Yesterday, in Israel, and today in the US, my Jewish friends celebrated and are celebrating Simchat Torah. A holiday that marks the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah reading, and the start of the new cycle. In English it is called Rejoicing with the Torah. The main celebrations take place in a synagogue. During evening and morning services, when the ark, which holds the Torah scrolls is opened, the people dance and sing with the scrolls.
As I scanned through social media yesterday, my eyes beheld pictures of this worship. Such joyous observance of the Word of G-d.
Today in a small town somewhere in the US, me, a follow of Jesus, who has been enlightened about Israel, Judaism, and Hebrew over the last year and half completed reading the Torah as well. Not only did I finish the Torah, which is the first five books of the Bible, I also completed the Nevi'm or in English, the Prophets, and the Ketuvim or Writings. These books complete the full Hebrew Bible, known as Tanach. Tanach is an abbreviation for the three parts of the Bible. I was taught that the Prophets and Writings are referred to as Nach. I also read all the books of the New Testament.
In other words, I have spent the last year reading both the Old Testament and the New Testament. I did not sing and dance as I closed my journal that guided me in my readings this morning, but I wrote in it, words from Joshua 1, "Be strong, be bold". I scribbled Todah Rabah, which means thank you very much.
I don't share this with you to pat myself on the back, it is only G-d. I share this to encourage you to read your Bible with different eyes. Along with reading each portion, I listened every week to the Lone Star Podcast. This podcast brought together a Rabbi and a Pastor, who studied the portion each week. This time spent in the Word and listening to this podcast has blessed me in numerous ways.
I have completed this reading before, however, I would get sleepy eyed as I read through the Old Testament, not grasping the significance of the words nor gaining insight to who G-d is. I had a lack of understanding. As I grew in my faith, I grew to appreciate the Old Testament more, but never like I have this year.
Learning to grasp the Jewish roots of my faith, has opened up the beauty and truth of the different portions of the Old Testament. Learning Hebrew has increased my desire to read the language and increased my knowledge and excitement. Understanding the language of the Bible is life changing. I have learned to study the Bible better by listening to the podcast mentioned. And in all of this I have learned more about the character and heart of G-d.
I remember finishing the book of Leviticus this year and asking a Rabbi the following question, do you every get sad when the reading of a book of the Torah is over? We spent so much time in each book, it was bittersweet for me, sad to be done with one book yet excited to read the next. His response was, "No. I don't get sad. We continue to the next one." This appreciation of each book, only stems from G-d and Him allowing me to understand the Jewish roots of my faith.
Thank you so much to all my friends, acquaintances, and future friends who have helped and will help me grow in my faith by allowing me into yours.
Thank you to the Lone Star Podcast for to teaching me so much this year as I read along.
And todah rabah Hashem for Your Word.
A place to write words that help me process my journey and various things along the way.
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Truth About Israel
I have not planned out all my posts about my trip to Israel, but I had some forethought as to how I might write them. Today's post was not in my plans, it was inspired after observation from afar. So on one hand this post isn't about my trip, yet on the other it is. If I had not gone on that trip, making the friends that I have made and learning all that I have, I may not have had the words to write this.
Yesterday, in Israel a man who lived as a hero, died as one. I did not have the blessing of knowing this man, but I have had the blessing of knowing and being in contact with many who did. Some of these contacts, I am blessed to call friends. Some of them acquaintances. All of them graciously allow me to ask a million questions and glean from them about Israel, Judaism, and Hebrew. But, I digress.
This man was stabbed by a terrorist and after being critically wounded was able to run after the terrorist and shoot him, stopping him from causing further harm. That terrorist did not die, he was treated at the scene by Jews and taken to an Israeli hospital. After inflicting injury on a Jew, he was tended to by Jews.
Last week I wrote a post titled, Is Israel Safe, I still stand by my words, with a resounding yes, Israel is safe.
Since social media blew up about this terror attack, I have seen my friends and acquaintances hurting. I watched a live video that displayed the vast amount of people attending the funeral. I saw the live feed of the funeral. I saw the family's hurt. I cried with them.
Today I have read numerous articles, listened to interviews, and have seen many posts about this hero.
In all of this, I see the beauty of unity amidst the storm of pain.
I also see the need for truth. As I have learned more about this hero, Ari Fuld, I know that he wanted others to see truth regarding Israel too.
G-d began growing in me a love for the Jews, Judaism, Israel, and Hebrew a year and a half ago. Basically, that means I have a lot to learn and understand, but it does not mean I can't share truth.
The truth is, Israel is the promised land. The truth is, the Jews are G-d's chosen people. The truth is, learning from my friends about Judaism has expanded my faith. The truth is, the Hebrew language is amazing. The truth is, understanding these things will help you know the heart of G-d. The truth is, we are seeing promises regarding this land and this people being fulfilled.
The truth is, this land is surrounded by enemies. The truth is, not every person who is not a Jew in Israel or elsewhere is an enemy. The truth is, there are people out there that do not like the Jewish people. The truth is, news stations twist the truth and often times don't even report what is occurring in Israel.
The truth is, a Jewish man was killed for being a Jew.
And therefore, the truth is we need to stand with Israel, join our Jewish friends in unity, and support them in truth.
Yesterday, in Israel a man who lived as a hero, died as one. I did not have the blessing of knowing this man, but I have had the blessing of knowing and being in contact with many who did. Some of these contacts, I am blessed to call friends. Some of them acquaintances. All of them graciously allow me to ask a million questions and glean from them about Israel, Judaism, and Hebrew. But, I digress.
