Day 282 Fresh Encounters

 

10/9/2026 

"To everything there is a season, a time for

every purpose under heaven."

Ecclesiastes 3:1

  

To everything there is a season...! 

Tonight I decided to move outside my comfort zone and accept a friend's invitation to attend a benefit for a ministry I strongly support. The Pregnancy Center for the Tri-Cities sponsored an event called           "Dancing Through the Decades," celebrating the past and looking to the future. A meal was provided by Outback Steakhouse, and there was DJ dancing with music from the 60's, 70's and a little beyond, plus a silent auction. It was held at Destination Church in Hopewell, and there were several in attendance from my church, Western Heights Baptist. My friends were more enthusiastic about dressing the decade than I, but it was enjoyable remembering popular fun music without the innuendos of rebellion of the age. It was a Christian event actually, but there were a lot of Baptists twisting and shouting! I laughed, but I didn't join in on the actual dance floor action until the song Dancing Queen was playing at the very end, and I just couldn't help myself. I've watched the movie Momma Mia too many times to pass up a few theatrics.

I think it did me a world of good to go out on the town, so to speak, in a limited way, and actually enjoy being with friends, if only for one night. Generally on Friday evenings I am participating in Shabbat services prior to attending Messianic Jewish services online on Saturday as Sabbath is celebrated from Friday evening until Saturday evening in Israel. But I didn't want to disappoint my friend who is always inviting me places, and I never go. My main concern was disappointing God by going, but somehow I don't think He minded a change in my routine. He knows my heart, and He cares about all things concerning my life. In fact earlier in the day we discussed many things, and I'm ready for some fresh encounters.

I really don't like change, because I've had my life upended so many times, and I've had to move more times than most military families move from base to base over the period of a lifetime, and that includes the short time my husband was in the military. I began to remember words spoken to me, wondering whether I'd actually traveled the route I was meant to go already. I've been afraid that if I changed anything in my life that I'd somehow miss what God had planned for me. I'm always advising others to step out in faith and dare to dream, but I felt as if my dreams had been detoured or lost. Then I picked up a little book I'd read before, deciding that I'd revisit a friend, as I consider certain books worthy of re-reads, and a light bulb lit up the page. Now I know that I can't dilly dally around any longer, and I need to get down to the business at hand.

Praying for others often opens my eyes to things I need to do in my own life, in a strange and roundabout way. I'd felt guilty about not praying for certain people as often as I should using the excuse that I have so many prayer requests that come daily on top of those that are ongoing. Just considering the prayers for our nation for the midterm elections and standing against the spiritual darkness that has entered our country so contrary to our national life, or so I had thought. Watching world events explode into total chaos and near disaster in some areas with increasing threats to life and liberty. Standing as a watchman on the wall for Israel and praying for the needs of the persecuted church. Praying for the needs of family and friends and families and friends of others. The condition of the church, and the need to wake up as Jesus commanded in Revelation 2 & 3 in the letters to the churches. These are indeed perilous times, and the lack of concern or action on the part of those who should be aware is daunting. As an intercessor my heart has been overcome with deep anguish and near despair at times, but because I have faith, I have hope, so I will never give into despair. There are many times that my prayer is simple - "Abba, help!" And that is sufficient, because Holy Spirit knows the needs before I ask.

I've been reading Catherine Marshall's little book, The Helper, about the gift of Holy Spirit who is the Third person of the Trinity, who is God. There's God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, the very breath of God and Jesus, sent from above to dwell inside those who are children of God through belief in Christ as Savior and Lord. This book speaks of a deeper, fresher encounter of God's Spirit, a fresh breath of His Life as on the Day of Pentecost. Reading it has reminded me of my adventures in Christ, and encounters with the Living God. Much more it has reminded me of words spoken to me, words of life and leading, words of knowledge, and visions. Reading the Bible each day regenerates my soul, and I'm able to endure the circumstances that come my way, but dwelling in the secret place, listening, speaking about things I want to know, gaining insight, living in His presence, is much more than I can adequately describe. It is the life I live, the life I love, the life I never want to change, but He promises so much more.

Although I'm not certain of what lies ahead and around the bend, I feel that I have a starting point. What that means as far as interactions with others I don't have a clue, but the good thing is that I'm open to any changes that He wants to make in my life that will draw me closer to Him and fulfilling His purpose through my life.

