Hello Grafted in Reader,
It is almost March 31 in my corner of blogland, and on Friday at sundown, April 3, 2015, begins the Festival of Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread.
For a simple explanation of this season, and its Spiritual significance to people of faith, I am pasting an article from "Hebrew-streams.com" discussing this time of year.
The church has ignored it for nearly 1600 years choosing instead to encapsulate it in the celebration of the Easter Season. They also ignore the time between the Resurrection and Pentecost as counting the omer. A time when people of faith prepare for celebrating the again coming of the Holy Spirit.
Please be enriched this season, Kevod Yeheveh.
Now the article presentation.
Passover Studies
In the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible, Old Testament), the Passover in Egypt (Exodus 12) was the birth of the people of Israel. Their deliverance from slavery confirmed God's earlier promises to Abraham to make him into a great people or goy gadol (Genesis 12:2).
Passover [Hebrew, pesach, "to pass over"] became the most important festival in later Hebrew history. It often sparked spiritual renewal when national vision needed revival (Joshua 5; 2 Chronicles 30 and 35; Ezra 6). In later Judaism, it became the focus of messianic expectation. Even today in Jewish homes, a table setting is placed for Elijah, the Messiah's forerunner, which testifies to the enduring hope that the Mashiach will come at Pesach.
In the New Testament, Passover pictured the spiritual liberation and new life created by Yeshua's death (as a sacrificial lamb provided by God) and his resurrection (coming up from the tomb of death-slavery). The so-called "Lord's Supper" (1 Corinthians 11:20) was a Seder meal led by Yeshua in a Jerusalem home.
This historical nexus between Yeshua and the ancient faith of Israel was never abandoned or lost, at least among his Jewish disciples.
Years afterward, Yeshua's primary emissary to the non-Jews would tell a congregation of Gentile believers that "Messiah our Passover has been sacrificed" (1 Cor 5:7).
Their celebration of Messiah's death involved eating Bread and drinking the memorial "Cup of Blessing" (the third of four traditional cups at a Seder; 1 Cor 10:16). Paul's declaration is unequivocal: "Let us celebrate the Feast" (1 Cor 5:8).
In the early centuries, many followers of Yeshua (both Jew and Gentile) continued to observe Passover as a memorial to him. They did so in spite of opposition from the Church of Rome, which finally put a stop to it in most places after AD 400. Only in the latter decades of the 20th century has Passover's significance and its ancient place of honor been revived among Christians, largely due to the efforts of Jesus-believing, Messianic Jews.
The Passover imagery, with its deeply embedded spiritual principles, links the life, death and resurrection of Yeshua to the ancient Covenant that God made with Abraham.
Yeshua's Last Passover confirmed that Covenant as being "eternal" (Hebrews 13:20). And Passover will be the final meal the Messiah shares one day with all his people, Jew and Gentile—a seder that will include, in his words, "Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets" (Luke 13:28).
Passover begins at sundown in:
2015—5775 on Friday, Erev Shabbat April 3
2016—5776 on Friday, Erev Shabbat April 22
Related Articles
Ancient Passover Seder compared with Gospel Accounts of Yeshua's Last Passover
This outline shows how the NT accounts of Yeshua's final Pesach meal with his disciples closely follows the traditional pattern celebrated by Jews in the first century. [2 PDF pages]
God Raised the Lord
The NT has a consistent and widely unnoticed witness about the resurrection. [2 HTML pages]
He Who is Coming: The Hidden Afikoman
The dessert matzah of the Passover Seder once had messianic connotations. But over time they were apparently suppressed. This article discusses the meaning of afikoman and the light it sheds on the Last Passover of Yeshua. [3 HTML pages]
The Last Passover of Yeshua
Based on historical documents, this is a reconstruction of what the Seder may have been like when Yeshua and his disciples observed it for the last time. [16 pages, PDF]
A Messianic Kiddush
A Hebrew-English kiddush that honors God, Yeshua Messiah, and the ancient blessing. [1 HTML page]
A Passover Prayer
For Messianic followers of Yeshua. [1 PDF page]
Saturday Night: The First Day of the Week
When the first Jewish and Gentile believers gathered for fellowship, the evidence in Acts 20 is that they met on Saturday night, after Shabbat ended — not on Sunday morning. [4 HTML pages]
The Third Day: Resurrection Patterns in the Hebrew Bible
Paul says Yeshua Messiah was raised from the dead "on the third day according to the Scriptures" (1 Corinthians 15:4). But there's no passage in the Hebrew Bible explicitly making this prophecy. So where did this well-versed rabbi, educated under Gamaliel of the House of Hillel, see such a prediction in the "Scriptures"? [4 HTML pages]
Who Killed Yeshua?