This man was stabbed by a terrorist and after being critically wounded was able to run after the terrorist and shoot him, stopping him from causing further harm. That terrorist did not die, he was treated at the scene by Jews and taken to an Israeli hospital. After inflicting injury on a Jew, he was tended to by Jews.
Last week I wrote a post titled, Is Israel Safe, I still stand by my words, with a resounding yes, Israel is safe.
Since social media blew up about this terror attack, I have seen my friends and acquaintances hurting. I watched a live video that displayed the vast amount of people attending the funeral. I saw the live feed of the funeral. I saw the family's hurt. I cried with them.
Today I have read numerous articles, listened to interviews, and have seen many posts about this hero.
In all of this, I see the beauty of unity amidst the storm of pain.
I also see the need for truth. As I have learned more about this hero, Ari Fuld, I know that he wanted others to see truth regarding Israel too.
G-d began growing in me a love for the Jews, Judaism, Israel, and Hebrew a year and a half ago. Basically, that means I have a lot to learn and understand, but it does not mean I can't share truth.
The truth is, Israel is the promised land. The truth is, the Jews are G-d's chosen people. The truth is, learning from my friends about Judaism has expanded my faith. The truth is, the Hebrew language is amazing. The truth is, understanding these things will help you know the heart of G-d. The truth is, we are seeing promises regarding this land and this people being fulfilled.
The truth is, this land is surrounded by enemies. The truth is, not every person who is not a Jew in Israel or elsewhere is an enemy. The truth is, there are people out there that do not like the Jewish people. The truth is, news stations twist the truth and often times don't even report what is occurring in Israel.
The truth is, a Jewish man was killed for being a Jew.
And therefore, the truth is we need to stand with Israel, join our Jewish friends in unity, and support them in truth.
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Is Israel Safe?
Is Israel safe? I asked this exact question before I knew I would ever go to Israel. The answer I received from a Rabbi was, "Israel is more safe than the USA. We
live very free lives without fear. It's an incredible feeling." I could barely wrap my head around this statement. How is Israel safe? Israel is surrounded by people that hate the country and hate the Jewish people. Yet, he is telling me it is safe. Not only did I pose this question, I have heard it asked many times and the answer is always yes, Israel is safe.
Now yes, Israel was dealing with and continues to deal with issues with those surrounding her borders, but inside those borders it is safe.
In the evenings after a long, incredible day of
touring my pastor would say "you wanna take a walk?" Whoever said yes would then proceed to walk from our hotel to the Western Wall, which was 2.5 miles. The first evening I took a walk, we took a different route and it was much longer than 2.5 miles. It was beautiful. We observed the normalcy of Israel and not the sensationalized news of Israel we see in the US news. We saw a pizza delivery driver, a gorgeous park with people spending time together, and we walked through an outdoor mall.
These pictures show the Western Wall. It is an amazing place. The bottom picture depicts a street we walked down on our way back to our hotel. On this very street Trey Graham stated "This is the scary place your friends and family warned you about." In fact it was so scary, I was blessed with a free water and a free juice from two different Arab store owners.
The picture and video seen here was on another walk to the wall. We stopped at a movie that was playing and witnessed a group of young people blasting music, dancing, and being together in the streets of Jerusalem.
A Rabbi said Israel was safe. My friend Josh Hasten said Israel was safe. My pastor and friend, Trey Graham said it was safe. But then, I experienced Israel for myself.
Is Israel safe? My answer is a resounding yes!
When the Lord laid it on my heart to say yes to going, I sought out the answer to this question again from someone I know and the answer was, "Israel is more safe than any place". I emailed my friend Josh Hasten as well, his response, "I honestly feel safer here than in any major US city. 100%." I also frequently asked my pastor Trey Graham this question and his response was yes every time.
Since traveling to Israel, I am now the one being asked, is Israel safe?
I left for Israel on April 9, 2018 and returned to the USA on April 20, 2018. During that time the following events occurred in the US:
- On April 9, 2018 in Gloversville, New York a student shot another student several times with a BB gun.
- On April 12, 2018 a man was shot in the stomach in the parking lot of a middle school during a track meet.
- On April 15, 2018 a freshman at Binghamton University in New York was stabbed to death.
- On April 15, 2018 in New Orleans three men sexually assaulted two women.
- On April 20, 2018 a student in Florida was shot in the ankle.
Now yes, Israel was dealing with and continues to deal with issues with those surrounding her borders, but inside those borders it is safe.
In the evenings after a long, incredible day of
touring my pastor would say "you wanna take a walk?" Whoever said yes would then proceed to walk from our hotel to the Western Wall, which was 2.5 miles. The first evening I took a walk, we took a different route and it was much longer than 2.5 miles. It was beautiful. We observed the normalcy of Israel and not the sensationalized news of Israel we see in the US news. We saw a pizza delivery driver, a gorgeous park with people spending time together, and we walked through an outdoor mall.
These pictures show the Western Wall. It is an amazing place. The bottom picture depicts a street we walked down on our way back to our hotel. On this very street Trey Graham stated "This is the scary place your friends and family warned you about." In fact it was so scary, I was blessed with a free water and a free juice from two different Arab store owners.
The picture and video seen here was on another walk to the wall. We stopped at a movie that was playing and witnessed a group of young people blasting music, dancing, and being together in the streets of Jerusalem.
A Rabbi said Israel was safe. My friend Josh Hasten said Israel was safe. My pastor and friend, Trey Graham said it was safe. But then, I experienced Israel for myself.
Is Israel safe? My answer is a resounding yes!
