Photo of Jay on Willows Beach with water from the Pacific. Victoria BC.
Jay dipped a small container into Pacific waters lapping up on Willow’s Bay in Victoria, on Vancouver Island. One of the last things he did was pour out the Pacific water into the Atlantic Ocean as it lapped up on the shores of Prince Edward Israel. This prophetic act symbolizes the journey of 6,000 kilometres we have been on across Canada from coast to coast. Our call was to encourage and alert Father God’s people in Canada to the brevity of the hour we find ourselves in. Jesus said, “the gates of hell will NOT prevail against the church!” Next week I hope to address the ongoing persecution against evangelicals in Canada.
Video clip of Jay on the shores of Prince Edward Island tossing the Pacific water into the Atlantic Ocean.
We have been privileged to spend these last six momentous weeks with Christians from one side of this great nation of Canada to the other. We are thrilled to see the Messianic Church arising. Mainline Christians are awakening to make a return to Biblical worship. We worshipped with Pastor Annie Elliot’s Underground church in Ottawa. The men built and decorated the succah. What we have seen here is a worldwide movement orchestrated by the Spirit of the Living God globally. Christians are returning to their biblical roots. Christians are not to be Jews but they were born into a Hebrew Body as found in scripture and they are returning to worship as the early church of Paul and the Apostles taught. I challenge you to read: The Messianic Church Arising by Robert Heidler.
Photo: Tabernacles in Ottawa. Pastor Annie Elliot, Dr James and Helen Lunney and Jay and Meridel.
It was a special privilege and joy to reconnect with living day family history. Some family members arrived in Prince Edward County located at the eastern end of Lake Ontario from Switzerland in 1784. Then it was known as Upper Canada. Gary Rorabeck, a member of this pioneer family spoke with the Pastors of Gilead Fellowship. This family provided the lumber to build the church and other younger members built it back in the 1940s. Jay and I were given the joy of speaking here on Thanksgiving morning Oct. 9th. This dedicated body of believers had fasted and prayed for the previous ten days. From the moment we walked in until we left, the LORD’S Presence was among us in tangible ways. The altar area was dressed with a sheaf of wheat, a pomegranate, dates, raisins, olives, a cup of wine and a loaf of Shabbat bread. It was the only fellowship across Canada where we got to rest in the beauty of the moving of the Holy Spirit. The gifts were in operation; ‘speaking in tongues’ with interpretation and later prophecies over both Jay and I and our children. What a refreshing touch of glory!
We celebrated the local cuisine when my cousin took us all to a gracious country establishment for a royal Thanksgiving dinner. It was complete with turkey cranberry sauce and all of the trimmings. I can’t forget the pumpkin, pecan or lemon pies, butter tarts, shortbreads and fresh blueberries and whipping creme. Trust me, it was not difficult to give thanks!
All in all, our Thanksgiving day was edged with the gold of His Presence and Person. There are moments, in life when we sense that we are touched by Eternity, for which we give thanks.
There will be more about our time in Canada next week. We close with this beautiful video from CBN on the Christian Celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem.
“When I have brought them back from the peoples and gathered them from their enemies lands and through them have vindicated my holiness in the sight of many nations. Then they shall know that I am the LORD their God, because … I will leave none of them remaining among the nations anymore. And I will not hide my face anymore from them, when I pour out my spirit upon the house of Israel declares the LORD God.”
Ezekiel 30:27-29
We have begun almost every service with my reading these incredible promises over the Jewish people. I ask our audiences “Have you seen the face of the LORD?” Let us keep humble hearts when it come to Israel and the Jew.
Jay tells of our time inside the Kremlin in 1989 when he had to stand against the ire of head of Jewish Emigration. He amazes people with is experience of “A soft answer turning away wrath.” YES, inside the Kremlin. For the full story you will have to get our next book to released, Israel our Odyssey. Times are not so different today, it is all heating up again. Jay asks. “Can Putin stop Aliyah?”
“NO!” Is always the united response.
Our God reigns, and it is written 64 times in the Bible that Father will bring His sons and daughters home to Israel. Aliyah is a hot topic again today, 2022, and will be ever more so in the days ahead. Open your eyes to see this global move of God’s mighty Spirit! Canadians are listening. Jay challenges our audiences to make their own personal Aliyah toward the LORD and MOVE FORWARD!
Howard Flower heading up the ICEJ Aliyah in St Petersburg writes: “The only winner in this conflict is Israel. Praise God, The LORD has sent you, Meridel and Jay out at such a time as this …” Howard is presently enjoying the Christian Celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem.
Some 6,500 Russians arrived in Israel since Vladimir Putin called-up army reservists. Israel expects the number of new immigrants from Russia to continue climbing. As a result, Israel is sponsoring camps in Finland and Azerbaijan, to contain Russian Jews. Prime Minister Yair Lapid said in Jerusalem at Israel’s weekly Cabinet meeting: “… following recent events in Russia and Ukraine, we expect tens of thousands of olim (new immigrants) in the coming months. We are preparing for their arrival and welcome them.”
Time to celebrate:
The Feast of Tabernacles the fulfillment of one of Messiah’s names – Immanuel, God With Us! Here in Canada we have had the joy of celebrating Thanksgiving and the biblical Feast with believers in many locations. It has been glorious. We have also renewed old acquaintances and made many new ones along the way.
Tabernacles is my favourite Feast. In Israel, we build a succah and family and friends come to us over the next 8 days to feast and fellowship. We are most of all mindful of the heavenly guests who also hover near. All over the walls of the succah curtains are written the names of our heroes, Abraham, Issac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, David and of course we include Yeshua! To Read about it in scripture: See Leviticus 22:26-23:44. Numbers 29:12-16. Zechariah 14:1-21
Rabbi Sydney Speakman and Dr. Jay Rawlings, Messianic Assembly Lethbridge. Alberta, Canada.
The metropolis of Toronto:
This famous Canadian metropolis is graced by Friends of Jesus Christ.Filippino/Canadians make us proud for their standard of excellence is seen in their service to others. Pastor Tek Wy always welcomes us so warmly as does his wife Myrna and fellowship. He has loaned to us his van for our journey around the Province of Ontario. We are enjoying autumn with its glorious fall colors: red, orange, scarlet, and burgundy leaves shine in the sunshine among the tall ever greens. I have spoken with new immigrants from Yemen, Jordan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Punjab India. Many of them are nervous when asked where they are from. As I spoke with the shy Yemenite women, I wondered what they saw ad endured during the war? Or the Pakistanis dealing with the worst flood in their modern history. My heart is open to pray for their peace and salvation. Canada has changed in every way. I believe immigrants from the Middle East and Asia are pouring in here looking for a better life. Many are very hard working, and yet we hear stories of how Canadians no longer want to work as they get hands out from the government?
I have reminded several churches that Jesus’ birth name is Yeshua! Our old friend and pastor Ralph Rutledge opened the way for us to minister in City Church in Brantford Ontario. Here, the praise was thunderous. This simple chorus was sung over and over: ‘Yeshua … the most beautiful of thousands and thousands.” I couldn’t help but sing to myself, “The most beautiful of thousands and TEN thousands.” This passage in Daniel begins at Father’s throne … “A river of fire flowing, coming out from him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him …” Daniel
“This is the best service, I have ever attended.”
After the service, many old timers, come to us and say, “This is the best service I have ever attended.” They loved that we present historical fact and yet are relevant to today. ALIYAH is the single greatest sign of the moving of the Holy Spirit across the earth today. Again Russia is rising up to dominate and control.
Dr. James Lunney, Rev. Bill Prankard, and Jay Rawlings in Ottawa. Ontario, Canada.