The NT puts the blame for the death of Yeshua on three sources: Jewish leaders in Jerusalem, Gentile leaders from Rome, and God himself. [3 HTML pages]
Yeshua bar Abba
There is a play on the names of Jesus and Barabbas which is invisible in English Bibles. Only knowledge of Hebrew and Aramaic (and some textual analysis) reveals this spiritually rich irony in the gospel story of Yeshua's last day. [2 HTML pages]
Yeshua Fixed Them Breakfast
At dawn, on the beach of Kinneret, he welcomed his weary disciples.
About Author-Editor
hebrew-streams.org
Monday, March 30, 2015
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Dear Companion - The Early Mays (acoustic)
Hello Grafted in Reader,
Today is Thursday March 26, 2015, and it has been quite the month for yours truly, and imagine you could say the same where you are..
Highlights include a 2-week home visit by our son after finishing his tour in the US Marines, leaving a writing group at a social media site so as to pursue other similar options, making plans to take an online course in Biblical Hebrew and writing for income - from two separate entities, starting to read "A Widow's Story" by author Joyce Carol Oates, her memoir, and received my first formal story critique from the editor of an E-zine. I welcomed his words and instructive recommendations.
Of late, I have been going through the online Devotion, "My Utmost For His Highest" by the late Oswald Chambers.
It presents a considerably different perspective on the faith, compared to that espoused by many today. The men and women who occupy the pulpits and seminaries in north America and adhere to a Gospel with minimal accountability or responsibility will have to answer for that on The Great Day.
They also follow appointed times by man, not God and care little to examine this fallacy that began in the third and fourth centuries.
In the coming days, may we clean the leaven that occupies our hearts, minds, and lives. We celebrate our redemption from the church of Egypt and make our long sojourn to Zion henceforth.
His Presence accompany us, Kevod Yeheveh.
Mellow Roc
Today is Thursday March 26, 2015, and it has been quite the month for yours truly, and imagine you could say the same where you are..
Highlights include a 2-week home visit by our son after finishing his tour in the US Marines, leaving a writing group at a social media site so as to pursue other similar options, making plans to take an online course in Biblical Hebrew and writing for income - from two separate entities, starting to read "A Widow's Story" by author Joyce Carol Oates, her memoir, and received my first formal story critique from the editor of an E-zine. I welcomed his words and instructive recommendations.
Of late, I have been going through the online Devotion, "My Utmost For His Highest" by the late Oswald Chambers.
It presents a considerably different perspective on the faith, compared to that espoused by many today. The men and women who occupy the pulpits and seminaries in north America and adhere to a Gospel with minimal accountability or responsibility will have to answer for that on The Great Day.
They also follow appointed times by man, not God and care little to examine this fallacy that began in the third and fourth centuries.
In the coming days, may we clean the leaven that occupies our hearts, minds, and lives. We celebrate our redemption from the church of Egypt and make our long sojourn to Zion henceforth.
His Presence accompany us, Kevod Yeheveh.
Mellow Roc
Friday, March 20, 2015
May You Shine - song by Zemer Levav
Hello and Happy Spring Grafted in Readers,
This time of year those of faith turn to recall the events leading to our redemption, where we pass over from death to life, as accomplished for us by our Messiah Yeshua!
I recently heard a song titled, "May You Shine" by singer Zemer Levav. A recording can be found on YouTube, not the best quality but a very quality prayer. God wants the best for us and wants his best, "that we may be one" His prayer in the New Covenant, John chapter 17.
-Spring time also turns our thoughts toward outdoor days and enjoying more hours of sun-light. All given to us by our Creator, God, King of the universe!
As the song requests, "May you shine like the stars in the heavens, and be clothed in all white;
may you dwell like those in the Temple and eat of the Tree Of Life."
Kevod Yeheveh, His presence be ever new to us!
Mellow Roc
-Comments always appreciated!
This time of year those of faith turn to recall the events leading to our redemption, where we pass over from death to life, as accomplished for us by our Messiah Yeshua!
