March - 2009
Greetings to everyone!
Every day I marvel at the wonder of God and the immense favour He has shown Joan and me, both personally and in terms of our ministry through BRT and other instruments. This has been such a busy month or so since our last communication. At times it feels overwhelming, and at other times it seems “just right”. We are so humbled by the encounters we have had and friendships we have made along the way. From one day to the next, we encounter new challenges and new opportunities to share what God is doing. This season, of course, is about the busiest time of year there is, in terms of ministry and with respect to doors opening for things to be done.
As I write this letter to you, Purim has just begun. Last night (Monday) was Erev Purim. (Just think: “Purim Eve”.) For many, the celebration of this festival begins with a journey to the synagogue, the reading of the “Megillah” and enjoying special fruit-filled cookies called “hamantashen”. For us, it is a good idea to familiarize ourselves with the background of the festival so that we too, can see the possibilities of joining in the celebration.
THIS MONTH’S TEACHING - PURIM
The story of Purim is one of five Megillahim (stories) remembered annually as part of Jewish Tradition. It is found in the Book of Esther in the Older Covenant of the Bible. It follows the accounts of Ezra and Nehemiah . (Depending on the version you use, some of you may not have Esther’s story there – some versions of Scripture leave it out all together. Others do not have the complete account. That’s why it is always a good idea to have more than one version available for study.)
The story takes place in the area known today as Iran. It was known then as Persia. Most scholars set the timing as most likely between the two returns to Israel of the exiles who had been held in Babylon, perhaps about 450 BCE. The main city is Shushan (Susa) and the king of Persia is Ahasuerus (pronounced A-hosh-ver-osh according to Strong’s Complete Jewish Bible). He is better known to us through the latter Greek interpretation as Xerxes (The First). Esther, (in Hebrew: Hadassah) is a young orphaned maiden, who lived with her uncle. Her family were likely exiles from Judah who had remained in Persia following the first journey back home led by Ezra. Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, was a resolute Jewish man, whose faith was strong, and whose attention of the traditions held dear by him, like others such as Daniel, or Ezra and Nehemiah stood him in a strong position with God no doubt, but very tenuous with local authorities. One of those authorities was Haman, an Agagite. This indicates that he was a descendent of Agag, the ancient king of the Amalekites. The Amalekite nation “suffered a crushing defeat from Saul” many years back. King Agag had been captured by Israel’s first king (Saul), and was subsequently slain by Samuel the Prophet. (See 1 Samuel 15:1-33) The Amalekites, you will remember, were descendents of Esau, the brother of Jacob, who had been deceived out of his birthright and swore vengeance on his brother – a grudge which has continued throughout history and which thrived in the heart of Haman, the vizier and “prime minister” of Persia.
Esther, through a series of events too long to describe here, becomes queen, replacing Vashti, the king’s original ‘first love’. On the surface, one might say that her physical beauty and her natural humility achieved this ascension to royal position, however her uncle Mordecai, saw in it another force at work – that of the Providence of Ehlohim. After Mordecai fouls an attempted assassination of Ahasuerus, the credit for which is “stolen” by Haman, Mordecai runs headlong into the hatred of the unprincipled, power-hungry, anti-Semite before whom all common folk were to bow down in recognition of his supposéd service to the king. Chapter 3 vs 4 implies that when Mordecai was asked why he would not bow before Haman, he replied: “Because I am a Jew.” (Jews did not honour men by bowing before them, they were only to bow before God.) This so angered Haman, that he plotted to kill Mordecai, a plan which developed into a perfect excuse to annihilate all the Jews of the land. Note that at this time, the Persian Empire stretched from India to Ethiopia, and included the holy land. As a result, King Ahasuerus is manipulated by Haman into signing an irrevocable decree that “All the Jews in the land were to be destroyed, on a date one year hence, as determined by the casting of ‘dice’ (purim).
