Day 290 As in the Days of Noah

 

10/17/2026

"But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD."

Genesis 6:8

 

Life had gotten pretty ugly in Noah's day, much as it has in our present age. So bad in fact that God said He was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and Scripture says that God was grieved. So, He decided that enough was enough, and He decided to destroy the every living creature including the birds of the air and all of mankind. All except for one man:

"This is the genealogy of Noah. Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God. And Noah begot three sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. So God looked upon the earth, and indeed it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted their way on the earth. And God said to Noah, 'The end of all flesh has come before Me, for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold I will destroy them with the earth. Make yourself an ark....'" (Genesis 6:9-14).

Everyone is familiar with the story of Noah and the ark, even those who do not attend church. Yet the story holds so much symbolism when we consider how miraculous the event was and remains as an example to us today. It shouldn't be surprising, as there are so many mysteries hidden within God's Word, and we will have an eternity to understand.

Up until the floodwaters came from God there had never been rain on the earth. God had watered the land with dew and his own sprinkler system. While Noah was building this boat per God's instructions he was also busy preaching to the people around him, trying to warn them of the coming disaster, hoping they would mend their ways and change their fate; however, this didn't happen. It took Noah at least 100 days to build the ark, gather the animals, and load everything up on the ark. Finally God told him it was time, so after everyone - Noah and his wife and his three sons and their wives - and every creature was onboard, God shut the door and the floodgates opened. I imagine there were many people trying to get inside the ark, but God had made His decision. For forty days it rained until the entire earth was covered, and every living creature destroyed. Imagine what was going on in the minds of those onboard knowing they were the only people alive. It was an incredible journey they were on. 

It took considerable days for the land to dry out before God opened the doors and all departed to begin a new life on a new earth. Noah built an altar and dedicated burnt offerings to God. The LORD was pleased and He promised Noah the following:

"And the LORD smelled a soothing aroma. Than the LORD said in His heart, 'I will never again curse the ground for man's sake, although the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; nor will I again destroy every living thing as I have done.'" (Genesis 8:21). 

God later sealed this promise with the sign of the rainbow establishing a covenant with Noah (Genesis 9:8-17). He told Noah and his sons to be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. The rainbow was a sign of the covenant between God and all creatures of the earth that He would never destroy the earth by flood again. 

Sadly, because of man's fallen sin nature, evil and violence exists today, and I cannot imagine at times how much more horrific things can become, yet Scripture paints a pretty graphic picture of just how bad things will turn before Jesus Christ returns. When Jesus' disciples asked Him when the end would come, He told them only His Father knew when that day would be, but He described the signs to watch out for (Matthew 24:3-8). He later adds, "But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be." (verses 36-39)

We like Noah have been given a work to do - an ark to build - in order to prepare ourselves for the return of Christ. We have things we need to do to prepare our hearts, get our lives in order. Each day a new struggle comes with corrupt leadership threatening to destroy our nation, take away our freedoms, rewrite the Constitution and erode our justice system. It can be terrifying to consider, if anyone is even giving it a second thought. I know that God will protect His people, those who surrender their lives to His care and provision, but my heart cries for those who do not know Him, who have not found peace and salvation in Jesus Christ. Like Noah we know the storm is coming, and this time it is a trial by fire. So like Noah we must be busy trying to reach lost souls with the Good News, so they too can have eternal life in the world God intended from the beginning. I am so anxious for that day, but even so, it will be much happier the more people come with us.

Until that day may the true days of Noah be the fruitful ones. 

Day 289 Fruit Bearing

   

10/16/2026

"There's a difference between work and fruit in the Christian life: 

a machine can do work; only life can bear fruit."  

Daily Walk 

 

Just for fun I decided to google myself! It turned out to be an adventure, as I am no one and certainly not a name to be searched for, but finally the perseverance was worth the effort, as I approached the search from different angles. In reviewing some of my earlier posts about 10+ years ago, I  discovered that in the past I wrote some pretty good stuff. It made me begin to wonder what happened?! If I'm so terrible at expressing my thoughts or writing meaningful literature, why are so many people looking at my blogs? I don't have any advertisements nor do I post for pay, so how is my stuff being seen, and by whom? I see the stats, and honestly, it is baffling. So whoever you are, could you please do me a favor and let me know what you find so interesting or appealing about my posts?! And feel free to make a comment.

