Jerusalem Encounter

Yesterday A few of us went to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust museum. As I left the Lord began to impress upon me the weight of remembrance. So, today we took time to remember the covenant God cut with Abram in Genesis 5 - the promise of many descendants/ a people and the land. Then in Romans 11 we are reminded that the root supports us not the other way around and we get to carry the message of salvation to the Jews. But we are cautioned not to become arrogant. We prayed for the church worldwide to have a softening of hearts and revelation of these scriptures to see that the Gentiles (that's us) have a role in restoring Israel. And so we are here this week pursuing God's invitation for our community in the fulfillment of scripture.

We spent the day at the Jerusalem Encounter conference. Being in a room with a few hundred people who are trying to figure out how to respond in tangible ways to the scriptural commands to support Israel is really amazing. We worshipped in English and Hebrew, heard powerful speakers and heard about several ministries here that are ministering in the name of Yeshua (Jesus). Two years ago on our first visioning trip we had Shabbat with a founder of the non-profit that is hosting this event. He shared a dream that was in his heart. Today we are at this conference, which is that dream manifested. We have had so many confirmations and encouragements that we are on the right track to figuring out what our community is called to as we pray, worship and serve in the land.

Most impactful thing I heard today:
Christians wonder why Jews can read the Bible and not see Jesus.
Christians read the Bible and don't see the Jews.
Christians and Jews read the Bible and don't see the Arabs. We are selective.
The truth is we are ALL made in God's image and we are called to respond in love to one another.


Tonight we reconnected with Chaim Malespin, whom we met two years ago. He runs an organization that helps Jews make Aliyah (return to Israel) and assimilate into society. God is blessing his ministry with great favor! It was a joy to spend time hearing the story God is unfolding - one testimony after another of God's miraculous provision, guidance and love for His people.

New experiences for the day... Falafel in the shuk (open air market), walked 10,000 steps without trying, dessert made from ground sesame seeds that is actually good, Messianic hip hop (who knew?!), and discovered a new restaurant we love, Trattoria.


We have one prayer request - sweet sleep for everyone.

Shalom,
Sharon