Once again, Mordecai learns of the evil plot. At first, he is very repentant on behalf of the Jewish people. Then, he is able to get word to Esther who, by now, is the queen, and the favoured one of the harem. He tells her of the plan to kill off her people, and asks her to use her position to get to the king. But approaching the king unbidden, was punishable by death. Understandably, Esther is hesitant. Mordecai convinces her that she may have been put into her royal position precisely “for such a time as this”, and so Esther tells him to have all the Jewish people fast and pray for guidance for three days, as will she and her “ladies in waiting”. At the end of the three days, Esther agrees to approach the king, saying “… if I perish, I perish”. Through a series of invitations to special dinners set up for the king and his vizier, Esther is able to gain further favour with the king. She is first able to reveal the truth about Haman’s treachery, for which he is eventually hanged. She also discloses the truth about Mordecai’s part in the king’s rescue, for which he is elevated to a new position of authority. Finally she gains enough of the king’s approval that she is able to approach him with her concerns about HER people – thus exposing her background.
Unfortunately, the king cannot reverse his earlier decree, but he is able to have Mordecai write up a new decree, ruling that throughout the land, on the 13th of Adar, the twelfth month, the Jews would be allowed to defend themselves and their property against the planned destruction (Esther 8:11-9:10). Thus the plans of the anti-Semite, Haman, are foiled.
Today, Purim is a festival of joy. It reminds all of us that the promise made to Abram: (“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you”) is a sound covenant, and that His providence remains upon His people, and (by means of our in-grafting) upon all believers. (See Romans 11:17-24 and 10:13).
Unfortunately, this event in Persia so long ago, and as joyous as it was, did not mark the end of anti-Semitism in the world. Throughout man’s history, acts of great horror have been committed against the Jewish people by individuals, by the church, and by governments. Forced conversion during the Spanish Inquisition meant that Jews either declared faith in Jesus or faced death. Crystalnacht recalls the wanton destruction of Jewish homes, synagogues and businesses throughout much of Europe. Today, its remembrance reminds us of the extremity of evil of which mobs of men are capable. The slaughter of 6 million Jews in the Nazi ovens is overwhelming.
Today, anti-Semitism is still around. Last year, during Purim, a 15 year old boy named Ami, the son of a Messianic Rabbi in Israel opened what was thought to be a Purim gift. Instead it was a bomb. No one knows who is responsible for this attempt at murder and fear-mongering because officials seem reticent to act on the family’s behalf. Ami is still recovering, though reports indicate that the Lord is acting quickly to heal him. Throughout Israel, Esau’s declaration to “kill my brother” is heard daily from the lips of Palestinian and Moslem terrorists. The cry is carried aloft and descends on innocent towns through the use of ‘katyusha’ rockets launched by the Hamas in Gaza (in spite of the supposéd peace treaty). And closer to home, it is heard in the demands of CUPE leaders who force CUPE based university professors to allow no support of the Israeli people trying to defend themselves. Locally, it can be witnessed in the demands of a teaching assistant at York University (as reported in the local paper here) who told a Jewish student never to wear his pro IDF T-shirt to class again, an action which has incited the increase of anti-Semitic actions against several of the Jewish students who have been nothing less than terrorized by anti-Jewish taunts. Further actions at York include fines up to $1000.00 and suspensions that were imposed against Jewish students who protested the “Israeli Apartheid Week” at York – an activity seemingly supported by York officials – which was initiated by those who stand with Palestinian terrorists in Israel. The newspaper “Thornhill Liberal” reported that the head of the Jewish student advocacy group told them: “The level of anti-Semitism on campus has risen significantly.”
The lesson of Purim today speaks to all of us. “Who knows but that you [we] have come to ‘royal’ position for such a time as this”? Is it not reasonable for us to try to help put an end to the struggle of the Jewish people against such deeply ingrained hatred by such a large extent of humanity? Not all anti-Semitism shows up with rockets or even outright antagonism. Sometimes it is subtle, like turning one’s back on another because of his faith. It could be the refusal to do business or serve with a Jewish person - just because he or she is Jewish. It could be the slighting of another person with words like: “Well no wonder his business thrives – he’s a Jew!”
Isn’t it time to learn more about our Jewish brothers and sisters? In their faith, lies the very roots of our own. When we turn against them, or ignore their plight, whether here, or in Israel or anywhere, we turn our backs on those who have been chosen by God to reveal His nature to the rest of the world.
