.  But we cannot follow GOD and divide HIS Family, for when evil comes, we must stand...together!  Be compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient with each other.  Forgive as the LORD forgave you.  And above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all to HIM in perfect harmony. 

DECEITFULNESS & BETRAYALS     
"Beware, every man of his neighbor!  Trust not even a brother; for every brother takes advantage, every neighbor goes around tale bearing, deceiving his neighbor, they will not speak the truth; they have trained their tongues to speak lies; they weary themselves committing iniquity.  You dwell in the midst of deceit.  In deceit they refuse to heed ME" — declares the YEHOWAH.  Assuredly, thus says the LORD OF HOSTS: "Behold, I will refine them and test them." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 9. 4 - 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

There are many descriptive accounts of deceit and betrayal in the SCRIPTURES, both OLD and NEW.  In the Law we are commanded: "In righteousness you shall judge your neighbor.  You shall not go about as a talebearer among your people; nor profit by the blood of your fellow: I am YEHOWAH." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 19. 15 - 16 Tanakh, Torah]  Against such a warning, it was wicked Queen Jezebel, Ahab’s wife who had Naboth killed for his vineyard by hiring two scoundrels to witness against him saying that "Naboth has blasphemed GOD and the king!"  So the elders and nobles took him outside the city and stoned him with stones, so that he died.  Then Jezebel said to Ahab, "Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give you for money; for Naboth is not alive, but dead."  In judgment for Jezebel’s deceitful acts, the LORD declared: "In the very place where dogs lapped up Naboth’s blood, dogs shall lap up your (Ahab) blood, even yours." [see 1 Kings (Melakhim Alef) 21. 6 – 20 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  And as for Jezebel, "dogs shall devour Jezebel in the field of Jezreel, with none to bury her." [2 Kings (Melakhim Bet) 9. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  And it happened just that way.

The great deceit against our LORD came from Judas Iscariot "Now HIS betrayer had given them (chief priests, elders and their thugs) a sign, saying — "Whomever I kiss, HE is the ONE; seize HIM." [Matthew 26. 48]  And, because Judas had betrayed innocent blood, his depraved conscience so troubled him and he tried to return the treacherous money: "he threw down the pieces of silver in the Temple and departed, and went and hanged himself." [Matthew 27. 5] 

The LORD Y’SHUA taught that one of the signs of the end of the age would be countless false prophets that will deceive many, wars and rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.  "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for MY NAME'S sake.  And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another" [Matthew 24. 9 - 10]; "but he who endures to the end shall be saved." [Matthew  24. 13] 

GOD is the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE and HE allows trials that we may be tested so to be strengthened.  Therefore, all followers of MESSIAH Y’SHUA, should learn to pray as Peter taught: "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of JESUS CHRIST." [1 Peter 1. 6 - 7] 


Our LOVING REDEEMER promises those who remain faithful that the "things I have spoken to you, that in ME you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." [John  16. 33]  Though we may be betrayed, we too are more than conquers thru the LORD OF GLORY and when we see HIS glorious face and HE takes us as HIS OWN, it will, beyond doubt be worth it all.  For eye has not seen nor ear heard all great goodness, the ALMIGHTY has laid up for those who fear HIM, which HE has prepared for those who trust HIM. [see Psalms/Tehillym 31. 19] 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  Bidding farewell to Sabbath — Infinite as YOUR power, even so is YOUR love, O LORD OF HOSTS. YOU led us into the way of righteousness and brought us to the light of truth.  Therefore, at our lying down and our rising up, we meditate on YOUR Teachings and at all times rejoice in YOUR Laws.  In them are true life and length of days. May we all recognize that YOU are the ALL-POWERFUL, SOVEREIGN RULER and we must submit all to YOU say.  Help us O LORD to get right with you, and show it by our lives.  O that YOUR love may never depart from our hearts.  Praised are YOU, O LORD, WHO has made us YOUR people.  
  Make this another special week as you purposefully use your days to accomplish Heavenly purposes of GOD.  Do not let our days determine your life, let your life determine your days. 

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. . .
Love goes beyond logic — and prevails.  And, the ultimate of a man is not how he stands in moments of comfort, but how he stands in times of a challenge. 

SPIRIT-SOUL-BODY     
"The LORD GOD (YEHOWAH ELOHIYM) formed man (’adam) from the dust of the earth (’adamah). HE blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being." [Genesis (Bereshith) 2. 7 Tanakh, Torah] 

The Hebrew word for soul is "nephesh" meaning a living creature.  It comes from the primary root "naphach" which means to breathe.  In traditional Jewish understanding, the soul is considered to be a heavenly spark housed in an earthly container.  It is the "candle of the LORD" — "The light of the candle flickers and waves in harmony with the LIGHT OF TORAH." [Proverbs (Mishle) 20. 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  Thus giving sufficient understand for the Jewish custom of "bobbing or waving of the body"  in prayer. 

"Nephesh" appears over 755 times in HEBREW SCRIPTURE and over 100 of these make reference in the first person, "my soul or nephesh."  In the NEW COVENANT, there is explicit distinguishing between the soul, the spirit and the body.   "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." [1 Thessalonians 5. 23]  GOD OMNIPOTENT created man in HIS OWN IMAGE, therefore man is triune in nature.  Each of us, being only one person, yet having three parts: spirit, soul and body. 

The innermost part of a person is the spirit.  The spirit (Hebrew: ruwach — breath) is set within the soul (Hebrew: nephesh — seat or organ of mental acts) and the soul is set within the body (Hebrew: geviyah/body or basar/flesh).  The spirit is the very core of a person; it is the part that is made in GOD’S IMAGE.  Our capacity to commune with OMNISCIENT GOD is found in our spirit, the seat of our GOD-consciousness; the soul is our self-consciousness; the body is our world-consciousness.  GOD dwells in our spirit; our self dwells in the soul; and senses in the body. 

When Adam sinned, all men suffered the consequences.  The spirit of man became dead toward GOD, communication broken, separated from the GIVER OF LIFE.  Because of sin, the GREAT & HOLY GOD OF HEAVEN does not dwell in every person’s spirit.  However, when we receive Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, our spirit is quickened, made alive.  That is why the phrase "born anew" or "born again" is used.  We were dead in trespasses and sin [Ephesians 2.1] until we met THE ONE WHO is THE LIFE, we were a "Living Soul (Hebrew: nephesh chayya)" with a dead spirit.  MESSIAH Y’SHUA, is the SON OF MAN, WHO has come "to seek and to save that which was lost" — Lost Souls. [Luke 19. 10]   Now, we are alive to GOD in the BELOVED MESSIAH our GRACIOUS & BENEVOLENT REDEEMER & LORD. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  Welcome Sabbath! Come out my Beloved the Bride to meet; the inner light of Shabbat.  
Sabbath of Tazria — “Conceived” [Reading: Leviticus 12:1 - 13:59; Ezekiel 45:16 – 46:18; Luke 22:1-13] 
  Our prayer is that you know the ONE WHO gives perfect peace!  May mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.  Also, that the flame of the LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH burn brightly in your heart as you share HIS light with others.  Walk joyously and boldly in the light and warmth of ALMIGHTY GOD'S compelling love; and may the HOLY ONE, the HOPE OF ISRAEL, fill you with HIS wonderful peace and indescribable happiness.  
  May GOD bless you with eyes that see, ears that hear, and a heart that knows faith that is sure of what is hoped for and certain of what is not seen. [see Hebrews 11:1]  MESSIAH Y’SHUA is the AUTHENTIC GREAT GIFT, WHO gave of HIMSELF deliberately  by dying and victoriously resurrecting.  The HOLY ONE OF GOD came into this world to save us, to reach the lost, heal the sick, befriend those without a friend in the world, and be our PERFECT EXAMPLE that we might follow HIM.  We thank YOU, GREAT & MIGHTY GOD for YOUR mercies and grace.  Keep us ever grateful and grant us YOUR perfect rest. Amen  
  Have a truly blessed day of rest.