The Queen:
I saw snippets of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, in all of its beauty and pageantry. I was deeply impressed by the ceremony in Windsor Castor when the scepter, orb and crown were removed from her coffin and placed back on the alter. All authority comes from His throne. What a lesson in humility and truth to leaders of the entire world. Her dedication was unparalleled from age 21 when she vowed to commit her life to the service for the good of the Commonwealth. She followed through in faithful service to Jesus, her Servant-King, in like manner. I feel grateful to have witnessed her life of wisdom and restraint.
Messiah Presented
“Behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like the son of man.
He came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him.
To him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom
that all people, nations and languages should serve him.
His domain is an everlasting dominion with shall not pass away.
And His kingdom is one the shall not be destroyed.”
Daniel 7:10, 23,24.
Lastly, go to 13 minutes … to listen to a savour one of my favourite Hebrew worship songs.
Recently, before Prime Minister Yair Lapid addressed the General Assembly of the United Nations at the annual opening, we, Israelis were in a state of nervous expectation. The order of speakers in that august, if impotent, an organisation is – First Presidents, then Prime Ministers and when his turn came the PM walked confidently to the podium and began the speech of his life. He was brilliant, quiet, understated but firm and his introduction opened by telling of his love of country and his family’s Holocaust history. Quietly he brought his discourse to the crux of the Middle East problem and the possible solution. He promoted the idea of a two-state solution but with one essential caveat. First and foremost a peace agreement is signed and honoured between the Israelis and the Palestinians. Here is his speech.
The religious opposition uses hate speech and fear of the Palestinians to move their agendas forward. Amazingly P.M.Lapid actually called the Palestinian Leadership’s bluff. THEY DO NOT WANT A PEACEFUL SOLUTION WITH ISRAEL AND HAVE REJECTED ALL THOUGHTS OF THIS OFFER. I believe the gift of “seeing” what is really “going on there” comes from above. I believe Mr Lapid has it. Do pray for our election coming up in November. It is our 5th in 4 years I believe.
O Canada we stand on guard for thee…
We have travelled N, S, E, and W by road in the specular province of Alberta thanks to Audrey Martin who loaned us her brand new Ford Edge! Alberta is a great big wide land bordered on the west by glorious mountains. Then going east it is filled with golden wheat fields as far as the eye can see, wide fast flowing rivers, oil rigs, fat cattle in the fields and immense cities sprawling over the coolies AND very friendly people!
No Child in Unimportant:
Canada has just celebrated a day of Truth and Reconciliation nationwide for the second year. It is a tribute to the First Nations who suffered 150 years of horrendous injury and the loss of many children who were forced into religious schools to reform them. It was ‘ethnic cleansing’ methodically pushed forward by Catholicism and Anglicanism and our government. Their hair was cut off, their clothes taken away in place of uniforms, their names replaced by a number and their languages by English. Family members were not permitted to speak with each other. 3,000 graves have been uncovered some of them large common graves. It is feared there is a further 3,000 missing bodies. This terrible documented history has left a wicked and ugly scar on the lives of living Canadians. These children were brutalized by starvation, beatings and sexual abuse. Their name was replaced by a number; their language was forbidden, and replaced with English.
I am definitely on the outside looking in. Growing up my mother as a girl helped her mother befriend many Indigenous peoples on their reservations during the summer holidays teaching them to read and write, play new games and learn Bible stories. Perhaps this is the genesis of my fascination and works with tribal peoples in India and Nepal. Interesting is the fact that today “Lost Jews” are returning to Israel from many tribal groups around the world who have kept the customs of the Biblical Torah all of these generations.
Pledge to the Peaks
I found this in Banff. I acknowledge that I greatly enjoyed travelling, exploring and playing in the Treaty 7 Territory of Southern Alberta. Treaty 7 encompasses the traditional tribal lands of the Iyarhe, Nakoda Nations of Chiniki, Wesley, Bearspaw, Tsuut’ina First Nation, the Kana, Silica and Piikani Nations of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) Confederacy and Metis Nation – Alberta Region.
“I promise to honour and celebrate the land, history, and habitants of this sacred space, for I am a guest in their home. I will do this by:
Respecting the local culture, exploring with an open mind and gentle heart.
Sharing the space, showing care and consideration for others.
Treading lightly, leaving no trace behind.
Gathering memories rather than monuments, leaving rocks, plants and artefacts.
Watching wildlife from a distance, keeping myself and the animals safe.
Preparing for adventure, respecting the mountains and my abilities.
Travelling mindfully, being kind to all people, wildlife and plants.”
In a word,“Let us all learn to walk softly! Listening to the Still Small Voice.”
The Frank Slide:
Alberta was definitely the ‘wild west’. We enjoyed our evening in Bellevue, just next to the famous Frank Slide. In 1916 the mountain slid down into the valley burying coal mines, and the town of Frank. This was the ‘wild west’ back then and ‘boot-legging’ was rife less than 100 years ago. Invited by Bill White, leader of Prayer Canada in Alberta was 94 years young. Our dear pioneer friend of decades was known for his ‘God-mobile’ and ‘Museum of Israel’. He was one of our greatest supporters. We looked forward to our reunion, but he slipped on home to be with the LORD just two days before we arrived. We spent a wonderful evening, teaching and fellowshipping with his family and locals. They are ‘down-home folks’. Bill’s widow Eileen, granddaughter Vicki, and family rallied to greet Bill’s friends and neighbours. We heard up-to-date stories of the bears visiting family homes in search of grub. Bill’s legacy in this ‘cowboy country’ will remain evergreen as his family carry on his prayer vigil for Canada today. The Rawlings Family are part of the museum.
Lethbridge and Calgary:
We were guests in Messianic Synagogues. What a joy it was to feel a touch of Israel in worship, and see how the nations are joining in the joy. We heard the shofar blown on New Year’s Day, and remind you to pray for Israel and all Jews on October 4th Yom Kippur, The Day of Atonement. It is the most important day in the Hebrew calendar. Psalm 130 is the recommended reading. I have put the Kol Nidre at the end of this letter for your contemplation. “Our Father our King …”
Red Deer Central Alberta:
Here we enjoyed four full days with family and friends, reconnecting with sisters, nieces and cousins. We are all whiter and wider, but the love for one another only grows with the years. My sister Nancy and Keevin took us on a picnic down by the Red Deer River. We celebrated the New Year with family. Janelle, my niece brought her delicious homemade hallot and apples to dip in honey so we could wish each other a “Happy New Year.” Patricia and Paul hosted us royally. Sweet!
The Canadian geese are gathering together and flying South. We were blessed with long, golden sunny days. The birch and popular trees have turned bright yellow and created a stark contrast with the tall dark green and blue spruce. The wheat fields lie empty now as the harvest is in. I enjoy reading the local papers and found an advertisement for “Summer and Fall Seed Varieties: Hybrid Fall Rye, Triticale, Winter Wheat and Oats.” (Claresholm Local Press) Alberta is called ‘big sky country’ because the sky takes up 3/4ers of the view. Seeing is believing. One of my cousins has his ‘permissions’ to hunt for an antelope, a white-tailed deer, a doe, and a moose. He assured me that he will have his freezers chock full of wild game for the long and severe winter months. This is just a tiny example of what a different world this is. It is the land of plenty. Everything is BIG… very big! From the oversized coffee cups to the cars, trucks and homes. This is the good life. Very few know anything of the world of Israel. They have been gracious to listen. It is also the buckle of the Bible-belt! Huge churches everywhere and no openings for the Rawlings. Didn’t Jesus say something about that? Keevin, one of my brothers is a prayer warrior and well aware of what Israel is facing. How comforting is that! He brought my sister and daughters over to visit Israel twice!. Russia is in our conversations of course. Israel has 50,000 new immigrants as I write. It’s amazing.