Perhaps I should think seriously about doing things differently, but the whole reason I began to blog was because I felt compelled to do so. Actually, I heard God's voice saying to "write the story," the story I am still trying to figure out. So, in obedience to God's word to me, I began doing something. Recently, however, I have taken strides towards finding the time to devote to writing what I know I am to share, other than the content in these blogs. And, I have prepared a spot for writing, but I have to reorganize some things in my spare bedroom first. Thanks to little Fae, the kitten, who decided she'd dig in the dirt in my flower pot holding my Christmas cactus, I have dirt to remove from my desk. Fortunately she was unable to move enough dirt to leave me any small surprises. I am  grateful. My male cat Alex, who prefers outdoors living, however, decided to leave me the remains of a bird he killed earlier in the day. He often leaves me "gifts" of his love - a half dead mouse and a snake, so I have to have another chat with him. I'm always careful not to injure his pride or hurt his feelings with ingratitude. I do honestly appreciate his love for me, but I just wish he would express it differently. I've decided that we need to spend more time together, so I plan on pitching a tent outside on the lawn where we can camp out together. I hope he'll accept my invitation and stick to my menu for meals.

The messages I am receiving from church services continue to lift my spirit and excite my soul, even though Holy Spirit continues to press me about motives. It's not because I have impure or sadistic motives, but He is pressing the need to stay on guard with regard to forgiveness of others in the days ahead. In my group study we are now examining the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5, and how we are to walk in the Spirit as God's ambassadors to others. Sometimes I wonder if I even "fit" anywhere in service within the church, as I do not belong to a church here formally, meaning I do not hold a membership - yet. I have mentioned before that I did join a fellowship when I first arrived, but I may have done so hastily, or perhaps not. These are things I am seeking an answer. Please don't misunderstand, as nothing is wrong with the fellowship I joined. My call to Israel and the daily Zoom calls after 10/7/2023 interfered with attendance, so I began to attend local services across the highway where my parents attended. Both bodies teach the Word of God, and the churches are growing, and the fellowship with friends I grew up with at my parents' church has been very rewarding. 

I love the New Living Translation of Luke 6 where Jesus is teaching the Sermon on the Mount. Luke is paraphrasing a portion of the sermon regarding love for enemies, showing compassion to all men, and not judging others for faults when we ourselves have many more. I always laugh when I hear the jokes about people looking for a perfect church, because there is no such thing. If we feel we have found one, it will quickly change when that person joins, as we are all flawed humans working out our salvation with fear and trembling. We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and we will continue to remain in this human flesh with fleshy thoughts until Christ returns and takes us home as the spotless bride. So we need to lighten up and show grace to each other, just as God gave His grace to us.

In verse 43-45 Jesus says: "A tree from good stock doesn't produce scrub fruit nor do trees from poor stock produce choice fruit. A tree is identified by the kind of fruit it produces. Figs never grow on thorns, or grapes on bramble bushes. A good man produces good deeds from a good heart. And an evil man produces evil deeds from his hidden wickedness. Whatever is in the heart overflows into speech."

This is why we are told to guard our speech and our hearts, choosing to eat of the Word of God, and satisfy ourselves in His teachings. Jesus is the Bread of Life, the Living Word, and it is through Him all men can be saved. We will all stumble and slip from time to time, but the Word brings life and God says when we are tempted He's provided a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). 2 Corinthians 10:3-6 warns us that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, not of the flesh, and they are powerful in pulling down thoughts that are not in line with God's words. Philippians 4:8 is a great verse to remind us how to protect our thought life:

"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."

 Seems like wise counsel to me! Shalom!

Day 288 Living Stones

 

10/15/2026

"Remember where you came from....!"

Paraphrase of Ephesians 2:11  

 

Paul, when writing the Epistle of Ephesians was addressing a group of believers who were very strong in their faith in the Lord, yet they did not understand the depth of spiritual wealth they had inherited when they accepted Christ as Messiah and Lord, surrendering their lives to new life by grace. In Chapter 1 Paul begins by reminding them that they are seated with Christ as heirs of righteousness:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." (Ephesians 1:3-6)

He goes on to explain that in Christ they have redemption through the blood of Christ, the forgiveness of sins, through grace. I love one translation that describes that God "lavished" His love and grace on us. Paul says that God predestined us and, all was done for His good pleasure. Verse 13-14 says: "In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory." Jesus promised that He would not leave the disciples alone, that He would send His Holy Spirit to dwell in them so they would have power to do the work He had given them to do. The same applies to us when we receive Him as Savior and Lord, but there is so much more awaiting.

