ARROWS from ZION

Sunday, September 12, 2021

SPECIAL: Feast of Trumpets | Arrows from Zion | 9 6 2021

I am late putting this up and because I sent out the Weekly Summary version instead of an abbreviated Arrows from Zion version to both mailing lists. I am going to be highly selective of what I put online in this special issue for the Feast of Trumpets:

From Asher Intrater’s teaching “Seven Trumpets” (Revive Israel)

SPECIAL: Feast of Trumpets
by Donna Diorio

This is a special focus issue this week devoted entirely to the online events and the teachings of Israeli Messianic ministries on the Feast of Trumpets, which is the official opening of the High Holy Days God’s prophetic Feast days. Honestly, I would hate to be a Christian at this time in history who did not respect or understand what the Messianic Jewish believers in Jesus know about the BIBLICAL, God-appointed Holy Days that we are entering into tonight.
The reason is because these holidays were appointed by God, not by the Jews, and they are God’s prophetic pictures pointing to His due season for restoring Israel to faith. Make no mistake: this is not just pertinent to Jews but will have a direct impact on what Christians will be experiencing during this appointed season too.
This evening at sunset in Israel begins the Feast of Trumpets which is known as Rosh Hashanah to non-Messianic Jews, or Jewish New Year. It is not the biblical New Year though. This and many other things are misunderstood mysteries for Christians who pay little attention to anything to do with the Jewish faith in Jesus. There is still time learn what the prophetic pictures in the biblical holy days foreshadow. Please share these teachings and events with your Christian friends who don’t know. All of other news from the ministries this week will be carried over to next week’s issue.

Arrows from Zion
Summarized from the Weekly Summary of Prayer Requests Israeli Ministries

Also from Asher & Revive Israel: ONLINE EVENT On Tuesday, September 7th, 2021, at 5 AM (PDT) | 3 PM (IDT) we will gather together as a global family to take our place of authority, in oneness of spirit, to speak life and peace into a world that is shaken by fear. At Facebook or on YouTube in 4 languages
In the posture of being seated in the Heavenly places with Christ Jesus, there is the authority to declare Life, Mercy, Supernatural Protection and Provision for our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan. We have faith to declare together that those who are persecuting the church today will also experience an encounter with Jesus that brings about their conversion— and the scales will come off their eyes as He encountered Saul on the way to Damascus. With the sound of victory, we will blow the trumpet!

There was a special commentary from David Silver of Out of Zion ministries on Preparing to celebrate the Fall Feasts of Israel - the "moedim" appointed feasts from ) Leviticus 23:1 - 2 YHVH said to Moses: Speak to the Israelites and tell them "These are the YHVH's appointed times which you must proclaim as Holy assemblies. They are My appointed times ...”
Also a booklet of David's teaching on "the time of the restoration of all things for Israel and the Church (see my Restoration booklet)"

From Kerem-El (God's Vineyard) Congregation A congregational planting by Kehilat HaCarmel, "In that day sing to her, "A vineyard of red wine! I, the LORD, keep it, I water it every moment; Lest any hurt it, I keep it night and day." Isaiah 27:2-3 | The summer holidays in Israel are now past as we move straight into the Lord's Fall Feasts that begin very early (September 6th) this year. Celebrating the Feast of Trumpets (also known as the traditional Jewish New Year), the Day of Atonement - the most holy day of the Jewish calendar, and then also the Feast of Tabernacles hold so much richness and significance, especially for believers in the 21st century.
As the day of the Lord's return approaches, we are commanded to encourage each other (Heb 10:25), and a great way to accomplish that is by examining God's road map that He laid out through His feast days. The Feast of Trumpets foreshadows that last trumpet that will sound as the King returns to take His bride and set up His kingdom here on earth. The Day of Atonement reminds us of when we will all stand before the Lord of all the earth, for us who believe to receive our reward, and for those who don't, to receive judgment. Finally, the Feast of Tabernacles tells us of when we will once again tabernacle with God, and He with us, in His kingdom. Much more could be said about each "appointed time", so we encourage you to dig deep in God's word and enjoy the riches to be found.

Chuck Cohen, Intercessors for Israel in Jerusalem, writes: "Monday at sunset, Rosh Hashanah, the first of the biblical fall feasts begins. For observant Jews, it starts a ten-day period of introspection in which they try to get right with man and with God. This is a good time to intercede for many Jews to receive a revelation of Messiah Yeshua. As this feast is called in scripture Yom Teruah, the Day of the Blowing [of the Shofar], please wake up many Jews to hear You calling them and then grace them with Your salvation (Eph. 2:8-10). "

Chaim Malespin, Director of Operations at Aliyah Return Center writes: "This week we had the long awaited, Grand Opening of our “Upper Room" Lone Soldier House after some unfortunate setbacks. But ITS OPEN! We want to be there for and welcome IDF soldiers who have committed themselves to defending the defenseless in this Land and who have no family to stay with, when on leave, and no family to celebrate these High Holy Days and Feasts of the Lord. with. See the preparations video here!
".....(see replay of) LIVE on Facebook as we celebrate this Feast of Trumpets on Monday September 6th at 7pm Israel time for The Trumpet Call Heard Around the World! Watch the promo video! Join us on Facebook and Youtube for all the Fall Feasts! Feast of Trumpets: Mon 9/6 at 12pm EST | Yom Kippur Mon 9/15/ 12pm EST | Sukkot Mon 9/20 12pm EST"

Israel Pochtar of the Ashdod Beit Hallel Family Network of Congregations & Voice of Judah Israel Ministries writes, "The Feast of Trumpets - A Veiled Mystery with a Deep Meaning | Part 2 VIDEO and Article with Pastor Pochtar | In modern tradition, the Feast of Trumpets symbolizes the beginning of the Jewish New Year, but the biblical Feast of Trumpets is so much more than that."

Sally Shiff Intercessor & Liaison for Kehilat HaMaayan in Kfar Saba Congregation of the Wellspring led by Tony and Orna Sperandeo writes, "A new chapter unfolds as Jews around the world will start celebrating Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. It’s a mixture of feasting and fasting for the sake of glorifying God. Our congregation will spend the time during Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur praying for our nation as well as the world, culminating in a day long fast. . . . On September 15, at 10:00 am we will be offering 24 HOURS OF PRAYER AND FASTING for the restoration of the Jewish people. The signup sheet.