This is the Sabbath HaChodesh (Sabbath of the New Moon – greeting the month of Nisan) 

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. . .
For best results — put your tiny faith in a magnificent GOD. 

ALL THINGS WELL     
"And they (the disciples) were astonished beyond measure, saying, "HE has done all things well." [Mark 7. 37] 

Definitely Y’SHUA "has done all things well."  This fact is evidence of HIS deity.  No matter how carefully we study HIS deeds, we can find no flaw in any of HIS works or actions — absolutely no defects, nothing HE should have done differently, or left undone.  The MESSIAH never had to apologize or express regrets, like we often need to do.  HE was always master of every situation.  Peter said that "Y’SHUA of Nazareth with the HOLY SPIRIT and with power, WHO went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for GOD was with HIM." [Acts 10. 38] 

This truth applies even more emphatically to HIS  WORDS.  The ROCK OF AGES never had to speculate, guess at or evade any situation: "And they (those in the synagogue) were astonished at HIS teaching, for HE taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes." [Mark 1. 22]  Obviously, the LORD JESUS never had to guess about anything or merely express an opinion, like the rest of us surrender to doing at times.  Everything HE taught was with absolute authority, for HE was and is the WORD OF GOD made flesh.  "In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD...And the WORD became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as of the ONLY–BEGOTTEN of the FATHER, full of grace and truth." [John 1. 1, 14] 

When dealing with hypocrisy and false teachings, HIS words were harsh and quite judgmental, and they needed to be; but more often HIS words were kind and forgiving. Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, said of MESSIAH: "RABBI, we know that YOU are a TEACHER come from GOD; for no one can do these signs that YOU do unless GOD is with him." [John 3. 2]   Likewise "all bore witness to HIM, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of HIS mouth." [Luke 4. 22]  Furthermore, the soldiers sent to arrest YESHUA returned empty-handed, for as they too stated, "No man ever spoke like this MAN!" [John 7. 46] 

The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH’S words are spoken "with power and authority." [Luke 4. 32]  HE was and is "Y’SHUA of Nazareth, WHO was a PROPHET mighty in deed and word before GOD and all the people." [Luke 24. 19]  HE was more than a man; HE was the PERFECT MAN, the SON OF MAN, the ONLY–BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD!  Because HE lives, we are positively confident that all is well with our soul as we believe HIS promises to us. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world HE created.  May YOUR will be fulfilled and YOUR sovereignty revealed, MOST HOLY ONE, in the days of our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel speedily and in our time, Amen.  May YOU be blessed forever, even throughout all eternity.  May YOU, be blessed, praised & honored, extolled & glorified, adored and exalted above all else. Amen  
  Zey ha-yom asaw ADONAI, nagilah ve-neesmechah voh.  This is the day the LORD has made, we will rejoice and we will be glad in it.  May the LIGHT of the HOLY ONE, blessed be HE, fill you with a yearning desire to submit to HIS inscrutable will and give you strength for your daily tasks. 

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 to make a decision is one of life’s biggest mistakes.  So, take courage, if you fail, keep trying! 
PATHS OF MERCY & TRUTH     
"Good and upright is the LORD — therefore HE teaches sinners in the way.  HE guides the humble in justice, and teaches the meek HIS way.  All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth, steadfast love for those who keep HIS covenant and HIS testimonies." [Psalm (Tehillym) 25. 8 - 10 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Psalm 25 is an acrostic Psalm of David.  In the 9th verse, the word paths (Hebrew ‘orach) means well-trodden road, a caravan, manner, race, rank, by-way, or highway.  Along all of life’s journey, from earth to Glory, we need directions and clear guidance.  The ALMIGHTY CREATOR, the HIGH & LOFTY ONE always honors HIS WORD, and this great promise is to lead those who will but choose to follow HIM.  "In all your ways acknowledge HIM, and HE will direct (smooth) your paths." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

All these paths are paths that experience GOD‘S mercy and confirm HIS truth if we only obey HIS WORD — by keeping HIS covenant of grace and believing HIS promises.  These paths lead to life everlasting, "You will teach me the path of life; in YOUR presence is perfect joy; pleasures are at YOUR right hand forevermore." [Psalms (Tehillym) 16. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "Glory, honor and majesty are before HIM; strength and joy are in HIS place." [1 Chronicles (Dibre Hayamin Alef) 16. 27 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  

Although the paths may sometimes seem strange, dark or dangerous, we are assured that they will lead to light and peace.  "The path of the righteous is like radiant sunlight, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day." [Proverbs (Mishle) 4. 18 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  Our AWESOME GOD "is like the light of the morning at sunrise, a morning without clouds." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 23. 4 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  The ways of the ALMIGHTY’S true wisdom are "pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace." [Proverbs (Mishle) 3. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

A beautiful testimony of the paths of GOD is found in Psalm 23 — "HE renews my life; HE guides me in the paths of righteousness as befits HIS NAME.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no harm, for YOU are with me; YOUR rod and YOUR staff comfort me... Only goodness, steadfast love, and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the HOUSE OF THE LORD forever." [Psalms (Tehillym) 23. 3, 4, 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  What a winning combination! 

With the GLORIOUS & EXALTED LORD GOD directing our steps, we can find complete guidance in HIS WORD, "For the commandment is a Lamp, and the Law a Light, and the way of life is the reproofs of instruction (rebuke that disciplines)." [Proverbs (Mishle) 6. 23 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  And HIS WORD, "is a Lamp to my feet, a Light for my path." [Psalms (Tehillym) 119. 105 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  May our prayers always be, "Teach me, O LORD, YOUR statutes, and I shall keep it to the end.  Give me understanding, that I shall keep YOUR law and keep it wholeheartedly.  Make me walk in the path of YOUR commandments, for I delight in it.  Turn my heart to YOUR testimonies and not to love of gain." [Psalms (Tehillym) 16. 33 – 36 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "Teach me YOUR way, O LORD, and lead me on a smooth path." [Psalms (Tehillym) 16. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The wonders and riches of walking with the BELOVED MASTER are the greatest, most delighting adventures you could ever imagine! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  O that men were wise, that they would consider their latter end!  
Exalted and hallowed be GOD'S greatness in this world of YOUR creation.  May YOUR will be fulfilled and YOUR sovereignty revealed in the days of our lifetime and the life of the whole House of Israel speedily and in our time, Amen.  May YOU be blessed forever, even to all eternity.  May YOU, MOST HOLY ONE, be blessed, praised & honoured, extolled & glorified, adored & exalted above all else.  Blessed are YOU beyond all blessings & hymns, praises & consolations that may be uttered in this world, Amen.  O that peace abundant would descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, Amen. 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
You’re never a failure until you start to blame.  In other words, you can still be in the process of learning from your mistakes until you deny them. 