Can we not, like Ahasuerus, at least state emphatically that the Jewish people have no less than the right to defend themselves against the same terrorism that is creeping into our own nation little by little? God said: “…I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
For Purim this year, we will be gathering to read Esther’s story, to sing various songs, to offer prayers for Israel asking for peace and blessing and forgiveness, to enjoy a few passages from a novel about Esther (see below) and to share some delicious hamantashen.
Suggested Reading:
Besides the obvious reading of the Book of Esther in the Older Covenant, I have been enjoying the fanciful novel by Ellen Gunderson Traylor based on the scriptural account. It is bound together with a similar approach to the story of “Joseph”. The book is called “Esther and Joseph” (Harvest House Publishers, 1994).
THE ‘KIDS’ ARE BACK !
Followers of our newsletters will recall that last winter we were treated to the presence of a family of red-tailed hawks in a tree standing alone in the field behind our house. We referred to them as Etienne and Isabeau, named after the mythical characters of the movie “Ladyhawk”. In the spring, one egg hatched producing a baby we called Caesar. As we watched the baby develop, Joan and I became quite attached to the family. Then suddenly, one day, they were gone! Well it seems we have a new nesting in the tree. Just this week, a hawk couple have taken up residence. We don‘t know if it is Isabeau and Etienne returned, (hawks do apparently mate for life) or if it is Caesar with a mate of his own. (Of course we also don’t know if Caesar was actually a female… we didn’t ask) At any rate, it has made our week, and for a while at least, we are no longer “empty-nesters”. Thanks be to God for the cycle of seasons, and for the privilege of being surrogate grand-parents, again.
BACK TO THE OLD HOMESTEAD
In our last newsletter, I reported that Joan’s store had been temporarily closed down for renovation. Well that is all finished now, and she has returned - along with all her fellow employees, and some new ones - to guide the fledgling store along its new journey. It is now called “Bouclair Home”, and specializes in home décor products from candles to leather covered furnishings. Of course, they still carry draperies and blinds, which was (and is) Joan’s forté. They also have welcomed a new manager, who has immigrated from the neighbouring store in Markham. Business seems to be doing well, but now I have to wonder – where do I go to get material for my shirts, vests and stoles?
MANY ENGAGEMENTS
Recently, I spoke at St John the Baptist church in Oak Ridges. Their pastor, The Reverend Peter Blundell was away for the day, and so he asked me for a return engagement, which I was happy to do. I spoke briefly about Purim, and about the practices of humbling one’s self through ashes and sack-cloth, and seeking God through fasting and prayer. “Although,” I suggested, “today sackcloth and ashes are more figurative than literal, fasting and praying are certainly acceptable activities during the season of Lent. I noted that Lent was a time to ponder “Why am I here, at this point in time?” and “What does God want me to do for Him in this world?” There is a further report on our web-site at www.beitroaytovministries.com along with a photo of some of the people I met there.
At Emmanuel, Richvale, where I serve as honourary assistant to The Rev’d Dr. Peter Robinson, Lent brings a series of presentations for the members of the congregation to consider in their Lenten prayer journey. This year, 5 different speakers are presenting their reflections on a Biblical Character which has helped them. Following the church service on March 22nd, I will be speaking about Jonah. The message is simply called “Into the Mouth of the Enemy”. I will also be speaking on one aspect of the Pesach Seder during the Maundy Thursday Service on the evening of April 9th. I will be relating the parts of the Seder called “Urchatz” and “Rachatz”, an important part of the celebration, which Yeshua altered to help the disciples relate to the purpose of their ministry in a whole new way.
Have you been giving some thought to sponsoring the “Jewish Roots” day at your congregation? I was speaking recently with a number of clergy who are intrigued. A few mentioned concern about the cost of having a guest speaker. Let me assure you, as I did them, that although it would certainly not be free, if you and your congregation are interested, I am sure we can work something out. Call me and we will examine together the possibilities. What is most important to me is to have the opportunity to teach about some of the ideas and issues which changed my understanding of my faith, and with it, my life. Perhaps someone you know is also looking for a change in how they relate to Yeshua, our Messiah.