Dani and LuAnne Sayag leading the Carmel congregation in Haifa send this video greeting from our leadership team

Howard Bass who leads the Kehilat Nachalat Yeshua (Yeshua’s Inheritance) Congregation in Beer Sheva sends the best shofar blowing video I've ever heard! See Howard's articles Trumpets for a New Beginning, God is Moving Towards Completion and the Trumpets article on KehilaNewsIsrael.
Also, a few words of tribute for David Friedman who died from Covid: "...last night, a dear brother in the Lord, David Friedman, passed over into the presence of the Lord. Perhaps good news for him, but sad news for all that he left behind sooner than hoped for and expected. We knew David and Margalit from the time that they immigrated, since they first arrived in Beer Sheva. He had a demeanor that was quiet and unassuming, but a heart that moved him to action and service to others, in sports as well as in spiritual and political ministry.

Avishalom Tekel leads the northern Israel suburban Ohalai Rachamim, or Tents of Mercy. He writes, "Tonight begins Rosh HaShana - the Feast of Trumpets. . . .To us as believers this festival bears an even a deeper meaning. We hear the sound of trumpet declaring Yeshua’s soon return and are reminded that we have been redeemed from the fruit of Adam and Eve, and have entered into the sweetness of His everlasting Kingdom! Rosh HaShana also is the first of three significant holidays that occur during the Hebrew months of Elul and Tishrei. I am sharing a short message here about the significance of these holy days during these times. May the knowledge of His redemption renew your life and bring you into a New and Good Season."Watch this special Rosh Hashanah video greeting from Tents of Mercy Avi Tekle.

Gil Afriat who is the lead pastor of Tiferet Yeshua in Tel Aviv writes this article you can read online, The Day of Trumpeting - A prophetic dress rehearsal. ALSO: A trumpeting call for the Bride to Arise on the Mt. of Olives | In January this year, an inter-congregational group of worshipers and intercessors came together to seek the Lord for unity in the Body of Messiah in Israel. As a result, the song Kumi Kala (Arise O Bride) was born – a cooperative effort calling for the bride of Messiah to stand together as one, purified and unified in love. Together with different congregations and ministries in the Land and internationally, we felt called to erect a worship alter of trumpeting on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem to worship, blow the shofar and announce the coming of the conquering King, to call the Bride to arise in love, unity and holiness to meet the Bridegroom. It was an incredibly powerful time, with worshipers and intercessors from all over the Body of Messiah in Israel and of all ages, and we ended up worshiping and praying until after dark."

Urgent HEALING Needs: Life and Death is in the power of the tongue
Please keep in prayer the Israeli believers who are fighting for their lives or other urgent health needs:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a beloved Servant of G-D, Disciple of Yeshua, Lover of Torah, Faithful Husband, Devoted Father, Proud Grandfather, Dedicated Rabbi, Humble Teacher, Reliable Friend, Persistent Advocate for Aliyah and the Rights of the Unborn, and a Patriotic War Veteran. Rabbi David ben Nissim ,PhD was born on April 16, 1953 and he passed into Heaven on Sunday, September 5th, 2021, while surrounded by his family and friends. David was a UMJC Rabbi, professor at the Messianic Jewish Theological Institute and former dean of King of Kings College in Jerusalem, the first Messianic Jewish candidate that ran for a seat in the Knesset, and more recently served as the Director of Lev Zion Beit Midrash and the Rabbi of Kehilat Darchei Noam in the Jerusalem area. "I am still a part of our people. Israel's destiny is my destiny. Israel's prayers are my prayers." - Rabbi David Friedman, PhD. Announcements regarding the funeral and Shiva will follow.

Please Pray for Claude Ezagouri of the Morning Star Fellowship who has started a treatment that is due to last at least 6 months for a medical problem he has been suffering from. Believe in prayer with them as they look to the Lord for complete healing and for prompt recovery from some other ailments. | Ronit Bender finally has seen a new cardiologist she likes because he is caring, she’s taking new meds, feels better but still asks for our prayers | Pray for Carolyn Hyde whose left hand is so pained she can no longer play guitar and it is also sometimes painful to play piano | Silvers: David's knees and Josie's back pain | A prayer request for Naomi, for a dear family that is a part of Israel Pochtar's pastoral team, who was diagnosed with colon cancer. "Despite what this battle entails, we are confident in God’s unfailing Word and promises." Read in her own words| Please continue to pray for Jacob Damkani for the LORD's mercies over Jacob and his dear wife, Elisheva | Dov Bikas – I have been very tired these days: probably as a result of a combination of factors: my age, stress of the days of running to the bomb shelter, work load in the ministry, etc. Olga Bikas: We are grateful that Olga is feeling better these days! Though the doctors never found the cause of the dizziness that put her in hospital a month ago, they did rule out major issues like brain tumors, heart problems, etc., so this is already comforting. Olga’s back also keeps improving and she is able to walk more outside now than she did before.

Thank you for donating to my ministry if it is a blessing to you.♥

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Wednesday, September 1, 2021

My 20th Anniversary Issue | Arrows from Zion | 9 1 2021

The Beautiful Faces of Israeli Ministries

If you can identify the Israelis in this photo montage,
then you've probably been a subscriber of mine for a long while.

My 20^th Anniversary Issue

by Donna Diorio

The pictures above are just some of the many beautiful faces of those in Israel who are fulfilling Isaiah 52:7 today. “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”

But look at that with the key words in Hebrew:
    "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those
     who basar/ gladden with good news,
     who šama’ šhalôm/shema – Hear, O Israel: Peace, completeness, soundness, welfare,
     who basar tôb/declare benefits,
     who proclaim yešû’â /Yeshua His Name means salvation,
     who say to Zion, “Your 'elohîm/GOD reigns!”

