December 2011
Chanukah and Christmas Greetings!
Chag Sameach!!
As I finally sit down to prepare this long awaited Epistle to our sojourners, it is the first full day in the season of Chanukah and just five days short of Christmas. The two festivals are quite close this year, as you can tell,… close in time – that is. Historically and Theologically they are not related at all – but I have spoken of this before, so I won’t go over it again. Yet, as far into the season as we are – at least here in Concord, we have no snow yet. (Just a fact, not a complaint). Today in fact, it is drizzly and foggy. Though I hear they have had snow in the American south west.
Earlier this year, I had stated that it was my intention to be much more pro-active in getting our newsletters out to all of you. I am sorry that I have not been able to keep that ‘promise’. I even had a question put to me, (relayed through a trusted friend) as to whether I had removed someone’s name from the mailing list – it had been so long since they received a letter. Let me assure you that I would never remove a name unless instructed to do so by the person themselves. It did however drive home the fact that these letters are important to many people. I apologize for the paucity of newsletters this year. (The last one went out in May I believe).
My only defence is that these last months have been very busy here… busy in a good way, of course. As I mentioned in the May newsletter, I was looking forward to some Summer engagements. Not only did these happen, but they expanded to include other things as well. During July, I covered services at my ‘home’ church of Emmanuel Richvale in Richmond Hill. Then in August, I travelled to All Saints Church in King City for a return engagement which lasted into the first week of September. In both settings, I continued to be amazed at how the congregation “ate up” the teachings I shared with them through the weekly messages. For the last service at All Saints, I did something I haven’t done for years – I proposed a “Hot-Seat Sermon”. I gave some warning about it and encouraged people to bring questions to the service to serve as ‘jumping off’ points for discussion. The questions could be based on the readings of the day, about Scripture in general, about the Messianic life… whatever they wished. At both services I had to set a timer so that we could stop the questions and continue the service so as to be home at a ‘good hour’.
Also in August, I invited the Advisory Board members to a special meeting at St. Paul’s, Innisfil, where I am now a “Friend of the Parish”, an honourary title. We gathered over lunch, got to renew acquaintances, and then at our “AGM”, we discussed how the ministry was going. We discussed the work that has been finished and also the vision of what lies ahead. We surveyed the financial statements for the last few years. (Our last meeting was August of 2008). It was decided that we would meet more regularly – annually – for more of the same and would also try to gather once socially as well – so that we can continue to get to know each other well. Joan and I are the only ones that know everyone on the board and vice versa – so we are going to fix that. We had a great day together, and Joan and I came away much enthused by the support of the board.
Just a few days later, Our Chavarah (small group) members journeyed to the Bar Mitzvah of the son of dear friends and colleagues in Messianic Ministry. They have a group which meets in London On, and it was time for their second son to make the step into manhood, and adult involvement in his faith walk and congregational life. Desmond did a terrific job of reading (in Hebrew) from the Torah passage, giving the D’var Torah (Message) and we were all very proud of his accomplishment.
Following my last Service at All Saints, Joan and I went on an extended vacation period. Once again we headed north to the Minden area where we could visit our son and his family, as well as many of our old friends who still live in this beautiful part of Haliburton County. I met a few new people during this time. My friend Steve, one of our board members, gets together with his friends over coffee every day at 6 o’clock. I thought it would be fun to join them – then Steve pointed out that he meant 6 AM!!!! I made a few of the mornings anyway, and shared much of my faith journey with the men there. We all stood outside the local Gas station / coffee shop and watched the stars fade and the sun come up. As always, I was joyfully surprised at the curiosity of the men regarding our Messianic beliefs and practices. I also got to borrow both Steve’s motorcycle and also my son’s Kawasaki cruiser. I travelled the old parish roads and took some pictures of Haliburton’s strange tourist sites. You can see some of them on our website.
We made good use of the Summer and Fall Festivals (Shavuot, Yom T’ruah {or Rosh H’Shanah}, Yom Kippur, and of course Sukkot) celebrating them with those near and dear to us and teaching about them to anyone who would listen. This year, we made some alterations to the Sukkah (booth) which we erect every year for Sukkot. In the past, the upper walls have been covered with canvas. This year, we renovated the walls, and used wood both below and above. Of course, as always, it was decorated beautifully, and Joan and Marlene hosted many visitors – more than ever, I am told. Many of them attended our daily prayer times and stayed for conversation and refreshments afterward. We had quite a detailed conversation one day with a neighbourhood friend who, with his wife, came for a visit. His first wife had been Jewish, and so he was familiar with some of the festival traditions, but there were still many things we could tell him about. Other visitors drove in from many miles away and spent a day with us as we rejoiced in the knowledge of the coming of the Lord as Emmanuel – “God with us”. If you go to our website, in the photo gallery, you will see some pictures of the construction of our 2011 Sukkah and some of the festivities.