BIBLE STUDY CHANGES NIGHTS
Starting in March, we changed the night of our Chavarah Bible Study to Wednesday nights. We continue to meet at 44 New Seabury, for our on-going study the Parsha (selected weekly readings). Every night, we learn more about the various passages we delve into, and how they are related to the Newer Covenant passages they are ‘tied to’. I have found it very rewarding to study the Word perhaps more concertedly than I ever have before. The others in the group also report that they are enjoying the time as well. With the change of night comes the possibility that still more will be able to join us, so I extend an invitation to you to consider it. Call 905 597 3485 or email me at beit.roaytov@rogers.com for more information.
PRAYER REQUESTS
I leave you, as always, with my thanks for your ongoing prayer support. Month to month, day to day, Joan and I are moved by the knowledge that there are many who uphold is in their prayers. Until one experiences such buoying up by His almighty Spirit, it is hard to comprehend how your prayers get us through our day.
Please pray for our tour of Israel, scheduled for November 9 through 16 of this year. Most of you will have received e-mail copies of our tour brochure, and some update materials. Abby produces the updates from BC at this point. She is hoping to soon return to Israel to further her Hebrew studies and she will stay in touch from there by e-mail. If you are pondering the possibility, I adjure you – don’t wait too long. This trip will be worth it, and it will live with you (in a good way) forever.
Pray for more doors to open for speaking engagements. This is the life-blood and purpose of BRT Ministries. I long to “get out there” and share the word with others. Pray also, as I know you do, for Joan and I, that we will continue to be faithful servants of Elohim in a world which turns away from Him, and toward almost anything else.
Finally, pray for Israel, for peace and freedom from terror and bad press. Pray for Jewish people around the world, for freedom from anti-Semitism and pray also for Ami and his family as they all recover from the effects of last year’s bombing attack in their home.
Blessing to you all, until next month.
"Y'varehch'cha Adonai v'yeesh m'recha –
May the Lord Bless you and Keep you."
Every day I marvel at the wonder of God and the immense favour He has shown Joan and me, both personally and in terms of our ministry through BRT and other instruments. This has been such a busy month or so since our last communication. At times it feels overwhelming, and at other times it seems “just right”. We are so humbled by the encounters we have had and friendships we have made along the way. From one day to the next, we encounter new challenges and new opportunities to share what God is doing. This season, of course, is about the busiest time of year there is, in terms of ministry and with respect to doors opening for things to be done.
As I write this letter to you, Purim has just begun. Last night (Monday) was Erev Purim. (Just think: “Purim Eve”.) For many, the celebration of this festival begins with a journey to the synagogue, the reading of the “Megillah” and enjoying special fruit-filled cookies called “hamantashen”. For us, it is a good idea to familiarize ourselves with the background of the festival so that we too, can see the possibilities of joining in the celebration.
THIS MONTH’S TEACHING - PURIM
The story of Purim is one of five Megillahim (stories) remembered annually as part of Jewish Tradition. It is found in the Book of Esther in the Older Covenant of the Bible. It follows the accounts of Ezra and Nehemiah . (Depending on the version you use, some of you may not have Esther’s story there – some versions of Scripture leave it out all together. Others do not have the complete account. That’s why it is always a good idea to have more than one version available for study.)
The story takes place in the area known today as Iran. It was known then as Persia. Most scholars set the timing as most likely between the two returns to Israel of the exiles who had been held in Babylon, perhaps about 450 BCE. The main city is Shushan (Susa) and the king of Persia is Ahasuerus (pronounced A-hosh-ver-osh according to Strong’s Complete Jewish Bible). He is better known to us through the latter Greek interpretation as Xerxes (The First). Esther, (in Hebrew: Hadassah) is a young orphaned maiden, who lived with her uncle. Her family were likely exiles from Judah who had remained in Persia following the first journey back home led by Ezra. Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, was a resolute Jewish man, whose faith was strong, and whose attention of the traditions held dear by him, like others such as Daniel, or Ezra and Nehemiah stood him in a strong position with God no doubt, but very tenuous with local authorities. One of those authorities was Haman, an Agagite. This indicates that he was a descendent of Agag, the ancient king of the Amalekites. The Amalekite nation “suffered a crushing defeat from Saul” many years back. King Agag had been captured by Israel’s first king (Saul), and was subsequently slain by Samuel the Prophet. (See 1 Samuel 15:1-33) The Amalekites, you will remember, were descendents of Esau, the brother of Jacob, who had been deceived out of his birthright and swore vengeance on his brother – a grudge which has continued throughout history and which thrived in the heart of Haman, the vizier and “prime minister” of Persia.