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
I Finished My Second Year of Precision Nutrition
On July 8, 2018 I completed my second year with Precision Nutrition. It has been a tough year, but a good one. I went into this year thinking it would be more about weight loss and less about changing in other ways since I already went through an entire year of the program. Boy, was I wrong!!
In my first round with this organization I learned a lot and changed my relationship with food. One of the lessons I learned, is that transformation is not about the latest diet, but about changing from the inside out. Part of that for me is learning to let Jesus heal the places I have only allowed food to touch. I deepened this transformation in this second year. One way I did this was continuing to train for a half marathon that I agreed to in May of 2017, towards the end of my first year of Precision Nutrition. I also completed a program called The Road. The Road helped me break free from baggage that held me back.
Completing The Road, continued the inside out transformation that had already begun. Training for the half marathon took it deeper. It gave me a place of solitude where I could wrestle out thoughts and struggles. I blasted music and listened to sermons. As I wrote in one post, it gave me space to clear my mind. It challenged me. This training seemed impossible, because I had previous knee surgeries and asthma, but this training taught me about possibility and endurance. G-d called me to this race and He helped me finish. Impossible became possible.
I learned more about trust in this round of PN coaching. Trusting G-d, trusting the process, and even trusting myself. To deepen my internal transformation, the Lord took me outside of my comfort zone again by asking me to go to Israel. I had only been out of my home state a handful of times, I never had a passport, and I hate to fly. But like the half marathon, G-d called me to this and He helped me finish. Again, impossible became possible.
Transformation from the inside out has out weighted the numbers on the scale again in round two. Overall my health is about the same, even my weight in the end as ended up about the same. However, as I look back over the year I am a half marathon finisher, I have now been working out consistently for 2 years. In terms of nutrition I have had many changes, going gluten free, diary free, egg free, and even caffeine free due to sensitives. I have had a lot going on personally this past year, but I have learned I don't have to give up because life happens. So no, maybe I didn't have huge scale success, but in the words of my PN Coach, "I gained invaluable experience for situational awareness and self understanding". PN is about living your best life, and as I look back over the last year, I certainly lived an amazing one. Again in the words of my coach, " ...maybe the biggest success you've had is this: You haven't put your life on hold until that happens." Meaning I haven't waited to see a certain number to be confident in who G-d says I am. I haven't waited to see a certain number to run a race. I haven't waited to see a certain number to say yes to follow G-d, even across the world to Israel.
I am thankful for the last year and look forward to seeing what is to come. I do not plan on doing a 3rd year with Precision Nutrition, but I plan on continuing to work out and eat good food. I am not following a certain plan per se. I believe in what I call reality eating, but I did find a nutrition plan through my beach body friends that gives me a good template to work with to keep myself in check. Basically, I am going to keep fighting and keep trusting. I know that even in regards to numbers, one day impossible will become possible.
In my first round with this organization I learned a lot and changed my relationship with food. One of the lessons I learned, is that transformation is not about the latest diet, but about changing from the inside out. Part of that for me is learning to let Jesus heal the places I have only allowed food to touch. I deepened this transformation in this second year. One way I did this was continuing to train for a half marathon that I agreed to in May of 2017, towards the end of my first year of Precision Nutrition. I also completed a program called The Road. The Road helped me break free from baggage that held me back.
Completing The Road, continued the inside out transformation that had already begun. Training for the half marathon took it deeper. It gave me a place of solitude where I could wrestle out thoughts and struggles. I blasted music and listened to sermons. As I wrote in one post, it gave me space to clear my mind. It challenged me. This training seemed impossible, because I had previous knee surgeries and asthma, but this training taught me about possibility and endurance. G-d called me to this race and He helped me finish. Impossible became possible.
I learned more about trust in this round of PN coaching. Trusting G-d, trusting the process, and even trusting myself. To deepen my internal transformation, the Lord took me outside of my comfort zone again by asking me to go to Israel. I had only been out of my home state a handful of times, I never had a passport, and I hate to fly. But like the half marathon, G-d called me to this and He helped me finish. Again, impossible became possible.
Transformation from the inside out has out weighted the numbers on the scale again in round two. Overall my health is about the same, even my weight in the end as ended up about the same. However, as I look back over the year I am a half marathon finisher, I have now been working out consistently for 2 years. In terms of nutrition I have had many changes, going gluten free, diary free, egg free, and even caffeine free due to sensitives. I have had a lot going on personally this past year, but I have learned I don't have to give up because life happens. So no, maybe I didn't have huge scale success, but in the words of my PN Coach, "I gained invaluable experience for situational awareness and self understanding". PN is about living your best life, and as I look back over the last year, I certainly lived an amazing one. Again in the words of my coach, " ...maybe the biggest success you've had is this: You haven't put your life on hold until that happens." Meaning I haven't waited to see a certain number to be confident in who G-d says I am. I haven't waited to see a certain number to run a race. I haven't waited to see a certain number to say yes to follow G-d, even across the world to Israel.
1st picture is beginning of my first year with PN, 2nd is end of 1st year, 3rd is end of 2nd year. |
13.1 |
Garden Tomb in Israel |
I am thankful for the last year and look forward to seeing what is to come. I do not plan on doing a 3rd year with Precision Nutrition, but I plan on continuing to work out and eat good food. I am not following a certain plan per se. I believe in what I call reality eating, but I did find a nutrition plan through my beach body friends that gives me a good template to work with to keep myself in check. Basically, I am going to keep fighting and keep trusting. I know that even in regards to numbers, one day impossible will become possible.