In October, after Sukkot, I joined many of the Anglican clergy of York-Simcoe area at their annual retreat / conference in the Muskokas. These sorts of events are great ways to renew old acquaintances and make new ones. It’s what folks today call “net-working”, and I am always ready to share my story and faith walk with anyone who is interested. Again, there were many people who were “sort of familiar” with the Messianic world – including the wife of the speaker, who hailed from London. I told her about Eugene’s congregation and suggested she check it out some time.
This fall, there has been some changes made to our advisory board. I received resignations from two of our members and have invited two new people whom I have known for many years, and who have shown an interest in our ministry over the years. They are certainly aware of, and supportive of, what we are trying to achieve here at BRT ministries. Change is always difficult, but I look forward to the participation of the new members, and also the potential of a closer connection with CCWM as well. With this in mind, I here ~ officially and publicly ~ welcome to our board The Reverend Debbie Dennis of St. Paul’s Innisfil (Barrie) and Mr. Robert Kenney, who I met while serving in the church in Minden, but who now lives in Pickering.
Finally, at least in terms of our Update section, I am really pleased to share some news which, as far as I am concerned anyway, is exciting. You will remember that in 2010 we recorded slightly over 9000 hits on our website. I mentioned that it was my desire to increase those “hits” (or visits) to over 10,000 for the year 2011. I am very pleased to tell you that, all things being equal, we will actually top 15,000 visits this year. The reason I think this is good is that there is almost no advertising done of the website – save for handing out my ministry card and the sign on the back window of my car. This means that the website is helping to spread the word of what it means to be Messianic and to combine our faith in Y’shua our Messiah with the observation of Torah, the Moedim, and other aspects of Biblical living.
THIS MONTH’S TEACHING: *Letters*
I hope you will forgive me, but I thought – for this edition of the newsletter I would forgo the Teaching section. I had thought about relating some thoughts I had recently around 2 letters I received as e-mail communications. Both had to do with Israel, and the day to day situation there.
After much thought and prayer, however, I have decided to post this information to the website teaching area as soon as I can – after Chanukah / Christmas. I would invite you to keep an eye open there, and not miss this interesting material. I will indicate the addition on the “What’s New” page.
ENGAGEMENTS
As already noted above, earlier this year I was deemed a “Friend of St. Paul’s, Innisfil”. (The parish that is – not the Saint himself). In 2010, I presented a full demonstration of the Passover to many interested people in St. Paul’s parish hall. I try to get up to visit the services there whenever I can as well. I am slowly getting to know a few of the members. The priest in the parish is an old friend from Seminary days – she attended Trinity, while I attended Wycliffe – but that has only helped to strengthen our friendship. Debbie was also in the Deanery of Victoria - Haliburton at the same time I was. We lost contact for a while, but have been glad to get re-acquainted recently. Debbie is one of the new members of the BRT Advisory Board as well. It is my hope that I will be able to assist both her and her associate in ministry in some way in the future. We are presently, in fact, investigating my leading a weekly Bible Study with her group, and I am hoping this will be possible.
Recently, I was invited to bring the message to the “Eytz Chaim” congregation which is part of Chosen People’s local ministry. The congregation has moved to new quarters for their worship, and the leader was doing a series on “The Great Kings of Judah”, and I was asked to speak on the “Wisdom of Solomon”. As so often happens, I learned a lot about Solomon that I did not know before. The congregation seemed to enjoy the message and it was a great opportunity for me to work alongside (once again) my friend Ben. (Ben and I did a wedding together in 2010) I am hoping that this will be the first in many follow-up ventures with our partners in Messianic Ministry in the area.
Shortly after the above engagement, I was asked by CPM to take part in a panel discussion on “How Rabbinic / Orthodox we should try to be in Messianic Ministry. Although four panelists had been invited, only two of us showed up – but that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of about 20 guests who listened carefully and also asked some important questions. Once again it was an interesting evening.