This message Paul is sharing with the Ephesians is for all of us - Gentiles believers - who have received the richness of God's grace. In Chapter 2 Paul reminds us that we were once dead in our sins, and we are now alive in Christ. Because we died with Him we are now raised up with Him, and spiritually seated with Him in heavenly places. Once again Paul reminds us that we did nothing to earn this great honor, that it is only by faith in belief in Jesus Christ and God's immense grace - unmerited favor - not by works, lest we should boast. It is only by the blood of Jesus, who paid an unimaginable price for our salvation. How could we ever boast?! And yet, in our pride, we do. In verse 10 Paul writes "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." 

It boggles my finite mind when I attempt to think about the depth of those words and the richness of the inheritance we have in Christ, and all of this was part of God's plan before the foundation of the world.  Listen to Paul's words in Ephesians 1:15-23 and mediate on them:

"Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come. And He put all thing under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all." 

And as born again believers we are now part of the household of God, with Jesus as our chief cornerstones. We have been described as living stones built and fitted together on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets (Ephesians 2:19-22). 1 Peter 2:4-6 describes Jesus as a "living Stone" and believers as "living stones" being build into a spiritual house. So beyond my ability to understand. All I can say in extreme gratitude it -To God be the glory! 

Day 287 Words and Works

 

10/14/2026

"The need of the hour is not so much to discuss the

Bread of Life as to break it and pass it out

to the hungry multitude."

Daily Walk

 

The entire world is in a chaotic whirlwind of crazy! Yet God is obviously at work, as we are seeing reports daily of many young people running to the altar of prayer to receive Christ as Savior and Lord, dedicating their lives to His service, hungry for change, and we must not fail them! As believers in Christ who have become seasoned and prepared, we have been commanded to go into all the world to preach the gospel. But we are also called to disciple the the new believers, walk beside and train them, so they can in turn go forward and do the same. The mandate from Christ is the same for all. We have been entrusted with great wealth. The wealth is souls! Not just a lost generation, but generations. There are many, even those sitting in churches who think they have given their lives to Christ, but do not know Him personally. We must never assume that someone who attends church services religiously has truly surrendered to Christ. Intimacy with Christ does not just happen, it takes time and commitment, and it is learned by example.

I have become so discouraged at times, because there are pastors who don't seem to care when someone misses a church service or stops going. A person who obviously attends and tithes into the work of the church that reaches out into the community and sows into world missions. Eventually, these forgotten ones may become lost sheep. Jesus teaches about leaving the 99 to go after the 1 lost sheep, but the parable has lost its meaning in the church today. We take too much for granted, and we have missed the point of Jesus' message.

When I was still working as a care coordinator/case manager we were assigned a buddy, so we could encourage and assist each other daily. We were supposed to check in with each other which wasn't difficult with cell phones, land lines, computers, and iPADs. And yet, there was a case where one young woman, who was very active and vocal in her assigned area and actively involved with other co-workers, was found dead in her home after a couple or more days. This has always concerned me, because we had a leader and a buddy assigned to us, and we had others we spoke to daily, so how could this happen? Didn't anyone realize she had health concerns or other issues she was battled? When someone missed a Monday meeting, shouldn't that be a signal of something being askew? And yet, no one gave it a thought. To this day this still bothers me, because no one seemed to be affected by this tragedy. Life went on as usual. Sadly, I see the same lack of concern in the church, even when there are some without families to check in. We need to do better.

In my studies this week the question arose "Where are your actions drowning out your words? Your talk is only as believable as your walk." 

For me, that leaves much to be considered. 

Day 286 God's Hands

 

10/13/2026

"Lord, forgive me when I think I know better!"

Me

It took me awhile to figure out if I had the correct date on this post, as I am putting my thoughts for the day a little later than I should. I've been a wee bit tired for several days, and my appetite has been voracious, but I can't see to fill up. Since I'm not a big eater that makes it harder. I've been attempting to get all my ducks in a row, so to speak, plans made, appointments scheduled for me and my son, as I still plan to take a trip to New Mexico as soon as possible. I haven't been back since I moved here almost five years, so I am a little homesick for family, friends, and the mountains. I miss autumn in the Southwest, the aspen leaves turning amber gold framing canopies over earthen roads, and when the trees shed the leaves they fall like golden carpets over the roadways. O how I love autumn, especially in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains - the crisp morning air and dancing with Kenya. And no mosquitoes! 

This morning in the Kehilat Worship Watch at HaCarmel we welcomed autumn and the promised rainfall. We prayed for the many needs of Israel especially for restoration of the people and for the strength and endurance of the IDF soldiers who have been standing their posts for over three years now. As the war continues, Israel is also in the midst of preparing for their elections and the reforming of the government. Tension runs high and feelings are antagonistic and enthusiastic yet cautious. 