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Independence Day
It is July 4th, Independence Day. Growing up this meant going to my grandparents home with my family, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. It meant food and fireworks. It meant homemade ice cream. I think some years there were so many flavors we could have given Baskin-Robinns a run for it's money. I loved running around my grandparents yard with bare feet waving my sparkler and watching the bright colors lighting up the sky.
As I grew older the 4th continued to mean all of the above, but it also meant parades, festivals, and BBQ. One year it meant I had the opportunity to get in a tethered hot air balloon and go up about 50ft. I cried. It was a moment I will never forget. I love hot balloons and I loved the 4th. It also meant singing Lee Greenwood's "G-d Bless The USA".
As an adult it means watching fireworks with my kids and maybe them writing their names with a sparkler. It means swimming and it means summer. It continues to mean singing Lee Greenwood's "G-d Bless The USA".
In all of this celebrating the reason was weaved throughout the day. I have explained it to my kids.
Independence Day is the day commemorating the Declaration of Independence in 1776. We were no longer part of the British Empire, but our own nation, the United States of America. It is the birthday of this land we call home. We have this summer holiday, because countless people fought for our independence. We owe our independence, our freedom, our status as a nation, and the continuation of it to the ones who sacrificed then, the ones who have sacrificed since, and the ones still serving our nation. Thank you to those countless men and women.
I learned more about celebrating this holiday when I was in Israel.
I was in Israel for Yom Ha'atzmaut, Israel Independence Day. It is proceeded by Yom Hazikaron, Israel's Memorial Day. This is a beautiful picture as the nation transitions from a day of national mourning to a day of national celebration. The state of Israel knows that they owe their existence to G-d and the soldiers who have laid down their lives for it. They too have BBQs, fireworks, and celebrations.
The holiday began with about 15 of us gathered in a hotel room to watch a program celebrating Israel's 70th anniversary. After the program a small group of us enjoyed a walk around our hotel. This bridge was beautifully lit for Israel's Independence Day. We briefly saw a concert and fireworks. It was much like things we would see in the states.
The next day continued the celebration of Israel's Independence day with a visit to a place called Latrun, an armored corps memorial site and museum.
We ended our celebration of Independence Day at the Ayalon Institute. This was an underground bullet factory that was disguised as a laundry service and bakery. It was impressive. It was secretly created in less than a month. I suggest you google this place and read up on it. It is really incredible.
And I'd gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land! God bless the U.S.A."
As I grew older the 4th continued to mean all of the above, but it also meant parades, festivals, and BBQ. One year it meant I had the opportunity to get in a tethered hot air balloon and go up about 50ft. I cried. It was a moment I will never forget. I love hot balloons and I loved the 4th. It also meant singing Lee Greenwood's "G-d Bless The USA".
As an adult it means watching fireworks with my kids and maybe them writing their names with a sparkler. It means swimming and it means summer. It continues to mean singing Lee Greenwood's "G-d Bless The USA".
In all of this celebrating the reason was weaved throughout the day. I have explained it to my kids.
Independence Day is the day commemorating the Declaration of Independence in 1776. We were no longer part of the British Empire, but our own nation, the United States of America. It is the birthday of this land we call home. We have this summer holiday, because countless people fought for our independence. We owe our independence, our freedom, our status as a nation, and the continuation of it to the ones who sacrificed then, the ones who have sacrificed since, and the ones still serving our nation. Thank you to those countless men and women.
I learned more about celebrating this holiday when I was in Israel.
I was in Israel for Yom Ha'atzmaut, Israel Independence Day. It is proceeded by Yom Hazikaron, Israel's Memorial Day. This is a beautiful picture as the nation transitions from a day of national mourning to a day of national celebration. The state of Israel knows that they owe their existence to G-d and the soldiers who have laid down their lives for it. They too have BBQs, fireworks, and celebrations.
The next day continued the celebration of Israel's Independence day with a visit to a place called Latrun, an armored corps memorial site and museum.
This is my friend Gidon with a picture of the symbol of the unit he served with. Thank you for your service. |
We ended our celebration of Independence Day at the Ayalon Institute. This was an underground bullet factory that was disguised as a laundry service and bakery. It was impressive. It was secretly created in less than a month. I suggest you google this place and read up on it. It is really incredible.
Thank you to Israel for sharing your day of mourning with me and your day
of celebration. The three holidays I spent in you country taught me so
much. I am so grateful.
There were many similarities in the way we celebrate Independence Day in the states and how Israel celebrates. I loved being able to visit sites that dig deep the reminder that the nation exists because of the men and women willing to fight for it, to protect it's borders, and to protect it's people.
Today as we celebrate the birthday of America with food, fireworks, family, and friends we may not have the opportunity to visit places that drive home the fact that our country exists because of the men and women who have sacrificed and are willing to continue to fight for it, but may we take the day to reflect and remember.
In the words of Lee Greenwood, "I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.And I'd gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.
'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land! God bless the U.S.A."
Monday, May 28, 2018
Memorial Day
Three different holidays occurred while I was in Israel. One of those was Yom Hazikaron or Memorial Day. It is Israel's official remembrance day dedicated to fallen soldiers and has been extended to civilian victims of terrorism. It is a national day of remembrance. Places close, ceremonies are held, candles are lit, and flags lowered to half staff.
In Israel the new day begins at sunset. The start of this day of remembrance began with a siren heard throughout the land that lasted for one minute. In this one minute everything stops, cars driving on highways, people walking, it all ceases and the people stand in silence commemorating lives lost. This one minute was followed by a service where stories where told about the lives of soldiers who were being remembered, names and pictures were shared of many who gave their lives for their country. These services were held all over the country.
