Video is narrated. Running into the desert chasing motorcycles on foot turned out to be a worthwhile experience! Who would have thought?
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Friday, December 7, 2012
Lowest Point Of Entire Trip
Dead Sea
The second picture looks like a Midwest winter picture ... But that white stuff is not ice and snow it's salt. It's 70 degrees and very far from freezing.
The second picture looks like a Midwest winter picture ... But that white stuff is not ice and snow it's salt. It's 70 degrees and very far from freezing.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Quneitra
This outpost is like Mount Bental but much bigger and less than a mile from Syria.
Interestingly the rebels in Syria just captured the town last month! This is where some of the bullets and missiles have crossed and the Israel Defense Forces responded.
Interestingly the rebels in Syria just captured the town last month! This is where some of the bullets and missiles have crossed and the Israel Defense Forces responded.
Update 06 - Finish Well - 10 Day
Update 06 - 172/10 - Finish Well
I’m watching a sunset and thinking of all the things that God has brought to pass in 172 days. There have been speed bumps along the way which included an 8 day war. It was really interesting to watch people ignore the possibility of war. Refuse to prepare for war. Attempt to prepare for war. Stash and pack food and supplies for 30 days of war. As the war is going on people carried on just like normal with a few short interruptions. It reminded me of tornado drills where I grew up. The siren would go off and we would immediately run to a basement and wait. The only difference is that here in Israel people wait for the BOOM.
Imagine getting hit by a bus and dying. You wake up in front of God. You immediately proclaim all the good things that you’ve done in your life. Then God Almighty, creator of all makes this statement, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness”
God straight up ignores all your good works and ends the conversation with “I don’t know you, you have to leave”.
That scares the hell out of me.
This is where everyone gets upset and says God, that’s not fair.
Please realize that regardless of what you believe right and wrong is, God is right ... always. The Bible says that He is perfect, all knowing, and sovereign (meaning controls everything that happens).
That means that an all knowing God cannot make a statement that is “not fair”
So where am I going with this?
I shared a meal with an Israeli who had a missile land dead center of his unoccupied bed. He slept at the same time every day and this particular day he was not allowed to sleep. So he left the building. At the exact time he should have been sleeping, the missile struck.
He did not believe the Jesus was the Savior and Redeemer of our souls at that time in his life. Today is is a believer in Jesus, thanks to God who gave him a second chance.
We don’t deserve a second chance, but God’s grace for us give us many chances. I can’t count my multiple concussions ... I’d get hit in the head and everything would go black.
The Bible says that the absence of God is complete darkness or the absence of light. You know those moments when you have been in a place where it is so dark that you cannot see your hand in front of your face?
Recently I heard of a funeral where the headstone inscription said:
“Joe Smuckiteli 1877 - 1907”
You realize the only part of our short time on earth is the - ... that tiny dash represents your entire life.
At the end, God will either say that he knows your “dash” or that he does not know your “dash”
If you are known, you will be blessed for all eternity.
If you are NOT know, you will be cursed for all eternity.
Either way, it’s your eternity.
Do you know how much Jesus loves you?
You can spend eternity with Him by simply accepting Him as Savior and Lord.
Why say all this?
Because I care about you. Because without the truth of the saving power of Jesus you are dead in hell.
We have the chance to go to heaven and join God in the biggest best party that will ever be and I want for EVERYONE to go. Including those who I do not like.
How does this apply to being in Israel for 172 days?
Same message of Good News, it’s just in another language. The urgency is the same.
Now! The past 46 days I’ve met people who do believe in Jesus and have the same excitement and joy in telling others as I do. There are believers EVERYWHERE and it’s been awesome to have a little glimpse of heaven on earth. Just think of how many people you will meet in heaven from all walks of life and all nations who ALL worship and glorify God who is worthy of our praise! It’s awesome!
The next 10 days I’ll be meeting more believers and sharing the Good New of Jesus with anyone who will listen. I’m starting with a waterfall in the north (Saar Falls) and going all the way to the south by the Red Sea (Eilat). There are stops along the way throughout Israel.
One of the stops is with the Domari people ... literally Gypsies in Israel. They are some of most pushed out people of all society. No one cares for them. It is the Love of God that gave hope to one of them. Since then a foundations has been created to draw attention and gain support.
I could not understand the situation, I think most of us cannot. Imagine being in a place where if your home is robbed and you report it to authorities there are other people groups, even authorities who come and make your life even worse that if you had said nothing at all.
I’d liken it to a woman being beaten by her husband and reporting it so that she can get help, but the “help” turns around and beats her.
That’s heart breaking. What the foundation does is provides a safe place to those people and children who would otherwise have no way to get help.
I’ve met those kids, played with them, and helped to teach english. It was a small thing and but realize that without the time and care of someone these kids literally are pushed out of public school and cannot get education to help themselves.