COVID has raised its ugly head in the Lodge where my brother Donovan’s widow Judy lives. Don left us for heavenly climes on Christmas Day 2021. I laid a stone from Israel on his grave; a symbol of The Rock of Israel, the LORD our God. On Father’s Day this year, his pastor used my brother’s life as an example of what a Godly father is. He is greatly missed by all of the family and his church community Living Stones.
Our Father, Our King, Hear our Voice:
While in the synagogue I heard two Christians discussing that they felt Jews worshipped the Torah. I tried to explain that Messianic Jews see Yeshua – Jesus the Messiah as the embodiment, the literal fulfilment of the Torah. He is the only one who ever kept the Laws and Statutes of God perfectly. Scripture reading for The Day of Atonement: Leviticus 16:1-34, Numbers 29:7 – 29, Isaiah 57:14-58:14.
Mail Call … Answered Prayer:
“I love reading still small voice! What amazes and blesses me is this: you respond when I write. Most ministries only send ‘a thank you’ if you donate money, but never respond to personal questions or remarks. Keep up the good work, stay healthy and safe. I pray God will bless you with enough strength and joy to do what He is asking you to do. Looking forward to seeing you.”
“I must apologize for not communicating more. I have taken your Still Small Voice publications for granted, like a bird just waiting for mother to feed it while it sits safely in its nest. I just assumed this source of wisdom and encouragement would just keep coming. Thank you for all the prayer, thought and concern you share with us. Don’t stop!”
“Numbers 6:24-26! Blessings on your journey across Canada and back home. God is with you wherever you go and will prepare the path before you. Joshua 1:9. Thank you so much for your short but powerful and effective prayer over me. When you prayed for the ‘monkey to get off of my back’, something powerful shifted and happened. PTL!!’”
“I cannot put your book Miracles Among the Nations down. It is the story of a big LIVING God, a little family who dared to obey and the nations!.”
“Miracles Among the Nations is a book that is going to teach me things I do not know. I have been a believer running a successful business for 55 years. Thank you!”
Are you familiar with the significance of the crucifixion? I invite you to listen carefully to this very challenging piece by Prof. Jordan Petersen
I write to you in weariness, overshadowed by His Precious Love;
Im Jahr 5783 “WIRD ALLES ENTHÜLLT WERDEN” … das ist die prophetische Bedeutung dieses neuen Jahres. Siehe das Ende des Briefes für weitere Einzelheiten.
Wie spät ist es? Hochrangige Männer warnen uns vor einem Ereignis, das niemand vergessen wird! Unser Gott, welcher in den Himmeln sitzt, lacht. Das Weltwirtschaftsforum will, dass wir alle in Angst leben. Dieses Ereignis ist für den 24. September geplant. Das jüdische Neujahrsfest beginnt am Abend des 25. Septembers. Lasst uns abwarten, was unser Heiliger tun wird. Das Ende der “Zeiten der Nichtjuden” ist da. Vater Gott bringt Israel in die vorderste Reihe der Weltbühne. Seht Ihr ihn durch sein Volk in Aktion? Wenn nicht, bleibt bei uns!
“Darum, so spricht GOTT, der Herr: Jetzt will ich das Geschick Jakobs wenden und mich über das ganze Haus Israel erbarmen und für meinen heiligen Namen eifern. Und sie werden die Verantwortung für ihre Schmach und ihre Treulosigkeit, womit sie sich gegen mich vergangen haben, auf sich nehmen, wenn sie sicher in ihrem Land wohnen und niemand sie aufschreckt, wenn ich sie aus den Völkern zurückgebracht und aus den Ländern ihrer Feinde gesammelt und mich an ihnen heilig erwiesen habe vor den Augen der vielen Heidenvölker. Daran sollen sie erkennen, dass ich, der HERR, ihr Gott bin, weil ich sie unter die Heidenvölker in die Gefangenschaft führen ließ und sie nun wieder in ihr Land versammle und keinen von ihnen mehr dort zurücklasse. Und ich will künftig mein Angesicht nicht mehr vor ihnen verbergen, weil ich meinen Geist über das Haus Israel ausgegossen habe, spricht GOTT.
Hesekiel 39,25-29
Haltet inne und denkt an dieses Selah! Das ist es, was Vater Gott tut. Ich glaube, wir werden einen schrecklichen Krieg erleben, bevor sich dies vollständig entfaltet.
ALIYAH: Einsammeln der jüdischen Exilanten: Der Rekord von 60’000 Juden, welche in diesem jüdischen Jahr nach Israel umziehen. “Israel hat im vergangenen jüdischen Jahr 5782 60’000 neue Einwanderer aufgenommen und rechnet damit, dass es bis zum Ende des säkularen Jahres 2022, also an diesem Freitag, 64’000 sein werden. “Das sind mehr Einwanderer in einem Jahr als in jedem anderen Jahr der letzten zwei Jahrzehnten und ein Anstieg von fast 130% im Vergleich zu 2021, als 28’500 Juden in das Land einwanderten.” (Maayan Hoffman | 20. September 2022)
Eilmeldung: Putin ruft 300’000 weitere Truppen zusammen und Russen fliehen auf dem Luftweg aus Russland. Sie gehen in die Türkei, da sie kein Visum benötigen.
Ein Trompetenruf: Während unserer ausgedehnten Reisen haben wir einen Blick auf die Beerdigung von Königin Elisabeth geworfen. Ich wurde so auferbaut von den Bibelstellen, welche sie für diesen bedeutenden Anlass ausgewählt hatte. Anscheinend haben 4 Milliarden Menschen die Beerdigung live mitverfolgt. Die Wahrheit des Wortes Gottes war wie ein Trompetenstoß, welcher in die Welt hinaus schallte, und die Dunkelheit zerschmetterte. Wenn Ihr die Gelegenheit habt, dies zu sehen, tut es bitte. Gottes Königreich hat die Herrlichkeit empfangen. Halleluja!
Die Provinz Alberta: Wir flogen über die wunderschönen, schneebedeckten Rocky Mountains und landeten in Calgary, welches sich über das große Grasland von Alberta ausbreitet. Wir besuchen jetzt meine Heimatprovinz. Sie ist riesig in ihrer Pracht, begrenzt von den wunderschönen Rocky Mountains im Westen und der flachen Prärie im Osten. Alberta war zusammen mit den anderen Prärieprovinzen über Generationen hinweg ein Brotkorb für die Welt. Alberta ist bekannt für sein Öl (dessen Förderung eingestellt wurde), Weizen und Vieh. Die Landwirte hier stehen genauso unter Druck wie die in Holland. Solange ich mich erinnern kann, hat Alberta 1 Milliarde Dollar pro Jahr an Quebec gegeben. Dennoch hat Alberta durch die COVID-Beschränkungen und die unangemessene Verfolgung einiger ihrer Pastoren schrecklich gelitten. Alberta ist voll von bibeltreuen Christen und Konservativen.
An meine lieben Freunde: Diejenigen von euch, welche die Still Small Voice lesen, habe ich viele von ihnen auf dieser Reise zu meiner Freude getroffen. Doch zu meinem Erstaunen habt Ihr nicht den Wunsch verspürt, Euch bei mir zu melden? Ich bin neugierig und muss Euch fragen, warum? Woher weiß ich, dass ihr überhaupt da seid? Was meint Ihr dazu? Vielleicht ist die Einsamkeit die einzige Konstante für diejenigen, die in anderen Kulturen leben. Das ist es, was uns in die Nähe von Jesus zieht. Aber es geht doch nichts über ein Liebeszeichen menschlicher Güte. Teilt sie doch bitte auch mit anderen.