 

ALWAYS A WITNESS     
"The LIVING GOD, WHO made the heavens, the earth, the seas, and all things that are in them, WHO in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways.  Nevertheless HE did not leave HIMSELF without witness, in that HE did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness." [Acts 14. 15 - 18] 

 

There is an abundance of evidence that the mighty power and wisdom of INFINITE GOD created this tremendously complex world.  "The heavens declare the glory of GOD; the firmament shows HIS handiwork." [Psalms (Tehillym) 19. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim]  "For since the creation of the world HIS invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even HIS eternal power and GODhead, so that they are without excuse." [Romans 1. 20] 

 

The wisdom and power of the MIGHTY DESIGNER is also shown in the wonderful evidence of HIS incredible grace in nature.  Even though "the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now" [Romans 8. 22], laboring under the awful curse on the ground imposed by the HOLY GOD when Adam sinned [Genesis/Bereshith 3. 17], it has been so subjected "in hope" — with GOD’S promise that creation itself will be delivered from the "bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty" — and "we are saved by hope." [Romans 8. 20 – 21, 24] 

 
The goodness of the LORD WHO created you is proved in the daily triumph of light over darkness, the yearly return of spring after winter, and the cliché triumphantly repeated — life over death.  Although individuals die, new souls are born; and always there is hope.  Man must eat his bread in the sweat of his face as he labors to wrest a living from the cursed ground, but GOD does send the rain and the fruitful seasons to make possible the growing of food and the sustaining of life.  We must eat of it in sorrow all the days of our life, nevertheless GOD fills our heart with food and gladness.  All the labor and sweat and sorrow is "for our sake" [Genesis/Bereshith 3. 17], urging and persuading man to return to the CREATOR GOD for his daily bread, but more so, to eternal salvation found in HIS BELOVED SON, Y’SHUA.  How foolish is the man who received all these gifts of GOD’S grace without acknowledging their SOURCE.  "Do you despise the riches of HIS goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of GOD leads you to repentance?" [Romans 2. 4] 

 
To everyone who works what is good greatly rejoice for there is glory, honor, and peace "though now for a little while…you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of JESUS CHRIST" [1 Peter 1. 6 – 7], WHO loves you so very much. 

 
Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  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 YOUR Truth’s sake, or for a brother. Amen  
  Remember the wonder reflected upon the SERVANT, Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, WHO bent down to bring light to those HE so loved.  The LORD bless and keep you throughout the coming days!  
Love, mercy, strength & peace to all. Go with GOD! 


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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The LORD GOD is totally committed to being GOD.  Those who know this rejoice through faith, for the ALL-SUFFICIENT ONE gives us what we don’t deserve — Grace!  Knowing this is imperative. 

HARDENED HEARTS     
"It was the LORD’S doing to stiffen their hearts to give battle to Israel, in order that they might be proscribed without quarter and wiped out, as the LORD had commanded Moses." [Joshua (Yehoshua) 11. 20 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

The righteous severity of the ALMIGHTY AWESOME ONE is shown in HIS command to utterly destroy the Canaanites.  "When the LORD your GOD brings you to the land that you are about to enter and possess, and HE dislodges many nations before you — the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, seven nations much larger than you — and the LORD your GOD delivers them to you and you defeat them, you must doom them to destructions: grant them no terms and give them no quarters." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 7. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Torah]  It was irreproachable GOD ALMIGHTY HIMSELF WHO hardened the hearts of the Canaanites so that Joshua could destroy them. 

The BLESSED MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE is not only loving, but also holy and righteous.  "The LORD seeks out the righteous man, but loathes the wicked one who loves injustice." [Psalms (Tehillym) 11. 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   And, GOD does "not change." [Malachi/Malakhi 3. 6]  In the NEW COVENANT, ALMIGHTY GOD is also called a "CONSUMING FIRE" [Hebrews 12. 29], and we are admonished that "the wages of sin is death." [Romans 6. 23]  "The LORD JESUS is revealed from heaven with HIS mighty angels, in FLAMING FIRE taking vengeance on those who do not know GOD, and on those who do not obey the GOSPEL of our LORD JESUS CHRIST." [2 Thessalonians 1. 7 - 8] 

As for those seven nations (Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites & Jebusites) that were to be fully destroyed, the MIGHTY ONE OF ISRAEL had given them 400 years to repent. [Genesis/Bereshith 15. 13 - 16]  But with each generation, they drew further and further away from their LOVING MASTER.  They were practicing every form of depravity and iniquity known to man.  Therefore, GOD in HIS great mercy to future generations, decreed their total destruction. 

Like Pharaoh at the time of the Exodus, the peoples had already hardened their own hearts toward GOD, so the OMNIPOTENT ONE now hardened their hearts against Israel.  Thinking they could destroy GOD’S people, they only hastened their well-deserved end.  The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL is the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE, thus it is our responsibility to choose to serve HIM in reverence and godly fear.  Certainly, we will each give account for our choices. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  It is pointless to argue with those who happily pervert reality in the service of their profoundly held prejudices.  What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy.  But, with the hand of the MASTER DESIGNER in our life, great and marvelous things happen. 

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. . .
GOD hides HIMSELF in HIS manifestations and shows HIMSELF in HIS concealments. 

CUTTING OF THE COVENANT     
"When the sun set and it was very dark, there appeared a Smoking OVEN, and a Flaming TORCH which passed between those pieces.  On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram." [Genesis (Bereshith) 15. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Torah] 


EL ELYON, GOD MOST HIGH, promised Abram that he and his descendants would inherit the land of Israel.  When Abram asked the LORD GOD how he would know this for certain, the ALMIGHTY ONE commanded Abram — "Bring ME a three-year-old heifer, a three-year-old female goat, a three-year-old ram, a turtledove, and a young pigeon."  When Abram brought them, he cut them in two, down the middle, and placed each piece opposite the other, except the birds were not cut in half. [Genesis (Bereshith) 15. 8 - 10 Tanakh, Torah] 

This "cutting of the covenant" was prepared by Abram; but entered into by the great SOVEREIGN GOD alone in the form of a SMOKING OVEN (Hebrew: 'ashan tannuwr) and FLAMING TORCH (Hebrew: 'esh lappiyd), the SOVEREIGN ONE passed between the sacrificed animals.  Abram did not pass between them, as a great horror and darkness fell upon him and he fell into a deep sleep during that time. [Genesis/Bereshith 15. 12] 


