Personal Transformation
The Earth Is the LORD’s
Earth Day’s greatest success will never be in the legislatures of the world. It must be in the hearts of humanity. If we could change human behavior as it relates to honoring our commitment to exercise dominion over the earth with responsibility, we might find what’s missing.
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7-min
Omer Day 9: Is Seeing Believing?
True faith that lasts is not sustained on experiencing signs and wonders but on working out our faith “with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). That’s what this period of counting the Omer is all about and this is the lesson that the Master taught to Thomas.
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6-min
2021 and Moments of Truth
Clearly, “moments of truth” are important as we think about the Bible, history, and the unfolding of God’s kingdom agenda. Moments of truth also prove to be decisive in our individual stories. However, they are not always easy to navigate.
7-min
Steadfast in Times of Trouble
We have lived through a year that will be marked in the history books and talked about for many years to come. Each person has their own unique take and understanding of what this year is, but as believers, we can offer much more than an opinion.
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7-min
Psalm 27: A Story of Faith and Trust
Life can be challenging and full of hardships, but that is not a surprise for disciples of Yeshua. Let’s study two Mussar traits that lie at the heart of our confidence in HaShem and our Master Yeshua, and discover how we can use them to sanctify God’s name.
7-min
Preparation for the High Holidays
As we prepare for the coming year with its challenges and joys, its uncertainties and frailty, its hope and glory, its opportunities and frustrations, let us be mindful of bringing the attributes of patience and trust, frugality and lovingkindness with us. In so doing, we will find that the year may be a bit more sane, safe, and sanctified.
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8-min
After COVID-19
The world is trying to go back to normal. After weeks and months of lockdowns, quarantines, and social isolation, we are in a hurry to return to business as usual. But do we really have to return to normal? Wouldn’t it be better to return to something better than normal?
6-min
The Turkey Prince and the Redemption of Yeshua
In the parable of the prodigal son Yeshua lifts our identity from the mundane mire of this world to the elevate status of a father’s son. The prodigal realizes his true position as his father’s son and is able to come out of rock bottom.
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8-min
Real and False Responsibility
It is not for us to maintain something at the expense of our physical, emotional and spiritual health. That thinking is manipulative and cultic, and it places burdens upon the child of God that God has never placed. It is erroneous and misguided loyalty, and it is dangerous.
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6-min
To Whom Should We Show Forgiveness?
God doesn't leave us in our brokenness. He encourages us to face our wounds and to grow stronger, healthier, and more into his image. I will decide to live in forgiveness rather than bitterness, and to be an instrument of peace and reconciliation, rather than division. May God help us all to mourn and grieve the brokenness, but not to stay there.
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5-min
The Dribble That Brought Me Naches
We sowed and sowed…and there was no reaping for a long time. But now, the due season has arrived and we are reaping. Chuck is now dribbling, shooting, and is on his way to being able to participate in a special needs basketball league. This makes me smile.
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7-min
My Jewish Journey
A major turning point in my Jewish journey came when I met my first ever Messianic Jew named David. David was a Christian, but he still did a lot of Jewish stuff. I saw that being a disciple of Yeshua was intended by God to be a means of strengthening my observance to the Torah, not abolishing it.
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8-min
Social Media and Public Shaming
Social media is a brilliant tool for exchanging ideas, sharing information rapidly, and keeping connected with loved ones and coworkers. There have been some wonderful innovations that have come through these media. However, although it has brought out some of the best qualities in human nature, it has also revealed some of the worst.
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8-min
Plowing the Furrow
From time to time we receive mail that is a tremendous encouragment to us. In our day-to-day work to bring to fruition the vision that HaShem has given us, it’s a blessing to be reminded that our effort is not in vain. This is a testament to everyone who labors with us in this work.
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7-min
Missing My Jewish Mama
Recently, as I was thinking about my mom (which happens more frequently this time of year, though I think about her all the time), I paused to consider what was behind my thinking there. What is the quintessential Jewish mama? I feel that in my gut, but what does that mean?
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8-min
Moving Forward in Paris
At first I heard what I thought were fireworks. A rapid series of low concussions were immediately followed by the sound of shattering glass. In one split second, it was pandemonium. I saw two young men rush out of the restaurant and throw themselves into a car that sped away as quickly as it had magically appeared.
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7-min
Micah and Two Very Different Coaches
The saying, “As the leaders go, so go the people” is usually true. Most of us have had experiences with both good and bad leaders. The picture that Micah presented reminded me of a contrast in leadership that I experienced as a baseball player in college
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9-min
Hipsters, Christians, and Messianic Gentiles
Subcultures are normal and healthy; they are the modern equivalent of tribes. They give people a sense of belonging, solidarity, and acceptance. But those of us who are followers of Jesus need to consider carefully how our effectiveness might be limited by intentional and outward identification with a Christian subculture.
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11-min
The Power of Teshuvah
All of us can experience seasons in life where we are in a deep pit. And it may seem so ominous, and so devastating, and so dark, that there seems to be no way out. But the truth is, with God, there is always a path toward the light. Even at the last minute, God welcomes our return.
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6-min