Das Erbe: Das ist das Thema dieser Hohen Heiligen Tage, welche als Tage der Ehrfurcht bekannt sind. Wir werden vom Himmel aus beobachtet und auf der Waage gewogen. Mögen wir nicht als unzulänglich befunden werden. Das Leben ist so kurz, und nur das, was wir für das Reich Gottes tun, wird Bestand haben.
Erbe ist das, was man jemandem hinterlässt,
Vermächtnis ist das, was man weitergegeben hat.
Gott ist die Stärke meines Herzens und mein Teil für immer.
Der HERR ist der Anteil meines Erbes und mein Becher: Ps. 73: 26
Mein Erbe ist schön für mich. Ps. 16. 2,5,6.
Segen, Wohlstand und Liebe. Meridel
Dieses Video gibt Euch eine Vorstellung von dem Konflikt, welchem wir in Jerusalem jeden Tag ausgesetzt sind. “Betet für den Frieden von Jerusalem.” [Eine Stadt, welche seit den Tagen König Salomos keinen Frieden mehr hatte]. “Es wird denen gut gehen, welche sie lieben.” Ps. 122:6
Video: The Al Aqsa is in Danger / Libel
Gottes heiliges Wort wird sich erfüllen. Haltet Ausschau danach, genau an diesem Ort.
Und Mose gebot ihnen und sprach: Nach Verlauf von sieben Jahren, zur Zeit des Erlassjahres, am Fest der Laubhütten, wenn ganz Israel kommt, um vor dem HERRN, deinem Gott, zu erscheinen an dem Ort, den er erwählen wird, sollst du dieses Gesetz vor ganz Israel lesen, vor ihren Ohren. Versammle das Volk, Männer und Frauen und Kinder, auch deinen Fremdling, der in deinen Toren ist, damit sie es hören und lernen, damit sie den HERRN, euren Gott, fürchten und darauf achten, alle Worte dieses Gesetzes zu befolgen.
5. Mose 31:10-12
Alle Segenswünsche der Familie Rawlings für Euch und die Euren! Schannah Tova! (Frohes neues Jahr!)
Zu Eurer Information: Im alten Israel war jedes siebte Jahr ein Schemitah- oder “Sabbatjahr”. Ein ganzes Jahr lang kam die Wirtschaft des Landes zum Stillstand, da alle Bauern und Landarbeiter ihre Felder verließen und in Scharen in die Studienhäuser strömten, wo sie sich ein ganzes Jahr lang auf ihre geistlichen und nicht auf ihre körperlichen Bedürfnisse konzentrierten.
Jetzt, zu Beginn des achten Jahres (des Ersten im neuen Siebenjahreszyklus), ist die Nation bereit, auf die Felder und Obstgärten zurückzukehren. Doch zuerst versammelten sie sich am zweiten Tag des Laubhüttenfestes (Sukkot), sechzehn Tage nach Beginn des neuen Jahres, alle im Heiligen Tempel, um sich für die nächsten sechs Jahre inspirieren zu lassen, in welchen die meiste Zeit mit geschäftlichen Unternehmungen verbracht werden sollten. Betet für Eure jüdischen Brüder und Schwestern in Israel, welche in diesen Zeiten den Herrn, den Gott ihrer Väter, suchen.
Was haben wir in diesen nächsten sieben Jahren zu erwarten?
Vuonna 5783 ”KAIKKI TULEE PALJASTETUKSI”… tämä on uuden vuoden profeetallinen merkitys. Lisää yksityiskohtia asiasta kirjeen loppuosassa.
Millainen on tämä aika? Korkeantason voimamiehet varoittavat meitä tapahtumasta, jota kukaan ei unohda! Meidän Jumalamme, joka istuu taivaissa, nauraa. World Economic Forum – Maailman talousfoorumi – haluaa meidän kaikkien elävän pelossa. Tämä TAPAHTUMA on suunniteltu syyskuun 24. päivälle. Juutalainen uusi vuosi alkaa syyskuun 25. päivän iltana. Seurataanpa, mitä meidän Pyhämme tulee tekemään. Pakanoiden aikojen päättyminen on käsillä. Isä tuo Israelin maailmannäyttämön etuosaan ja keskiöön. Näettekö Hänen toimivan oman kansansa välityksellä? Ellette, niin pysykää mukanamme!
”Sentähden, näin sanoo Herra, Herra: Nyt minä käännän Jaakobin kohtalon ja armahdan kaikkea Israelin heimoa ja kiivailen pyhän nimeni puolesta. Ja häpeänsä ja kaiken uskottomuutensa, jota he ovat minulle osoittaneet, he unhottavat, asuessaan nyt maassansa turvallisina, kenenkään peloittelematta. Kun minä tuon heidät takaisin kansojen seasta ja kokoan heidät heidän vihamiestensä maista, niin minä osoitan heissä pyhyyteni lukuisain pakanakansain silmien edessä. Ja he tulevat tietämään, että minä, Herra, olen heidän Jumalansa, kun minä, vietyäni heidät pakkosiirtolaisuuteen pakanakansojen luokse, kokoan heidät omaan maahansa enkä jätä sinne jäljelle ainoatakaan heistä. Enkä minä enää kätke heiltä kasvojani, sillä minä vuodatan Henkeni Israelin heimon päälle, sanoo Herra, Herra.”
Hesekiel 39:25-30
Pysähtykääpä ja pohtikaapaa tätä – Selah! Tätä Isä Jumala on tekemässä. Uskon, että tulemme kokemaan kauhean sodan ennen tämän toteutumista täydellisesti.
ALIJA: Hajotuksessa, Israein ulkopuolella elävien juutalaisten kokoaminen: Ennätyksellinen määrä, 60 000 juutalaista, muutti tänä juutalaisena vuonna Israeliin. ”Israel vastaanotti 60 000 uutta maahanmuuttajaa juutalaisen vuoden 5782 aika, ja määrän oletetaan yltävän 64 000 tulijaan vuoden 2022 aikana. “Eli enemmän maahanmuuttajia yhden vuoden aikana kuin edellisinä kahtena viimeksi kuluneena vuosikymmenenä. Lisäystä on lähes 130 % verrattuna vuoteen 2021, jolloin 28 500 juutalaista muutti maahan.” Raportoi Maayan Hoffman syyskuun 20. päivänä 2022.
Sähkeuutiset: Putin teki kutsunnat 300 000 uudelle miehelle armeijan joukkoihin. Venäläiset pakenevat maasta lentoteitse. Me matkaavat Turkkiin, minne ei vaadita viisumia.
Pasuunan ääni: Näimme katkelmia kuningatar Elisabetin hautajaisista laajan kiertueemme aikana. Minua sykäyttivät kovin hänen tähän ikimuistoiseen tilaisuuteen valitsemansa kohdat Kirjoituksista. Ilmeisesti neljä miljardia ihmistä katseli seremoniaa suorana lähetyksenä. Jumalan sanan totuus kaikui pasuunan lailla pimeyttä pirstoen yli maapallon. Jos teillä on tilaisuus katsella tuo seremonia, niin tehkää se. Jumalan kuningaskunta sai kunnian. Halleluja!