The next morning cemeteries were filled with people attending ceremonies and gathering around the graves of soldiers. A two minute siren was heard throughout the land and again everything stops, everyone stands, and silence is given as the nation mourns together for the many lives lost in service and terrorism. There were songs, prayers, and tears of remembrance.
In Israel the new day begins at sunset. The start of this day of remembrance began with a siren heard throughout the land that lasted for one minute. In this one minute everything stops, cars driving on highways, people walking, it all ceases and the people stand in silence commemorating lives lost. This one minute was followed by a service where stories where told about the lives of soldiers who were being remembered, names and pictures were shared of many who gave their lives for their country. These services were held all over the country.
The next morning cemeteries were filled with people attending ceremonies and gathering around the graves of soldiers. A two minute siren was heard throughout the land and again everything stops, everyone stands, and silence is given as the nation mourns together for the many lives lost in service and terrorism. There were songs, prayers, and tears of remembrance.
Stones are seen on the graves, placed there by friends, family, and visitors. These stones, according to Jewish tradition, are about much more than just marking a visit. I witnessed stones being placed as the country collectively cried for the sacrifices made.
While solemn, observing this day along side my Jewish friends in Israel, was beautiful to behold. Israel honors these men and women on Memorial Day so much better than we do in America.
Today my daughter asked what Memorial Day was about, I explained. Her response, "then why is everyone BBQing and going to the beach?"
I confess my lack of commemorating Memorial Day and
for that I am sorry. To Israel, I say thank you for showing me the error of my ways. To my daughter, your wisdom is inspiring.
This morning, I was blessed to attend church with my grandfather. The entire service was dedicated to honoring Memorial Day. There was no siren, but there was a moment of silence. There were songs, prayers, and stories of lives willing to sacrifice. There were no stones, but there was remembrance. I was filled with pride that this small church got it right.
Today let us not make this day about mattress sales, food, and beaches. Today may we remember those who sacrificed their lives. May we learn from Israel and mourn together. Maybe in lieu of flowers, we place stones that will not wither, stones of remembrance. The pastor this morning stated each life "gave up two lives, they one they lived and the one they would have." This giving up was so you and I may live in the land of the free.
Memorial Day
Remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice
Friday, May 25, 2018
How I Ended Up In Israel
I like road trips. I don't like to fly, in fact I am fearful. Until this year, I had not flown in 15 years. I rarely travel. I have been out of the state I live in only a handful of times. I never had a passport till I turned 40, which was in 2017. However, in April of 2018 I embarked on a journey completely out of the box for me. I went to Israel!!! It wasn't a journey that I would have planned, but G-d invited me and He began that long before April.
I believe the story began in 2014 when my family began attending other churches from the one we had been attending. During the time away, I received messages from someone at the church inviting us back, which continued into 2015 a few times. In 2016 we did go back to the church briefly, but left again. That same person continued to invite us back. In these years we only visited a few churches and stayed at a couple for a good length of time, but we never felt those congregations were where we belonged. The messages I received and brief conversations that I had with this person, G-d used to bring us back to the original church we left. We visited again in January of 2017 and have not left!!
It was at this church that I frequently heard my pastor, Trey Graham speak about Israel and a fleeting thought would run through my mind that it would be cool to go. That thought was never seriously entertained. I knew Israel was important. I knew that the Jews were G-d's chosen people. It was a basic head knowledge. That drastically changed in February of 2017. Our pastor had a guest speaker who share his story of making aliyah. His story impacted me so much. I would now say it changed my life. Little did I know, this was the night the Lord began preparing me for my first trip out of the country. This man was used by G-d to light a fire in me to learn about Israel, the Jewish people, and Hebrew.
Shortly after this guest speaker, my pastor began a sermon series titled "A Walk Through the Holy Land". It was incredible. It increased my hunger to learn more. During this series I was challenged to run a half marathon, this challenge was inspired by how much Jesus walked in the land of Israel. I also ended up changing jobs. The founder of the organization I now work for has a deep love for Israel, the Jewish people, and Hebrew.
In May of 2017 I was asked to help with a prayer ministry for Israel and in the email it was stated that I had not yet gone to Israel. At that point, I wanted to go, but yet I didn't. I didn't want to fly and I didn't think it was possible for me to go. But those words stayed with me.
In August we had two more speakers from the land, both inspiring me to keep learning. I had already began studying the letters, these speakers increased my desire to learn more. I absolutely love Hebrew. It is incredible. My pastor began teaching us about Jewish holidays and I was blown away. In October I was told about the upcoming trips to Israel, but they were not official. I was also told about a conference regarding Israel I could attend. I loved every moment of the music and the learning. My pastor and his Rabbi friend began a podcast, called the Lonestar Podcast. They discuss news, events, and Torah. In November I read a book by Don Finto titled "Your People Shall Be My People" and it drove deeper my love for this land, this language, and this people. I began asking people questions from the book, even strangers. The Israel trip for April was officially announced on November 21. I mentioned on social media the trip sounded amazing and the co-host of the trip stated "I personally guarantee it." This man runs Root-Source, another resource where Jews teach Christians. I signed up for that to learn more. Now I wanted to go, but with other circumstances, fear, and money I didn't know how. In December the how was figured out. The Lord provided. I just had to make a decision.