CHAVARAH NEWS & BIBLE STUDY NOTES
We have added to our “Small Group” two new and regular worshippers. They are old friends from previous years who, like the rest of us, were seeking a place and a group with which they could worship in a friendly setting. They often bring a third person with them – a young girl who is like a grand-daughter. We have all grown together.
In the summer, some physical changes made it necessary to move from our usual meeting place to the home of our new members. The move has worked out well so far, and we continue to lift up the Names of Elohim and Y’shua in praise and liturgy, to read from the Torah, Hahftorah and Brit H’Chadeshah, to pray together and for each other, and to join together in Kiddush / Oneg (special Shabbat dinner) afterward. We also continue to welcome sporadic guests to our gatherings which always adds to the enjoyment. Often the dialogue will continue on from the Message’s themes for the day and everyone has the opportunity to “put their oar in” as it were about the readings, etc.
This week, we will be having a special Chanukah gathering with candle lighting, lots of singing and story telling, and a huge assortment of foods – especially those that involve oil – like latkes, doughnuts, crepes, and the like.
At one of our recent Bible Study gatherings, we enjoyed a series of movie segments on the saga of Isaac, Jacob and Esau. We had a few questions for discussion and we all saw something different as the movie portrayed the story. Our dialogue was most impassioned around the story of Jacob (Ya’acov) fighting with the Angel. This is a profound passage of scripture and so often it is simply avoided in discussion groups. Although we can’t always find definite answers, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t ask the questions.
OTHER NEWS
Just prior to going on Holiday this Summer, Joan and I were visiting a friend in the BouClair store in Woodbridge (Highway 7 at Weston road). The manager mentioned that she could use some assistance with making some changes in the store. Joan suggested that I might be available to help. After working out a few details, I began working in the store part-time on October 25th. I generally work on Mondays and Tuesdays, to receive shipments of new stock, and to make the desired changes in the storage area. I look forward to being able to do other duties as well. It’s just a few hours a week, the pay is minimum wage, but it is fulfilling to be able to help the manager and staff, and – as they say – every little bit helps. The “loss” of two days in terms of the ministry of course, may make some changes necessary. As we work through these additional changes, we will see where the Lord leads us - both personally and ‘professionally’. If you call the office on Monday or Tuesday, you may have to leave a message. I will, however, get back to you as soon as I can.
FROM THE “IN BOX”
I want to say a very grateful thank you to so many of our sojourners who have sent their annual Christmas and Chanukah greetings by way of cards, e-mails, as well as their very newsy updates. Not only do your communications give Joan and I the opportunity to catch up on the news of what is happening in the families of those we care about, but I can tell you – it has stirred me up so that I finally TOOK time to produce this December edition of our newsletter.
One Christmas letter, beautifully written on paper with (I think) holly branches all around it, spoke of the great memories of the “cycle of the Incarnation with its three joyful seasons – Advent, Christmas and Epiphany. What memories of celebration at church and home! Advent wreath and calendars, Christmas tree, crèche and stockings, Epiphany star and crowns and the joyful medieval carols.”
Indeed I was reminded of past years in my own life as I read the words, and I recall how moving the whole season would be – one of Anticipation, Arrival and Revelation – a time to rejoice in how Elohim loves us so much that “He sent the very best” and didn’t keep it a secret for only a few, but revealed it to everyone who would ‘listen’.
I received a note from one of our prayer supporters who had many nice things to say, and some encouraging remarks. She writes: “I do enjoy your letters and messages. I have saved them all and am passing them on to a relative.” [The writer has told me previously that she passes them on to others as well – some in her Bible Study group and others too! This is a great way to ‘get the teachings out-there’] She continues, “I really enjoy your identification of the Jewish symbols and vocabulary. Right now our study is on the Book of Revelation and at the same time I am reading The Art of Spiritual Listening. ~ it makes me want to drop the word ‘co-incidence’.” [I agree – a long time ago, Joan and I shifted our thinking to consider “God-Incidence” in most areas of our lives.] Again she continues, “People think the world is huge ~ not so! ~ I believe we are so connected to God we can’t fathom it all! You help us!”
How nice of her to say such a thing. It fills me with joy that someone finds such satisfaction in the words and teachings I offer. I pray that I will be able to continue to serve the Lord and His people in this way for a long time to come.