Albertan provinssi. Lensimme kauniiden, lumihuippuisten Kalliovuorten yli ja laskeuduimme Calgaryyn, jonka liepeiltä leviävät Albertan laajat, viljavat seudut. Olemme parahaillaan vierailemassa kotimaakunnassani. Se on valtaisa ja rajautuu lännestä kauniisiin Kalliovuoriin ja idässä tasaisiin preerioihin. Alberta oli muiden preeriamaakuntien ohella monien sukupolvien ajan maailman leipäkori. Se tunnetaan öljynporauksesta, vehnästä ja karjasta. Täkäläiset maanviljelijät ovat ankeassa pakkotilanteessa, kuten Alankomaidenkin viljelijät. Niin kauan kuin muistan, Alberta on antanut miljardi dollaria Quebecille. Silti Alberta on kärsinyt hirvittävästi koronarajoituksista ja kohtuuttomasta muutamien pastoreiden vainoamisesta. Alberta on täynnä Raamattua rakastavia kristittyjä ja konservatiiveja.
Kallisarvoisille ystävilleni: Olen tämän matkan aikana kohdannut ilokseni monia teistä, jotka luette Pienen hiljaisen äänen kiertokirjeitä. Siltikään, hämmästyksekseni, ette ole tunteneet halua pitää yhteyttä minuun. Olen utelias ja minun täytyy kysyä: miksi? Miten voisin tietäää, että edes olette siellä vastaanottajina? Ajatelkaapa sitä. Ehkäpä yksinäisyys on seikka, joka jatkuvasti kohtaa toisessa kulttuuripiirissä eläviä. Se vetää meidät lähelle Jeesusta. Mutta ei ole mitään sen vertaista, kuin ihmisystävällisyyden maito. Jaattehan sitä myös toisille.
Perintö, se on näiden suurten juhlapäivien teema, jotka tunnetaan ihmetyksen, kunnioituksen päivinä. Meitä tarkkaillaan taivaasta ja meitä punnitaan vaa’alla. Kunpa meitä ei havaittaisi vajaiksi, puutteellisiksi. Elämä on niin lyhyt, ainoastaan Jumalan valtakunnan hyväksi tekemämme kestää.
Perintöosa on se, mitä ihminen jättää jolle kulle,
testamenttilahjoitus on se, mitä ihminen on välittänyt, jakanut.
”Jumala on minun sydämeni kallio ja minun osani iankaikkisesti.” Psalmi 73:26 ”… ja kaunis on minun perintöosani.” Psalmi 16:6
Alla oleva video tarjoaa aavistuksen siitä konfliktista, jonka kohtaamme Jerusalemissa joka ikinen päivä.
Rukoilkaa rauhaa Jerusalemille. Toivottakaa rauhaa Jerusalemille, ( – se on kaupunki, joka ei ole kokenut rauhaa sitten Salomonin päivien – ) menestykööt ne [ne menestyvät], jotka sinua rakastavat.
Psalmi 122:6
Video. Väite, että Al-Aksa olisi vaarassa.
Jumalan pyhä sana tulee toteutumaan. Seuratkaa tämän paikan suhteen tapahtuvaa.
“Joka seitsemäs vuosi, määrättynä aikana vapautusvuonna [smita], lehtimajanjuhlassa, kun koko Israel tulee Herran, sinun Jumalasi, kasvojen eteen siinä paikassa, jonka hän valitsee, lue tämä laki koko Israelin läsnäollessa, heidän kuultensa. Kokoa kansa, miehet, naiset ja lapset sekä muukalaiset, …”
V Mooseksen kirja 31:10-12
Siunaavia, menestystä toivottavia ja rakkaudellisia terveisiä Rawlingsien perheeltä teille ja läheisillenne!
Shana tova – hyvää uutta vuotta!
Mielenkiinnon vuoksi: Muinaisessa Israelissa joka seitsemäs vuosi, eli shmita, oli sapattivuosi. Kokonaisen vuoden ajan kansakunnan talous oli pysähdyksissä, sillä maanviljelijät ja maataloustyöntekijät eivät menneet pelloille, vaan kerääntyivät suurin joukoin opinahjoihin, missä he keskittyivät ennen muuta hengellisiin, eikä niinkään fyysisiin tarpeisiinsa.
Sitten, kahdeksannen vuoden alkaessa (siis ensimmäisenä tuossa seitsenvuotisessa kierrossa) kansakunta oli taas valmis suuntaamaan kulkunsa pelloille ja hedelmätarhoihin. Mutta ensin, lehtimajanjuhlan, sukkotin toisena päivänä, joka on uuden vuoden 16. päivä, kaikki kerääntyivät tavan mukaan pyhään Temppeliin saadakseen voimaa ja virtaa seuraaville kuudelle vuodelle, jotka he viettävät suurelta osin työssä ja toimessa. Rukoilettehan Israelissa asuvien juutalaisten veljienne ja sisarienne puolesta heidän etsiessään Herraa Jumalaa, Isäänsä näinä aikoina.
Mitä on odotettavissa seuraavien seitsemän vuoden aikana?
In 5783 “ALL WILL BE REVEALED” … this is the prophetic meaning of this new year. See the end of the letter for more details.
What time is it? High powered men warn us of an event today! Our God who sits in the heavens laughs. The end of the “times of the gentiles” is here. Father is bringing Israel front and center onto the world stage. Do you see Him in action through His people? If not stay with us!
“Therefore says the LORD God, now I will restore the fortunes of Jacob and have mercy on the whole house of Israel, and I will be jealous for my holy name. They will forget their shame and all the treachery they have practiced against me when they dwell safely in their land with none to make them afraid. When I have brought them back from the people and gathered them from their enemies lands, and through them have vindicated my holiness in the sight of many nations. Then they shall know that I am the Lord their God because I sent them into exile among the nations and then assembled them into their own land. I will leave none of them remaining among the nations anymore. And I will not hide my face anymore from them, when I pour out my spirit upon the house of Israel declares the Lord.”
Ezekiel 39: 25-29
Pause and think of that Selah! This is what Father God is doing. I believe we will face a terrible war before this completely unfolds.
ALIYAH: Ingathering of the Jewish exiles: Record 60,000 Jews move to Israel this Jewish year. “Israel absorbed 60,000 new immigrants over the past Jewish year 5782 and expects to reach 64,000 by the end of the secular year 2022, this Friday.
That’s more immigrants in one year than any year in the last two decades and close to a “130% increase compared to 2021, when 28,500 Jews immigrated to the country.“ – Maayan Hoffman | September 20, 2022
News Flash: Putin is calling up 300,000 more troops and Russians are fleeing Russia by air. They are going to Turkey as no visa is required.
A Trumpet Call: We caught glimpses of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral during our extensive travels. I was so edified by the scriptures she chose for this momentous occasion. Apparently 4 billion people watched it live. The truth of God’s Word the was like a trumpet blast out into the earth shattering the darkness. If you get an opportunity to watch please do so. God’s Kingdom received the glory. Hallelujah!
The Province of Alberta: We flew over the beautiful snow capped Rockies to land in the Calgary, sprawling over the great grass lands of Alberta. We are now visiting my home province. It is huge in its magnificence bordered by the beautiful Rocky Mountains on the west and flat prairie lands on the east. Alberta along with the other prairie provinces was a bread basket to the world for generations. It is know for its oil, (which has been capped), wheat and cattle. The farmers here are under duress as they are in Holland. As long as I can remember Alberta has given 1 billion dollars a year to. Quebec. Yet Alberta has suffered terribly through COVID restrictions and the inordinate persecution of some of her pastors. Alberta is filled with Bible loving Christians and conservatives.
To my dear friends: Those of you who read Still Small Voice, to my joy, on this trip I have met many of you. Yet, to my amazement, you have not felt a desire to communicate back to me? I am curious and must ask why? How do I know you are even there? Think of it? Perhaps loneliness is the one thing that is a constant to those who live among other cultures. That is what draws us close to Jesus. But there is nothing like a little milk of human kindness. Share it with others as well please.