On an up note, I met myself. Not literally, I met an Israeli who’s name is Jonathan and he was very interested in how I was so excited to be in Israel and how I was so fearless during the war. I was able to share the Gospel with him and I’m looking forward to seeing him again before I leave. You know, for some, this is the closest they will ever be to heaven. Lord willing, Jonathan will come to realize the truth and love of God before it’s too late.
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Friday, November 16, 2012
Update 05 - Recorded Live - Transcript From Outside Jerusalem
Jonathan: “I’m safe and everything is good”
I’m still planning on going back up north to the Golan, which everywhere in Israel right now has issues so what does it matter where you go.
My friend, who is Jewish called me today.
Jonathan: Hello, yeah it’s Jonathan
Friend: Did you hear the sirens go off where you are at today?
Jonathan: Yes
Friend: It is not safe to be in Israel right now.
Jonathan: Yes I understand that it is not safe to be in Israel right now.
Jonathan: So, Are you moving?
Friend: No
Jonathan: Why?
Friend: Because this is my home and my family is here.
Jonathan: So are you hiding in a bomb shelter?
Friend: No ... but it is not save for you.
Jonathan: You live here and you are not leaving so why should I leave?
Friend: Because I care about you.
Jonathan: I get that! You know my relationship with God makes me sure I will go to heaven when I die. Yeah. You know you can have that same relationship too. You can know for sure that you will go to heaven when you die. Then you won’t have to be concerned with any of these things. I mean, obviously I don’t want to live in fear ... but realize that there are people dying and going to hell and that could happen from a rocket or from a heart attack what difference does it make? Love you man ... Just as I’ve shared the Gospel with you I hope that someday you will accept Jesus as your Savior and Lord cuz I love you man and I’d love to know that you’ll be in heaven ... you know you can make that choice today? ...
Friend: I know I know thank you my friend ... I need to go. Please be careful.
Jonathan: Alright, thanks, God Bless.
---
That was basically my phone call today. So the bottom line is do you know where you are going? If you don’t you should, if you do, Praise Him! because the rest of it does not matter.
I’m fine! Pray for the country! And for people to get saved, because ultimately the life here does not matter but our eternity is what matters. I pray that your prayers are being guided into peoples eternity ... not that “Jonathan would be safe” because God’s got me. Amen. Amen.
I’m in the bomb shelter (safe room). Disney’s castle is in the background with Snow White (you will need to see the video for this to make sense)
Alright, I’m going to level with you.
The media blows everything out of proportion and it’s ridiculous.
There are a lot of “things” going on (in Israel). I’m just outside of Jerusalem to the west and yes I did hear sirens going off today (the warnings of incoming missles)
Some people from my church (Oleksiy and Paula) are in Tel Aviv and they have “things” going on where sirens are going off and they are in the market and will have to go into the bomb shelter (it’s usually a 10 minute wait for clearance after the siren or after you hear the BOOM then you can leave)
Here is the thing. If the terrorists do their job, then everyone is afraid to go out and be in real life. That’s it. It’s not complicated. If the terrorists do their job FEAR takes over and nothing normal goes on. You are afraid to get on the bus, afraid to go to the market, you’re afraid to go outside, you’re afraid when the sirens go off or you’re afraid when the sirens don’t go off ... but the bottom line is, Does your relationship with God make you sure you will go to heaven when you die?
It’s simple.
Mine does. So I don’t have the concerns, worries ... now I don’t want to be blown up that’s not it at all. The fact is I know that it is better to be in heaven than here (on earth) and I like it here (on earth) so that means that I’m going to like it in heaven. Ultimately it all comes down to how many people we can invite to come along to heaven. That’s what is going to matter, that’s what is going to count in eternity. That’s what God has called (asked) us to do. To “Go and make disciples, Go and preach the Gospel” invite people because they don’t have the same hope. Jesus is our hope. He is my hope, I hope he is your hope! He (Jesus) brings peace, love, and joy. There is no fear in that. Peace, love, joy, ... what more could you want?
He is the reason for the hope that I have.
I’m okay.
Pray for people that don’t know Jesus, they need your prayers ... they need your prayers.
Mark 1:15
"The time has come, the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!
"The time has come, the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Stir up Love and Good Works
Hebrews 10:24-25
24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
It is written that Love is the greatest of all spiritual gifts. It is also written that God is Love. So the greatest of all gifts both given and imparted to us as believers in Jesus Christ is Love.
In the book of Hebrews we are told to
stir up love and good works in each other. Interesting how graciously we are reminded that unless we are stirred our love and good works settle into a cozy thing some would call a rut ... I call it a couch.
I enjoy resting in a couch. The problem for me is I'd much rather rest in a couch that be up early praying and planning my day. I mean it's just much easier to lay around. But that is not what we are told to do and there is a very loving warning in this instruction.