The HOLY ONE knows man's weakness and that HE (ALMIGHTY GOD) alone would remain faithful.  This is an "unconditional blood covenant" called in Hebrew the "karat berit."   When the COVENANT MAKER made the promise to Abraham, "because HE could swear by no one greater, HE swore by HIMSELF...determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of HIS counsel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for GOD to lie." [Hebrews 6. 13 - 18] 

To understand the importance of the consequence in the "cutting of the covenant" one needs to realize first that, a covenant is entered into between at least two people.   If either party breaks the covenant, that which happened to the sacrificial animals is what will happen to the one who breaks the covenant.  Therefore, in HIS great mercy, GOD caused Abram to fall asleep while HE took on the entire responsibility for both parties.  "And now, O ADONAI YEHOWAH, YOU are ELOHIYM and YOUR WORDS will surely come true, and YOU have made this gracious promise to YOUR servant." [2 Samuel (Shemuel Bet) 7. 28 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 


Our EXCEEDINGLY WONDERFUL GOD is faithful throughout time.  Again as the PILLAR OF CLOUD (Hebrew: 'ammuwd 'aanan) and the PILLAR OF FIRE (Hebrew: 'ammuwd 'esh), HE led the Israelites day and night bringing them out of Egypt and through the wilderness. [Exodus/Shemot 13. 21]  In HIS manifold mercies, the MAJESTIC GOD OF ISRAEL did not forsake HIS people, ever going before them to give them light and show the way they should go in spite of the fact that they sinned against HIM continually with their much murmurings, complainings, and making of the golden calf.  The SOVEREIGN HOLY ONE was continually present, even in their times of rest, "over the Tabernacle a CLOUD OF THE LORD rested by day, and FIRE would appear in the CLOUD by night, in the view of all the House of Israel throughout their journeys." [Exodus (Shemot) 40. 38 Tanakh, Torah] 


We look forward to the day when the HIGH & EXALTED ONE again becomes the PILLAR and FIRE, "When the LORD has washed away the filth of the Daughter Zion, and from Jerusalem's midst has rinsed out her infamy — in a spirit of judgment and in a spirit of purging — the LORD will create and spread over the whole shrine and meeting place of Mount Zion, a CLOUD by day and SMOKE with a glow of FLAMING FIRE by night.  Indeed, over all the glory of HIS whole shrine shall hang a canopy which shall serve as a pavilion for shade from heat by day and as a shelter for protection against drenching rain or storm." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 4. 4 - 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im]  The GREAT GOD OF PRESENCE will fulfill HIS promises to us, performing HIS WORD, and completing HIS Covenant.


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
O LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, YOU direct the destinies of men and nations according to YOUR wisdom and justice. Happy and most blessed is the man who forgets YOU not, for he who seeks YOU will not stumble, and he who trusts in YOU will not be put to shame.  May you receive blessings in abundance as you wholly trust and fellowship with GOD your LOVING CREATOR & SUSTAINER. 


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


Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
"We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created the problem." [Albert Einstein]  We need to begin by changing our thoughts if we want to change our lives. 

SPLENDOR OF GRACE     
"In HIM we have redemption through HIS blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of HIS grace which HE made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence (forethought, discretion)." [Ephesians 1. 7 - 8] 

The characteristics of GOD are demonstrated by the "riches of HIS grace." This incredibly marvelous grace led MESSIAH Y’SHUA to shed HIS precious, life-giving blood as the price of our redemption 

For that reason, it is no wonder that men have developed the memorable acrostic for grace: "GOD’S Riches At CHRIST’S Expense!"  "For you know the grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, that though HE was rich, yet for your sakes HE became poor, that you through HIS poverty might become rich." [2 Corinthians 8. 9] 

Repetitively Paul tries to find a way to describe these riches. To the Romans he wrote of "the riches of HIS goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering" [Romans 2. 4] and of HIS plan to "make known the riches of HIS glory on the vessels of [HIS] mercy, which HE had prepared beforehand for glory." [Romans 2. 23]   Speaking of GOD’S mercy, Paul 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] 

It is unfathomable (inconceivable, beyond imagination, too amazingly astonishing) for any person to try and comprehend the full depths and attributes of grace and mercy. Paul could only sum it up by calling them the "unsearchable riches of CHRIST!" [Ephesians 3. 8]   Paul’s desire was for all believers to learn to appreciate the incredible future they have in the LORD Y’SHUA, thus praying that "the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of HIS calling, what are the riches of the glory of HIS inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of HIS power toward us who believe, according to the working of HIS mighty power." [Ephesians 1. 18 - 19] 

 No matter how marvelously rich and full HIS grace now is, there is so much more to come. "GOD, WHO is rich in mercy, because of HIS great love with which HE loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with CHRIST (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in CHRIST JESUS, that in the ages to come HE might show the exceeding riches of HIS grace in HIS kindness toward us in CHRIST JESUS.  For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the GIFT OF GOD." [Ephesians 2. 4 - 8] 

The LOVING MESSIAH is our HOPE and TREASURED LORD.  May the GOD of peace 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! 
If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  Welcome Sabbath! Come out my Beloved the Bride to meet; the inner light of Shabbat, let us greet Shabbat Parah — “Sabbath of the Red Heifer” [Numbers 19:1-22]!  This is read on the Shabbat following Purim.  These verses deal with the Red Heifer used in the spiritual purification process at the time of the Holy Temple.  This issue is important at this season of the year, since in looking forward to Passover, every Jew is careful to maintain spiritual purity in order to partake in the holiday offerings.  
  Sabbath of Sh’mini — “Eighth” [Reading: Leviticus 9:1 - 11:47; Ezekiel 36:16–38; John 11:47-57] 
 Exalting Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH, the HOLY ONE WHO gives true Sabbath peace and rest.  We prayerfully ask YOU, LORD JESUS to also give us 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.  Thanking and praising YOU always for supplying this and so much more. 

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 task ahead of us is never as great as the POWER behind us. 

THE LAVER   (Part 2 — Conclusion)     
"The LORD spoke to Moses saying — Make a laver of copper and a stand of copper for it, for washing; and place it between the Tent of Meeting and the altar. Put water in it." [Exodus (Shemot) 30. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Torah] 

The Foot is the foundation upon which the Laver stands.  All the foundations of the Tabernacle furniture picture the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA (seen in Matthew as the KING, Mark as the SERVANT, Luke as the MAN, John as the EAGLE), there is no other foundation!   Time and again, it is written as "the laver and his foot."  The WORD OF GOD stands upon CHRIST JESUS and is upheld by HIM.  These are inseparable, not one without the other. 

The Laver was located at the Door of the Tabernacle.  It was highly polished so to reflect the Door and the Copper Altar, for it stood between them.  The WORD OF GOD, like a mirror, reveals the Cross (Sacrifice Altar) and the Door (MESSIAH Y’SHUA) through which we enter in to fellowship with the MOST HOLY GOD ETERNAL. 