The beautiful faces above are the ones whose beautiful feet are doing those things in Israel today –   CURRENTLY, not at some future time. They are not being prompted, organized or led by Christian ministries to spread the Gospel in Israel, but some Christians have followed God’s call to come alongside the Israeli ministries in prayer, finances and other practical help. They are HELPERS of the Israeli ministries so they may fulfill Isaiah 52:7 as they are called to do.
     NOW Yeshua is being proclaimed in Israel. Those who are proclaiming Yeshua’s salvation on the mountains of Israel are these Israeli ministries and many more that I feature each week. This has been the main purpose of the Weekly Summary and Arrows from Zion for the past twenty years.
     Many in the Christian world are expecting Israel’s salvation to come another way – like through their Gospel-less donations to forge friendships with Israeli rabbinic or government figures. They think that is the witness that will win Israelis to faith…eventually. Scripture says “faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” These are the Christian Zionists who don’t want anyone mentioning Jesus to Israelis; some even think the Israeli Messianic Jews are a heretical cult, it you can believe that! And a great many Christians are surprised to even learn there are almost 20,000 Israeli Messianic Jewish believers in Jesus who are ALREADY bearing witness to Israel’s Messiah Yeshua.
     The salvation of Yeshua is being declared in earnest in Israel ALREADY. They are not waiting for some future moment because the time is ALREADY here. They don’t need Christian Zionist permission to share their own faith and the personal benefits they have experienced of Yeshua’s salvation.
     I am NOT against Christian Zionism, I’m just against the kind that denies the Gospel is for all Jews right now. The clock is ALREADY ticking and it is GOD’s clock! There are over 1 million Messianic Jews worldwide and the salvation specifically of Israeli Jews is gaining speed with every year that has passed since 1948. Israeli Messianic believers who are bearing the witness to Israel and “for Zion’s sake” they too will not be silenced.
      It is also amazing to me but some Christians just reject the concept that Israeli Jews are God’s lead players in bringing the Gospel to Israel. Some of them think that God is on the verge of sending a flood of fiery international Christian evangelizers into Israel to bring Jews to faith in the Yeshua. This stops them from throwing their full support behind the Israeli ministries who are providing a credible witness to Israeli Jews, because they are Israeli Jews. Christians are necessary to bringing Israel to faith, but mostly as helpers, not as the lead in that harvest field. Christians who want to contribute to Israel’s salvation have got to lose the takeover mentality and be humble enough to see God’s calling in the Israeli spiritual vineyard is resting on the beautiful faces you see in the pictures above along with their many fellow Israeli Messianic Jews. The help they need is funding to send out the laborers into the harvest field.
     A few weeks ago I got in a ministry letter that featured one of the congregational team members and the photo startled me. My immediate thought was, “Wow. This is what Jesus could have looked like!” The man in the photo had such a calm, serene, kindly yet strong countenance. It was the kind of demeanor I think Yeshua would have had. There is another one of the Israeli ministers I have thought for a long time could be what the apostle Paul may have looked like.
     I’ve been thinking about this over the past week or so and thought that since Christians have been reading our bibles we have imagined what some favorite Bible characters looked like. Even though most of the figures in the Bible are predominantly Jewish, what we visualized probably is more how people in our own nations look. Renaissance paintings of a blue-eyed Jesus points to that tendency we all share. The artists might have painted biblical characters in clothing of the era but not necessarily in the physical appearance of Jews of that era before there was much diffusion of the ethnic Middle Eastern appearance of Israelis.
     At Rosh HaShanah 5782/2021, there is no longer a primary ethnic appearance among Jews. Scattered to the four corners of the earth now many “communities” of Jews depending upon which corner of the earth they are returning to Israel from – Mizrachi, Sephardic, Ethiopian, Askenazic, even Bene Indian and Far Eastern.
     It dawned on me that never before in history have we had so great an opportunity to see Jews living in Israel with authentic resemblance to our most beloved biblical figures. All Jews are Jews, but as I was choosing which photos to use for this cover story I was drawn to those that reminded me of how I visualize biblical figures. Among the many I consider my Israeli friends I saw people who could easily have been just exactly what Elijah looked like, or John the Baptist. I saw in them Mary Magdalene, Dorcas and Deborah. I look at their pictures and see Simon Peter, Jael, Asaph, John, Barnabas, Simeon and Anna. That is not trying to puff anyone up – it’s just a fact! They bear the resemblance of their ancestors. With all the focus on tracking our ancestry in recent years, maybe you have noticed like I have that in families there are pictures that turn up of some great, great grandmother or grandfather that so strongly resembles one of their descendants alive today. We are all unique people but we come from family lines that often produce uncannily strong familial physical resemblance.
     I believe there is another good reason why it is so easy to see the Israeli ministries as the biblical characters we love. It has to do with a change that seems to take place inside of Jews restored to the Land of Promise. Their physical DNA does not change, but there is something that changes within for them. They are home – the home God gave them – and just being home brings them more into the expression of their authentic self. That is what I believe and I believe it is that way because God wants it to be that way, part of His draw of the Jews back to their original home in the time of His spiritual restoration of the chosen people.
     The connection between the Jews and the Land He gave them is more than just a sentimental longing for one’s homeland. Israel is the place where Jews not only come back into their own Jewish identity, but it is the place God has appointed for them to become fully spiritually restored to Him. They have paid a lot to be chosen by God for His purposes, but He has a good end for them and He will fulfill it.
     For the Messianic Jew who has returned to Israel, or the Jew who has returned to Israel and found faith in Yeshua, or even the native Israeli Jew who becomes a believer – all of these Jews have something even more in common with our biblical favorite characters. It is because they too are “a peculiar people” just like both the Old and New Covenant Jews of faith who walked in a living relationship with God. Both Christians and Messianic Jews belong this “peculiar people” spiritual family. To belong to this family we must enter it God’s way which is today through faith in Yeshua. We have to be in the Blood-line.
     Israeli Messianic Jews have been called to faith “according to His purpose” to restore “all Israel” to a living relationship with YHVH through Yeshua. They are the only Israelis who share the same spiritual DNA as our favorite Old and New Covenant figures. More will come into faith, but until then, the Messianic Jews connection to the God of Israel is not just because of being in the Jewish bloodline, but they are connected to God’s greater spiritual family through the sacrificial blood of Yeshua. This was God’s plan, to make of two one new man in Messiah.
     Each and every one of the Israeli ministry leaders from the smallest to the largest ministry – are Jews who have been set apart by God to bring salvation to the lost sheep in Israel. They heard God’s call and they came. Some came from worse living situations but many came from much better living situations. For better or for worse they came to Israel and they are committed to living out God’s calling on their lives, even sacrificially.
     In my mind, that is what sets the Israeli ministries apart from Messianic Jewish ministries all over the world. Yes, there is still need for Messianic leaders in the Diaspora but I believe that we should give honor where honor is overdue. In the Israeli ministries there is a stronger measure of sacrifice than exists among most of the Israeli Messianic Jewish ministries in the nations, at least in the Western nations (and at least for now).
     To me, the reason Israeli ministries so strongly resemble biblical characters are because they are literally walking in the footsteps of the ancient Jews of faith in Israel. May the future of this prayer letter as long as it may continue, always give honor to the Israeli ministries and those who are walking out their faith in Yeshua as a witness to all Israel.