If I'm inside on a cozy couch it is very easy for me to settle into a daily routine. In fact, I like a routine.
The truth is that when we do get together with other believers an amazing thing happens. God speaks to his people through his people. As we talk about God working in our lives, others are stirred up and encouraged by it. The next thing that follows is action. So we see Love and Good Works stirred up by obedience to follow instruction given in God's Word.
A short time ago I had been asked to lead a worship song and thankfully (Praise God) had a song in my heart.
I was out of practice and spent time practicing. I then was reminded of how it's been impressed upon me to make a worship video out of it. The goal was to do it well, to make it distraction free, and used it as a basis to improve on.
This was actually done out of obedience because I've been praying about how to demonstrate worship and what I put together was as good as I have ability for. It actually turned out even better than I have ability for and even more was proof to me that God uses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise.
I can't even clap and sing at the same time but God is faithful and uses me despite inabilities. I really really want to get better and believe that this was was the way I was shown ... Make the video and learn from your mistakes.
That was for me.
Now the blessing comes in ways that were unimaginable to me. You see, God used it to reach others and now 2 more songs exist out of obedience.
Please watch ... It will bless you!
Back to Stiring up!
Gathering together we get to see God knitting our lives together and I know for me that spurs me on to want to do more. There are people dying and going to hell every day ... It makes it very hard for me to justify sitting on a couch knowing that people need to hear the Gospel. Remember, faith comes by hearing.
It's not comfortable being out there in front of others to be criticized, mocked, and chided. But the blessings far outweigh the reasons mentioned.
Praise Him if you have Him!
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
It is written that Love is the greatest of all spiritual gifts. It is also written that God is Love. So the greatest of all gifts both given and imparted to us as believers in Jesus Christ is Love.
In the book of Hebrews we are told to
stir up love and good works in each other. Interesting how graciously we are reminded that unless we are stirred our love and good works settle into a cozy thing some would call a rut ... I call it a couch.
I enjoy resting in a couch. The problem for me is I'd much rather rest in a couch that be up early praying and planning my day. I mean it's just much easier to lay around. But that is not what we are told to do and there is a very loving warning in this instruction.
If I'm inside on a cozy couch it is very easy for me to settle into a daily routine. In fact, I like a routine.
The truth is that when we do get together with other believers an amazing thing happens. God speaks to his people through his people. As we talk about God working in our lives, others are stirred up and encouraged by it. The next thing that follows is action. So we see Love and Good Works stirred up by obedience to follow instruction given in God's Word.
A short time ago I had been asked to lead a worship song and thankfully (Praise God) had a song in my heart.
I was out of practice and spent time practicing. I then was reminded of how it's been impressed upon me to make a worship video out of it. The goal was to do it well, to make it distraction free, and used it as a basis to improve on.
This was actually done out of obedience because I've been praying about how to demonstrate worship and what I put together was as good as I have ability for. It actually turned out even better than I have ability for and even more was proof to me that God uses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise.
I can't even clap and sing at the same time but God is faithful and uses me despite inabilities. I really really want to get better and believe that this was was the way I was shown ... Make the video and learn from your mistakes.
That was for me.
Now the blessing comes in ways that were unimaginable to me. You see, God used it to reach others and now 2 more songs exist out of obedience.
Please watch ... It will bless you!
Back to Stiring up!
Gathering together we get to see God knitting our lives together and I know for me that spurs me on to want to do more. There are people dying and going to hell every day ... It makes it very hard for me to justify sitting on a couch knowing that people need to hear the Gospel. Remember, faith comes by hearing.
It's not comfortable being out there in front of others to be criticized, mocked, and chided. But the blessings far outweigh the reasons mentioned.
Praise Him if you have Him!
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Update 4.2 - Katzrim Tour
Join me in a tour of the town.
The water you see in the video is from a natural spring, unlike the majority of Israel which gets it's water from the Galilee, this small town has their own water source!
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Friday, November 2, 2012
Sanctuary - Worship - Lord Prepare Me
The Bible tells us to be ready in season and out of season ... for some that means we need to get prepared now so that we are ready for the out of season times. There are lots of people probably millions right now that are not ready in the season of devastation that Hurricane Sandy caused. Please pray for them as they have had everything ripped away. For those who had their souls required of them we can do nothing but for the survivors, they need God and His salvation for the times ahead. For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him has everlasting life. More than anything, survivors need Jesus and His forgiveness and Love. Here in Israel it seems there are more people interested in the devastation in America than for their own sake here. It really blows me away. May we all have that attitude toward one another. In His Loving Grace
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Update 4.1 - Katzrim - Prayer - Ministry
I'm now in route to Katzrim to join believers in ministry for about a week.
Last week on Shabbat was Israel's national day of prayer. Some 2,500 believers from all over Israel came to join together to pray for the nation of Israel to repent and turn to God! Not only that but to pray to the surrounding nations to turn to the true living God.