The Copper Basin situated before the Tabernacle of the Congregation (Holy Place) which housed the Table of Shewbread, shows that there is an experience of cleansing before feasting.  Children are not to be dirty when they come to the table, they are commanded to "wash first."  No believer is entitled to come to the Breaking of Bread at the Table in the Holy Place without self-examination.  "Let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup; for if we judge ourselves, we would not be judged." [1 Corinthians 11. 28-31] 

The priests could not wash themselves with the Laver, there was to be water put in it.  This points to a great spiritual truth that cleansed them and made them ready for their tasks.  The only water the sons of Israel had in the desert was that which gushed forth from the SMITTEN ROCK. [Exodus/Shemot 17. 6]   Moses was commanded of the SOVEREIGN ALMIGHTY ONE to strike the rock (which Moses did) and water came forth for the thirsty Israelites. [Numbers/B'Midvar 20. 8, 11]   For water the second time, Moses was to speak to the ROCK; but instead he struck it twice.  For this sin of disobedience Moses was not permitted to enter the Promised Land with the Children of Israel. 


The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, THE ROCK, was struck once and ever after we need but speak to HIM for our supply of spiritual drink!  "Our fathers all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank of that SPIRITUAL ROCK that followed them (went with them), and that ROCK was CHRIST." [1 Corinthians 10. 4]  The LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA is the ROCK OF AGES.   It was only after this PRIZED ROCK was struck (on the Cross, then raised from the dead, and ascended up into Heaven) that there was poured out "SPIRITUAL DRINK (HOLY SPIRIT)" for HIS people. 

To be effective, the WATER OF THE WORD must be applied.   Not only are we to believe GOD'S WORD by receiving it, but we are to serve GOD'S WORD by observing (obeying) it.  We are to be DOERS of the WORD — not HEARERS only. [James 1. 21 – 27; Romans 2. 13]  

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  Whoever serves GOD out of love devotes himself to HIS law and to the observance of HIS commandments, and walks in the paths of wisdom, not because of any worldly advantage, nor to protect himself from evil, nor even to inherit good hereafter; he does the right because it is right, though in the end the blessing will not fail him.  To love the LORD GOD with all your heart, is its own reward. 

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. . . 
Even when the HIGH & LOFTY GOD OF HEAVEN says nothing, some men turn it into something. 

WHEN GOD HAS NOT SPOKEN 09/30/19 
"I did not send those prophets, but they rushed in; I did not speak to them, yet they prophesied. IF they had stood in MY counsel, let them announce MY WORDS to MY people and make them turn from their evil way and wicked acts and return to ME — says the LORD." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 21 - 22 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Today, as in times past, there are self-proclaimed prophets who say they are bringing "a word to you" and prefix it with "thus says the LORD." Since there are three voices we can hear from...the ALMIGHTY CREATOR, ones own spirit, and Satan — it is vitally imperative that you are able to "discern the source" of the message. The question that we should ask is, Where did this message come from? 

ALMIGHTY GOD'S MESSAGE: "Who has marked HIS WORD and heard it? He who has stood in the council of the LORD, and seen, and heard HIS WORD — he who has listened to HIS WORD must obey and announce it." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 18 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "I did not send those prophets, but they rushed in; I did not speak to them, yet they prophesied. IF they have stood in MY counsel, let them announce MY WORDS to MY people, and make them turned back from their evil ways and wicked acts — says the LORD." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 21 – 22 Tanakh, Nevi’im] "I have heard what the prophets say, who prophesy falsely in MY NAME — I had a dream, I had a dream. — How long will there be in the minds of the prophets who prophesy falsehood, the prophets of their own deceitful minds, the plan to make MY people forget MY NAME, by means of the dreams which they tell each other." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 25 - 26 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Assuredly, I am going to deal with the prophets — declares the LORD — who steal MY WORDS from one another, who wag their tongues and make oracular utterances. I am going to deal with those who prophesy lying dreams, who relate them to lead MY people astray with their reckless lies, when I did not send them or command them. They do this people no good — declares the LORD." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 30 - 32 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

PERSONAL IMAGINATION or SATAN'S LIE: If a message from an individual originates in himself and focuses the attention on himself, causing him to appear more spiritual than others. It is words for people who have itchy ears. Hananiah brought a message the people wanted to hear. GOD OMNIPOTENT concluded, "Listen, Hananiah! YEHOWAH did not sent you, and you have given this people lying assurances. Assuredly, thus said the LORD: I am going to banish you from off the face of the earth. This year you shall die, for you have urged disloyalty (taught rebellion) to the LORD." [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 28. 1 - 17] There was also a "lying spirit" in the mouth of all the prophets of King Ahab. [1 Kings/Melakhim Alef 22. 23] 

A worthless prophet will "lead MY people (Israel) astray." [Jeremiah/Yirmeyah 23. 13] "The prophets of Jerusalem are something horrifying: adultery and false dealing. They encourage evildoers, so that no one turns back from his wickedness." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 14 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "Thus said the LORD OF HOSTS: Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you. They are deluding you, the prophecies they speak are from their own minds, not from the mouth of the LORD." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "They declare to men who despise ME — the LORD has said — All shall be well with you. — And to all who follow their willful hearts they say — No evil shall befall you." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 23. 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

In the NEW COVENANT, the Apostle Paul said, "Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others JUDGE." [1 Corinthians 14. 29] We desperately need to be able to discern the source of a message. When the TRUE & LIVING GOD does speak, we should hear and obey promptly. When a message is of man or from the Adversary (enemy), we need to recognize the source and not get caught up in their lie and be deceived. For many "evil men and impostors" will become embolden, and they "will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." [2 Timothy 3. 13] Let us take heart, the MERCIFUL & LOVING LORD GOD we serve knows what is ahead and has forewarned us in HIS foreknowledge of our time and has prophetically written in HIS WORD. "Indeed, my LORD YEHOWAH does nothing without first having revealed HIS purpose (secret) to HIS servants, the prophets." [Amos (Amus) 3. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from MY FATHER, I have made known to you." [John 15. 15] 

Stay alert, for such a time as this. . . lest you be deceived! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel! 
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5 
Bidding farewell to Sabbath. . . May GOD, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins as we performing the Havdallah Service, bidding farewell to Sabbath. We taste the wine, smell the spices, see the shadow of the candle, hear the prayers and songs and touch family and friends. May your home be a place where peace abides, where love grows, where tranquility pervades, and contentment and happiness is a blessing, a success. 
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 each day of this new week. 
Tov Shavua - have a good week, a week of peace, joy and gladness!

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
It is not that the OMNISCIENT CREATOR does not speak to us, but that we do not listen. 

AS IT IS WRITTEN     
"(Do NOT) fail to observe faithfully all the terms of this TEACHING that are written in this BOOK, that you may reverence and fear this glorious, honored and awesome NAME, the LORD your GOD." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 28. 58 Tanakh, Torah] 

The Hebrew word "cepher (book)" literally meaning "BOOK OF EVIDENCE."   The HOLY WORD was written by the various prophets, and MESSIAH Y’SHUA even stated that they were all to be taught by ALMIGHTY GOD.  "Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the FATHER comes to ME." [John 6. 45]   The ETERNAL ONE wanted us to hear and understand HIS warning that there is a BLESSING to those who obey HIM and a CURSE on those who do not. 