Arrows from Zion
Summarized from the Weekly Summary of Prayer Requests Israeli Ministries

A report from Jackie Santoro of Zion’s Glory in Jerusalem captures the ongoing stresses facing all Israelis – but not without hope! School is starting just as confusion and uncertainty are swirling over the new Delta Covid variant. Then starting 9/6 with Rosh HaShanah, school will be out for a month for the High Holy Days.” Jackie writes, “The joy of the holidays are muted...people are going about their business but there is a ‘carefreeness’ that is gone. Most are cautious, uncertain, confused and doing their best to just ‘stay afloat.’ Life is different.” She asks for prayers over PM’s Bennett & Lapid to know what to do. A very ominous report: “Not only the virus advance which is a constant pressure but now seven hospitals are threatening a strike because of lack of funding and are refusing to take new Covid cases as they say they are overwhelmed and don't have money or staff to deal with it.” The security issues for Israel have not subsided on any front and you can read more of that in Jackie’s Online version of this letter, including a good report about God directing her after she asked for someone to talk to about Yeshua.
Jackie also writes that their congregation Ahavat Yeshua in Jerusalem has had to go back to zoom meetings due to the covid restrictions and that “many of our members are still out of work due to the lack of tourism. It has become a difficult trial and a challenge to maintain our sense of unity and community. Please pray for our leadership for wisdom and supernatural strategy to find a way to overcome all these obstacles. We know God is always victorious.”

In 20 years of doing this weekly prayer letter, I have never known of a time when the need among believers in Israel was so great. The ministries are surely underfunded, but at this moment in time, whole congregations are suffering greatly because of Covid. They are our family in Jesus and we are told in Galatians 6:10 "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith."

From Israel Pochtar in Ashdod’s Beit Hallel & Voice of Judah ministries, this VIDEO & Article The Biblical Feast of Trumpets — Prophetic Road Signs of What is to Come . Also a 1 minute VIDEO praise report Awake Youth Conference: Praise Report! And an encouragement he sends following the youth conference to develop The Culture of Bible Reading among youth: “You’d be surprised how many messianic and Christian kids don’t actually read the Bible or don’t know how to approach reading it.” Pochtar is also praising God for the Storehouse of Blessing. If you want to add to it: The High Holidays - An Opportunity to Reflect God’s Goodness | Lastly, if you are in the Dallas/Ft Worth area, Come Meet Pastor Israel in Person in Texas | You are invited to join Pastor Israel Pochtar for a free dinner and fundraising banquet!

Ahead of the High Holy Days, Chuck Cohen of Intercessors for Israel in Jerusalem writes, Salvation | The feasts of the Lord (Lev. 23:2) – Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Succoth – are in September this year. That makes this an appropriate time to pray for the salvation of the Jewish people, as this is when many Jews are asking God to save them. Yet many of them have a distorted image of Yeshua from the Christians who think of Israel's Messiah as some type of "Cosmic Christ" with absolutely no connection to His Jewish family in the flesh. Also, many Jewish rabbis have not presented the whole picture of the promised Messiah from the Tanach to His people. And so we pray.” Friday Prayer Points 8/20/21 and 8/27/21 (excerpts read in full online)

Out of Zion Ministries’ David Silver sent out a comment that are almost identical to my own regarding the vaccine. Read it on Kehila News Israel: What is Coming After Delta and How do We Protect Ourselves? Also Join David Silver for video each week on the news impacting Israel : Midweek Update Video for 8/24/21 and 8/31/2021

Ron Cantor writes about the second year of ShelanuTV and all the exciting things going on as they are speaking daily to Israelis in Hebrew about how the Messiah Yeshua is “ours” — not some foreign god, but the Messiah the Jews have been looking for. “I am amazed that we have been able to produce so much content in such a short period of time. It is the grace of God! There has never been so much native Israeli, born-again content available as there is today. . . . as this God-injected content is being released, we see disbelief and bias begin to crumble and the light of the truth shine through, reaching hearts. We are going to see a change in Israel as people turn towards the light of the life of Yeshua and are saved!

We reached just under a quarter of a million people during the month of June.
Cantor continues, “as with all harvests, it’s vital that you know what SEASON you are in. I'm no farmer or gardener – at least not in the natural, but I am in the spirit! Right now, it is SEED PLANTING time and WATERING time … and even before that, there are some areas where we are breaking up the hard ground. JOIN US in this exciting adventure to reach ALL of ISRAEL with the gospel. Until all Israel is saved (Romans 11:26) Donate to help us.

Fields of Wheat and Katzir minister Joel Jelski is currently in West Texas. He has some open dates in Texas and writes, “I am looking for people who might be willing to host a small group in their home and invite friends/people they know who would be interested in connecting with someone from Israel. The dates available for that would be the evenings of September 10-11 (Friday-Saturday), 16, 17, 18 (Thursday-Saturday). If you would be interested, feel free to email me. I also still have two Sundays available to speak at a church. If you know a church that would be interested, I am available the Sundays of September 12 and 19.” (Just before leaving Israel Joel and Teresa found out they are having another boy. Joel asks prayers for his family as he travels.)