We also receive newsletters from other ministries as well – some that are Messianic in nature, others that are involved with some aspect of the Messianic way of living, and still others that go about their vocation of sharing the Lord Y’shua H’Meshiach through a Christian thrust. One local congregation wrote to us (and others, of course) about their recent involvement in a “Journey to Bethlehem” – an outdoor walk through Nativity scene, set up in a series of vignettes around the church property. Over the four nights of the presentation, they captured the imaginations of over 1200 visitors – and also fed them cookies and hot chocolate.
It’s great to hear of such wonderful opportunities happening in the world of faith. It is encouraging to know that so many are teaching, guiding, supporting those who are inquisitive about our relationship with Elohim and His Son, our Messiah.
PRAYER REQUESTS
This month, I would like to ask you to spend some concentrated effort in praying for the ministry itself. As the new year approaches, we are filled with anticipation and expectation as to where the Lord is going to lead us. First of all, in terms of finances, I am enclosing our annual Request for Support. I earnestly hope you will read it over carefully, and pray for inspiration regarding setting up a simple programme of giving to the work of BRT ministries. It doesn’t take a lot – it simply takes community. Please pray to seek God’s direction in this matter.
Would you please pray also for my part time work and for the protection of time for work in the ministry. I am presently seeking God’s wisdom in this matter and would appreciate knowing that you, too, are walking alongside me as we pray together. What changes might Elohim desire for the ministry? How can I meet the needs of so many different demands on my time? How do I get back “in touch” with the original call and vocation of BRT ministries? How am I to serve God first and foremost in 2012?
Please pray for the possibility of the Bible Study at St. Paul’s starting in late January. I have a tentative outline of the topics – but between Rev’d Debbie and myself we will need wisdom to work out the logistics. Pray that God will lead us with confidence and that He will also bring out many interested souls to the sessions.
Pray for the ongoing work of the ‘renovated’ Advisory Board and for its membership: Steve, Debbie, Bob, Norm and Gay and of course myself.
May your ongoing prayers for BRT ministries always include the encouragement of God in providing more and more speaking engagements, opportunities to preach and teach, demonstrations (Passover etc), Bible Studies, and participation in worship services around the area (summer vacation coverage, etc.)
Finally, please pray for Joan and myself, as we endeavour to follow the leading of our Lord and Master, Y’shua in every area of our lives.
And now, Joan and I join in wishing you “Happy Chanukah” or “Merry Christmas” (or both in some cases). May the Lord give you a season of joy and wonder at all He has done, is doing, and will do – and may the New Year bring suitable challenges, amazing triumphs, and pleasant times.
"Y'varehch'cha Adonai v'yeesh m'recha –
May the Lord Bless you and Keep you."
Photo Credit: Top of Page: This is our family Chanukiah. It was day two of Chanukah when I took the photo. There will likely be at least one, maybe two more candles burning by the time the letter gets out to you. (Note the humorous touch with the ornaments.)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
A Special Request to our Sojourners and Readers,
The preparation and distribution of our Beth Roay Tov Ministry Newsletter is a service to our sojourners and any others who may be interested in what we do, or in what we offer as support to the believing community. We are pleased to offer this newsletter free of charge to anyone who wishes to peruse its pages. This is also true of our website material.
What Beth Roay Tov Offers the Believing Community
(all* offered at no cost to the recipient)
A Regular Newsletter (especially around Jewish Festivals and special events)
A Complete Website, (With Archived Material) (so far without pop-ups and ‘cookies’)
each of the above include
teaching about Jewish traditions,
teaching about Festivals,
perceptions as to how these things (and more) are involved in our faith walk as Christians
An ongoing study based on the weekly readings of Torah according to the Messianic Parsha List, along with additional Readings from the Brit ha Chadeshah (Newer Covenant);
Scriptural Insights including familiar passages etc. as seen through a “different” vantage point
A Schedule of Readings from the Jewish Parshiot (A Form of Lectionary)
along with related readings from the Newer Covenant just for Messianics.
Speaking Engagements for the edification of congregations, small groups, leaders gatherings, etc. *
Personal Demonstrations of Passover with revelations from study and "life" *
A Resource for Christian Leaders inquiring about Jewish Connections with our faith
available through the phone, e-mail, regular mail, face to face conversations etc.
Pastoral Support for those wondering about faith backgrounds, or other connected issues
Funerals and Weddings for those not connected to a faith community, or having “mixed” backgrounds
Hand-Made and other Judaica
Chag Sameach!!