Remember the pastor in Iran who was set free from execution? There are believers in all nations. If by God's Spirit they turn to Him imagine the results.
Remember Jonah and the 120,000 that came to God out of repentance? There is no reason God cannot do the same today. Imagine Iran, Syria, Egypt, Russia, Lebanon embracing the truth of the Bible and becoming children of the Living God!
You're invited to pray about these changes as well. Don't think for a moment that war in the middle east won't effect you in your country. Unless God intervenes, war will happen.
Ultimately we will all die and when that day comes you need to know that your relationship with God makes you sure you will go to heaven when you die. If you don't know for sure, according to the Bible you are literally playing with fire.
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Hell is eternity without Jesus.
Last week on Shabbat was Israel's national day of prayer. Some 2,500 believers from all over Israel came to join together to pray for the nation of Israel to repent and turn to God! Not only that but to pray to the surrounding nations to turn to the true living God.
Remember the pastor in Iran who was set free from execution? There are believers in all nations. If by God's Spirit they turn to Him imagine the results.
Remember Jonah and the 120,000 that came to God out of repentance? There is no reason God cannot do the same today. Imagine Iran, Syria, Egypt, Russia, Lebanon embracing the truth of the Bible and becoming children of the Living God!
You're invited to pray about these changes as well. Don't think for a moment that war in the middle east won't effect you in your country. Unless God intervenes, war will happen.
Ultimately we will all die and when that day comes you need to know that your relationship with God makes you sure you will go to heaven when you die. If you don't know for sure, according to the Bible you are literally playing with fire.
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Hell is eternity without Jesus.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Meshushim - It speaks for itself!
Had the opportunity to share the Gospel with 3 people on this day!
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Update 04 - Mission Complete - New Mission
Hello my family and friends!
A lot has changed in the pasts 4 days ... The original mission plan was to assist in creating the foundation for a church in Haifa over the next 6 months. My goal was to finish this plan in the first 3 months before having to leave the country for a mandatory period of time according to Israeli law.
If I was not granted another 3 month visa, the plans established were created to stand on their own. For contrast, that means if these plans did not work without me being there, they would not be good plans and fail.
These plans are foundational and will stand without me. It's been said that if your fingerprints are on the plans it will fail when you leave. I came up about a week short in that goal. God's grace allowed me another 3 month visa when I returned from Turkey. (For you CCSP I visited 4 of the 7 churches that are coming up in Revelation 2-3!)
Over the course of the next month the plans were finished (remember I was only about 1 week behind the goal).
As of 10.17.2012 that mission is complete! Praise the Lord!
Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be broken!
New Mission!
Recon! There are believers all over Israel. More than I ever imagined. It makes me think of Elijah (1 Kings 19:18) when he was convinced that he was the only one left ... my mission now is to find them and serve (minister/volunteer).
There is more, but for the next 9 days I'm searching out believers in all Israel. Please keep that in prayer. Also, please pray that people would receive Jesus into their lives.
If you believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord of your life as do I, according to the Bible we are brothers or sisters because God is our heavenly Father.
All I'm doing is finding more family! I'm also inviting more to be family.
The Bible tells us to GO and make disciples ... before you can be a disciple you have to make a decision on where you want to be for eternity.
Remember for ALL of us, hell is eternity without Jesus.
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Recounting Today 2012-10-11
I'm waiting now starting the 3rd hour and the 2nd police officer to come and take fingerprints. Sin costs.
The funny thing is that it's not my sin. I just happen to be paying for it. Sounds familiar to you who know the gospel.
If you don't know Jesus please, for your sake, realize that tonight your very life may be required of you.
Walking into an apartment to find a knife on the pillow of the bed may seem like a deliberate message to you but to me it sounds like satan is using fear to distract us from ministering to people.
It's almost like confirmation that we are doing something right. It's been said
"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose" — Jim Elliot, missionary martyr who lost his life in the late 1950's trying to reach the Auca Indians
I think this often and I'm going to say it so that I am accountable. I have no fear of losing the remainder of my 70-33 years but I sure question if I'd be so bold when it comes (Lord willing) to my future wife and family.
If I had the same situation (knife on pillow) would I react the same. God isn't going to change His promise of salvation. God will remain faithful to protect His saints. I'd just have an overwhelming desire to "help God" protect my future family.
I need a plan for that. A plan based on God's Word to us. I don't want to waver in the time of crises but to stand firm in His Word which promises Salvation which cannot be taken away.
It's a breath full, I know.
Contrast that with the young woman and 9 month old girl I met on the bus this morning who only goes to synagogue because she thinks it's fun. She doesn't believe in all that heaven hell stuff. She is just thankful for her baby and enjoying the time now.
Heaven and Hell are a joke to her. Hell is an awesome party and Heaven is a boring place where people sit around all day.