Here in America we are in the midst of our mid-term elections, and there is much at stake here in our country as well. The adversary has been busy doing what he does best, but our focus must remain firmly on the Author and Finisher of our faith. When we contend for the faith there will always be attempts to discourage us or force us to give up and quit, but we must stand firm until the end. I refuse to be negative about what anyone thinks or says or the foolish actions people take. I am steadfast in my stand for truth, freedom, a moral government, leaders who walk with integrity. Each day when I turn on my computer, although my news sources are Christian based, I get weary reading about the negativity and the antagonism, vacillating between faith and unbelief. Pettiness and disrespect should be far from leadership, but we cannot have a government that speaks of socialism and communism and forcing demonic oppression upon our nation. This morning in the Worship Watch we sang, prayed, and claimed Scripture over all situations. We chose to look past the evil and focus on what God has to say about it all. It was a pleasant morning, as each Tuesday has become for me. I don't know what will happen next with regard to the war, the elections - here or in the United States, but I do know that God controls all things, and I will place my trust in Him. He is my Peace, my Shalom.

At the beginning I wrote "Lord, forgive me when I think I know better!" Sometimes seasoned intercessors think they know the right prayer to pray, the unique promises to claim, for a given situation or prayer need. Considering the history of the kings of Judah we learn that trust and reliance on God's strength rather than what little we think we have is the only way to go. When we cry out to God, He hears us, and He answers, but His ways are unique, never the same. During these tumultuous days when hatred and contention exists between those who were once friends working together towards a common good  has caused uncertainty to rise and trust to fail, we must rely on God's Word to guide our steps. Psalm 119:105 says: His Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." Resting on God's past actions, how He has delivered us from trouble over the years reminds us to rest in His timing. 

Listening to Marty Goetz sing the song he and his daughter Misha wrote, The Plans I Have for You, based n Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope," I can relax a bit, breathe, and remember:

"Here I am, waiting once again; on my knees, listening and then, in a moment, a voice so clear speaks in a whisper, the words I need to hear. I know the plans I have for you, you're always on my mind, and all the thoughts I think toward you are lovingly designed, to bring you through, and to give to you, a future and a hope. They're for your peace, they're for your good, the plans I have for you." 

The song continues to offer peace and rest, the kind God expects His children to have. Marty and Misha are Messianic Jewish believers and have a blessed musical ministry. If music stills your soul please check out the songs. You will be blessed beyond measure. 

Remember, God holds us in the palms of His hands, and He has HUGE hands! He is after all the God who created the Universe. He is righteous in all His ways. 

Day 285 First Love

 

10/12/2026

"Nevertheless, I have this against you...."

Revelation 2:4  

Sundays have always been special days for me, as I have wonderful memories from childhood of family gatherings at my grandparent's home each week after Sunday school and church services. All the uncles and aunts would gather, regardless of where they lived. One lived in Texas, so we didn't see them except on holidays, but I grew up around a large family. I miss those days, but I remember them well. Sundays remain special for me although I seldom see my family, but I attend services locally and online, and I also attend services on Saturday. I take the command not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together seriously, plus I love hearing the Scriptures read and applied to our life today based on Biblical prophecy. I never get tired of learning, and I learn something fresh and new each day. The Word is alive and active!

According to the Barna Group, a Christian research organization, church attendance has significantly decreased in many circles, and yet there are reports of the hunger for truth in the Gen Z youth. It's exciting to hear that the youth in this chaotic world are seeking truth instead of listening to lies and becoming involved in destructive activities. In recent months there have been many professions of faith and baptisms are happening in increasing numbers in many locations. It is exciting to see older people, such as myself, excited about evangelism. This is what we are to be doing, as it is what Jesus commanded before ascending to His Father.

Since the Covid pandemic church attendance still has not improved in some denominations, as people find it easier to watch online. Since Covid modern technology with Zoom meetings and YouTube videos have become widely used, so many feel they don't need to go to in-person services. In this way technology has hindered the cause of Christ, as people are becoming lazy, and they are missing out on the fellowship so necessary for spiritual growth and maturity. This is very disconcerting.

More than once today in my Bible studies I have been reminded of Jesus' message to the 7 Churches in Revelation 2 and 3 as relating to the condition of the worldwide church in this day. John begins with the message to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2: 1-7:

"To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, 'These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: "I know your works, your labor, your patience and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember, therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place - unless you repent. But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God."'