As I finally sit down to prepare this long awaited Epistle to our sojourners, it is the first full day in the season of Chanukah and just five days short of Christmas. The two festivals are quite close this year, as you can tell,… close in time – that is. Historically and Theologically they are not related at all – but I have spoken of this before, so I won’t go over it again. Yet, as far into the season as we are – at least here in Concord, we have no snow yet. (Just a fact, not a complaint). Today in fact, it is drizzly and foggy. Though I hear they have had snow in the American south west.
Earlier this year, I had stated that it was my intention to be much more pro-active in getting our newsletters out to all of you. I am sorry that I have not been able to keep that ‘promise’. I even had a question put to me, (relayed through a trusted friend) as to whether I had removed someone’s name from the mailing list – it had been so long since they received a letter. Let me assure you that I would never remove a name unless instructed to do so by the person themselves. It did however drive home the fact that these letters are important to many people. I apologize for the paucity of newsletters this year. (The last one went out in May I believe).
My only defence is that these last months have been very busy here… busy in a good way, of course. As I mentioned in the May newsletter, I was looking forward to some Summer engagements. Not only did these happen, but they expanded to include other things as well. During July, I covered services at my ‘home’ church of Emmanuel Richvale in Richmond Hill. Then in August, I travelled to All Saints Church in King City for a return engagement which lasted into the first week of September. In both settings, I continued to be amazed at how the congregation “ate up” the teachings I shared with them through the weekly messages. For the last service at All Saints, I did something I haven’t done for years – I proposed a “Hot-Seat Sermon”. I gave some warning about it and encouraged people to bring questions to the service to serve as ‘jumping off’ points for discussion. The questions could be based on the readings of the day, about Scripture in general, about the Messianic life… whatever they wished. At both services I had to set a timer so that we could stop the questions and continue the service so as to be home at a ‘good hour’.
Also in August, I invited the Advisory Board members to a special meeting at St. Paul’s, Innisfil, where I am now a “Friend of the Parish”, an honourary title. We gathered over lunch, got to renew acquaintances, and then at our “AGM”, we discussed how the ministry was going. We discussed the work that has been finished and also the vision of what lies ahead. We surveyed the financial statements for the last few years. (Our last meeting was August of 2008). It was decided that we would meet more regularly – annually – for more of the same and would also try to gather once socially as well – so that we can continue to get to know each other well. Joan and I are the only ones that know everyone on the board and vice versa – so we are going to fix that. We had a great day together, and Joan and I came away much enthused by the support of the board.
Just a few days later, Our Chavarah (small group) members journeyed to the Bar Mitzvah of the son of dear friends and colleagues in Messianic Ministry. They have a group which meets in London On, and it was time for their second son to make the step into manhood, and adult involvement in his faith walk and congregational life. Desmond did a terrific job of reading (in Hebrew) from the Torah passage, giving the D’var Torah (Message) and we were all very proud of his accomplishment.
Following my last Service at All Saints, Joan and I went on an extended vacation period. Once again we headed north to the Minden area where we could visit our son and his family, as well as many of our old friends who still live in this beautiful part of Haliburton County. I met a few new people during this time. My friend Steve, one of our board members, gets together with his friends over coffee every day at 6 o’clock. I thought it would be fun to join them – then Steve pointed out that he meant 6 AM!!!! I made a few of the mornings anyway, and shared much of my faith journey with the men there. We all stood outside the local Gas station / coffee shop and watched the stars fade and the sun come up. As always, I was joyfully surprised at the curiosity of the men regarding our Messianic beliefs and practices. I also got to borrow both Steve’s motorcycle and also my son’s Kawasaki cruiser. I travelled the old parish roads and took some pictures of Haliburton’s strange tourist sites. You can see some of them on our website.
We made good use of the Summer and Fall Festivals (Shavuot, Yom T’ruah {or Rosh H’Shanah}, Yom Kippur, and of course Sukkot) celebrating them with those near and dear to us and teaching about them to anyone who would listen. This year, we made some alterations to the Sukkah (booth) which we erect every year for Sukkot. In the past, the upper walls have been covered with canvas. This year, we renovated the walls, and used wood both below and above. Of course, as always, it was decorated beautifully, and Joan and Marlene hosted many visitors – more than ever, I am told. Many of them attended our daily prayer times and stayed for conversation and refreshments afterward. We had quite a detailed conversation one day with a neighbourhood friend who, with his wife, came for a visit. His first wife had been Jewish, and so he was familiar with some of the festival traditions, but there were still many things we could tell him about. Other visitors drove in from many miles away and spent a day with us as we rejoiced in the knowledge of the coming of the Lord as Emmanuel – “God with us”. If you go to our website, in the photo gallery, you will see some pictures of the construction of our 2011 Sukkah and some of the festivities.