Day 281 Signs

 

10/8/2026

"Some Bible students drink at the fountain

of knowledge; others just gargle."

 

I don't know where I find these quotations, although they have to come from a Bible source, otherwise I wouldn't see them. I used to say that I didn't scroll, plus I vehemently opposed it, but sadly I must confess that there seems to be little I can do to avoid it. For some reason now, when I go on YouTube on my cell phone for worship music, all side hustles come up, instead of what I normally watch. "Short reels" seem to be the thing these days, and they are probably the most fictitious or AI doctored media releases that ensnare unwary scrollers the most. Nope, my quotations are legitimately from Bible referenced sources. If nothing else I say in this blog registers, please heed this warning: STOP SCROLLING!!

Yesterday was a day of remembrance, and while there are additional news releases today commemorating 10/7/2023 in Israel, the truth is I will be among those who will never forget. Today I want to consider the quotation I referenced above which I discovered came from my Your Daily Walk commentary. I am now reading the Olivet Discourse found in Matthew 24 & 25 which is a portion of scripture that some find difficult to understand according to the side notes in my New Living Translation. I don't understand that, but then I'm not one to reach for a Concordance or Bible commentary to discover what Jesus was talking about. I'd much rather sit and discuss it with Him, which is a concept that is foreign to many and even frightening. I don't understand that school of thought either, as I love to sit and listen, plus my New Kings James Version by Tyndale has the contextual scripture references for the verses noted in the center for easy comparison to ensure I'm getting the jest of what Jesus is saying. Is that too simple? Seems to save time not to mention expense, as Bible commentaries and references cost money. Sitting still and listening to Jesus is free...well, if you care to invest the time, that is. Perhaps that's what "gargle" implies in the quotation above.

In Chapter 24 of Matthew the disciples are questioning Jesus about the events that will signal His return and the end of the world as they would know it (verse 3). In verses 4-14:

"Jesus told them, 'Don't let anyone fool you. For many will come claiming to be the Messiah, and will lead many astray. When you hear of wars beginning, this does not signal My return; these must come, but the end is not yet. The nations and kingdoms of the earth will rise against each other and there will be famines and earthquakes in many places. But all this will be only the beginning of the horrors to come. Then you will be tortured and killed and hated all over the world because you are Mine, and many of you shall fall back into sin and betray and hate each other. Any many false prophets will appear and lead many astray. Sin will be rampant everywhere and will cool the love of many. But those enduring to the end shall be saved. And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it, and then, finally, the end will come.'"

Although Jesus spoke those words to the disciples over 2,000 years ago, they are certainly becoming more and more relevant today as we watch our nations be upended by chaos, lawlessness, and despicable evil. Jesus goes on to provide more expressive detail about those days and the trials and tribulations as outlined in the Bible in Daniel and Revelation in particular. In Chapter 25 of Matthew Jesus teaches parables concerning the Kingdom of Heaven to illustrate His point. He warns them to pay attention, to stay awake. Interesting that in the Garden of Gethsemane not too long after this discourse, His three closest disciples could not stay awake to pray with Jesus as He agonized over the betrayal, abandonment, persecution, suffering and torture He would endure for their sake and ours. How often we do the same when He is desperately trying to warn us through Holy Spirit. We either don't trust the word or heed the warning because of unbelief or apathy. But the time is upon us, knocking at the doors, so we better wake up.

Already there are three hurricanes, Rachel, Simon and Isaias in the Gulf coast areas. Rachel is heading to Mexico, Simon to California, and Isaias has already reached the Gulf region of Florida. In my post from Intercessors for America someone noted the following: 

"Rachel is Hebrew for 'ewe,' or female sheep. Simon comes from the Hebrew Shim’on, associated with hearing. Isaias is the Greek form of Isaiah, meaning 'Yahweh is salvation' or 'the Lord saves.' Together, they suggest a striking appeal: 'Sheep, listen! The Lord is your salvation!'"

When I think about the name Rachel I remember the scripture found in Jeremiah 31:15:

“Thus says the Lord: ‘A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping, Rachel weeping for her children, refusing to be comforted for her children, because they are no more.’”