Revive Israel has been developing an online video resource that we can tune into for “Praise, Prophecy, Prayer, and Preaching” from their team in Jerusalem. Watch Eitan Shishkoff in the 8/26 GLOBAL BROADCAST preaching about the subject of his new book, With All Your Heart – book available at Amazon. In the previous week 8/19 Asher Intrater taught about SOZO (Salvation & Healing). At the same VIDEOS link you can catch up on several of Asher Intrater's recent mini-teachings, like Keys to Open and Close, Praying for Jerusalem and Cities You Didn't Build.
If you haven’t caught the thrust of what Tikkun Global/Revive Israel are doing, they are sending the word of the Lord out to the nations from Jerusalem just as Isaiah 2 says will happen in the last days.. We don’t have to wait until they come to our town, in fact we should not! They can come to us now without ever having to leave their responsibilities to the Israelis they are ministering to. It is time to break the paradigm of thinking that says they must come to us every summer on tour for us to establish relationship with them. Technology has made it possible for us to make the world so much smaller, we should avail ourselves to those resources to gather together for Praise, Prophecy, Prayer, and Preaching from Israel.

In Arad, the Hasdey Yeshua report is on the truly troubled lives that Bedouin women are living under. This is not a new thing under any of the Arabic cultures, Islam or Bedouin, but Hasdey Yeshua is seeing some heartbreaking things with the women they are ministering to close to Arad. It is like the Psalms 6:6 verse they quoted in their opening: “I am weary with my groaning; all night I make my bed swim. I drench my couch with my tears.” If ever there was a people bearing a weight that would cause them to look to the LORD for deliverance, it is these women. Even so, it is not easy for them to come to faith because if anyone found out, their lives would be even more under threat. Even Beduoin men who have come to faith have had to leave the area entirely so not to be killed. Yet God is stirring among these needy women. Pray that He will make a way for them where there is no way to be seen.
The congregation writes that a young adult who is about to enter pre-IDF service responded to discipleship studies for months with a desire to be baptized. Pray for her to continue to grow in faith. Also, for those touched in a recent trip to northern Israel where the biblical significance of various sites was taught – even to an unbeliever who came. They appreciate your prayers for their city, their mayor, their congregation and their outreaches.

The HaMaayan congregation in Kfar Saba are asking if we are in Revival or Survival? (Read the whole prayer letter at their blog). “In the midst of natural disasters, wars and rumors of wars and the new pandemic Covid wave, we have a choice to respond either by Fear or by Faith. Are we seeking Revival or Survival?” They continue, “Until Yeshua, our Lord returns, His great commission to be His witnesses and make disciples are still our marching orders for His body today. (Acts 1:6-8) It is so amazing to see that our congregation has provided a haven, a refuge for generations of children and youth, young adults, holocaust survivors and young families. This year, we have experienced births, baptisms, salvations, healing, and a wedding. These are healthy signs of the Lord working in our midst as we choose to put our trust in Him. Prayer and worship (harps and bowls) together with fasting, are great tools to further Yeshua’s agenda for His body, His Land and His people.” Get the full prayer requests at the link above.

If you think that God’s “Book of Life” which plays a key role in the High Holy Days that are about to start September 6^th, then you need to do a phrase study like Acco’s Harvest of Asher pastor Guy Cohen did. I wish this was up online somewhere because he has done an excellent job of putting the “Book of Life” concept from the Hebrew scriptures into context with the New Testament scriptures. It is pretty powerful. Even in Revelation it is stressed that our names must we written in God’s Book of Life. Guy concludes his presentation of the Book of Life scriptures writing, “As a Messianic Jew, looking towards my people, I am compelled to come before God in intercession asking that their eyes would be opened to the One who has already made provision for their eternal salvation; that all may be sealed, written in the book of life. He is the Book of Life. Blessings for the New Year.”

Ronit Bender is in the Haifa region, and goes to the Kerem-El congregation (promise to get that prayer letter in next week). It is a planting of the Carmel Congregation. Ronit is one of those Israeli believers who very actively shares her faith in her daily life in Israel. She and her husband did so before Tom passed a few years back and Ronit continues on to be a witness of Yeshua through treating the people she meets well, blessing them when she can, and always ready to tell them about the source of her 'joie de vivre' (joy of living). She listens to the LORD and He leads her to people…like recently when she was going to buy an espresso maker, but God stopped her. Most days she goes out for coffee and often when she does, that’s when God puts people in her path that she can plant the seeds of faith into her lives. First Ronit is a friend, or to some who feel invisible to others like the restroom cleaner, she is able to bless and spread a little sunshine in their lives. It wouldn’t be the first time that a person she blessed came back around to learn more about the source of her being so different to others they meet. In the US there is a thing called doing “a random act of kindness.” That’s okay, but what Ronit is doing, there’s nothing random about it. When the LORD is our family and He is ours, we can draw on His goodness, His mercy, His generosity and extend it to others who don’t know Him yet. Imagine what would happen if we all practiced this? To learn more about this native Israeli, write her at tbender1@fastmail.fm

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Crisis in the Book of Revelation | Arrows from Zion | 8 26 2021

In many ways the Exodus from Egypt is a close, though not exact, parallel to the ‘plagues’ of Revelation, especially in how there is protection for God’s people in the Land of Goshen (Goshen means “drawing near”). In drawing near to God in these days we will stand in the perfect will of God no matter what.

Crisis in the Book of Revelation
by Asher Intrater, Tikkun Global/Revive Israel

These past few weeks we have reported on several urgent situations. Rekindled fires in the hills around Jerusalem continue to require firefighters’ attention. A surge in COVID 19 cases continues to put pressure on Israeli citizens.

On the world-wide scene, the takeover of the Afghanistan government by the Taliban has created a crisis emboldening terrorist extremists in the Middle East. Chaos and fear are swirling throughout the region. Believers are in real danger of persecution and in need of much prayer.

Revelation 8:7 – The first angel sounded: hail and fire mixed with blood were thrown to the earth. A third of the trees were burned up…

Obviously, we haven't reached the level of disasters as noted even in the first trumpet. However, we are moving in that direction. World disasters will become increasingly more intense. One day there will be a war that will kill one third of the world population. Revelation 9:15-16 - …were released to kill a third of mankind. Now the number of the army of the horsemen was 200,000,000. I heard the number.