My one word for 2018 is trust, but on December 26, 2017 I had not made the choice for my word. I had a conversation with a few friends about Israel and trust came up. After this talk I read Luke 7:50 in the CJB version, "Your trust has saved you, go in peace". While the story leading up to this verse is different than making a decision to fly out of the country, the verse spoke to me. I felt G-d was asking me to go and let trust be my word for 2018. I had never left my kids for this long, but I wanted them to see faith. I wanted them to see obedience. I wrestled with the choice, but finally said yes on January 9, 2018. I lost sleep over the choice. I felt anxious. The night I found out the plane tickets were booked, I lost sleep again. We began a 40 days of faith series and in my book on 1-22-18 I heard from the Lord and wrote "stop being so fearful." On 1-26-18 I listened to the Lonestar Podcast and took notes when I listened a second time, because it spoke to me about going on the trip. I heard Pastor Trey speak about faith and ask questions and say things such as, "Will I trust Him to protect me?", "If the Lord says go, we go. Act of faith". I knew I would regret not going. Despite trust being my word and these messages I struggled some, but as April of 2018 drew near I also had a peace that I was saying yes to what the Lord had invited me to do. And that is how I ended up in Israel.
I can't get over how much this has taken root in me. I wish everyone understood what I am learning. The meanings and structure of the Hebrew letters, the traditions, the land....all of it..it's incredible. I read the Bible with new eyes. My faith has grown. I have made many new friends because of this journey. I am extremely thankful. I look forward to sharing the trip with you soon and maybe a post about all the learning resources I have used and books I have read.
For all of this Baruch Hashem.
I believe the story began in 2014 when my family began attending other churches from the one we had been attending. During the time away, I received messages from someone at the church inviting us back, which continued into 2015 a few times. In 2016 we did go back to the church briefly, but left again. That same person continued to invite us back. In these years we only visited a few churches and stayed at a couple for a good length of time, but we never felt those congregations were where we belonged. The messages I received and brief conversations that I had with this person, G-d used to bring us back to the original church we left. We visited again in January of 2017 and have not left!!
It was at this church that I frequently heard my pastor, Trey Graham speak about Israel and a fleeting thought would run through my mind that it would be cool to go. That thought was never seriously entertained. I knew Israel was important. I knew that the Jews were G-d's chosen people. It was a basic head knowledge. That drastically changed in February of 2017. Our pastor had a guest speaker who share his story of making aliyah. His story impacted me so much. I would now say it changed my life. Little did I know, this was the night the Lord began preparing me for my first trip out of the country. This man was used by G-d to light a fire in me to learn about Israel, the Jewish people, and Hebrew.
Shortly after this guest speaker, my pastor began a sermon series titled "A Walk Through the Holy Land". It was incredible. It increased my hunger to learn more. During this series I was challenged to run a half marathon, this challenge was inspired by how much Jesus walked in the land of Israel. I also ended up changing jobs. The founder of the organization I now work for has a deep love for Israel, the Jewish people, and Hebrew.
In May of 2017 I was asked to help with a prayer ministry for Israel and in the email it was stated that I had not yet gone to Israel. At that point, I wanted to go, but yet I didn't. I didn't want to fly and I didn't think it was possible for me to go. But those words stayed with me.
In August we had two more speakers from the land, both inspiring me to keep learning. I had already began studying the letters, these speakers increased my desire to learn more. I absolutely love Hebrew. It is incredible. My pastor began teaching us about Jewish holidays and I was blown away. In October I was told about the upcoming trips to Israel, but they were not official. I was also told about a conference regarding Israel I could attend. I loved every moment of the music and the learning. My pastor and his Rabbi friend began a podcast, called the Lonestar Podcast. They discuss news, events, and Torah. In November I read a book by Don Finto titled "Your People Shall Be My People" and it drove deeper my love for this land, this language, and this people. I began asking people questions from the book, even strangers. The Israel trip for April was officially announced on November 21. I mentioned on social media the trip sounded amazing and the co-host of the trip stated "I personally guarantee it." This man runs Root-Source, another resource where Jews teach Christians. I signed up for that to learn more. Now I wanted to go, but with other circumstances, fear, and money I didn't know how. In December the how was figured out. The Lord provided. I just had to make a decision.
My one word for 2018 is trust, but on December 26, 2017 I had not made the choice for my word. I had a conversation with a few friends about Israel and trust came up. After this talk I read Luke 7:50 in the CJB version, "Your trust has saved you, go in peace". While the story leading up to this verse is different than making a decision to fly out of the country, the verse spoke to me. I felt G-d was asking me to go and let trust be my word for 2018. I had never left my kids for this long, but I wanted them to see faith. I wanted them to see obedience. I wrestled with the choice, but finally said yes on January 9, 2018. I lost sleep over the choice. I felt anxious. The night I found out the plane tickets were booked, I lost sleep again. We began a 40 days of faith series and in my book on 1-22-18 I heard from the Lord and wrote "stop being so fearful." On 1-26-18 I listened to the Lonestar Podcast and took notes when I listened a second time, because it spoke to me about going on the trip. I heard Pastor Trey speak about faith and ask questions and say things such as, "Will I trust Him to protect me?", "If the Lord says go, we go. Act of faith". I knew I would regret not going. Despite trust being my word and these messages I struggled some, but as April of 2018 drew near I also had a peace that I was saying yes to what the Lord had invited me to do. And that is how I ended up in Israel.
I can't get over how much this has taken root in me. I wish everyone understood what I am learning. The meanings and structure of the Hebrew letters, the traditions, the land....all of it..it's incredible. I read the Bible with new eyes. My faith has grown. I have made many new friends because of this journey. I am extremely thankful. I look forward to sharing the trip with you soon and maybe a post about all the learning resources I have used and books I have read.
For all of this Baruch Hashem.