I think about how many abortions have been committed in California alone, not to mention the laws they have protecting pedophiles and sexual offenders, calling their life styles and preferences normal and harmless. They do not believe in the prison systems, closed borders, and other protections we have enjoyed in our system of government. Certainly the LORD is crying out for the nations to turn from darkness into the Light. Perhaps God is sending us a message, and it doesn't involve global warming. 

Day 280 Remembering

 

10/7/2026

"From the rising of the sun to its going down

Adonai's name is to be praised."

Psalm 113:3 

 

Today has been a very difficult day for me as I listen to testimonies from survivors and family members of the victims of the 7 October 2023 massacre in Israel by Hamas. This year marks the third anniversary of that tragic day, and although the people of Israel put on a happy face and go through the motions of living each day, they continue to suffer. Ministries to include the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem one of which I connect with is providing so much physical, mental, spiritual, and tangible hands on assistance to the people. There is so much need as the people continue to pick up the pieces of their lives and carry on. One young woman whose sister was savagely murdered along with five of her friends said the realizes that they have to continue on and take care of themselves. The friend who had attended the festival with her sister that day has been dealing with the guilt of surviving, of being able to escape capture and harm. Families had released the text and audio messages received that morning as well as the 911 calls for help. Reliving it was so hard for me, and I am a stranger to them. As a nation they relive it on a daily basis.

Many former hostages are speaking up for the first time about the days of captivity sharing the abuse, torture, and humiliation they suffered at the hands of these merciless terrorists. I pray that through sharing, vocalizing their pain and suffering they will be able to heal. The children continue to have nightmares and many who witnessed unspeakable horror are finding help through therapy with animals. The ICEJ has a therapy center using horses who are trained to offer physical, mental, and emotional support and healing. Therapy animals are becoming more and more useful in the medical field in being supports for children and adults who have suffered much anguish and abuse here in America. I've seen the transformation on the faces of seniors in nursing facilities when rescue dogs come to visit. We shouldn't be surprised when God created animals to be a support and companions to Adam in the Garden of Eden. God thinks of everything.

There have been several hands on support trips organized through ICEJ as well as other ministries in Israel offering opportunities to come to the nation and provide tangible assistance while showing solidarity to the people. While the tourist trade continues in spite of the continuing threat of war, the economy continues to grow, and travel is welcomed, nothing beats the personal contact with the people sharing love and friendship. The recent Feast of Tabernacles event hosted by the ICEJ was well-received by the locals invited to participate, including two concert nights for the next generation of youth. I was only able to attend virtually, but I could sense and see the excitement on the faces of those in attendance, and I know that God is doing a work in the hearts of the young people, and He's touching all hearts with a fresh anointing and boldness to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with God's chosen people.

We must never forget this tragedy of 7 October 2023, but we must also recognize that it is not the first time God's people have endured persecution nor the last, as it continues today all over the world as nations are withholding support from Israel. We must do our support to stand with Israel and to speak out on behalf of the nation. We must always stand with Israel. This is our duty.

Day 279 Wake Up

 

10/6/2026

"Satan's fundamental deception is that

obedience never brings happiness."

Daily Walk

 

Interesting, isn't it, how we choose to believe the worst about a situation without taking the time to check the facts or the validity of the words being spoken or written and by whom?! This has become the habit of most today. While it is evident that the news provided through these less than honest outlets are only writing controversial and inflammatory accusations in order to create more chaos, anger, and resent and to stir up more conflict inflicting the already too fragile souls who follow these sources religiously, no one bothers to check the validity of the information. And even if or when the truth is revealed, depending on who voices the truth, it is ignored, because the ones listening are already conditioned to believe lies. Wouldn't it be nice if people would sit down and discuss things rationally and respectfully. I imagine that is outdated manner of handling things according to the world's view and what is seen in governments today. Everyone quarrels and threatens. When will God say "ENOUGH!"

Tomorrow marks the third anniversary of the massacre of over 1200 innocent people in Israel by Hamas on 7 October 2023. Finally the people are beginning to speak out about what actually happened, but although governments condemn the people who committed the crimes, they still allow false accusations and persecution to infiltrate their countries, and nations are turning their backs on Israel. Even in the United States antisemitism is increasing, and horrible crimes are being committed against the Jewish people and those who support their just cause all over the world. I am very grateful to be associated with ministries and organizations that are providing support and healing to the victims who have been so traumatized by this evil. I cannot understand how people can be so cruel and heartless, nor can I understand why the church remains so silent while others suffer.