The Prophet Malachi writes about a BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE, "Then those who revere the LORD talked to one another. The LORD has heard and noted it, and a BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE has been written at HIS order concerning those who revere the LORD and who meditate and esteem HIS NAME." [Malachi (Malakhi) 3. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Paul advised Timothy to "give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine" [1 Timothy 4. 13], and especially "the HOLY SCRIPTURES, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in CHRIST JESUS.  All SCRIPTURE is given by inspiration of GOD, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of GOD may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." [2 Timothy 3. 15 - 17] 

The HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL, blessed be HE, has such protective love for HIS HOLY WORD, HE gives several warnings about those who may change it:   
 "You shall not add anything to what I command you or take anything from it, but keep the commandments of the LORD your GOD that I enjoin upon you." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 2 Tanakh, Torah]   "Be careful to observe only that which I enjoin upon you; neither add to it or take away from it." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 12. 32 Tanakh, Torah]   "Every WORD OF GOD is pure; a SHIELD to those who take refuge in HIM.  Do not add to HIS words, lest HE rebuke you and you be proved a liar." [Proverbs (Mishle) 30. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   "I know that whatever GOD does, it shall be forever.  Nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it – GOD has brought it to pass that men revere HIM." [Ecclesiastes (Kohelet) 3. 14 Tanakh, Kethuvim]   "Thus says the LORD: 'Stand in the court of the HOUSE OF THE LORD and speak all the words which I command you to speak.  Do not diminish or omit anything." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 26. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im]   "For I testify to everyone who hears the WORDS of the Prophecy of this BOOK: If anyone adds to these things, GOD will add to him the plagues that are written in this BOOK; and if anyone takes away from the words of the BOOK of this prophecy, GOD shall take away his part from the BOOK OF LIFE, from the Holy City, and from the things which are written in this BOOK." [Revelation 22. 18 - 19] 


Indeed, man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every "WORD" that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD.  All who love the PRECIOUS MIGHTY CREATOR cherish the WORD OF THE LORD.   Those who want to know and understand GOD'S heart will study HIS LOVE LETTER to us.  There is such abundant living to be found in HIS HOLY SCRIPTURES.   May the grace of our LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH be with you all.  Amen! 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!

“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5 

Our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly. Be’esrat ha’Shem — with the help of GOD — the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD will cause the whole House of Israel, and the whole House of Judah to cling to HIM that they may become a people of GOD, for praise and for glory that all should fear and tremble at HIS PRESENCE and know that HE alone is the LOVING SOVEREIGN GOD. 
  LORD our GOD, great, eternal, wonderful in glory, WHO keeps covenant and promises for those that love YOU with their whole heart. YOU are the LIFE of all, the HELP for 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 endeavor confidently and fearlessly to pray to YOU. Amen 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 


A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
The smallest deed is better than the grandest intention. 

THE LAVER  (Part 1 of 2)     
"The LORD spoke to Moses saying — Make a laver of copper and a stand of copper for it, for washing; and place it between the Tent of Meeting and the Altar (of Sacrifice). Put water in it." [Exodus (Shemot) 30. 17 - 18 Tanakh, Torah] 

This article of furniture, the Laver, is mentioned in connection with another Alter, the Altar of Incense. [Exodus/Shemot 30. 1]   However, not one without the other.  The Laver is for cleansing, it must be appropriated before the Golden Altar of Prayer & Praise can be approached.  The priests must be clean before there could be any Fragrance of Worship to OMNIPOTENT HOLY GOD. 

The copper of the Laver was obtained from the Jewish women who donated their looking-glasses to the service of the LORD MOST HIGH.  They were willing to give up their prized possession which they had taken for a spoil from the Egyptians before they left the land of bondage.  These looking-glasses revealed to them their natural beauty.  How they delighted to see their reflection in these highly polished copper mirrors! 

Copper is a symbol of judgment for sin; they judged their outward appearance here.  Yet, they gave up that outward judging for the spiritual judging when they turned over these mirrors for the work of the Tabernacle.  Now, they were used in the construction of the Laver for the washing of the priests.  In other words, they gave up the desire for natural beauty, the outward adorning, in preference for that beauty which comes from within. [1 Peter 3. 3-5]  Man's mirror shows and judges spots on the outward appearance, but GOD'S MIRROR reveals and judges the blemishes of the heart. 

The looking glasses of Egypt tell us of the intense desire of mankind to appear beautiful outwardly to impress others and attract attention to self.   But, this is all changed when redemption is applied to the soul.  Then, the primary, highest and most important desire is the adorning of the inner-man and the beauty of the LORD OF HOSTS to shine forth from the life which will attract the attention of on-lookers to HIM WHO is altogether lovely. 

Twice in the NEW COVENANT the Laver is referred to for a spiritual washing or cleansing.  Paul speaks of the LORD JESUS having cleansed the Church "by the Laver of water by the WORD." [Ephesians 5. 26]  Then again of ALMIGHTY GOD having "saved us through the Laver of regeneration and renewing of the HOLY SPIRIT." [Titus 3. 5]   We are born-anew (regenerated) by the INCORRUPTIBLE SEED, the WORD OF GOD (the LAVER) through the power of the HOLY SPIRIT (the WATER in the LAVER). 
 

The Copper Altar of Sacrifice has already been built and is for the Sinner.  The Laver is for the Saint.  We meet the SOVEREIGN LORD GOD first at the Cross and are cleansed by the blood of the LAMB OF CALVARY.  Then, we must come daily for cleansing by the WATER OF THE WORD.  The Altar is for saving us and shows us what the ANOINTED MESSIAH is.  The Laver is for keeping us saved and shows us what we are.  At the Altar, we learn that what Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH has done meets the need of the sinner.  At the Laver we learn that what the LORD JESUS is meets the needs of the CHRIST-like-one.

. . . 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!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  Who is like YOU, AWESOME CREATOR GOD?  Who is like YOU, glorious in holiness, revered in worship, wondrous in works?  Eternal is YOUR power, O LORD, YOU are mighty to save.  In loving-kindness YOU sustain the living; in the multitude of YOUR mercies, YOU preserve all.  YOU uphold the falling, heal the sick; bring freedom to the captives and keep faith with YOUR children in death as in life.  Who is like YOU, ALMIGHTY GOD, AUTHOR of life and death, SOURCE of salvation? Truly, there is none like YOU, O LORD my GOD! 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!  
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.”  Psalms 137:5
  When things around you appear dark and terrifying, hold on to the promises of the LORD GOD.  HE is in complete control, and will never fail us — it is all for the good…ha’kol l’tova.  
  "Your goals don't care how you feel." [Anonymous]  We won't always feel motivated. Sometimes we’ll feel tired and want to push off our goals until tomorrow.  But tomorrow we may not "feel" like working either, and we are not promised another day.  One of the biggest myths of change is that we need to feel motivated to move forward.  It's the moving forward that really matters; the motivation will follow our actions.  Motivation is wonderful; discipline is critical. 