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Yad Vashem
I recently went to Israel for the first time. In a series of upcoming posts I will be sharing the story of what led me to go and stories about my trip. In the mean time, I wanted to share about my visit to a museum while there. When I was in Israel three holidays occurred, the first was Holocaust Memorial Day. I had a few moments outside of the museum to write down a few words. I wrote the following on social media:
We just visited the Yad Vashem, the Holocaust History Museum. I process through writing, I would have loved more time to write, but only had a few minutes. A few of my thoughts:
I wish I had time to really process the feelings and thoughts about what I just witnessed. I am so thankful there was light at the end of the tunnel. There was hope. Walking through at times, I just felt like I needed a hug because of the emotions overwhelming my heart and soul. The display of the shoes drew me in. Where had the feet that fit in those shoes walked before these evil events took place? What was the person like? I saw only saw beautiful faces. They were like you and me.
People who did nothing wrong and yet it was their shoes staring at me. It made me so mad that people who claimed to be Christians took part in this, putting fear into the lives of these people, creating a great chasm. And yet here I stood, seeing this in Israel, where G-d invited me to be, learning about His people, His land, and bridging the gap in some small way. I am blessed to do that, because these are G-d’s chosen people. I am blessed to do that because they persevered, fought, and held on despite the copious amount of loss, despite what they went through. What strength my Jewish friends have. I saw a picture of a young man, he was skin and bones, barely clothed, but he survived. At first I didn’t think it was a full smile, but after looking again, it was, his eyes were gleaming. I wanted to know his story. I may never know that, but I know he taught me about survival, about joy even in sorrow. Never forget.
There were various parts to the museum. At the main building, which was like a tunnel, you entered one end and went through rooms that told the horrific tribulations of the Jewish people, however towards the end it told stories of how so many survived, how so many fought. When you exited the exhibit after a very dark story, this is a picture of what you see. This was the light at the end of the tunnel. Hope is expectation, hope is an optimistic outlook, hope is what you saw, and hope is what you see throughout Israel and in the faces of the Jewish people.
We just visited the Yad Vashem, the Holocaust History Museum. I process through writing, I would have loved more time to write, but only had a few minutes. A few of my thoughts:
I wish I had time to really process the feelings and thoughts about what I just witnessed. I am so thankful there was light at the end of the tunnel. There was hope. Walking through at times, I just felt like I needed a hug because of the emotions overwhelming my heart and soul. The display of the shoes drew me in. Where had the feet that fit in those shoes walked before these evil events took place? What was the person like? I saw only saw beautiful faces. They were like you and me.
People who did nothing wrong and yet it was their shoes staring at me. It made me so mad that people who claimed to be Christians took part in this, putting fear into the lives of these people, creating a great chasm. And yet here I stood, seeing this in Israel, where G-d invited me to be, learning about His people, His land, and bridging the gap in some small way. I am blessed to do that, because these are G-d’s chosen people. I am blessed to do that because they persevered, fought, and held on despite the copious amount of loss, despite what they went through. What strength my Jewish friends have. I saw a picture of a young man, he was skin and bones, barely clothed, but he survived. At first I didn’t think it was a full smile, but after looking again, it was, his eyes were gleaming. I wanted to know his story. I may never know that, but I know he taught me about survival, about joy even in sorrow. Never forget.
There were various parts to the museum. At the main building, which was like a tunnel, you entered one end and went through rooms that told the horrific tribulations of the Jewish people, however towards the end it told stories of how so many survived, how so many fought. When you exited the exhibit after a very dark story, this is a picture of what you see. This was the light at the end of the tunnel. Hope is expectation, hope is an optimistic outlook, hope is what you saw, and hope is what you see throughout Israel and in the faces of the Jewish people.
Monday, March 26, 2018
I Saw The Movie I Can Only Imagine
I have been wanting to see the movie "I Can Only Imagine" since before it came out, I finally took myself to see it today and it moved me. Tears ran down my cheek. I almost skipped going to the movie because I needed to workout and my to-do list is a mile long, but I went and I am thankful I did.
As I watched the story unfold I was reminded how powerful words and music are. I am in a season where I could use the power of words. Words help me process. I have been reading many words and singing them, but I have not done much of my own writing, rather it be on my blog, my computer, or my journal. Writing is one way I hear Jesus and I find rest. This story was used to remind me of that.
On the screen I watched as negative voices screamed into the head of the actor playing Bart Millard and I sobbed. #metoo I have let negative voices scream into my own head. Sometimes they are from my own doubt and fear and sometimes from others. I see this happen to my girls. It is hard to do the thing we are being called to do with those voices invading our thoughts. Those voices can keep us from changing the world, however the stories that come from those places can be used by Jesus to change us, to help someone else, and do what He has called us to do...what He has gifted us for. I have also learned that those voices, they can be replaced, replaced with truth. And sometimes we have to do thing despite the negative voices.
During the movie I thought about one of the books I am currently reading that I am on the launch team for. I am barely in, but it is incredible. It is called Raising World Changers in a Changing World by Kristen Welch, you can read more about it and pre-order here. I finished chapter 1 last night and read questions that I could ask my kids, their answers were exactly what this movie depicted. One question the author poses is "What do you think being a world changer means?"- My youngest stated "make people be inspired by you", my oldest said "be yourself, do what He wants, and you can change people by the way you interact with them". So much wisdom in those statements. I am grateful Kristen Welch has written a book full of stories to help me raise world changers and I am grateful that Bart Millard and Mercy Me are inspiring people through the telling of this story and their music.