It is becoming increasingly obvious that the events so clearly revealed in scriptures are happening at a very fast pace. When Jesus' disciples asked Jesus "when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" (Matthew 24:3), He responded:

"Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying 'I am Christ,' and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows." (Matthew 24:4-9) 

If what is happening in our nation is the beginning of sorrows, I don't want to be around when the full blown sorrow arrives. Right now in France the students are rising up in protest wreaking havoc throughout the streets burning, fighting, destroying property and violently protesting, and the news sources are either not reporting these things or they are calling the protests civil and peaceful when they are anything but that. Communism is eroding our governments, schools, and the young are being indoctrinated into believing that this is the way to go. Islam is taking over in America also, and it has been doing so silently, as has communism for many years now. No one wants to confront the truth. 

Young people say they want to embrace socialism and communism when they have never studied or even read what these words actually mean. It's the same for the Islamic belief where people are being supportive and accepting of this takeover, yet they are living lives that are clearly against the Koran that are punishable by death. So this is what Sharia Law will bring to society if it is left to take over our nation. People are ignorant of the truth, and no one is bothering to enlighten or educate them.

The enemy is very cunning, and he does sneak around seeking to devour the people of all nations. All while the church is sleeping. It is a very sad thing to watch, but there is always a remnant of true believers who are standing on the wall. Watchmen. The hour is late.  

 

 

What's the answer? One way is to vote and pray that God will not give this nation what we deserve for turning our backs on Him, as He did Virginia the last election. We must show up at the polls and vote for righteous and just government. We must know who we are voting for - educate yourself, and rather than vote politically, vote Biblically.

The choice is yours. I am praying for God's mercy and grace, and I am seeking His will not my own. 

Day 278 Adonai

 

10/5/2026

"Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him,

that glory may dwell in our land."

Psalm 85:9 

 

For days and days now I go to bed and wake up listening to the same melody in my head. All throughout the day when my mind rests from a task, and I become quiet, or when I glance out my window, or check the news as I stand on the wall the lyrics remain the same - taken from scripture:

 

"From the rising of the sun to its going down

Adonai's name is to be praised."

Psalm 113:3 

 

I have been so undone by the simple melody and sound of the words that as I was praying for a friend who recently lost her husband, I dared to take a chance and call her, although it was very early in the morning where she lives. She didn't answer, as I expected, but I attempted to share with her the feeling I was experiencing as I prayed for her. I knew she felt strength in my prayers, God's prayers for her. So I went out on a limb. That was two days ago, and I have had no response. I try not to take things personally when I share from the depth of my soul, because no one seems to understand, or they want to make it sound as if I am "otherworldly," when I am only me. I have a heart on fire, deeply in love with our Savior.

When Jesus was on this earth He shared parables with the crowds, but they did not understand, the scriptures say, but somehow I pray they did. To this day the contextual meaning of Christ's words go over the heads of the most learned, most educated ones with five or six degrees and a line of achievements after their name. I am discovering that titles and degrees mean little and certainly do not reflect the person's heart. 

I have discovered over the years that I am not the dummy many have accused me of being, including teachers, one in particular, whom I pray now rests in peace. I hold no hurt or ill will for what she said to me that day so long ago. It took me many, many years to move past the emotions, the trauma, but I eventually learned that I am quite gifted academically. That's not said to brag or to say I consider myself elite by any means. I say it to encourage others who may be troubled over similar events in their lives to look past the pain and shame and live the life God created you to live. Each of us is gifted and unique, and God has a plan for our lives. We have only to ask Him, as He is waiting to hear our voices call out to Him. And never fear being yourself, saying the things you know He wants you to share from your heart of love towards others. Never be afraid to share His love with others who are hurting - His love and compassion which comes from a heart overflowing with His goodness. His Name is to be hallowed - Adonai!

Everything is about our life hidden in Christ. From the rising of the sun to the setting of the same, we hallow His name. A life hidden in Christ may seem impossible or one not understood, but we need Him. Our world needs Him. We who are called by His name must turn our hearts towards Him, and share this love, and live the life He created us to live and share with others. Then perhaps true repentance followed by revival will come. He is the only way, the only truth, the only life. Adonai!   