In October, after Sukkot, I joined many of the Anglican clergy of York-Simcoe area at their annual retreat / conference in the Muskokas. These sorts of events are great ways to renew old acquaintances and make new ones. It’s what folks today call “net-working”, and I am always ready to share my story and faith walk with anyone who is interested. Again, there were many people who were “sort of familiar” with the Messianic world – including the wife of the speaker, who hailed from London. I told her about Eugene’s congregation and suggested she check it out some time.
This fall, there has been some changes made to our advisory board. I received resignations from two of our members and have invited two new people whom I have known for many years, and who have shown an interest in our ministry over the years. They are certainly aware of, and supportive of, what we are trying to achieve here at BRT ministries. Change is always difficult, but I look forward to the participation of the new members, and also the potential of a closer connection with CCWM as well. With this in mind, I here ~ officially and publicly ~ welcome to our board The Reverend Debbie Dennis of St. Paul’s Innisfil (Barrie) and Mr. Robert Kenney, who I met while serving in the church in Minden, but who now lives in Pickering.
Finally, at least in terms of our Update section, I am really pleased to share some news which, as far as I am concerned anyway, is exciting. You will remember that in 2010 we recorded slightly over 9000 hits on our website. I mentioned that it was my desire to increase those “hits” (or visits) to over 10,000 for the year 2011. I am very pleased to tell you that, all things being equal, we will actually top 15,000 visits this year. The reason I think this is good is that there is almost no advertising done of the website – save for handing out my ministry card and the sign on the back window of my car. This means that the website is helping to spread the word of what it means to be Messianic and to combine our faith in Y’shua our Messiah with the observation of Torah, the Moedim, and other aspects of Biblical living.
THIS MONTH’S TEACHING: *Letters*
I hope you will forgive me, but I thought – for this edition of the newsletter I would forgo the Teaching section. I had thought about relating some thoughts I had recently around 2 letters I received as e-mail communications. Both had to do with Israel, and the day to day situation there.
After much thought and prayer, however, I have decided to post this information to the website teaching area as soon as I can – after Chanukah / Christmas. I would invite you to keep an eye open there, and not miss this interesting material. I will indicate the addition on the “What’s New” page.
ENGAGEMENTS
As already noted above, earlier this year I was deemed a “Friend of St. Paul’s, Innisfil”. (The parish that is – not the Saint himself). In 2010, I presented a full demonstration of the Passover to many interested people in St. Paul’s parish hall. I try to get up to visit the services there whenever I can as well. I am slowly getting to know a few of the members. The priest in the parish is an old friend from Seminary days – she attended Trinity, while I attended Wycliffe – but that has only helped to strengthen our friendship. Debbie was also in the Deanery of Victoria - Haliburton at the same time I was. We lost contact for a while, but have been glad to get re-acquainted recently. Debbie is one of the new members of the BRT Advisory Board as well. It is my hope that I will be able to assist both her and her associate in ministry in some way in the future. We are presently, in fact, investigating my leading a weekly Bible Study with her group, and I am hoping this will be possible.
Recently, I was invited to bring the message to the “Eytz Chaim” congregation which is part of Chosen People’s local ministry. The congregation has moved to new quarters for their worship, and the leader was doing a series on “The Great Kings of Judah”, and I was asked to speak on the “Wisdom of Solomon”. As so often happens, I learned a lot about Solomon that I did not know before. The congregation seemed to enjoy the message and it was a great opportunity for me to work alongside (once again) my friend Ben. (Ben and I did a wedding together in 2010) I am hoping that this will be the first in many follow-up ventures with our partners in Messianic Ministry in the area.
Shortly after the above engagement, I was asked by CPM to take part in a panel discussion on “How Rabbinic / Orthodox we should try to be in Messianic Ministry. Although four panelists had been invited, only two of us showed up – but that didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of about 20 guests who listened carefully and also asked some important questions. Once again it was an interesting evening.
