WE’RE GOING BACK!

At long last the time is upon us for our return to Eretz Israel, the Land of Israel!

On Friday, November 11, 2011 (11-11-11) at 11:11 AM a flight leaves Des Moines, IA to begin a long awaited Ministry of Shofar journey to Israel. Twenty people will be embarking on a life-altering journey that takes them to the land of the Bible. For some, this is a return visit; for others, it is their first trip “Home.” But for all there awaits adventure that will transform the way we see Israel, as a nation and as the Chosen People of YHVH, and our lives.

In 2010 we were all in such awe of what we saw and experienced in Israel. At every turn we were surprised at the beauty of Israel and we truly experienced His presence everywhere. I believe everyone in that group developed a deeper reverence for YHVH and a deeper love for His land and people. Our conduct also impacted the people we encountered in a way we never expected. Who knew that by planting trees a door would be opened for Rabbi Matthew to share with the Jewish owner of a diamond polishing facility? That three men blowing shofars in a shopping area would cause should awe in the local shop keepers? Or by witnessing a waterfall in the desert at Qumran was considered a blessing? Our respect for the Jewish roots of the Christian faith, the knowledge that we had gleaned from the teachings in Shofar and our desire to be blessing to the people of Israel demonstrated to those we came in contact with that we were not just another Christian tour group.

This time will be different, in that several of us have been to Israel so we will have a better understanding of what it is like. We will be more deliberate and have a more focused purpose in the places we visit. However, that awe for the beauty and holiness of Eretz Israel will never go away.

Political tension in the Middle East has been growing and the world continues to be bent on blaming Israel for all the problems there. We know, however, that Israel is the solution, not the cause. YHVH promised that He would bless those who bless Israel. It is our desire to be a blessing to Israel, not just so we will be blessed, but because that is what YHVH wants us to do. Pray for us as we seek to bless His people.

Shalom!

Avigdor