Day 277 Rising Sun, Setting Same

 

10/4/2026

"From the rising of the sun to its going down

Adonai's name is to be praised."

Psalm 113:3 

  

Although the Feast of Tabernacles is over in Jerusalem, and most of those in attendance have returned to their own countries and homes, I continue to bask in the anointed teaching and worship from my window seat in my prayer room. People who have visited Israel to attend God's appointed feasts or for other events hosted by the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem or other venues say that once a person goes to Israel and steps on the land and experiences the life, their lives and hearts will be forever changed. I realize that this does not apply to all who go there, especially those who want a stamp on their passports or a notch in their world traveler belt, but if one goes with their heart for Israel desiring a deeper and clear revelation of God's land and walk the steps of Jesus and experience personally God's presence in the land, they will be forever changed. Although I would have loved to attend the feast in person this year, when I asked Abba, I felt as if "not yet" was the response. Things here continue to be unsettled with regard to health concerns, but that would not be a reason for me to remain home if I was the only one affected. Besides which, I still do not have my passport, but that will be taken care of by the beginning of the New Year, as it is important for me to do so. No, I would drop everything and answer God's call wherever He wanted me to be regardless of my issues. My only concern with going to Israel is that I will not want to return. I belong there. I know this in my heart, and my love for Israel and her people grows daily. I just wonder whether an old lady like me could find a place to serve, or if I'm too old to be useful. I guess we'll see what God does with me. For now I'm here, and I am content to follow His plan.

There were two evening events this year dedicated to The Next Generation with worship and special guests. UpperRoom Worship from Dallas, Texas led by Pastor Michael Miller provided the worship and ministry on the first evening. The worship music was amazing, and Pastor Michael spoke about what it means to tabernacle with God. He asked the question: "Have I fulfilled the desires of God on the earth in my life?" Explaining the Greek and the Hebrew meanings of the word "tabernacle" he examined what God meant in Revelation 21:3: "And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, 'Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.'" John is speaking of the time when the new Heaven and new Earth come down God dwells or makes His home with us in Jerusalem, Zion, where King David lived, called the city of God. The scriptures are so ripe with meaning, and Pastor Michael challenged the young people, and older ones as well, to dig into the Word of God and eat the word, devour it! There is life in each syllable. 

 Mike Huckabee, our Ambassador to Israel, former Governor of Arkansas, and a wonderful Christian man of God and pastor, spoke this evening, and offered a truly expiring message from the Lord. The message to the young people challenged the youth with three points: a. Be Bold, b. Be Biblical, and c. Be Balanced. He shared about not fearing what others had to say, because God gives us the strength to be bold, without fear. Life will offer many challenges, but we don't base decisions or actions on what we feel, how others perceive things, or even what we believe to be so. A Christian bases every decision on the response to the question: "What does God's Word say?" The Bible should always be our guide. And finally, living a balanced life means "Stop Scrolling" (my words), and remember that we represent God, so our lives must be based on His Word. The old question when I was a teenager was "What would Jesus Do?" 

This morning as I was listening to one of the morning sessions there was a brief pause for worship by NorthWorship, a group from Norway, whose leader is a part of ICEJ working with the Next Generation. As they began to sing a song written by Nathaniel Bassey, a worship leader from Nigeria, called Adonai, I became totally undone. I was swept into God's presence as I wept and worshiped the LORD of Lords. The words of the simple melody, repeated over and over, quietly and reverently before our LORD were:

"Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah, Ah Ah Adonai, Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah, Ah Ah Adonai, From the rising of the sun, til the setting of the same, Your Name is to be hallowed, Ah Ah Adonai."

My spirit joined with God's Spirit, Holy Spirit, and together we soared to Heaven. I have experienced the presence of God daily, but there have only been a few times since moving home that I have felt such a connection with Adonai like this one. It's not easy to explain what living in the presence of God is like, except to say it is Holy Ground. The Scriptures speak of dwelling in the secret place of the most high, or as Pastor Michael attempted to explain, with great frustration at times I might add, it means tabernacle with God. King David spoke of it in Scripture often:

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust." (Psalm 91:1-2) 

"You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance." (Psalm 32:7)

These verses speak of intimacy with God that comes through relationship, and it is what He desires to have with His people, including Gentile believers. I hope that those words do not cause a problem or do not settle well with anyone, as I realize that many who are in the church, who have grown up in the church still do not understand that we can actually have an intimate relationship with our Father as if He is some plasmic ghost set so far above us that He would never condescend to come to earth. Not so, Jesus left His throne in Heaven to come and dwell with us. He lived, died, rose again, and then He ascended back to Heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father. But He was faithful to His word, and He sent Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity to dwell within us. It still remains a mystery, but one day, when we are with Him in our new home in Jerusalem, we will understand. Until then I can rest on what I have learned from Scriptures and from what I have experienced. It feels like Heaven!   