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. . .
GOD has reserved for man the freedom to choose and has reserved for HIMSELF the freedom to determine the consequences of that choice. 

MOSES & ELIJAH     
"Behold, two men talked with HIM, who were Moses and Elijah who appeared in glory and spoke of HIS decease which HE was about to accomplish at Jerusalem." [Luke 9. 30 - 31] 

Notably, this is a mysterious, but auspicious passage.  Peter, James and John watched in awe as MESSIAH Y’SHUA was transfigured before them as HE had promised  But how could Moses and Elijah be there?  Moses’ body had been buried by GOD in an unknown tomb in Moab some 1,500 years before, and no resurrection had yet taken place. [see Deuteronomy/Deverim 34. 5 - 6; 1 Corinthians 15. 22 - 13]  And, Elijah had been taken alive into heaven in a whirlwind after being separated from Elisha by a Chariot of Fire over 900 years before Christ. [see 2 Kings/Melakhim Bet 2. 11] 

This whole remarkable experience was, in fact a vision.  The LORD JESUS commanded them saying — "Tell the vision to no one until the SON OF MAN is risen from the dead." [Matthew 17. 9]  Even though they had just been awakened out of sleep [Luke 9. 32], the disciples knew this was not a dream.  These three disciples had seen it together and "they were greatly afraid." [Mark 9. 6] 


This vision of the future Kingdom was for the disciples’ encouragement and ours as well, for the LORD had just been warning them of HIS coming death, as well as the cross which they, themselves, must take up to follow HIM.  "If anyone desires to come after ME, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow ME.  For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for MY sake will save it.  For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?  For whoever is ashamed of ME and MY WORDS, of him the SON OF MAN will be ashamed when HE comes in HIS own glory, and in HIS FATHER'S, and of the holy angels." [Luke 9. 23 - 26]  The KINGDOM OF GOD would come on earth; but first, HE must die and rise again, and they must be HIS witnesses of these things. 

Obviously the appearance of Moses and Elijah with MESSIAH Y’SHUA was a picture of events to come when MESSIAH does return.  There will be two groups of people sharing HIS glory — Moses representing the resurrected saints, and Elijah, the raptured saints.  "For the LORD HIMSELF will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of GOD.  And the dead in CHRIST will rise first.  Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the LORD in the air. And thus we shall always be with the LORD.  Therefore comfort one another with these words." [1 Thessalonians 4. 16 – 18]  "Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear HIS voice and come forth — those who have done good, to the resurrection of life." [John 6. 28 – 29] 

O what a foretaste of glory, we shall behold the KING OF GLORY, and be eternally comforted in HIS PRESENCE.


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  Extolled and holy is the precious name of GOD throughout the world which HE has created, and which HE governs according to HIS righteous will.  Just is HE in all HIS ways, and wise are all HIS decrees.  May HIS Kingdom come and HIS will be done in all the earth.  Praised be the LORD of life, the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE for evermore. 

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. . .
Confession is worth one hundred witnesses. 

ASHAMED OR BOLD     
"According to my earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all BOLDNESS, as always, so now also MESSIAH Y’SHUA will be magnified in my body, whether by life, or by death." [Philippians 1. 20] 

Paul frequently looked ahead, anticipating future events with confidence, as if they had already happened or at least were secure.  He anticipated beyond his present circumstances to foresee the outcome of faithfulness — not being ashamed at the time of judgment. 

Shame (Hebrew: kelimmah) is that painful feeling of having lost the respect of others because of improper behavior, incompetence, or selfishness.  It implies that the person has already thought about the consequences of the action and is aware that they might be found out in the course of events, but acts improperly anyhow.  No defense is possible in that tragic moment of discovery.  The ashen shock is followed by a rapid flush of blood to the skin, where the truth is revealed in an un-mistaken emotional display of humiliation that the world can visibly read.  "The wicked flee when no one gives chase, but the righteous are as confident (Hebrew: batach — bold, secure) as a lion." [Proverbs (Mishle) 28. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Ezra experienced that deep feeling as he came before the ETERNAL LORD GOD to confess for his people their disobedience and how they had forsaken HIS commandments which the ALMIGHTY ONE gave through HIS servants and prophets. [Ezra 9. 10]   "O my GOD, I am too ashamed and humiliated to lift my face to YOU, O my GOD, for our iniquities are overwhelming and numerous; and our guilt has grown high as heaven." [Ezra 9. 6 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

In contrast to that terrible feeling of guilt is the comfortable posture of knowing that we have remained true to our MASTER'S admonitions and warnings, "little children, abide in HIM, that, when HE shall appear, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before HIM at HIS coming." [1 John 2. 28]   The LORD Y’SHUA ha'MASHIACH clearly stated the conditions, "for whoever is ashamed of ME and of MY WORDS, of him the SON OF MAN will be ashamed when HE comes in HIS OWN GLORY, and in HIS FATHER'S, and of the holy angels." [Luke 9. 26]   Praying always, "that I may open my mouth BOLDLY to make known the mystery of the GOSPEL...that I may speak BOLDLY, as I ought to speak." [Ephesians 6. 18 - 20]   May we be found worthy and confidently standing firm and attentively doing the MASTER'S will, with a clear conscience, when HE comes for us or we go to be with HIM. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  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 PRECIOUS REVERED WORD.  Enlighten our eyes in YOUR Law that we may cling to YOUR commandments.  Thank YOU for YOUR saving power, for from YOU alone comes our help.  Draw us nearer to YOU to serve YOU in faithfulness.  Joyfully, we lift our voices and proclaim YOUR PRECIOUS NAME. 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com 
 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
If there is righteousness in the heart, there is peace and joy in the character! 

JESUS-MESSIAH-LORD     
"For in HIM (Y’SHUA) dwells all the fullness of the GODHEAD bodily." [Colossians 2. 9] 

It was the WORD WHO "was GOD" and by WHOM "all things were made." [John 1. 1, 3]  The wealth of truth is beyond human comprehension, we can never understand how the INFINITE HOLY GOD could become FINITE MAN, but to those who believe, it is revealed. 

When the WORD was made flesh — HIS character is revealed and different names make known WHO Y’SHUA truly is . . .  
LORD:  JESUS is the SOVEREIGN CREATOR & RULER of the Universe; victorious over all enemies, even death itself.  "Death is swallowed up in victory...Thanks be to GOD, WHO gives us the victory through our LORD JESUS CHRIST." [1 Corinthians 15. 54, 57]  And, Y’SHUA is the EVER-LIVING GOD WHOSE glory is revealed in the heavens above and whose greatness is manifest throughout the world. 