Esther, through a series of events too long to describe here, becomes queen, replacing Vashti, the king’s original ‘first love’. On the surface, one might say that her physical beauty and her natural humility achieved this ascension to royal position, however her uncle Mordecai, saw in it another force at work – that of the Providence of Ehlohim. After Mordecai fouls an attempted assassination of Ahasuerus, the credit for which is “stolen” by Haman, Mordecai runs headlong into the hatred of the unprincipled, power-hungry, anti-Semite before whom all common folk were to bow down in recognition of his supposéd service to the king. Chapter 3 vs 4 implies that when Mordecai was asked why he would not bow before Haman, he replied: “Because I am a Jew.” (Jews did not honour men by bowing before them, they were only to bow before God.) This so angered Haman, that he plotted to kill Mordecai, a plan which developed into a perfect excuse to annihilate all the Jews of the land. Note that at this time, the Persian Empire stretched from India to Ethiopia, and included the holy land. As a result, King Ahasuerus is manipulated by Haman into signing an irrevocable decree that “All the Jews in the land were to be destroyed, on a date one year hence, as determined by the casting of ‘dice’ (purim).
Once again, Mordecai learns of the evil plot. At first, he is very repentant on behalf of the Jewish people. Then, he is able to get word to Esther who, by now, is the queen, and the favoured one of the harem. He tells her of the plan to kill off her people, and asks her to use her position to get to the king. But approaching the king unbidden, was punishable by death. Understandably, Esther is hesitant. Mordecai convinces her that she may have been put into her royal position precisely “for such a time as this”, and so Esther tells him to have all the Jewish people fast and pray for guidance for three days, as will she and her “ladies in waiting”. At the end of the three days, Esther agrees to approach the king, saying “… if I perish, I perish”. Through a series of invitations to special dinners set up for the king and his vizier, Esther is able to gain further favour with the king. She is first able to reveal the truth about Haman’s treachery, for which he is eventually hanged. She also discloses the truth about Mordecai’s part in the king’s rescue, for which he is elevated to a new position of authority. Finally she gains enough of the king’s approval that she is able to approach him with her concerns about HER people – thus exposing her background.
Unfortunately, the king cannot reverse his earlier decree, but he is able to have Mordecai write up a new decree, ruling that throughout the land, on the 13th of Adar, the twelfth month, the Jews would be allowed to defend themselves and their property against the planned destruction (Esther 8:11-9:10). Thus the plans of the anti-Semite, Haman, are foiled.
Today, Purim is a festival of joy. It reminds all of us that the promise made to Abram: (“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you”) is a sound covenant, and that His providence remains upon His people, and (by means of our in-grafting) upon all believers. (See Romans 11:17-24 and 10:13).
Unfortunately, this event in Persia so long ago, and as joyous as it was, did not mark the end of anti-Semitism in the world. Throughout man’s history, acts of great horror have been committed against the Jewish people by individuals, by the church, and by governments. Forced conversion during the Spanish Inquisition meant that Jews either declared faith in Jesus or faced death. Crystalnacht recalls the wanton destruction of Jewish homes, synagogues and businesses throughout much of Europe. Today, its remembrance reminds us of the extremity of evil of which mobs of men are capable. The slaughter of 6 million Jews in the Nazi ovens is overwhelming.