The truth is hell is really hot and forever is a long time and I don't want anyone to go there. Including the thief who is threatening with a knife.
Please pray God works in their lives before it's too late.
Just heard and felt a jet break the sound barrier. Is it weird that seems normal?
In His Grace,
Jonathan
The funny thing is that it's not my sin. I just happen to be paying for it. Sounds familiar to you who know the gospel.
If you don't know Jesus please, for your sake, realize that tonight your very life may be required of you.
Walking into an apartment to find a knife on the pillow of the bed may seem like a deliberate message to you but to me it sounds like satan is using fear to distract us from ministering to people.
It's almost like confirmation that we are doing something right. It's been said
"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose" — Jim Elliot, missionary martyr who lost his life in the late 1950's trying to reach the Auca Indians
I think this often and I'm going to say it so that I am accountable. I have no fear of losing the remainder of my 70-33 years but I sure question if I'd be so bold when it comes (Lord willing) to my future wife and family.
If I had the same situation (knife on pillow) would I react the same. God isn't going to change His promise of salvation. God will remain faithful to protect His saints. I'd just have an overwhelming desire to "help God" protect my future family.
I need a plan for that. A plan based on God's Word to us. I don't want to waver in the time of crises but to stand firm in His Word which promises Salvation which cannot be taken away.
It's a breath full, I know.
Contrast that with the young woman and 9 month old girl I met on the bus this morning who only goes to synagogue because she thinks it's fun. She doesn't believe in all that heaven hell stuff. She is just thankful for her baby and enjoying the time now.
Heaven and Hell are a joke to her. Hell is an awesome party and Heaven is a boring place where people sit around all day.
The truth is hell is really hot and forever is a long time and I don't want anyone to go there. Including the thief who is threatening with a knife.
Please pray God works in their lives before it's too late.
Just heard and felt a jet break the sound barrier. Is it weird that seems normal?
In His Grace,
Jonathan
Monday, September 10, 2012
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Update 3.2 - Bomb Shelter Research
Video Update, sharing about my day and planning for future events.
In His Grace,
Jonathan
Friday, August 31, 2012
Update 3.1 - Moved
Today I moved completely and cleaned completely the apartment I was watching. I was really excited to get to prepare the place for the newly married pastor and his wife. Oh what a blessed excitement.
Now that also means that I have a new place to settle into. Ha! You know what I love about moving? It makes me want less stuff. You know, the old KISS. Keep It Simple Stupid.
I've now gained at least 30 minutes pn my day. Remember how our pastor (you CCSP folks) ask us if we are numbering our days? Well, I'm a recovering engineer and of course put math to it. Each day I would pack my ministry gear and walk to and from the church building. All in total at least 30 minutes a day.
Oooh so God just gave me an opportunity to redeem the time! I'm sure not planning on wasting that 30 minutes for the next 3 months.
I just receive a gift of 45 hours! Now I need a fruitfulness plan.
Yes, I do have a plan. :)
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Now that also means that I have a new place to settle into. Ha! You know what I love about moving? It makes me want less stuff. You know, the old KISS. Keep It Simple Stupid.
I've now gained at least 30 minutes pn my day. Remember how our pastor (you CCSP folks) ask us if we are numbering our days? Well, I'm a recovering engineer and of course put math to it. Each day I would pack my ministry gear and walk to and from the church building. All in total at least 30 minutes a day.
Oooh so God just gave me an opportunity to redeem the time! I'm sure not planning on wasting that 30 minutes for the next 3 months.
I just receive a gift of 45 hours! Now I need a fruitfulness plan.
Yes, I do have a plan. :)
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Update 03
Finding the words and stories to share and sum up in one months time is a challenge for the simple fact that God is doing so many amazing things every day that often I’m overwhelmed in awe and reverence, which leads me to pray myself to sleep.
For you english majors, I challenge you come and serve and try to sum up God’s goodness ... my long sentence still allows you to gasp at the end and catch your breath.
Not so in Israel. It’s amazing!
Have you ever realized that amazing can be in both a good context and a bad context at the same time? I’m frequently going back and reviewing Follow Me which is a short book that has a goal of equipping any Christian for a life of service. It‘s a great book if you are interested in how you can better serve God.
The Bible tells us that a worker is worth his wage. If you decide to get this by the FREE download and enjoy it please contact their ministry and donate.
Back to both good and bad context. In the book of Judges chapter 6-8 you find a shy young Gideon who took an army of 300 against a powerful Syrian army of 135,000.
I’m going to let you in on the end of the story ... Gideon’s army of 300 won with 450:1 odds. That’s only possible by the grace of God.
In both cases you can say that it’s amazing that they won and you can say it’s amazing that they lost. Either way it’s amazing.
We know as Christians that when we walk into a room (or anywhere) that we make the majority. That’s God’s promise. 1 John 4:4
4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
Okay so where am I going with this?