Y’SHUA/JESUS:  HIS human name, speaks of HIS mission as SUFFERING SAVIOR.  "JESUS, WHO was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honour, that HE, by the grace of GOD, might taste death for everyone... make the CAPTAIN of their salvation perfect through sufferings." [Hebrews 2. 9 – 10]   "And we have seen and testify that the FATHER has sent the SON as SAVIOR of the world." [1 John 4. 14] 

MESSIAH/CHRIST:  This title speaks of HIS office (ANOINTED ONE) as GOD'S CHOSEN KING.  "HE (MESSIAH Y’SHUA) is LORD of lords and KING of kings; and those who are with HIM are called, chosen, and faithful." [Revelation 17. 14]  Infinite is HIS awesome power, even so is HIS steadfast love. 

LORD & KING:  Y’SHUA'S exalted position as SOVEREIGN CREATOR and ETERNAL KING and shows the seriousness of our service to HIM.  "Thus says the LORD, your REDEEMER, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL... I am your HOLY ONE, the LORD, your KING, the CREATOR OF ISRAEL." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 43. 14 - 15 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 


"Therefore GOD also has highly exalted HIM (Y’SHUA, GOD’S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON) and given HIM the NAME which is above every name, that at the NAME OF JESUS every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that JESUS CHRIST is LORD, to the glory of GOD THE FATHER." [Philippians 2. 9 - 11]   We bow the head and bend the knee in humble adoration and magnify the GLORIOUS KING of kings, the HOLY ONE, praised, extolled and honored be HE. 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles! 
“If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, let my right hand wither.” Psalms 137:5
  We thank and praise YOUR NAME in truth, O GOD, our SALVATION and our HELP.  Blessed are YOU , FATHER of mercies for it is becoming to give YOU thanks.  May peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, Amen.  
 Blessings on you each day, may the ALMIGHTY ONE give you HIS wisdom and strength to handle every decision you make for HIS glory. 

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

Web Page:  www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . .
If a thing does not challenge you, it cannot change you! 

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

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

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

The COMMANDMENT (Law) of GOD was not set aside when MESSIAH Y’SHUA came, obvious from HIS first remark of the Law in the NEW COVENANT.  The LORD JESUS said, "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets.  I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.  For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the Law till all is fulfilled." [Matthew 5. 17 - 18]   Furthermore, the Law is not for Jews only, for its first mention in the OLD COVENANT affirms, "There shall be one Law for the citizen (Jew) and for the stranger (Gentile) who dwells among you." [Exodus (Shemot) 12. 49 Tanakh, Torah] 

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

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


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  Welcoming Sabbath, may its radiance illumine our hearts as we kindle the candles of Sabbath!  
Sabbath of Bo — ”Come” [Reading: Exodus 10:1 – 13:16; Jeremiah 46:13-28; John 19: 31-37] 
I praise and thank YOU, ALMIGHTY ONE, GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN for YOU comfort and delight my soul.  YOU are my ROCK  and my REFUGE, YOU are my HOPE & DELIGHT, the ONE in whom I place my trust. 

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. . .
Humility is being prepared to serve.  Pride is not being willing to serve anyone — totally immersing oneself in themselves, wrapped in the ostentatious (pretentious, brazen, showy) garment of self-indulgence. 

BLESSED HOPE     
"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with GOD through our LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD.  And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." [Romans 5. 1 - 4] 

Hope is a much needed ingredient for living in this world.  In Hebrew there are several types of hope: "yachal" mean to trust, wait, tarry or stay — "betach" is confident expectation, safe, secure, sure — "tiqvah" translates a longing — "miqveh" means confidence, abiding (also a bath or pond of water).  Saints of GOD MOST HIGH have the confident assurance of the hope of a glorious inheritance awaiting them.  "Therefore my heart rejoices, my whole being exults; and my flesh rests in secure hope." [Psalms (Tehillym) 16. 9 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Good works only produce a false hope when one thinks they will earn the rich reward of a Heavenly Home.  Although GOD’S Law is perfect, it cannot make a person righteous, for no one is able of keeping the Law.  There is hope however, and that hope is faith and trust in the LORD Y’SHUA, HE is the believer’s HOPE OF SALVATION; for MESSIAH in you is the HOPE of glory. [Colossians 1. 27] 

This HOPE that is in you is our SOLID FOUNDATION WHO gives us the needed confidence to trust expectantly.  "The LORD Y’SHUA ha’MASHIACH HIMSELF, and our GOD and FATHER, WHO has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace." [2 Thessalonians 2. 16]  "For the Law made nothing perfect; on the other hand, there is the bringing in of a BETTER HOPE, through which we draw near to GOD." [Hebrews 7. 19] 

We are also given a blessed hope, by GOD‘S grace, bringing us to salvation teaching us that by "denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our GREAT GOD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST, 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] 

Furthermore, we receive the LIVING HOPE in which we can greatly rejoice, "Blessed be the GOD and FATHER of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, WHO according to HIS abundant mercy 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, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of GOD through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." [1 Peter 1. 3 - 5] 

"Thus GOD, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of HIS counsel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for GOD to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us.  This hope we have as an ANCHOR of the soul, both sure and steadfast." [Hebrews 6. 17 - 19] 

"Blessed is he who trusts in the LORD, and whose HOPE is the LORD alone." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 17. 7 Tanakh, Nevi’im]  Our WONDERFUL SAVIOR not only gives us a better hope, a good hope, a blessed hope, and a living hope, but also our hope centered on the eternal future with the KING OF GLORY. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  As we bid farewell to Sabbath, may the HOLY ONE bless and fill you with HIS Holy Commandments and call us to occupy ourselves with the LIFE-GIVING WORDS of TORAH.  And, may your ever-growing faith grant you the privilege to witness and experience the marvelous miracle of being delivered from the yoke of slavery to sin.  We encourage you to take some of Sabbath’s sweetness with you each coming day. 
  "Tov Shavua — Have a good week — a week of peace...may gladness reign and joy increase!"  Let not your heart be troubled, glorify the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA, the KING of the Universe and allow HIS SPIRIT to comfort and transform your life. 

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  May GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly.  And, may peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and all Israel, Amen.  
  Watch and pray, the LORD MESSIAH Y’SHUA is coming soon to set up HIS Kingdom.  The descendants of HIS servants shall inherit it, and those who love HIS NAME shall dwell in it.  
  May the ALL-PRESENT ONE fill you with HIS DIVINE PRESENCE that HE may be glorified and your life enriched. 

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. . .
Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal (GOD). 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Sha’alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of JerUSAlem and all of Israel!
Redeem Israel, O ELOHIYM, out of all their troubles!
  All praise, honor, glory and adoration to our KING and to HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN PRECIOUS SON!  Holy, righteous, just, and true now and forever is our SOVEREIGN ONE.  Thank YOU FATHER, for the Holy City dressed as a bride, which will descend and be inhabited by YOUR Holy People; and YOU will reign forever and evermore! HalleluYAH!

  An effective leader needs to be warm and considerate.  Be more loving; exercise your authority and leadership in a caring manner; not demanding.  Be kind to your subordinates.  Y’SHUA said, "love one another as I have loved you." [John 15:12-13]  And serve one another "with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love." [Ephesians 4:2] 

 

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.


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