Day 274 Enduring

 

10/1/2026

"People many times must eat their words, 

but God will never eat His."

Daily Walk

"For I am the Lord - I do not change!"  

Malachi 3:6

 

Today I began reading the New Testament beginning with the Gospel of Matthew, a Jewish tax collector who became a follower of Christ Jesus. As a disciple chosen by Jesus to follow Him Matthew wrote a detailed account of the life shared day by day as His follower, beginning with the account of the lineage of Christ beginning with Abraham. I have always loved discussing the descendants within Jesus' family tree, as it gives me so much hope and assurance that God can work miracles and give grace to all. He mentions the mothers in some instances which further is reason to give glory to God, as each named has special significance in the story. 

Over the months I have attempted to "write the story;" I don't know how many times I have mentioned the need to do so, as it is the last thing Abba told me to do. And it has been continuously echoed in my spirit as I seek Him daily for direction. Coming back to this Gospel only reinforces His words forever engraved upon my heart. "The Story" is truly "His Story," the one written on my heart concerning who He is and for evermore shall be.

At the writing of this account by Matthew, from the words spoken by Malachi the prophet to Israel, there have been 400 years of silence before John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, the Messiah, begins his ministry calling for repentance, announcing that the Kingdom of God is at hand. Many responded to the words of this wild, rough around the edges wild-man who dressed in burlap with a rope around his middle and ate locusts and wild honey as his food. John didn't care about what he looked like or about anything other than the message he was anointed to speak to the people of Israel. He did so at great peril, and his boldness led to his death at the hands of Herod, a Roman king who bowed to the whims of a woman, who had brought further shame upon his name, rather than listen to the urging within his own soul. 

After the baptism of John, Jesus is led into the wilderness by Holy Spirit where He was tempted by satan before He emerged victorious over temptation, to begin His ministry on earth proclaiming that the Kingdom of God was at hand. He called for repentance, but now He offered much more as He was and is the Promised Messiah who takes away the sins of the world. 

In Malachi 3:1-4 the prophet gives the warning to the people of the coming of a Messenger of God:

"'Listen, I will send my messenger before me to prepare the way. And then the One you are looking for will come suddenly to His Temple - the Messenger of God's promises, to bring you great joy. Yes, He is surely coming,' says the Lord Almighty. 'But who can live when He appears? Who can endure His coming? For He is like a blazing fire refining precious metal and He can bleach the dirtiest garments! Like a refiner of silver He will sit and closely watch as the dross is burned away. He will purify the Levites, the ministers of God, refining them like gold or silver, so that they will do their work for God with pure hearts. Then once more the Lord will enjoy the offerings brought to Him by the people of Judah and Jerusalem, as He did before.'"

The same message spoken then to a generation of people who had turned their backs on the living God resounds in our nations today. Jesus comes to offer salvation to those who hear His voice crying in the wilderness to prepare us for the coming Kingdom of God. Everything we do, every person we meet needs to hear the Gospel message, the only message of Truth in this dry and empty land where there is no water - no spiritual life. Even the church that has been given this Good News to spread abroad, across our nation and beyond, has grown cold or lukewarm, straddling the fence, afraid to speak out for fear of retribution, persecution, or worse. In the book of Revelation it is recorded that the saints overcame the enemy by the blood of the Lamb, the word of their testimonies, and they loved not their lives to the death (Revelation 12:11). Many fear those last words "and they loved not their lives to the death." There is coming a time, and indeed that time may be here, when we may be required to make the choice to say "Yes" to Jesus and "No" to anyone who asks us to make the other choice. I have already made that choice in my family, but I will never deny Christ. He is our only reason to live, as God alone is the Giver of Life. The message must be shared. How will you respond?