A third of mankind would be approximately two billion people. An army of two hundred million will attack. Numbers for an army that size and the numbers killed of that size could potentially be fulfilled by an Islamic Jihad war against India-China-South East Asia. (Interestingly, the passage speaks of the origin of the army in the Euphrates area – verse 14.)

Revelation 3:10 - … I will protect you from the hour of trial which will come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell upon the earth.

This verse does not mean that God will remove us from the planet, but that He will protect us during trials and tribulations. There is a specific time coming of worldwide disaster. The word "hour" does not mean 60 minutes; it does mean that the time will be relatively short, and it will be controlled and limited. Worldwide disaster is coming; it will be limited in time; God will protect us.

God does not call crises "disaster," but "testing." Despite the hardship and suffering, there will be a hidden purpose of God. There is one purpose toward "non-believers" and another for "believers." Although most unbelievers will not respond correctly, God's purpose is to convince them to repent of wickedness. | Revelation 9:20 - …the rest of mankind did not repent … | Revelation 9:21 - … they did not repent … | Revelation 16:9 - … they did not repent …

God's purpose for the faithful believers is to forge them and refine them for their special destiny. Revelation – 5:9-10 – You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation; and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.

The scroll of God contains His plan. The seals mean that this plan is hidden to most people. Yeshua, who opens the seals, brings God's plan to come to pass. He reveals that plan to those who serve Him. This verse explains several key elements:

* God has a plan. Things are not "going out of control." God's plan is not a spontaneous reaction to circumstances, but one that is prepared beforehand. The plan is so concrete that it is written down.

* Yeshua is the victor. He opens the seals. He conquers sin and Satan; death and hell. He is the leader of the kingdom. He is the Lion of the tribe of Judah (verse 5).

* We have a destiny. God is using the end times difficulties to purify and strengthen the heart of the righteous to be a special people, as priests and kings (spiritual and government leaders). We will reign with Him. Our destiny is to rule in the world to come together with Yeshua. It is difficult now, but it will be worth it in the end. Our destiny as a special chosen people to rule in the world to come together with Yeshua is repeated: Revelation 20:4 - … They lived and reigned with Messiah for a thousand years.

We face times of increasing tribulation in the end times. Those tribulations are a judgment against the world; a purification of the Church; a preparation of a special people for God; and a warning for people of every nation to repent. The tribulations of the end times culminate in a massive world war in which all the nations attack Israel (Zechariah 14). At that time Yeshua will return as the head of the Church, the king of Israel, and the commander of Heaven's army.

At that time the dead will be raised; the devil will be incarcerated; and the kingdom of God set up on earth for a thousand years, with its capital in Jerusalem. After that there will come an even better world, the New Creation and New Jerusalem. Revelation 21:3-4 – The tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them… God will wipe away every tear… There will be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.

There will be a perfect world for eternity. The Garden of Eden will be restored. There will be no pain or evil. Tribulation is temporary; while paradise is permanent. Let us be strong in our faith and endure to end. (Article available on the Revive Israel website)

Arrows from Zion
Summarized from the Weekly Summary of Prayer Requests Israeli Ministries

Starting with the Klein’s personal section of their Emmaus Way prayer letter carried over from last week, they speak about the wild ride that has been Covid restrictions as Israel had planned to open the door to tourists 7/1, later changed to 8/1 and other issues which have affected their ministry helpers, the Winklers from re-entering the country: “unvaccinated tourists were able to qualify with a week of quarantine, clergy applicants could not. They needed the shot or a letter of exemption from a doctor.” Strange that religious reasons not acceptable in Israel…but not really. Arni writes, “God has teamed them with a close and dear friend from here in connecting with Jewish and Christian communities in Europe. They are presently in Sicily, where God has prepared some wonderful things for them.” We have to stay fluid, accepting that our plans are not always God’s plans.
They also write about the return to Israel of their son and his family –wife and 4 children –from 15 yrs in Australia. Their 18-yr old grandson is about to enlist in the IDF: “Please pray for him to be placed in the position of God’s choosing. Please pray for our 16-year-old granddaughter as she enters her third year of high school to get all the best help to master Hebrew in record time. Also for Mama and the two younger ones to settle into their new life with much grace and abundant joy. God has done great things for them…and us!” Lastly, “We continue gathering two mornings a week in our home along with a faithful handful of local worshippers. Regardless of how many or few, as we present ourselves as living sacrifices for His good pleasure His Presence is ever manifest.”

Ron Cantor writes for Tikkun Global urging prayer for the tragedy taking place in Afghanistan: Tonight 8/26 8:30pm EST GOD TV Facebook will air “Pray for the Afghan Church” with Cantor, Robby Dawkins, Andre Valadao & Troy Brewer also rebroadcast 8/31 9:30pm EST. Catch it if you can, and click here to help a ministry aiding the people of Afghanistan.
This week in the Global Broadcast of Praise, Prophecy, Prayer, and Preaching from our team in Israel, Ariel Blumenthal ministered a timely message. | Also Revive Israel Tikkun Global (RITG) is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of RITG Worship. A new sound is emerging from Zion and will go to the ends of the Earth. We will offer the Body of Yeshua a new resource, filled with quality worship music videos. Stay tuned and please pray for our production teams. Worship Now

From Israel Pochtar in Ashdod – Beit Hallel & Voice of Judah ministries – VIDEO Two Sons, One Father: The Unity of Jewish and Arab Pastors in Israel | Galilee - When a Place of Darkness Produces the Greatest Light | 1:30 video Honoring Holocaust Survivors | Covid-19 Restrictions Coming Back in Full Force an imminent lockdown in time for the High Holiday season of biblical feasts | Eilat—Bearing Witness to God's Ability to Produce Life from Death | Fearless Leaders, Fervent Servants—Galilee Youth Discipleship Retreat | Defending the Cause of the Fatherless