The people in this church were actively busy in doing church, but they had forgotten to be the church, and they lost the personal relationship with the Lord so necessary in order to strengthen their own faith and discipleship of others. The modern church is often very engaged in this program and that, but as far as individual, personal time alone with the Lord, daily Bible reading and other personal devotions are put aside due to busy schedules. The prayer life becomes hurried and routine homilies. As an intercessor I am very hard on myself, and I ask Holy Spirit to search me and try me to see if there are any wrong ways in me. The prayer needs of our nation and world are so overwhelming, and we must never forget our families, friends, and others. I thank God that Holy Spirit dwells within the believer of Christ, and He is our Intercessor or Mediator with Jesus, who is interceding for us in heaven. We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength, and when we fall short we have only to cry out for help.

Because the time is getting closer for the return of Jesus we must be ready, our lamps lit, watching. In the messages to the church the Lord always encourages the churches, but repentance is needed to ensure we are on the right path. We need a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit, and we must return to our First Love. I recently heard a song First Love Fire by Leeland. In closing I share the lyrics:

First Love Fire 

"I remember when all I knew to do
Was sing Your name
And I remember when all I longed to do
Was give You praise
Jesus, light the first love fire in me, again

 

I wanna fall in, I wanna fall in
I wanna fall in love with You again
Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing
I wanna fall in love with You again
Wanna fall in love

 

And I remember when
I couldn't wait to tell someone
I was lost within the joy
And gratitude for all that You've done
Oh, to be thankful again, Lord
Jesus, light the first love fire in me again

 

I wanna fall in, I wanna fall in
I wanna fall in love with You again
Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing
I wanna fall in love with You again
With You again

 

Bring me back to my first love again, Jesus

 

Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire
Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire

Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire
 

Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire again

I wanna fall in, I wanna fall in
I wanna fall in love with You again
Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing
I wanna fall in love with You again
With You again

 

Oh back to the start, yeah
Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing
I wanna fall in love with You again
Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing
I wanna fall in love with You again
With You again

 

Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire
Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire

 

Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire (be my one desire again)
Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire

 

Oh, sing it again
Jesus, light the first love fire
Come and be my one desire again

 

I wanna fall in, I wanna fall in
I wanna fall in love with You again
Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing

I wanna fall in love with You again

 

Back to the start where it
Was all about one thing
I wanna fall in love with You again" 

Day 284 Sweet Fragrance

 

10/11/2026

"Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, 

and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 

For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved

 and among those who are perishing." 

 2 Corinthians 2:14-15

 

Awakened in the early morning before the sun was even considering poking its head up through the trees, I got up drawn by a sweet-smelling aroma lingering in the air near my room. I thought it may be my son up for a very early breakfast snack of his cookie cereal, but as I glanced down the hall it was quiet in the house, and with each step I took away from my door, the scent could not be detected. My first response when I opened my door was "Lord, is that You?" but I really had never smelled such a sugary sweet aroma quite like this one before. Could it be?

This is not the first time I have sensed God's presence in this manner during times of worship. The lingering outside my door in the hallway did not come from the open window, and it faded the further I went from outside my doorway in the hall. Another mystery of the goodness of the Lord, I imagine. I am learning to understand that God will always let me know things, as He feels I need to know them, so I am simply trusting Him. This is the way I want to live my life - leave the guess work to those who have the inclinations. 

I've been trying to finish up the online sessions I've missed from the Feast of Tabernacles hosted by the International Christian Embassy in Israel, and each one has been uplifting in one way or another. Tonight, I listened to a concert for the Next Generation featuring Solu Israel and a group of other artists and dancers. It was a collaborative effort of sheer joy, a group of young adults with one desire - to worship the Lord! Proclamations were made over the nations who came up to the mountain of the Lord to attend this year's feast. There were many people who attended for the first time who sold cars and other property just to make it to the feast in Israel this year. In Genesis 10 Scripture lists the nations from Noah's sons - Shem, Ham, and Japheth and all the sons born to them after the flood. From their descendants came 70 nations with the genealogies leading up to Abraham. God told Abraham He would make him a great nation, and he would become the father of many nations. Prior to the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), the Day of Atonement was observed, the day the High Priest went into the Holy place to offer sacrifices as an atonement for all of the nation of Israel. But the Feast of Tabernacles is an appointed time, a Feast of the Lord, where all nations are to come up to the mountain of the Lord and worship. God made a lasting appointment for all men to gather together at this time each year.

I am purposing within my heart to make the trip to Israel next year if God works everything out for me. The first thing to do, however, is to apply for my passport, so that is my next thing on my list to do. That way I will be ready to go without excuse. Isaiah 2:3 and Micah 4:2 say:

"Many peoples will come and say: 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us His ways so that we may walk in His paths.' For the law will go forth from Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.'" 

May the praise on our lips arise as a sweet smelling fragrance to our God and King.