With war drums beating even more intensely in Iran and Syria, we've received numerous phone calls and emails expressing their concerns — and understandably so! Nevertheless, even in this climate of anxiety, we are preparing to enter into Shabbat (the Hebrew word for Sabbath) this afternoon. And as we do, we are remembering again, the deep lesson of God's entering into His rest following the six creation days.
When I was growing up in Baltimore, Maryland during the winter I always wished for a snow day so that I didn't have to go to school the following day. I was always watching the news for any hint of snow, even just a ½ inch was usually enough–schools would just close! Aside from the weather report there was one sign that almost always meant freedom the next day: if Mom and Dad rushed to the grocery store, because on the East Coast, the slightest hint of snow sends everyone running for milk, eggs and bread to be sure they're ready for the storm.
When Joseph became ruler over Egypt, his name was changed, and his identity was altered so that he no longer appeared or lived as a shepherd son of Israel from the land of Canaan, but as an Egyptian Prime Minister…
The Hebrew word "Shabbat", what we call "the Sabbath" in English, means: "to rest". The ancient Hebrew word picture unfolds its meaning profoundly and even "prophetically". Shabbat is spelled "sheen"-"beit"-"tav".
Over the past week, the world has experienced some severe birth pangs. If you’ve been reading Worthy News, you’ve read that the economic system in Greece may default. Italy’s economy was downgraded this week. The European banks are in serious financial despair and in need of recapitalization. The world has watched its financial markets plunge over the past two days. Meanwhile, world leaders gather in New York at the United Nations. The main issue facing the UN assembly today is a potential vote for a Palestinian State, and the ramifications facing the world if a state is rejected by the world. The world is on the brink of going over the edge!
With with all the political craziness regarding Israel and her less than friendly neighbors, we've been receiving numerous emails expressing concern. Thank you all for your love and prayers. Even in this climate of anxiety, we now prepare to enter, along with all of Israel, into the Shabbat (Sabbath). And as we do, we remember yet again, the deep lesson of in entering into God's perfect rest.