As the Bible says, there are wars and rumors of war going on and the central focus is on Israel. Right now, there are “peace keeping” Chinese war ships docked less than 1 mile from the church building in Haifa.
If you do not know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, this is a very scary place and time. The beautiful thing about Jesus and His Word is that by His love we are saved. It is written that perfect love cast off all fear. (ALL MEANS ALL)
War is almost a daily conversation with everyone I meet. “Hey did you get your gas mask?” Have you ever thought about even needing to ask that question?
I have my life insurance with the greatest most secure Person that ever was. Jesus Christ Mutual Life promises that you can have everlasting life FOR FREE because of the Love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Okay that said I’m going to finish up with 2 stories.
I’ve been praying to meet a Catholic Evangelist for around a month now. Why? Because I’ve never met one. The majority of people around the church building in Haifa are Arab Christians. It’s amazing how many places you see something of a cross, a picture of Mary, or some form of Christian symbol.
I had just finished a good long day and was carrying my guitar and another heavy bag thinking how sweet it would be in just a few minutes to go to sleep. I was trying not to think about the weight of things I was carrying, just the final result.
Walking back to where I’m sleeping at about 11:30 at night. Very dark, the bats were out knocking the berries off the trees and down the street comes this fast moving totally silent vehicle. As the vehicle zipped by I waved and said Shalom! The vehicle stops, this wiry guy waves me over. So I walk up to him in the middle of the street and within 30 seconds he proceeds to give me the full Gospel message that Jesus loves me, he died for me, spent 3 days in death for me, and that I need Jesus to get into heaven.
I was blown away, I said, “do you believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior?”, he said yes. Then I said, “BROTHER!” “You are my brother then!”
We were having a breakfast the next morning for the local community and I invited him to come. I thought that he said in very broken english that he could not come. So I asked if I could bring the food to him in the morning and he said sure. I got his phone number and we parted ways.
In the morning I called him but he did not answer. Taking the food, I headed out the door and down the street to find him. When I arrived, he was just getting back into his “car”. I say this because it’s an electric scooter much like covered golf cart. He then asked me to come into his home where he walked through a hole in a wall to an adjoining room. (literally a hole like you would see someone blow a hole through a concrete wall) He rummaged through some boxes and came out with a rosary. He said, “this is for your mom”. Then he asked if my dad was alive and I said yes. He went back into the room and came back with another rosary. Again saying, “this is for your dad”
I thanked him and invited him for coffee at the church. He basically followed me back and joined us. He has been coming regularly every day sometimes more than twice a day.
This is where I learned more about him. You see, he has an electric cart because he lost a lung to lung cancer. He was coming back so late from the hospital because the high heat and humidity of the day make it difficult for him to breath. After more questions I found out that he was at the hospital because he has lymphoma.
You know he is one of the most joy filled people I’ve met! He knows where he is going when he dies. God is faithful to answer prayers and blew me away with this man. My first Catholic Evangelist who has his time stamped, meaning he does not have long to live. You can be sure, he is making use of the days God has given him.
I was convicted. I’ve was caught up in the language barrier idea that people can’t understand me because I don’t know the local language. You know, God made it clear, it doesn’t matter. The man I met didn’t waste any time giving me the Gospel. He didn’t try to come up with some cool way to hand me a tract. He just opened his mouth and started saying what was in his heart. Jesus was in his heart. Praise God for that!
Not long after that I had a chance to talk with someone I use to work with. They are from another country and I knew enough to know he had never heard the full Gospel message. I didn’t waste any time. People are dying and going to hell and the idea that you’re nice to them by giving them a meal but failing to give the words of everlasting life pretty much comes down to you have fattened someone up for hell. That’s just as ugly as it sounds.
The church presence is growing in Haifa. Just he other day I kid (14 year old boy) who I walked outside to give a cup of cold water to came back after 3 weeks of praying for him. It was a cool way to meet someone. I handed him the water and he was so blown away that he came in and talked with us for a good hour. His english was good and he was asking for help with his english so I invited him to let me help him. I told him I want to learn some Arabic and he was even more excited. Then 3 weeks past and I had not seen him once. He lives close to the church. When he came back (3 weeks later) my back was to the door and he just came in and put his hand on my back! It surprised me! I was so excited to see him! He’s been in and out now several times since. The guitar and talks have been fun. He’s just like any other kid in the world. He has a bike and rides it everywhere. When I asked him if he wanted something to eat he said he was fasting for Ramadan. My immediate thought was what an awesome God I have that I’m free from needing to work and earn my way into heaven. He is muslim. I’m praying for the door to open with him. I don’t understand everything he tells me but one day there was another man in the church that speaks both Hebrew and Arabic. When the kid came in, he kept saying to me ... something in Arabic. The other man translated it to this. “He says (meaning the kid) that when you gave him the cup of water he fell in love with you” ... what an awesome thing that God does to open doors to loving those around us!!!!