CHAVARAH NEWS & BIBLE STUDY NOTES
We have added to our “Small Group” two new and regular worshippers. They are old friends from previous years who, like the rest of us, were seeking a place and a group with which they could worship in a friendly setting. They often bring a third person with them – a young girl who is like a grand-daughter. We have all grown together.
In the summer, some physical changes made it necessary to move from our usual meeting place to the home of our new members. The move has worked out well so far, and we continue to lift up the Names of Elohim and Y’shua in praise and liturgy, to read from the Torah, Hahftorah and Brit H’Chadeshah, to pray together and for each other, and to join together in Kiddush / Oneg (special Shabbat dinner) afterward. We also continue to welcome sporadic guests to our gatherings which always adds to the enjoyment. Often the dialogue will continue on from the Message’s themes for the day and everyone has the opportunity to “put their oar in” as it were about the readings, etc.
This week, we will be having a special Chanukah gathering with candle lighting, lots of singing and story telling, and a huge assortment of foods – especially those that involve oil – like latkes, doughnuts, crepes, and the like.
At one of our recent Bible Study gatherings, we enjoyed a series of movie segments on the saga of Isaac, Jacob and Esau. We had a few questions for discussion and we all saw something different as the movie portrayed the story. Our dialogue was most impassioned around the story of Jacob (Ya’acov) fighting with the Angel. This is a profound passage of scripture and so often it is simply avoided in discussion groups. Although we can’t always find definite answers, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t ask the questions.
OTHER NEWS
Just prior to going on Holiday this Summer, Joan and I were visiting a friend in the BouClair store in Woodbridge (Highway 7 at Weston road). The manager mentioned that she could use some assistance with making some changes in the store. Joan suggested that I might be available to help. After working out a few details, I began working in the store part-time on October 25th. I generally work on Mondays and Tuesdays, to receive shipments of new stock, and to make the desired changes in the storage area. I look forward to being able to do other duties as well. It’s just a few hours a week, the pay is minimum wage, but it is fulfilling to be able to help the manager and staff, and – as they say – every little bit helps. The “loss” of two days in terms of the ministry of course, may make some changes necessary. As we work through these additional changes, we will see where the Lord leads us - both personally and ‘professionally’. If you call the office on Monday or Tuesday, you may have to leave a message. I will, however, get back to you as soon as I can.
FROM THE “IN BOX”
I want to say a very grateful thank you to so many of our sojourners who have sent their annual Christmas and Chanukah greetings by way of cards, e-mails, as well as their very newsy updates. Not only do your communications give Joan and I the opportunity to catch up on the news of what is happening in the families of those we care about, but I can tell you – it has stirred me up so that I finally TOOK time to produce this December edition of our newsletter.
One Christmas letter, beautifully written on paper with (I think) holly branches all around it, spoke of the great memories of the “cycle of the Incarnation with its three joyful seasons – Advent, Christmas and Epiphany. What memories of celebration at church and home! Advent wreath and calendars, Christmas tree, crèche and stockings, Epiphany star and crowns and the joyful medieval carols.”
Indeed I was reminded of past years in my own life as I read the words, and I recall how moving the whole season would be – one of Anticipation, Arrival and Revelation – a time to rejoice in how Elohim loves us so much that “He sent the very best” and didn’t keep it a secret for only a few, but revealed it to everyone who would ‘listen’.
I received a note from one of our prayer supporters who had many nice things to say, and some encouraging remarks. She writes: “I do enjoy your letters and messages. I have saved them all and am passing them on to a relative.” [The writer has told me previously that she passes them on to others as well – some in her Bible Study group and others too! This is a great way to ‘get the teachings out-there’] She continues, “I really enjoy your identification of the Jewish symbols and vocabulary. Right now our study is on the Book of Revelation and at the same time I am reading The Art of Spiritual Listening. ~ it makes me want to drop the word ‘co-incidence’.” [I agree – a long time ago, Joan and I shifted our thinking to consider “God-Incidence” in most areas of our lives.] Again she continues, “People think the world is huge ~ not so! ~ I believe we are so connected to God we can’t fathom it all! You help us!”
How nice of her to say such a thing. It fills me with joy that someone finds such satisfaction in the words and teachings I offer. I pray that I will be able to continue to serve the Lord and His people in this way for a long time to come.