Ron Cantor, Shelanu TV, asks: “Do you ever deal with discouragement? Do you ever get depressed? What if God created our brains with the ability to overcome these feelings?” If you answered yes, then please read this: God’s Word + your brain = JOY. Learn how we are hard-wired with dopamine that can work for good just as much as it can for evil. It brings new meaning to Philippians 4:8

New music alert from Ashira Project’s Eli Ben-Moshe with the release of a new single and music video by Denis Gordishtyan and Lily Bocharnikov called Salvation Belongs to Our God. I watched it and it made me cry because I saw so many familiar faces of Messianic ministers in Israel who were taking part in the music video. It is also a beautiful worship composition. Eli also has a new single from Evan Levine, Gracious and Merciful - is now available on all major streaming platforms.
Here’s what you need to understand about Eli’s Ashira Project – all of their music is free, but production costs are not free. So please consider supporting this project with a donation that will help cover recording, mixing, mastering, graphics, video and distribution costs. And check out all of Ashira’s discography now streaming on all major platforms. (If you didn’t know, Eli is the son of Marc Chopinsky, former Israel’s Hope music writer who is now undoubtedly in the ultimate worship band in Heaven). It is so important for the world to see and hear the wonderful praise and worship ministers that are being raised up in Israel. The restoration of the Levitical worshippers is a sign in itself.

On the doorstep of S’derot, Michael and Dina Beener of the City of Life are ministering to city always under the imminent threat of Islamic terrorism. Here are some of the ways they are bringing help to the needy in their city: For The Biblical Autumn Holidays their target of 200 families at $50 per food basket. The Back-to-School project will supply 70-100 kids with a backpack and school supplies at $60 per. Adult and child diapers are distributed Essential Help For The Needy and many other necessities that are beyond the reach of so many living at or under the poverty level. They write, “Our work would not be possible without the help of partners like you, that is why we ask you to consider in prayer the possibility of a monthly commitment.”

Eric Benson of the Haifa House of Victory rehab (connected to the Carmel Congregation) has sent many good reports on those men they are working with, and have worked with in the past. In such work, it is easy to become disappointed as the addicted often fall despite all the best efforts to set them on the path to freedom, deliverance and salvation. But even so, some return to try again. It was encouraging to read in this letter as Eric, who has done this ministry for many years, spoke of how the Holy Spirit checked his own heart in one case of a man who left badly, but now wanted to return. It was also encouraging to see how God put a man in his path who had graduated years earlier from the rehab in a “chance” meeting. The man has been stable for many years after a rocky in-and-out history at the rehab. Now the man is serving with his wife in a congregation in the area. Another man, a gifted violinist who had graduated from the House of Victory, was on hand to participate in the time of worship with Karen Davis and others on one of the high places of Mount Carmel. Truly the work of restoring the fallen addicts is treasured by God, who also sent His Son to be the kind of Shepherd who would leave the 99 to seek the one who had strayed and was lost.

From Tiferet Yeshua who are feeding many in Tel Aviv (this is where the addicts, sex workers, down and outs flock to from all over Israel. Associate pastor Moti Cohen leads this outreach of The Gospel of Love and a First Aid Kit. He says the Lord gave him James 2:16 to guide the ministry, but “we have also learned that we need to have a first aid kit with us at all times. Read more online. Help us Feed Tel Aviv with a donation today.
In their Meet the Team section we are introduced to Kosta a young immigrant who is devoted “solely to evangelism and discipleship.” He is “especially devoted to staying in touch with new seekers so that no one falls through the cracks.” He has “a deep understanding into the Word and a special gift of leading people into study of the Word. He is gentle, patient and devoted to new believers on their journey of giving their lives to the Lord.” A “tremendous blessing” to the Tiferet Yeshua team.
Read also about how their prayer team exploded when a family from their congregation was trapped in their village in the Jerusalem hills: When the Fire Rages, God Still Surrounds His People

Rania Sayegh, the Christian Arab prophetic intercessor from House of Prayer & Exploits in Nazareth is preparing for the Jewish New Yer of 5782, “a year of building and establishing God's house.” Among some of the things they are doing are social media campaigns and “a new series of teachings for the youth on Secrets of the Vine." In July joined in prayer gatherings of Arab and Jewish believer leaders who came together to intercede for reconciliation – see video reports (1 and 2). Also Rania organized a prayer initiative near the Knesset in Jerusalem for the major decisions of govt especially regarding COVID 19 and the vaccine. The Arab Deborahs Conference had to be postponed because of covid restrictions…but they are still raising the funds needed for when they are able to re-schedule. AND they have news coming on the new building for HOPE. If the Lord puts it on your heart to give a Firstfruits gift at this strategic time, please follow this link to give online

Howard Bass of Yeshua’s Inheritance in Beer Sheva also writes about the coming Fall Feasts with this article the Appointed Times of the LORD/YHVH. He writes about Afghanistan and the signs of the times: “we hear of many Afghans who are believers, and also in Iran, and who are being faithful witnesses of the truth of the gospel and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, even in the face of the terrific persecution and brutality that they face. Their reward is great in the Kingdom of God.”
Also a great milestone in the congregation: “Thursday evening Yeshua's Inheritance will have a praise, worship, and prayer event. We now have air conditioning! After 26 years of sweat and chills. Thanks to God for bringing us thus far. David and Lisa Loden will be joining us for our services this Shabbat. This will be their third visit over the last several months. David, especially, has been helping our music teams, and especially those who lead them, in how to lead praise and worship, and now to work together. David and Lisa were the first persons that we met in Israel when we came 40 years ago. They were pioneers in writing and composing original Hebrew-language songs for use in the Messianic congregations services.”