Today, anti-Semitism is still around. Last year, during Purim, a 15 year old boy named Ami, the son of a Messianic Rabbi in Israel opened what was thought to be a Purim gift. Instead it was a bomb. No one knows who is responsible for this attempt at murder and fear-mongering because officials seem reticent to act on the family’s behalf. Ami is still recovering, though reports indicate that the Lord is acting quickly to heal him. Throughout Israel, Esau’s declaration to “kill my brother” is heard daily from the lips of Palestinian and Moslem terrorists. The cry is carried aloft and descends on innocent towns through the use of ‘katyusha’ rockets launched by the Hamas in Gaza (in spite of the supposéd peace treaty). And closer to home, it is heard in the demands of CUPE leaders who force CUPE based university professors to allow no support of the Israeli people trying to defend themselves. Locally, it can be witnessed in the demands of a teaching assistant at York University (as reported in the local paper here) who told a Jewish student never to wear his pro IDF T-shirt to class again, an action which has incited the increase of anti-Semitic actions against several of the Jewish students who have been nothing less than terrorized by anti-Jewish taunts. Further actions at York include fines up to $1000.00 and suspensions that were imposed against Jewish students who protested the “Israeli Apartheid Week” at York – an activity seemingly supported by York officials – which was initiated by those who stand with Palestinian terrorists in Israel. The newspaper “Thornhill Liberal” reported that the head of the Jewish student advocacy group told them: “The level of anti-Semitism on campus has risen significantly.”
The lesson of Purim today speaks to all of us. “Who knows but that you [we] have come to ‘royal’ position for such a time as this”? Is it not reasonable for us to try to help put an end to the struggle of the Jewish people against such deeply ingrained hatred by such a large extent of humanity? Not all anti-Semitism shows up with rockets or even outright antagonism. Sometimes it is subtle, like turning one’s back on another because of his faith. It could be the refusal to do business or serve with a Jewish person - just because he or she is Jewish. It could be the slighting of another person with words like: “Well no wonder his business thrives – he’s a Jew!”
Isn’t it time to learn more about our Jewish brothers and sisters? In their faith, lies the very roots of our own. When we turn against them, or ignore their plight, whether here, or in Israel or anywhere, we turn our backs on those who have been chosen by God to reveal His nature to the rest of the world.
Can we not, like Ahasuerus, at least state emphatically that the Jewish people have no less than the right to defend themselves against the same terrorism that is creeping into our own nation little by little? God said: “…I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
For Purim this year, we will be gathering to read Esther’s story, to sing various songs, to offer prayers for Israel asking for peace and blessing and forgiveness, to enjoy a few passages from a novel about Esther (see below) and to share some delicious hamantashen.
Suggested Reading:
Besides the obvious reading of the Book of Esther in the Older Covenant, I have been enjoying the fanciful novel by Ellen Gunderson Traylor based on the scriptural account. It is bound together with a similar approach to the story of “Joseph”. The book is called “Esther and Joseph” (Harvest House Publishers, 1994).
THE ‘KIDS’ ARE BACK !
Followers of our newsletters will recall that last winter we were treated to the presence of a family of red-tailed hawks in a tree standing alone in the field behind our house. We referred to them as Etienne and Isabeau, named after the mythical characters of the movie “Ladyhawk”. In the spring, one egg hatched producing a baby we called Caesar. As we watched the baby develop, Joan and I became quite attached to the family. Then suddenly, one day, they were gone! Well it seems we have a new nesting in the tree. Just this week, a hawk couple have taken up residence. We don‘t know if it is Isabeau and Etienne returned, (hawks do apparently mate for life) or if it is Caesar with a mate of his own. (Of course we also don’t know if Caesar was actually a female… we didn’t ask) At any rate, it has made our week, and for a while at least, we are no longer “empty-nesters”. Thanks be to God for the cycle of seasons, and for the privilege of being surrogate grand-parents, again.
BACK TO THE OLD HOMESTEAD
In our last newsletter, I reported that Joan’s store had been temporarily closed down for renovation. Well that is all finished now, and she has returned - along with all her fellow employees, and some new ones - to guide the fledgling store along its new journey. It is now called “Bouclair Home”, and specializes in home décor products from candles to leather covered furnishings. Of course, they still carry draperies and blinds, which was (and is) Joan’s forté. They also have welcomed a new manager, who has immigrated from the neighbouring store in Markham. Business seems to be doing well, but now I have to wonder – where do I go to get material for my shirts, vests and stoles?