I recently heard a song titled, "May You Shine" by singer Zemer Levav. A recording can be found on YouTube, not the best quality but a very quality prayer. God wants the best for us and wants his best, "that we may be one" His prayer in the New Covenant, John chapter 17.
-Spring time also turns our thoughts toward outdoor days and enjoying more hours of sun-light. All given to us by our Creator, God, King of the universe!
As the song requests, "May you shine like the stars in the heavens, and be clothed in all white;
may you dwell like those in the Temple and eat of the Tree Of Life."
Kevod Yeheveh, His presence be ever new to us!
Mellow Roc
-Comments always appreciated!
Monday, March 16, 2015
Making Sense From Nonsense
Making Sense of Nonsense
by David Russell
"You will not be pitching in the regular rotation. In fact, we are putting you on wavers," the club GM informed his star pitcher who for the previous two years had won over 25 games during the regular season.
"My arm, I just don't know. I am under 30, and .. my arm,"
"I understand your consternation, but we are also talking dollars," the club GM responded. A few days later the pitcher was put on contractual disability, and pitched relief on occasion during the rest of that season.
"I hear you were using social media during the recent college entrance exam. You will be allowed to graduate, but forget any scholarship opportunities," the school Principal told Rene as she cried openly in his office.
Students were being monitored during testing by an outside service, and she was observed on social media during the test.
"We count there are forty who are deceased from the bus crash," a spokesperson told the media during preliminary investigation of a bus accident occurring in Brazil.
"We just don't want to do this now. Perhaps when the child is older," the dad told the family physician during an office visit. The child has a disability that will be further impairing unless treated soon.
"I heard you are choosing to make bread for the bake-sail instead of pies. We need pies, not homemade bread," The coordinator informing Jodi as she laid four freshly baked loaves of rye bread on the bake-sail table. She then turned on her heels and stormed out of the church.
Making sense out of nonsense is an occasion in life we all endear. The three hardest things we will do as humans, and as followers of Messiah is:
Forgive to the extent we so desire
Judge in the same proportion to which we want to be judged
Love our neighbor inasmuch as we love ourselves and our Lord.
Kevod Yeheveh, His presence be clear to you and me today.
Mellow Roc
by David Russell
"You will not be pitching in the regular rotation. In fact, we are putting you on wavers," the club GM informed his star pitcher who for the previous two years had won over 25 games during the regular season.
"My arm, I just don't know. I am under 30, and .. my arm,"
"I understand your consternation, but we are also talking dollars," the club GM responded. A few days later the pitcher was put on contractual disability, and pitched relief on occasion during the rest of that season.
"I hear you were using social media during the recent college entrance exam. You will be allowed to graduate, but forget any scholarship opportunities," the school Principal told Rene as she cried openly in his office.
Students were being monitored during testing by an outside service, and she was observed on social media during the test.
"We count there are forty who are deceased from the bus crash," a spokesperson told the media during preliminary investigation of a bus accident occurring in Brazil.
"We just don't want to do this now. Perhaps when the child is older," the dad told the family physician during an office visit. The child has a disability that will be further impairing unless treated soon.
"I heard you are choosing to make bread for the bake-sail instead of pies. We need pies, not homemade bread," The coordinator informing Jodi as she laid four freshly baked loaves of rye bread on the bake-sail table. She then turned on her heels and stormed out of the church.
Making sense out of nonsense is an occasion in life we all endear. The three hardest things we will do as humans, and as followers of Messiah is:
Forgive to the extent we so desire
Judge in the same proportion to which we want to be judged
Love our neighbor inasmuch as we love ourselves and our Lord.
Kevod Yeheveh, His presence be clear to you and me today.
Mellow Roc
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Wait A Minute acoustic song, Seldom Seen
Hello Grafted In Reader,
When you were a youngster, did someone be it a parent or a teacher ever say to you, "Wait a minute."
The tone of voice was probably a bit stern when spoken. Well, this morning I had a correspondence in my inbox that was from a wrtier acquaintance. He replied to my email of 1 year ago. Life conditions were somewhat different at that time professionally speaking. Then last evening, Don M who is also a writer sent me a social media site invitation to connect. Still baffled on how to accept those ovetures from others. I emailed him and expressed my thanks and hope we might do plan B on future communicating.