We also receive newsletters from other ministries as well – some that are Messianic in nature, others that are involved with some aspect of the Messianic way of living, and still others that go about their vocation of sharing the Lord Y’shua H’Meshiach through a Christian thrust. One local congregation wrote to us (and others, of course) about their recent involvement in a “Journey to Bethlehem” – an outdoor walk through Nativity scene, set up in a series of vignettes around the church property. Over the four nights of the presentation, they captured the imaginations of over 1200 visitors – and also fed them cookies and hot chocolate.
It’s great to hear of such wonderful opportunities happening in the world of faith. It is encouraging to know that so many are teaching, guiding, supporting those who are inquisitive about our relationship with Elohim and His Son, our Messiah.
PRAYER REQUESTS
This month, I would like to ask you to spend some concentrated effort in praying for the ministry itself. As the new year approaches, we are filled with anticipation and expectation as to where the Lord is going to lead us. First of all, in terms of finances, I am enclosing our annual Request for Support. I earnestly hope you will read it over carefully, and pray for inspiration regarding setting up a simple programme of giving to the work of BRT ministries. It doesn’t take a lot – it simply takes community. Please pray to seek God’s direction in this matter.
Would you please pray also for my part time work and for the protection of time for work in the ministry. I am presently seeking God’s wisdom in this matter and would appreciate knowing that you, too, are walking alongside me as we pray together. What changes might Elohim desire for the ministry? How can I meet the needs of so many different demands on my time? How do I get back “in touch” with the original call and vocation of BRT ministries? How am I to serve God first and foremost in 2012?
Please pray for the possibility of the Bible Study at St. Paul’s starting in late January. I have a tentative outline of the topics – but between Rev’d Debbie and myself we will need wisdom to work out the logistics. Pray that God will lead us with confidence and that He will also bring out many interested souls to the sessions.
Pray for the ongoing work of the ‘renovated’ Advisory Board and for its membership: Steve, Debbie, Bob, Norm and Gay and of course myself.
May your ongoing prayers for BRT ministries always include the encouragement of God in providing more and more speaking engagements, opportunities to preach and teach, demonstrations (Passover etc), Bible Studies, and participation in worship services around the area (summer vacation coverage, etc.)
Finally, please pray for Joan and myself, as we endeavour to follow the leading of our Lord and Master, Y’shua in every area of our lives.
And now, Joan and I join in wishing you “Happy Chanukah” or “Merry Christmas” (or both in some cases). May the Lord give you a season of joy and wonder at all He has done, is doing, and will do – and may the New Year bring suitable challenges, amazing triumphs, and pleasant times.
"Y'varehch'cha Adonai v'yeesh m'recha –
May the Lord Bless you and Keep you."
Photo Credit: Top of Page: This is our family Chanukiah. It was day two of Chanukah when I took the photo. There will likely be at least one, maybe two more candles burning by the time the letter gets out to you. (Note the humorous touch with the ornaments.)
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A Special Request to our Sojourners and Readers,
The preparation and distribution of our Beth Roay Tov Ministry Newsletter is a service to our sojourners and any others who may be interested in what we do, or in what we offer as support to the believing community. We are pleased to offer this newsletter free of charge to anyone who wishes to peruse its pages. This is also true of our website material.
What Beth Roay Tov Offers the Believing Community
(all* offered at no cost to the recipient)
A Regular Newsletter (especially around Jewish Festivals and special events)
A Complete Website, (With Archived Material) (so far without pop-ups and ‘cookies’)
each of the above include
teaching about Jewish traditions,
teaching about Festivals,
perceptions as to how these things (and more) are involved in our faith walk as Christians
An ongoing study based on the weekly readings of Torah according to the Messianic Parsha List, along with additional Readings from the Brit ha Chadeshah (Newer Covenant);
Scriptural Insights including familiar passages etc. as seen through a “different” vantage point
A Schedule of Readings from the Jewish Parshiot (A Form of Lectionary)
along with related readings from the Newer Covenant just for Messianics.
Speaking Engagements for the edification of congregations, small groups, leaders gatherings, etc. *
Personal Demonstrations of Passover with revelations from study and "life" *
A Resource for Christian Leaders inquiring about Jewish Connections with our faith
available through the phone, e-mail, regular mail, face to face conversations etc.
Pastoral Support for those wondering about faith backgrounds, or other connected issues
Funerals and Weddings for those not connected to a faith community, or having “mixed” backgrounds
Hand-Made and other Judaica