Inheritance: is the theme of these High Holy Days, known as the Days of Awe. We are being observed from heaven and weighed in the balance. May we not be found wanting. Life is so very short, only what we do for God’s Kingdom will stand.
Inheritance is what you leave someone,
Legacy is what you have imparted.
God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
The LORD is the portion of my inheritance and my cup: Ps 73: 26
My heritage is beautiful to me. Ps. 16: 2,5,6.
This video will give you some idea of the conflict we in Jerusalem face every single day. “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” [A city that has had no peace since the days of King Solomon.] “They shall prosper who love her.”
Ps. 122:6
Blessings, Prosperity and Love. Meridel
God’s holy word will come to pass. Watch for it, in this very place.
“At the end of every seven years, at an appointed time, in the Festival of Sukkot [following] the year of Shemitah. When all Israel comes to appear before the Lord, your G‑d, in the place He will choose, you shall read this Torah before all Israel, in their ears. Assemble the people: the men, the women, the children.”
Deuteronomy 31:10-12
Every blessing from the Rawlings family to you and yours! Shannah Tova!
For your interest: In ancient Israel, every seventh year was a Shemitah or ‘sabbatical’ year. For an entire year, the nation’s economy came to a standstill as all farmers and agrarian workers abandoned their fields and flocked en masse to the study houses where for a full year they focused on their spiritual, rather than physical needs.
Now, at the onset of the eighth year (the first in the new seven-year cycle), the nation is ready to head back to the fields and orchards. But first, on the second day of the holiday of Sukkot, [Feast of Tabernacles] sixteen days into the new year, all used to gather in the Holy Temple for inspiration to tide them over for the next six years, most of whose time would be spent in business endeavors. Pray for your Jewish brothers and sisters in Israel, as they seek the Lord God of their Fathers in these times.
“To God Almighty, the Lord of Israel: May Michael be at you right hand, Gabriel at your left hand, before you Raphael and behind you Uriel, and above you the divine presence of God.”
From the Shema
“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.”
John 15:26
The amazing truth is that when we are weak He is strong. Last night we were at Christian Fellowship Centre in Qualicum up island. A beautiful dinner was laid out, in the Fireside room. Jay and I continue to labor under a viral infection picked up in Holland, but inspite of our weariness, the Holy Spirit showed Himself to be strong touching lives. We were with dear friends last night who have stood with us these many years. Jay and I have learned to lean hard on the precious Holy Spirit each moment of every day. Our days are full and demanding with many joyful surprises and rewards. The encouragement above was given to us by Howard Flower, Head of Aliyah desk for the ICEJ in St. Petersburg Russia. “The statistics for August were released by the Ministry of Aliyah and Absorption. The total Aliyah stands at 47,652 with 82% coming from the Former Soviet Union. This is Good News for Israel.
Speaking of Russia?
It appears that Putin is building an axis of like-minded governments and entities. It appears he working he to create a new revisionist axis that already includes the Iranians, Turkey, China potentially, and North Korea. He latest guest is Hamas politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh who arrived in Moscow on Sept. 10 at the head of a senior delegation from the terror group for talks with Russian officials. The Russians typically use meetings with Hamas to signal displeasure with Israel, perhaps in relation to Ukraine.
COVID & Bats?
The new Tel Aviv University study rejects the theory that the COVID-19 outbreak originated in bats. A new Israeli study has concluded that there is no clear evidence that COVID-19 was transmitted from bats.
Victoria B.C. – New Life: A most stimulating evening was spent with up and coming young professionals. The most amazing thing about them was not their accomplishments, but their hunger for more of the ways of God. When young men weep for want of more of God, something wonderful is happening! Thank you Joe, Mackenzie, Leslie, everyone who was present that momentous evening.
goodstewardpictures.com: Daniel Steward from Victoria B.C., came to work in the Jerusalem Vistas studios for 3 years. The LORD has blessed him mightily now with his own production company and favor all around. How thrilling for Jay to see Dan so blessed and to know he and our team had a part in his on going success.
The Vision of Canada painted red: Jay has asked me to share the visions I had in 1975 about the condition Canada is in today. The older generation know they are hearing the truth, most of the younger ones keep their distance and can’t relate. We just learned; “Mexico has offered Canadians asylum.” Imagine that?
The Event? What in the world are they planning to do on September 24th, 2022? As you will see below, a member of the German legislature said “No one will not forget September 24, 2022. Everyone will know exactly where he or she was.”
The Jewish New Year is Sept 25th and 26th, and always God speaks. The New Year 5783 means, All Will be Revealed. Our God reigns, what can man do to me?
Guess what? Suddenly the West has come to understand that UNWRA, which employs some 35,000 Palestinians on your penny, is biased and clearly part of the problem not part of the solution to the dire situation in Gaza and the PA
Prophecy: Last Sunday a Chinese gentleman came to our book table, bought a copy of Miracles Among the Nations, and handed me this word:
“In Jesus Name, we prophesy that the LORD’s will
Is accomplished through your lives
Without any obstructions or opposition.
In Messiah’s Name we clear the waters
And push away the armies of Satan.
We prophesy upon you :
The Almighty’s vitality, veracity, tenacity,
energy of youths, agility, fervency and health.
To preach His message and gather up the Holy Flock.
Let your work be completed in wholeness before
Time comes to an end.”
40 Years: Christian Fellowship Centre in Qualicum/Parkville pastored by Brian and Leah Robertson Celebrated their 40th birthday as a church today. Miraculously, Jay and I are here at this exact time, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Jerusalem Vistas/Israel Vision, the TV ministry we established in Jerusalem at the sometime. This fellowship embraced us from the very beginning when Sr. Pastor Ed Alexander and his wife Olly not only embraced us in the LORD but supported us until this day. We are so privileged to be here at this moment in history to worship and celebrate together. The ministry has survived COVID and is alive and flourishing.
Today’s service resembled a wedding, with dozens of testimonies of the faithfulness of the LORD to His people. We all rejoiced together in a feast created by a wonderful chef.
“Oh, how pleasant and good it is when brethren dwell together in unity for there the LORD commands the blessing!”
Psalm 133
Thank you for your continued prayers are we journey on to Calgary Alberta.
Love to you from the Saints who stand faithful on beautiful Vancouver Island.
“ No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make a level path for our feet so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.”
Hebrews 12:12
The destinies of the nations are changing before our very eyes! Pause and consider.
Traveling so intensely, leaves us with not a moment to even hear world news. We didn’t even know Queen Elisabeth had died. We still have not had a moment to catch up. While in Holland we were hit with a heavy flu, and are still in the process of shaking it off as we have been traveling and ministering.
Welcome to the Dominion of Canada.
The first impression here is one of incredible prosperity, affluence, abundance and plenty. There seems to be no lack of anything. This turns out to be an illusion. We began our prayer tour in Vancouver, and on the lower mainland. Germany could fit 10 times into enormous B.C. At present 1000 forest fires are burning out of control. The air is thick and heavy with smoke. As a result, the sun has turned red; some highways are blocked limiting access to fisherman on the Fraser River.
Our first engagement was at Shabbat Shalom Messianic Fellowship. Pastor Archibald-Fisher led the congregation in reciting The Shema, followed by the singing of God Save the King. Our dear friends Merv and Merla Watson led the worship. Jay’s presentation O Jerusalem – O Canada we stand on guard for you! was very well received. These people are awake. He presented key historical points of our involvement with Israel historically in the fight for the return of Soviet Jewry, including our personal visit to Mr. Gorbachev’s assistance for Jewish Affairs in the Kremlin back in 1989 with our scroll of 65,000 names declaring, “Let my People Go!” 1,300,000 Soviet Jews came home to Israel. TODAY history is repeating itself. Putin is working to block Jews from returning home to Israel. This year, 20,000 Russian Jews have already returned and 18,000 women and children left Ukraine. It is an indication of the times in which we are living. God is in charge, no matter how things look to us.