I’m so thankful to be here! Thank you for your prayers and interest!
Praise Him if you got Him!!!
Jonathan
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Update 02
Grace and Peace!!!
My typical week has turned into day after day of marveling at God’s hand and work here in Israel. God being awesome and sovereign in all things, there is some routine to the weeks now that I’ve been able to serve for a month. A typical week looks something like the following ... I’m starting with the first day of the week here which is Sunday otherwise known as Day 1 in Israel. Isn’t it cool how Day 1 is just like the days of creation in Genesis. What I mean is that in Israel they literally do not have labels for the days, just Day 1, Day 2, etc ...
Day 1 - Sunday
Israeli culture is that this is the first day of the work week. For me, Sunday is my Sabbath (day of rest) day. The first 2 weeks on Sunday were filled with helping someone move. It was a great opportunity to imagine it being 100 degrees inside in the shade... that made it seem cool. You know, moving is moving anywhere you go, it’s only fun when it’s done. This past Sunday I got to enjoy my Sabbath (day of rest) by going on a trip to the north.
See the Video Here:
v=sqfJ5DWfvJg
Day 2 - Monday
Devotions from 8:30 - 9:30am, Opening Checklist from 9:30-10:00, Beit Joseph (meaning Joseph’s House) which is also known as the church which is also known as Calvary Chapel Haifa ... Open hours are from 10:00-14:00 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday. For those of you who are familiar with Sojourner’s Café in Saint Paul this open hours ministry is very much like Sojourner’s Café. If you are a servant in Sojourner’s Café you would fit right in. If you have no idea what I’m talking about please visit www.sojournerscafe.org
It’s amazing how and who God brings into the church building. The first two weeks I was here we were getting things in order and it was planned to get a sign up outside giving our hours and some information on Calvary Chapel Haifa. The very next week a group came from Calvary Chapel Bible College Jerusalem and God brought in an artist. God is so good and faithful.
Given the last 4 weeks have rarely seen a day below 90 degrees it’s harder to apply giving a cup of coffee out ... very few people want hot coffee right now. Matthew 10:42 “And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water ...” This gets lots of application!!! Someone was just standing in front of the the building and I walked out to give them a cup of cold water. Instant conversation! Have you ever just enjoyed ambushing someone in love? It’s a perfect opportunity for God to do something miraculous!
Closing the front of the Church at 14:00 (2:00pm) we then clean up and make preparations for the Monday Night Bible Study. The Bible study is from 19:00-21:00 and consists of worship and the Word. I’ve been blessed to do the worship on Mondays. For those of you who don’t know, God allowed me to learn to play the guitar. I have NO musical abilities at all and to this day I cannot clap and sing at the same time. The only songs I know are worship songs and when it comes down to playing and worshiping, God allows me to do it. I’m humbled every time I worship and play.
For the Word, it’s just like a service. We are currently in Luke Chapter 18, it’s easy to read ahead, take notes, and come ready to grow in understanding of the Bible and even more so in relationship with God.
Day 3 - Tuesday
Devotions from 8:30 - 9:30am, Opening Checklist from 9:30-10:00am
Open hours from 10:00-14:00, Tuesdays are a good administration day making plans for the rest of the week.
There is a house meeting meal at 18:00 (6:00pm) where the people living on 2nd Floor of the building can fellowship and work out issues. Yes, there is nothing new under the sun, there are issues between roommates no matter where you go!
After the meal and meeting it’s cooled down and good to go to the shouk (like outdoor grocery store) to get food and supplies for the week. It’s great to be able to do this together because we can plan out meals and split up costs. Generally things in Israel are expensive so looking for ways to save is important. You know as a Christian, it’s a sin to pay full price. :)
Day 4 - Wednesday
Tuesday - Devotions from 8:30 - 9:30am, Opening Checklist from 9:30-10:00am
Open hours from 10:00-14:00.
After closing on Wednesdays we get supplies together for the Soup Kitchen/Homeless Outreach that happens in Tel Aviv on Thursdays. Supplies like toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, soap, deodorant, are generally kept in Haifa because there is storage space. These items are kitted up and brought to Tel Aviv each week by two of us that serve in Haifa. Once everything is ready I generally spend some time getting things together for the outreach itself. Imagine giving a Bible study to people who speak broken English, Spanish, French, Hebrew, Tigrinya, Arabic, and Russian ... I love it! It’s odd but I’m actually learning general terms like yes, no, come, wait, listen, love, in all of these languages at the same time. Why!??? I’m seeing that knowing how to speak in their language is a way of loving them, it earns respect and they are willing to listen to you. I’ve learned to respond when they say “thank you” to say “NO, Thank You” which makes them laugh and then ask “why do you say these things” ... Earning the right to share the Good News with them is the goal in every opportunity.