Leon Mazin of Return to Zion in Haifa writes about his recent brush with Covid – and not only his, but a great many of his congregation and family: “Since March 2020, when Covid first came to Israel, God's hand guarded the entire congregation and everyone around the congregation. This was not a matter of our pride, but we clearly saw that the Lord covers and helps. Since we are not only a congregation, but a community center - with a music school, a center for humanitarian aid, a place of various activities in the middle of Haifa, hundreds of people pass through our congregation every week, and it was easy to especially see the grace of God and his protection. But on July 23rd, we gathered only members of the congregation, 60% came of the total, and by some unknown means, Covid broke into the congregation.
     “Everyone was infected in diverse ways. I was in the hospital for 10 days in intensive care, I was able to understand everything that was passing over my head, I felt lucky. There was no fear of death, but death was there ... There was God's Grace and there were many sincere prayers of friends. A strange feeling happened when the oxygen level dropped, fear did not come. In all probability inside everyone, there is something that removes resistance and opens us up for the moment of meeting with thy God, the Grace of God determined otherwise, and now I am back at home with my family, and we are all recovering together. Everyone has been ill, even our 3-month-old grandson.
     “In Return to Zion Congregation, about eighty people also fell ill. Covid infected those who were vaccinated and the unvaccinated. August, as a planned month for vacation, turned into a month of illness and recovery! And I just want to say, God is the one who will help us get through all of this, he is faithful!”

Also Cody and LIat Archer write about their brush with Covid: “We have come through the dark valley of COVID and have just been released from three weeks of quarantine (Hallelujah!). . . . All of us tested positive for COVID except our son Elisha. He was tested three times, but we must not have gone on the right days to test him. It also took me three tests before my results came back positive, despite having most of the COVID symptoms for three days already. All of our kids had at least one day with a minor fever and fatigue, and only Hallel had a cough that remained a few days after. COVID was a breeze for our kids thank God. Liat and I on the other hand were hit much harder. We felt horrible and it took two weeks before we began feeling ourselves again. Having to hit the ground running each morning to serve our kids with meals, clean up, laundry… when all we wanted to do was lie down and rest was a major challenge. We had to do shift work to stay afloat.
“Police Visits and Community | During our three weeks in quarantine, the police visited our home five times to confirm that we were actually abiding by the law and staying home. This was not a pleasant feeling. BUT We are so thankful for our non-believing community in Had Nes and the families in our home fellowship who stepped up to serve us when we most needed it with meals and delivering special requests. After not meeting for the past month with our home fellowship, we were finally able to host them on the weekend at our home. It was so nice to share updates and pray together again face to face.
    “ Prayer Requests | For our taste and smell to fully return, and Cody's fatigue to disappear. | We are praying about a trip to Canada this fall, and need clear direction that this is the right timing and for the grace to jump through all the bureaucratic hoops connected to COVID. | We have many big decisions to make over the next few months concerning building a home and selling our apartment. Pray for wisdom and peace.”

From Chaim Malespin and the Aliyah Return center: despite 4,400 deadly rocket attacks rained down from Hamas Terror group, missiles by Hezbollah and Syria terrorists shot into the north of Israel…there is an increase of Aliyah (Immigration). An expected 5,000+ are coming from North America in 2021 (42% over the annual average). This is why your help financially and prayerfully are so needed by the Aliyah Return Center. WATCH this. . . . Chaim freshly back from Canada, and USA, from the "Boots on the ground charity" the centrality of Gods heart for Israel and simultaneous global redemption, in relation to the unfolding of world events and the global redemption. WATCH | THERE MAY NEED TO BE A FOLLOW UP TRIP IN NOVEMBER,- contact us immediately if you are interested in him coming to your conference, synagogue or church. To support the work of the Aliyah Return Center, please click DONATE

The Fall 2021 trip to Israel has been officially postponed till next YEAR | Join the Fall Feasts Restoration Journey Tour September 2022. Check out what awaits! BUT the ONLINE Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah) is fast approaching, September 6th at 19:00 PM Israel time. Chaim Malespin Chairman of the board, SHARED briefly TODAY from the Sea of Galilee about how this timing of this coming online Aliyah Return Center - "Feast of Trumpets" (Yom Teruah)

Urgent HEALING Needs: Life and Death is in the power of the tongue
Please keep in prayer the Israeli believers who are fighting for their lives or other urgent health needs:

Please Pray for David Friedman in Jerusalem. From his wife, "For all those who know and love my husband, David...now is the time to pray. A doctor looked in on him earlier. The event was a cardiac arrhythmia. At present he is stable, but obviously quite serious. He is in a medically induced coma - intubated." | Report in for Dan Juster who has a mild case of Covid and is in quarantine. Eitan Shishkoff and Leon Mazin have improved and are out of quarantine, as have the young men of the Katzir camp leadership. Have not received direct updates on Cody & Liat Archer & family, several in the Acco youth, Joel Jelski (Fields of Wheat), and OrEl, married daughter of Avi and Chaya Mizrachi, but I am assuming the report I got covered them also. Pray for each to recover fully and quickly with no harm and no spreading to families and others. | Claude Ezagouri of the Morning Star Fellowship who has started a treatment that is due to last at least 6 months for a medical problem he has been suffering from. Believe in prayer with them as they look to the Lord for complete healing and for prompt recovery from some other ailments. Hallel Goldman, daughter of Yariv Goldman, Hallel ministers to young people coming out of an Orthodox life. Hallel appears to have some kind of heart infection. Pray for her healing. Also pray for her dad, Yariv, unspoken prayer. | Ronit Bender finally has seen a new cardiologist she likes because he is caring, she’s taking new meds, feels better but still asks for our prayers | Pray for Carolyn Hyde whose left hand is so pained she can no longer play guitar and it is also sometimes painful to play piano | Silvers: David's knees and Josie's back pain | Rachel Netanel is still recovering from a broken ankle. She asks for healing & for the pain to subside. Her ankles were weak already, so the process is slow and painful| A prayer request for Naomi, for a dear family that is a part of Israel Pochtar's pastoral team, who was diagnosed with colon cancer. "Despite what this battle entails, we are confident in God’s unfailing Word and promises." Read in her own words| Please continue to pray for Jacob Damkani for the LORD's mercies over Jacob and his dear wife, Elisheva | Dov Bikas – I have been very tired these days: probably as a result of a combination of factors: my age, stress of the days of running to the bomb shelter, work load in the ministry, etc. Olga Bikas: We are grateful that Olga is feeling better these days! Though the doctors never found the cause of the dizziness that put her in hospital a month ago, they did rule out major issues like brain tumors, heart problems, etc., so this is already comforting. Olga’s back also keeps improving and she is able to walk more outside now than she did before.