Wake UP!
My work on this trip finds me giving short (hopefully) powerful introductions before Jay speaks. I tell of the visions given to me 47 years ago while traveling across Canada. The final scene was a map of Canada painted RED, and a strong voice staying, “But … my blood shall cover first.” The older generations know I am speaking the truth, but it goes right over the heads of everyone else. Most have no idea what is going on. Sad but true. One indication of the spiritual state of North America is the fact that only 15 have registered for this year’s Feast of Tabernacles in Israel. 15 out of the entire United States, and less than a handful from Canada. 2,500 are registered with the International Christian Embassy, and they are not coming from Europe either, but from all across South America and Africa. God’s people are alive and well, and we need to wake up and see the shifting shadows of darkness enveloping our lands and freedoms.
Israel has been Careless:
I have no good news from Israel. It has surfaced that Israelis, we Rawlings among them, were the world’s guinea-pigs for the Pfizer vaccines and boosters. NOTHING was set in place to record any damages sustained from this vaccine. The data was hidden, covered up, but it is coming to light now. I was just one of the tens of thousands damaged by the ‘jab’ neurologically. I wonder what Mr. Netanyahu got for his ready compliance, putting his entire nation, including the children in harm’s way. The cover-up is global. You may want to take a moment to catch up to the truth.
If you feel led to support us in prayer, God Bless You. It is an uphill grind. In such a rich affluences, so far it has been the widows who have opened their homes along with Pastor Wes Dass and his wife who spent her childhood in Brazil. God bless them. We find, people have changed and avoid contact.
The art of human kindness has died, it is a tragic thing to be experiencing. You would be surprised by the numbers who ask us, “Isn’t it time for the Rapture? Isn’t Jesus coming soon?”
I assure them: “No it is NOT!” Don’t pray for missionaries, you ARE the missionaries friends. IF you don’t stand up nothing is going to happen here.
It is pay back time for Canada. We have stuck our fingers in Father God’s eye. Now we will taste something of what sorrow really is. He is calling up HIS troops; those who will stand the test of time and be found faithful with their lamps burning. People ask about the many challenges facing us Israelis with no let up. As a result there is a move of God going on right inside of Israel. Trouble can bring us untold blessings. Canada’s turn is coming.
I close with the words of Merla Watson’s The Bridal Song. Lyrics as follows:
“You are the song of my heart.
You are the Love of my life.
You are the One coming soon, as a song in the night!
Over the mountains and hills,
Deep in the valleys below,
I hear Your voice, Beloved One!”
Merla Watson Catacombs Prod. Ltd: cc1#11236147
We are sustained by His Presence and His Still Small Voice.
Es ist eine Freude, wieder in Holland zu sein. Diese Herbstsaison ist bekannt als: “Die Jahreszeiten Gottes”! Diese Jahreszeit wird auch: “Die festgesetzte Zeit” genannt. Die drei Herbstfeste sind: Das Fest der Posaunen, der Versöhnungstag, welcher das siebentägige Laubhüttenfest beinhaltet! Prophetisch gesehen verbirgt sich hinter dem Fest der Posaunen das Bild der Auferstehung der Toten in Christus. Der Versöhnungstag ist der Tag, an welchem Gott dem Menschen begegnet. Das Laubhüttenfest spricht davon, dass der Messias bei uns wohnt; Immanuel, Gott mit uns!
Dies ist eine 40-tägige Zeit der Reue oder Umkehr – Teschuwa. Elul, der 1., begann am 28. August und endet am 5. Oktober, dem Versöhnungstag. Wir bitten Euch, für Jay und mich zu beten, während wir uns von Küste zu Küste durch Kanada arbeiten. Überall, wo wir hinkommen, glauben wir an eine VERÄNDERUNG.
Die 10 Tage zwischen den Posaunen (dem jüdischen Neujahrsfest) und dem Versöhnungstag (26. September – 4. Oktober) werden auch Tage der Ehrfurcht genannt. Es ist eine Zeit, in der wir denjenigen vergeben, welche uns beleidigt haben. Das jüdische Neujahrsfest fällt auf den 25. bis 27. September. Erinnert Euch an die Barmherzigkeit, welche Euer Leben umgibt, und lasst alles los, was Euch verletzt hat. Es ist eine Zeit der göttlichen Barmherzigkeit für Euch, und der Notwendigkeit, Busse zu tun und anderen zu vergeben. Wir danken und richten unser Gesicht auf ein gesegnetes neues Jahr, das unter dem Schutz der göttlichen Gunst steht.
Einige unserer größten geistlichen Durchbrüche, sowohl persönlich als auch in unserem Dienst, haben sich während dieser heiligen Zeit ereignet.
– Jay und ich waren verlobt und wollten heiraten.
– Er ging für zwei Jahre zum Studium nach Toronto, und ich nach Indien.
– Vater Gott rief uns in dieser Zeit, im 1969, aus Kanada nach Israel.
– Diese Feste waren ein ‘Scheideweg’ in unserem Leben und kündigten immer und immer wieder Veränderungen an. Bitte betet, denn wir haben in dieser verheißungsvollen Zeit in der jüdischen Geschichte eine 50-tägige Reise nach Holland und Kanada begonnen.
Ich schreibe Euch aus dem Bettel-Konferenzzentrum in Nordholland. Über den Link am Ende meines Briefes könnt Ihr an unserem Workshop an der nationalen ICEJ-Konferenz in den Niederlanden teilnehmen. Unser Thema ist: “Die Sammlung der im Exil Lebenden in einer Zeit der Krise aus der Sicht der Pioniere”. Jay präsentiert eine kurze Geschichte des sowjetischen Judentums und unseren Film Gates of Brass. Er erzählt von unserem Besuch im Kreml, um eine Präsentation im Kreml vorzuführen. Wir überreichten ihnen eine Schriftrolle mit den 65’000 Unterschriften einer Petition mit der Forderung: “Lasst mein Volk gehen!” Die Menschen haben bei unseren Filmpremieren in den großen Hauptstädten der Welt von 1986 bis 1989 unterschrieben.
Die Zahl der Olim (israelische Neueinwanderer), welche in diesem Jahr aus der vom Krieg zerrissenen Ukraine und Russland kommen, ist im Vergleich zu den letzten beiden Jahrzehnten rekordverdächtig. Bis Ende 2022 könnten es vielleicht bis zu 40.000 sein. Das ist die Frucht dieses schrecklichen Kriegs. Meridel und ich waren Pioniere dieser Bewegung, welche seit den 1970er Jahren Juden bei der Heimkehr helfen. Das war damals in der christlichen Welt unbekannt, Juden haben seit den 1880er Jahren daran gearbeitet, die Juden nach Hause zu bringen.
1989 trafen wir uns im Kreml in Moskau mit Juri Reschitow, Michail Gorbatschows Assistent für Menschenrechte und jüdische Angelegenheiten. Er sagte zu Jay: “Sie haben Macht in den Medien!” Das war kein Kompliment. Jay dachte bei sich: “Ich habe!”, und schluckte. Am Ende dieses sehr kühlen Treffens wurde er jedoch offener, nachdem er seine fünf Kameraden aufgefordert hatte, den Raum zu verlassen. Dann erzählte er unter sechs Augen und ohne Mikrofone, dass Esther, seine jüdische Frau, und er in der folgenden Woche das Pessachfest feiern würden. Er sagte auch: “Wenn Sie jemals wieder einen Film über Russland machen wollen, bin ich bereit, Ihnen zu helfen!”. Meridel und ich waren schockiert und erstaunt über diese Wendung der Ereignisse. Wir nennen es unser Wunder im Kreml.