To date I’ve seen 3 people come to Church Service from the park invitations ... but so many seeds are planted. We have given out Bibles and Audio Bibles ... more on that later.
Day 5 - Thursday
Meet at Calvary Chapel Haifa at 07:30 to travel by train and sherut (mini bus seating 10 people) to Calvary Chapel Tel Aviv. Generally this takes 2 hours and we will arrived at 09:30 and have an hour to get coffee. At 10:30 there is pray time for the day and the people we will serve begin to prepare food for between 60-80 to-go meals. The meals change but for an example they have couscous (like granular pasta), cabbage salad, and chicken schnitzel (breaded chicken patty). It’s a very good meal, I look forward to it as we make enough that each person serving can have a meal as well.
The plan it to be in the park by 15:00. For years now the people have been served at that time and they know that a meal and medical supplies are coming each week at that time. There are some who are between countries, where they came from like Sudan and where the need to go. The Sudanese are not welcome in Israel but the Sudanese cannot flee from their country to Egypt (the men I’ve met tell me) that both the government in Sudan and the Egyptian Army tries to kill them. They then flee to Israel, where they may not be wanted but they are not hunted. Most of them work some form of paid cash job and share small room with 8-10 roommates (this is what I’ve heard from them)
Medical supplies are bought for things like, fungus, skin care, lice, scabies, wounds, injuries (knees and wrists), infections, pain ... to name a few.
All of these things will only make someone more comfortable before going to hell for not knowing Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. The Bible tells us to meet basic and urgent needs. By meeting needs we earn the right to share the Good News with them. Some are interested, some pretend not to understand you but then later come back and ask specifically in English for help. The Bible tells us that every man is a liar. Liars need love too, I was one of them. Please keep this day in prayer, that the Grace of God would shine through us and that selfish ambitions and self interest would have no place in the lives of the servants here.
After the outreach we finish up and then take the sherut and train back to Haifa. If it’s an early day, we could get back around 19:00. Generally this day is exhausting and I come back with new ideas and new vocabulary. I’ll take time to make some notes and plan for the next week, ways to approach people and planning. I love it. This day is the day to see miracles. God loves us, His mercy and grace are poured out in ways that are difficult to describe. His Timing Is Perfect. You are invited to come and see it, maybe you have better descriptive skills than I do. Miracles follow believers and this is the land miracles.
One day after all of these evens I got on the wrong sherut and ended up on the other side of Tel Aviv. After and hour and a half of getting back to where the trip would take another hour and a half I basically SOD (Sabbath On Demand) and woke up leaning, no literally sleeping on someone who wished I sat somewhere else on the sherut. I was so tired I just did not care. SOD.
Day 6 - Friday
Sleep in day. All that really means is I wake up sometime around 09:00. This is a day to get things in order as far as cleaning and doing laundry. Shabbat (what we would call Sunday service is the next day) is the next day and there are always things to get set in place for leaving in the morning. I spend a lot of time documenting receipts on Fridays. I blew it and did not keep up with detailing them for the first few weeks and I've just finished cleaning up the mess I created. It is written that we should be diligent with the little things. Oh how awesome is God in His detail. Have you every looked at a flower? This is my thought and prayer, if God saw fit to detail something so beautiful, shouldn't we as Christians be as diligent with the provision He gives. Lord make me more like You!
Shabbat - Saturday
I must be out the door by 6:30 in order to catch a sherut to Tel Aviv in time to make it by 8:30 for setup. There are no trains running so prices are increased some 20%. Setup is generally from 8:30-10:00. We pickup service equipment and walk it to the hotel where we setup and teardown each week. Service starts at 10:45 and we must be out by 14:00. The hotel start cleaning up at 14:00. Often a group will go for a meal after service and this is an awesome time of fellowship and laughter. Praise God for his kids and how we are united in Him. God brings in His children from all over the world each week. It’s amazing, sometimes surreal who you have opportunity to meet and share in more understand of just how BIG our God is. You know I say our God because most of you know Him as Savior and Lord. If you don’t, there is a HUGE opportunity for you to change that. If you want to have a relationship with God that makes you sure you will go to heaven when you die, you’ll find it. If you decide your good enough to get into heaven on your own, I sincerely hope you realize how imperfect you are. The Bible tells us that for us to enter into heaven we must be perfect, as our heavenly Father is perfect. Since I’m not perfect and neither are you we have a MAJOR problem.
If I have your attention, please follow the link, if all you have is a Bible that is all you need. Open it up to the Gospel of John and spend the next 21 days reading a chapter a day. It will change your life. Maybe, God willing, you and I will be roommates in heaven.
In His Loving Grace,
Jonathan
The Gospel Of John
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For Update 02 video and other video clips
To download my Update 02 letter:
u63xj70jamvxipt/Update%2002.
Sojourner's Café
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