MANY ENGAGEMENTS
Recently, I spoke at St John the Baptist church in Oak Ridges. Their pastor, The Reverend Peter Blundell was away for the day, and so he asked me for a return engagement, which I was happy to do. I spoke briefly about Purim, and about the practices of humbling one’s self through ashes and sack-cloth, and seeking God through fasting and prayer. “Although,” I suggested, “today sackcloth and ashes are more figurative than literal, fasting and praying are certainly acceptable activities during the season of Lent. I noted that Lent was a time to ponder “Why am I here, at this point in time?” and “What does God want me to do for Him in this world?” There is a further report on our web-site at www.beitroaytovministries.com along with a photo of some of the people I met there.
At Emmanuel, Richvale, where I serve as honourary assistant to The Rev’d Dr. Peter Robinson, Lent brings a series of presentations for the members of the congregation to consider in their Lenten prayer journey. This year, 5 different speakers are presenting their reflections on a Biblical Character which has helped them. Following the church service on March 22nd, I will be speaking about Jonah. The message is simply called “Into the Mouth of the Enemy”. I will also be speaking on one aspect of the Pesach Seder during the Maundy Thursday Service on the evening of April 9th. I will be relating the parts of the Seder called “Urchatz” and “Rachatz”, an important part of the celebration, which Yeshua altered to help the disciples relate to the purpose of their ministry in a whole new way.
Have you been giving some thought to sponsoring the “Jewish Roots” day at your congregation? I was speaking recently with a number of clergy who are intrigued. A few mentioned concern about the cost of having a guest speaker. Let me assure you, as I did them, that although it would certainly not be free, if you and your congregation are interested, I am sure we can work something out. Call me and we will examine together the possibilities. What is most important to me is to have the opportunity to teach about some of the ideas and issues which changed my understanding of my faith, and with it, my life. Perhaps someone you know is also looking for a change in how they relate to Yeshua, our Messiah.
BIBLE STUDY CHANGES NIGHTS
Starting in March, we changed the night of our Chavarah Bible Study to Wednesday nights. We continue to meet at 44 New Seabury, for our on-going study the Parsha (selected weekly readings). Every night, we learn more about the various passages we delve into, and how they are related to the Newer Covenant passages they are ‘tied to’. I have found it very rewarding to study the Word perhaps more concertedly than I ever have before. The others in the group also report that they are enjoying the time as well. With the change of night comes the possibility that still more will be able to join us, so I extend an invitation to you to consider it. Call 905 597 3485 or email me at beit.roaytov@rogers.com for more information.
PRAYER REQUESTS
I leave you, as always, with my thanks for your ongoing prayer support. Month to month, day to day, Joan and I are moved by the knowledge that there are many who uphold is in their prayers. Until one experiences such buoying up by His almighty Spirit, it is hard to comprehend how your prayers get us through our day.
Please pray for our tour of Israel, scheduled for November 9 through 16 of this year. Most of you will have received e-mail copies of our tour brochure, and some update materials. Abby produces the updates from BC at this point. She is hoping to soon return to Israel to further her Hebrew studies and she will stay in touch from there by e-mail. If you are pondering the possibility, I adjure you – don’t wait too long. This trip will be worth it, and it will live with you (in a good way) forever.
Pray for more doors to open for speaking engagements. This is the life-blood and purpose of BRT Ministries. I long to “get out there” and share the word with others. Pray also, as I know you do, for Joan and I, that we will continue to be faithful servants of Elohim in a world which turns away from Him, and toward almost anything else.
Finally, pray for Israel, for peace and freedom from terror and bad press. Pray for Jewish people around the world, for freedom from anti-Semitism and pray also for Ami and his family as they all recover from the effects of last year’s bombing attack in their home.
Blessing to you all, until next month.
"Y'varehch'cha Adonai v'yeesh m'recha –
May the Lord Bless you and Keep you."