On Sunday I left a writing group which had been a major part of my writing life for 20+ months. Technical issues were the reason, not ill-will or frustration with someone! "Wait a minute," is sure great advice when our lives feel like they are in turmoil and the celerity seems all too powerful for us to stabilize against! Reminding myself I am not the universe, nor the center of it, is a calming restorative in stressed times. We usually get the mercy which means limitless loyalty from G-d when passing through the valley of overwhelm.
I am thankful for a number of people who "just send something" during those times that are not known to them.. Yes, I am in a writer transition, but it is opening me to new possibilities, new experiences, new acquaintances, and yet an ongoing chronic desire to be strong and a role model of grace, courage, and maybe some inspiration.
Kevod Yeheveh, and cyber hug if so desired!
Mellow Roc
When you were a youngster, did someone be it a parent or a teacher ever say to you, "Wait a minute."
The tone of voice was probably a bit stern when spoken. Well, this morning I had a correspondence in my inbox that was from a wrtier acquaintance. He replied to my email of 1 year ago. Life conditions were somewhat different at that time professionally speaking. Then last evening, Don M who is also a writer sent me a social media site invitation to connect. Still baffled on how to accept those ovetures from others. I emailed him and expressed my thanks and hope we might do plan B on future communicating.
On Sunday I left a writing group which had been a major part of my writing life for 20+ months. Technical issues were the reason, not ill-will or frustration with someone! "Wait a minute," is sure great advice when our lives feel like they are in turmoil and the celerity seems all too powerful for us to stabilize against! Reminding myself I am not the universe, nor the center of it, is a calming restorative in stressed times. We usually get the mercy which means limitless loyalty from G-d when passing through the valley of overwhelm.
I am thankful for a number of people who "just send something" during those times that are not known to them.. Yes, I am in a writer transition, but it is opening me to new possibilities, new experiences, new acquaintances, and yet an ongoing chronic desire to be strong and a role model of grace, courage, and maybe some inspiration.
Kevod Yeheveh, and cyber hug if so desired!
Mellow Roc
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Standing By Your Side part two: acoustic song by Mustered Courage
Hello Grafted in Reader,
Wow, has it been that long?
It just seems we were here posting about compassion, and what some others had to say about it. Life and time rolls on doesn't it?
Two evenings ago, I submitted a story to an online contest. The web site is on the premises.com. I won't know if my story places for a couple weeks or so, but will be sure to let you know if it does in a blog post or otherwise. There are other storiues one can read, and worth the entertainment!
Our son is home visiting for a few days, and is back to being a civilion. He had served in the US Marines for the past 5 years, and we spent one afternoon laughing over some comedic skits on YouTube from A Prairie Home Companion, and the comedy duo of Nichols and May who leave their legacy of laughs with us.
I am going to close with a thought that sounds simple at first, but has a considerable amount of stuff to ponder if one cares to do that. It is a statement made by Rabbi Yeshua when he gave his sermon on the hill recorded in the New Covenant Scriptures (book of Matthew).
It is this, "Feed my sheep."
Does this take into account the whole of creation?
Is this other human beings as is commonly asserted?
Is it both creation and humanity?
You decide!
Kevod Yeheveh, His presence be with us at the table of life and on the journey of life.
Mellow Roc
Wow, has it been that long?
It just seems we were here posting about compassion, and what some others had to say about it. Life and time rolls on doesn't it?
Two evenings ago, I submitted a story to an online contest. The web site is on the premises.com. I won't know if my story places for a couple weeks or so, but will be sure to let you know if it does in a blog post or otherwise. There are other storiues one can read, and worth the entertainment!
Our son is home visiting for a few days, and is back to being a civilion. He had served in the US Marines for the past 5 years, and we spent one afternoon laughing over some comedic skits on YouTube from A Prairie Home Companion, and the comedy duo of Nichols and May who leave their legacy of laughs with us.
I am going to close with a thought that sounds simple at first, but has a considerable amount of stuff to ponder if one cares to do that. It is a statement made by Rabbi Yeshua when he gave his sermon on the hill recorded in the New Covenant Scriptures (book of Matthew).
It is this, "Feed my sheep."
Does this take into account the whole of creation?
Is this other human beings as is commonly asserted?
Is it both creation and humanity?
You decide!
Kevod Yeheveh, His presence be with us at the table of life and on the journey of life.
Mellow Roc
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