Go see the movie and order the book. Lets inspire each other and be world changers.
As I watched the story unfold I was reminded how powerful words and music are. I am in a season where I could use the power of words. Words help me process. I have been reading many words and singing them, but I have not done much of my own writing, rather it be on my blog, my computer, or my journal. Writing is one way I hear Jesus and I find rest. This story was used to remind me of that.
On the screen I watched as negative voices screamed into the head of the actor playing Bart Millard and I sobbed. #metoo I have let negative voices scream into my own head. Sometimes they are from my own doubt and fear and sometimes from others. I see this happen to my girls. It is hard to do the thing we are being called to do with those voices invading our thoughts. Those voices can keep us from changing the world, however the stories that come from those places can be used by Jesus to change us, to help someone else, and do what He has called us to do...what He has gifted us for. I have also learned that those voices, they can be replaced, replaced with truth. And sometimes we have to do thing despite the negative voices.
During the movie I thought about one of the books I am currently reading that I am on the launch team for. I am barely in, but it is incredible. It is called Raising World Changers in a Changing World by Kristen Welch, you can read more about it and pre-order here. I finished chapter 1 last night and read questions that I could ask my kids, their answers were exactly what this movie depicted. One question the author poses is "What do you think being a world changer means?"- My youngest stated "make people be inspired by you", my oldest said "be yourself, do what He wants, and you can change people by the way you interact with them". So much wisdom in those statements. I am grateful Kristen Welch has written a book full of stories to help me raise world changers and I am grateful that Bart Millard and Mercy Me are inspiring people through the telling of this story and their music.
Go see the movie and order the book. Lets inspire each other and be world changers.
Monday, January 1, 2018
Happy New Year
Happy New Year!
Another year, brings another word. In fact it will be my 5th word. Five years of praying about and focusing on one word has been more impactful than any New Year's resolutions I have ever made. I never seemed to keep resolutions, but walking with a word for a year, it changes you. G-d uses it to sculpt and mold me. He uses it to teach me and guide me. He uses it to speak to me and love me. Every year with every word has been so meaningful.
In 2014 I chased what matters.
In 2015 I wanted to be.
In 2016 it was transform.
And in 2017 it was courage.
I knew why I needed to focus on courage when 2017 started, but I had no idea how G-d would have me work through it. There were many circumstances that despite my fear and doubt that G-d used the word courage to see me through. It was there in learning new things, growing my faith, in my parenting, in dealing with personal "stuff", and of course as I conquered doing the impossible (AKA running a half marathon). In frequent moments of anxiety and fear He used the running challenge to build my courage and remind me that He is with me. A year with this word has helped me fight for myself and at times with myself.
I think my biggest take away with this word was something I wrote in my blog post about completing the half:
"Being obedient to this doing the impossible challenge helped me embrace my one word for the year, courage. Courage does not mean no fear or no risk. It's realizing the presence of danger, fear, or difficulty and still taking action. I was unsure of my ability to follow through with this training due to asthma and my knees.
But G-d.
I was sure of Him.
Obedience over feelings."
This foundation of courage has led me to my word for 2018....Trust.
While I am sure of Him, as I went through 2017 and the word courage, I was able to to see gaps in my trust. I saw gaps in trust of myself, others, my journey, my ability, what G-d wants me to do, my parenting, and much more. I see hesitation to say yes and say no, because of struggles with trust. Doubt creeps in. In 2018 I want to fill those places with expanding trust and see what the Lord will do in my weight loss journey, in my faith, in my home, in my new found love of Israel, the Jewish people, and the Hebrew language, and in many other areas He has laid on my heart.
Another year, brings another word. In fact it will be my 5th word. Five years of praying about and focusing on one word has been more impactful than any New Year's resolutions I have ever made. I never seemed to keep resolutions, but walking with a word for a year, it changes you. G-d uses it to sculpt and mold me. He uses it to teach me and guide me. He uses it to speak to me and love me. Every year with every word has been so meaningful.
In 2014 I chased what matters.
In 2015 I wanted to be.
In 2016 it was transform.
And in 2017 it was courage.
I knew why I needed to focus on courage when 2017 started, but I had no idea how G-d would have me work through it. There were many circumstances that despite my fear and doubt that G-d used the word courage to see me through. It was there in learning new things, growing my faith, in my parenting, in dealing with personal "stuff", and of course as I conquered doing the impossible (AKA running a half marathon). In frequent moments of anxiety and fear He used the running challenge to build my courage and remind me that He is with me. A year with this word has helped me fight for myself and at times with myself.
I think my biggest take away with this word was something I wrote in my blog post about completing the half:
"Being obedient to this doing the impossible challenge helped me embrace my one word for the year, courage. Courage does not mean no fear or no risk. It's realizing the presence of danger, fear, or difficulty and still taking action. I was unsure of my ability to follow through with this training due to asthma and my knees.
But G-d.
I was sure of Him.
Obedience over feelings."
This foundation of courage has led me to my word for 2018....Trust.
While I am sure of Him, as I went through 2017 and the word courage, I was able to to see gaps in my trust. I saw gaps in trust of myself, others, my journey, my ability, what G-d wants me to do, my parenting, and much more. I see hesitation to say yes and say no, because of struggles with trust. Doubt creeps in. In 2018 I want to fill those places with expanding trust and see what the Lord will do in my weight loss journey, in my faith, in my home, in my new found love of Israel, the Jewish people, and the Hebrew language, and in many other areas He has laid on my heart.
I think courage and trust are intertwined and that makes trust a perfect next word.
One Word.
One Year.
Trust.
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