Ein Jahr später wurden Glasnost und Perestroika eingeführt, und in den folgenden drei Jahren von 1991 bis 1993 wurden 393’000 Juden aus Sowjetrussland entlassen, um nach Zion zurückzukehren, wie es die Propheten vorausgesagt hatten. Diese Bewegung signalisierte die endgültige Befreiung von bis heute 1,3 Millionen sowjetischen Juden. Es geht weiter. Aber jetzt droht Putin, sie wieder zu stoppen, indem er die Büros der Jewish Agency in der FSU schließt. BITTE BETET!
Wir glauben jedoch, dass er keinen Erfolg haben wird, denn es gibt so viele Menschen, Juden und Christen gleichermaßen, welche jetzt auf so viele Arten daran arbeiten, die Juden nach Hause zu bringen.
On ilo palata jälleen Alankomaihin. Tämä syksyn ajanjakso tunnetaan Jumalan vuodenaikana! Sitä kutsutaan myös ‘ennalta määrätyiksi ajankohdiksi’. Syksyn kolmen juhlaa ovat: pasuunansoiton juhla, suuri sovituspäivä, joka päättyy seitsenpäiväiseen lehtimajanjuhlaan! Profeetallisesti ottaen pasuunat kätkevät vertauskuvana Kristuksen kuolleistanousemisen. Suuri sovituspäivä on aikaa, jolloin Jumala kohtaa ihmisen. Lehtimajanjuhla [en. Feast of Tabernacles, tabernacle = asumus, telttamaja, sukkah] puhuu Messiaan olemisesta meidän kanssamme; Immanuel, Jumala kanssamme [hepr. immanu = kanssamme El = Jumala]!
Olemme 40 päivän katumuksen tai kääntymyksen ajanjaksossa, jota hepreaksi kutsutaan teshuvaksi. Se alkoi elul-kuun 1.päivänä, elokuun 28. päivänä, ja päättyy lokakuun 5. päivänä, suurena sovituspäivänä.
Pyydämme teitä rukoilemaan Jayn ja minun puolesta lähtiessämme matkaamaan halki Kanadan rannikolta rannikolle. Uskomme MUUTOKSEEN kaikialla minne menemmekään.
Kymmenen päivän jaksoa pasuunansoiton päivästä (juutalainen uusi vuosi) suureen sovituspäivään (syyskuun 26. päivä – lokakuun 4.päivä) kutsutaan myös syvän kunnioituksen, ihmetyksen päiviksi. Se on anteeksiantamisen suuntaamista niitä kohtaan, jotka ovat loukanneet meitä. Juutalainen uusi vuosi osuu syyskuun 25.-27. päiviin. Muista elämäämme ympäröivää armoa ja päästä irti kaikesta loukkaavasta. Tämä on jumalallisen armon aikaa sinua kohtaan, ja sinun on tarpeen katua ja antaa anteeksi toisille. Kiitämme ja kohotamme katseen kohti uutta vuotta jumalallisen suosion varjeluksen alaisuudessa.
Muutamia suurimmista tämän pyhän ajanjakson aikana tapahtuneista hengellisistä läpimurroista sekä henkilökohtaisessa elämässämme että palvelutyössämme:
– Jay ja minä kihlauduimme avioituaksemme
– Jay lähti Torontoon kaksivuotisiin opintoihin, ja minä Intiaan
– Isä Jumala kutsui meidät Kanadasta Israeliin vuonna 1969
Nämä juhlat ovat olleet elämämme risteyskohtia, jotka ovat toitottaneet toistuvasti muutosta.
Rukoilethan meidän aloittaessamme 50 päivää kestävän puhujakiertueen Alankomaissa ja Kanadassa tänä hyvin otollisena juutalaisen historian ajanjaksona.
Kirjoitan teille Bettel-konferenssikeskuksesta Alankomaiden pohjoisosasta. Kirjeen alareunassa olevasta linkistä pääsette mukaan meidän osuuteemme ICEJ:n kansallisessa konferenssissa Alankomaissa. Aiheemme oli Maasta karkotettujen kokoaminen kriisin aikaan pioneerien perspektiivistä. Jay esitti lyhyen katsauksen neuvostojuutalaisista ja filmistämme Gates of Brass [Vaskiportit]. Hän kertoi vierailustamme Kremliin esittääksemme sen siellä. Luovutimme siellä kirjoituskäärön, jossa oli vetoomus 65 000 allekirjoittaneelta. He pyysivät ”Päästäkää minun kansani lähtemään!” Ihmiset olivat allekirjoittaneet vetoomuksen filmimme ensiesityksissä pääkaupungeissa eri puolilla maailmaa vuosina 1986-1989.
Olimien – Israeliin muuttaneiden uusien tulijoiden – määrä tänä vuonna sodan runtelemasta Ukrainasta ja Venäjältä on ennätyksellisen suuri verrattuna viimeksi kuluneisiin kahteen vuosikymmeneen. Lukumäärä saattaa olla peräti 40 000 vuoden 2022 lopussa. Se on hedelmää tästä hirvittävästä sodasta. Meridel ja minä olimme tämän liikkeen pioneereja avustaessamme 70-luvun alusta lähtien juutalaisia tulemaan kotiin. Sellainen oli ennen kuulumatonta kristillisessä maailmassa. Juutalaiset olivat tehneet työtä 1880-luvulta lähtien tuodakseen juutalaiset kotiin.
Vuonna 1989 tapasimme Moskovan Kremlissä Juri Reshitovin, Mihail Gorbatsovin assistentin ihmisoikeus- ja juutalaiskysymyksissä. Hän totesi Jaylle: ”Teillä on valtaa mediassa!” Se ei ollut mikään kohteliaisuus. Jay mietti mielessään ja vastasi: ”Niin on.” Ja nieleskeli. Silti tuon varsin viileän tapaamisen lopussa Reshitov suhtautui meihin lämpimämmin lähetettyään toverinsa ulos huoneesta. Yksityisesti, poissa mikrofonien äärestä, hän kertoi viettävänsä vaimonsa Esterin kanssa pesachia, juutalaista pääsiäistä, seuraavalla viikolla. Hän sanoi myös: ”Jos joskus haluatte tehdä toisen Neuvostoliittoa koskevan filmin, olen halukas auttamaan teitä.” Meridel ja minä olimme järkyttyneitä ja hämmästyneitä tapahtumien käänteestä. Kutsumme sitä omaksi Kremlin ihmeeksemme.
Vuotta myöhemmin alettiin toteuttaa glasnostia ja perestroikkaa, ja seuraavien kolmen vuoden aikana, 1991-1993, yhteensä 393 000 olimia vapautettiin Neuvostoliitosta palaamaan kotiin Siioniin, aivan kuten profeetat olivat ennalta kertoneet. Tuo muuttoliike signaloi kaiken kaikkiaan 1,3 miljoonan neuvostojuutalaisen paluuta nykypäiviin mennessä. Se jatkuu. Mutta nyt Putin uhkaa lopettaa sen jälleen sulkemalla Jewish Agencyn, Juutalaistoimiston, toimipisteet entisen Neuvostoliiton alueella. RUKOILE!
Siitä huolimatta uskomme, ettei hän tule onnistumaan, koska on niin paljon ihmisiä, juutalaisia sekä kristittyjä, jotka tekevät nykyään monin tavoin työtä juutalaisten tuomiseksi kotiin.
