Louie
Jerusalem
Log Wednesday 05.03.17
Jerusalem,
Israel
#4 - “Louie”
Greetings
to you once again from Israel.
The
love for Israel goes beyond being in wonder at the landmarks, the historical
sights and the Jewish culture. It is loving the people themselves, even as
Yeshua did when He came the first time. Showing the Father’s heart for the
people He created, with His love, is what it is all about.
My
heart for Israel began to grow in the 1980’s when I connected with Christian ministries
that were presenting the truth about the plans and purposes God has for His
Chosen ones. Derek Prince, Mahesh Chavda and Barry Segal (three men and their
wives having ministries I worked with for over 24 years) spoke the written word
of God, explaining the Scriptures and prophecy, revealing Jesus (Yeshua) and
His love for the people.
Coming
here to Israel, now for the 13th time, my commitment to stand in
support of what the Lord is doing here is solid. He continues to bring them
back to the Land promised to them through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Loving the
people is what it is all about.
My
friend Louie owns a shop just within the Jaffa Gate of the Old City in Jerusalem.
He says I first met him in 1998, and goes on to say that his birthday makes him
three months older than my son Ben, also born in 1979. Louie has a good memory.
Each time I see him I try to support his livelihood with purchases from him.
Buying Israeli goods, made in Israel, not only helps the local economy, but it
also provides gifts for my family and friends, which I especially enjoy.
Jaffa Gate entrance
Today
Louie told me times have been tough for him. He now has his own shop, after
sharing many years with his brother Solomon. But rent is higher and certain
tour groups don’t spend as much as us Americans do. My objective was to buy an
olive wood camel as an appreciation gift for my sister doing our family reunion
organization this year. Before I left his place, I had much more in the bag.
(Gotta watch these shopkeepers. They know how to sell, by convincing you “you
just need this one more item.”)
After
completing the transaction and giving me a fresh cup of pressed orange juice,
Louie took me to his brother Solomon’s shop. Of course I had to kindly stand my
ground and not buy anything more, even after a hot cup of mint tea was served
in their “friend’s back room”, having more beautiful goods. I had done this
before, so was wiser than the last time.
Before
I could get a sip of the hot brew, Solomon introduced me to Thomas. Of course
he then pulled out the Roman coins and the ancient widow’s mite, and wanted to
make me a good deal. Once again I kindly explained that Louie had already
emptied my wallet. Thanks, but no thanks.
Then
Thomas explained that he was on dialysis twice a week, and uncovered his left
arm. From his wrist to his elbow, his blood vessels had large bubbles in
several spots. He asked that I touch them, and when I did I could feel his
blood pumping through. I was shocked. I had never seen this before.
I
then asked him if I could pray for him, and he said yes. So I prayed in faith
that the Lord God of Israel, Yeshua, would quickly provide a donated kidney,
and for complete healing for Thomas. I believe the Lord heard that prayer.
His
heart, for His people, is why I come to Israel. May they know the living God,
and call upon the name of the Messiah Jesus, Yeshua HaMashiach, as their Lord
and Savior.
Ahava
(love) and Shalom (peace) from Jerusalem!
Steve
Martin
Founder/President
Love
For His People
