As we begin the biblical new year (Exodus 12:2) this week, observant Jews around the world are reading Exodus 38:21 – 40:38. The passage constitutes this week’s traditionally set portion (parasha) of the annual Torah reading cycle. It describes final preparations that were to be made for Israel’s ancient tabernacle,…...
COUNTING THE OMER: Israel’s Independence Day and Memorial Day
Blessings of the season to you as we commemorate an often overlooked, minor festival on God’s biblical calendar, Counting the Omer. Counting the Omer (in Hebrew, “Sefirat HaOmer”) lasts 49 days, beginning with the Sabbath of Passover. The 50th day is celebrated as the Feast of Weeks (in Hebrew, “Shavuot.”) During…...
Celebrating the Miracle of Jerusalem: 53 Years
Tonight and tomorrow we celebrate Jerusalem Day (Yom Yerushalayim), marking 53 years since the city’s re-reunification in 1967. It is a joyful time of praise, thanksgiving and dancing in the streets. (Covid restrictions are relaxed.) So you might celebrate briefly with us, included below is the city’s beloved unofficial anthem,…...
The Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah): Much More than a Dress Rehearsal
The atmosphere in Israel this week is tinged with lively expectancy, despite the drama of political posturing and military threats of Iran. Around the country, preparations are underway for Yom Teruah (Day or Feast of Trumpets), also known as Rosh HaShanah (Head of the Year) on September 30. Yom Kippur…...
What Do Israel’s Election Results Suggest for Messianic Faith in the Land?
The votes are in. Israel’s second national election this year has, once again, yielded no clear winning party. But for Kingdom purposes, at least one prayed-for victory was scored: The ultra-Orthodox, anti-Messiah political stronghold in our government was, and continues to be, shaken. The battle for genuine religious freedom in…...
One Critical Challenge to One New Man
ARTICLE SUMMARY: While deeply grateful for Christian support of Israel, we have watched increasing numbers, especially leaders, seek to bless the Jewish people at the cost of compromising, withholding and then denying, the Gospel. This approach was well intended. A remnant of evangelicals wanted to heal 2,000 years of Christian…...