Standing in support of Israel, Jews, and believers in all the nations, in the name of Jesus (Yeshua). Sharing biblical truth, encouragement, news and prophecy.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Jerusalem Bust Stop Bombing - People Still Hospitilized
Friday, March 25, 2011
Prayer for the Wounded
Eleven People Still in Hospital After Jerusalem Terror Attack
by Elad Benari
Wednesday’s terror attack in Jerusalem left as many as 50 people wounded from physical injuries as well as from trauma.
At present, eleven of them are still in the hospital and two
are in still listed in serious condition. On Thursday, the One Family Fund issued a call to pray for their quick and complete recovery:
- Odelia Nechama bat Michal suffered serious head injuries and is in intensive care. Her life is still in danger.
- Natan Daniel ben Shulamit, a 17-year-old student, suffered massive internal injuries and has had a number of internal organs removed.
- Leah Bracha bat Shoshana, a 19-year-old seminary student, suffered burns to her legs and arms as well as serious shock.
- David Amoyal, the owner of the snack stand next to the bus stop who told the people who were in the area to run away and then called the police, and was on the phone with them when the bomb exploded. Amoyal suffered injuries to his legs, feet and lower body and is listed in moderate condition.
- Sasson ben Shulamit suffered lower body injuries and serious post-traumatic symptoms.
- Ad Shapira, an 18-year-old who is about to complete high school, suffered light orthopedic injuries and is in good condition in hospital.
- Shilo ben Ofra, 15 years old, suffered burns and fractures to his legs and lower abdomen. He is sedated in intensive care.
- Daniel ben Nurit, 13 years old, suffered lacerations and shrapnel injuries to his lower extremities, and is likely to be released from the hospital before Shabbat.
- Elchanan ben Alona, 14 years old, suffered serious injuries to his feet. One ankle and three of his toes were crushed. He has had one operation and will require more surgery. He will likely be in the hospital at least 2-3 weeks.
- Netanel ben Shlomit, an 18-year-old who works as a security guard at the bus station, was injured in the abdomen had surgery. He is now recuperating in the hospital.
The terrorist or terrorists who planted the bomb fled the scene, but Palestinian Authority security forces have arrested tow members of the Islamic Jihad terrorist organization in connection with the blast.
The two, Khaled Jaradat and Tarek Ka'adan, were picked up in Jenin on Wednesday night, and the Islamic Jihad claimed the PA forces had been working in coordination with Israeli security personnel.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Gaza Missiles inch closer to Tel Aviv
Map: Gaza missiles inch closer to Tel Aviv
- Israel Today Magazine
Thursday, March 24, 2011 | Ryan Jones
Gaza-based Palestinian terrorists again escalated their confrontation with Israel on Thursday when they fired foreign-built missiles at towns just 10 miles south of the heavily-populated Tel Aviv metropolitan region.
Eight missiles fired from Gaza landed in or near the port city of Ashdod and a number of central Israel towns, including Rishon Lezion and Yavne.
Israeli responded with tank fire into Gaza. A Hamas facility in Gaza City was destroyed by the retaliatory barrage. Israeli aircraft also attacked terrorist cells attempting to launch additional missiles into Israel.
Thursday’s back-and-forth was a continuation of the escalating war between southern Israel and Hamas-ruled Gaza. The situation began to spiral out of control over the weekend, when Hamas-allied terrorists fired more than 50 mortar shells and rockets into southern Israel.
Israel has responded hard to the provocative attacks. Israeli retaliatory strikes on Tuesday killed nine Palestinians, including four civilians, whom the terrorists were using as a human shield. Many others were wounded.
In a demonstration proving that it is not Israel’s intent to harm Palestinian civilians, an eight-year-old Gaza boy wounded in Tuesday’s exchange was rushed to an Israeli hospital for emergency treatment.
Eight missiles fired from Gaza landed in or near the port city of Ashdod and a number of central Israel towns, including Rishon Lezion and Yavne.
Israeli responded with tank fire into Gaza. A Hamas facility in Gaza City was destroyed by the retaliatory barrage. Israeli aircraft also attacked terrorist cells attempting to launch additional missiles into Israel.
Thursday’s back-and-forth was a continuation of the escalating war between southern Israel and Hamas-ruled Gaza. The situation began to spiral out of control over the weekend, when Hamas-allied terrorists fired more than 50 mortar shells and rockets into southern Israel.
Israel has responded hard to the provocative attacks. Israeli retaliatory strikes on Tuesday killed nine Palestinians, including four civilians, whom the terrorists were using as a human shield. Many others were wounded.
In a demonstration proving that it is not Israel’s intent to harm Palestinian civilians, an eight-year-old Gaza boy wounded in Tuesday’s exchange was rushed to an Israeli hospital for emergency treatment.
Map shows range missiles are traveling from Gaza to Ashdod (30 km) and Rishon Lezion (50 km):
Elizabeth Taylor - A Friend of Israel
Elizabeth Taylor's pro-Israel record comes to light
- Israel Today Magazine
Thursday, March 24, 2011 | Ryan Jones
Iconic American actress Elizabeth Taylor passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79. While most will remember Taylor as one of Hollywood’s most famous actresses, few today recall that she was also a staunch supporter of Israel with a stellar track record of defending the Jewish state.
Taylor herself converted to Judaism in 1959. That same year, she purchased $100,000 in Israel Bonds, and helped sell an untold sum of Israel Bonds to others. The fledgling Jewish state was selling the bonds in a desperate effort to raise capital for the defense of the besieged nation.
In 1967, Taylor played a major role in raising $840,000 for Israel at a gala event in London. That same year, she cancelled a visit to Moscow after the Soviet Union harshly criticized Israel’s actions in the Six Day War.
In 1975, Taylor joined 59 other prominent women in signing a letter to then-UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim condemning the UN General Assembly’s equation of Zionism with racism.
A year later in 1976, Taylor offered to take the place of 104 Israelis and foreign Jews who were being held hostage by PLO terrorists at Uganda’s Entebbe Airport. She made the offer while in Israel fund-raising for the Jewish National Fund. The hostages were freed shortly after in a stunning IDF rescue operation.
In the following decades, as her star in Hollywood began to dim a little, Taylor visited Israel frequently. She became a close friend of former Prime Minister Menachem Begin.
During these later years, Taylor auctioned off her legendary collection of jewelry, and donated a sizable chunk of the earnings to the Israel War Victims Fund, one of her favorite charities.
Taylor herself converted to Judaism in 1959. That same year, she purchased $100,000 in Israel Bonds, and helped sell an untold sum of Israel Bonds to others. The fledgling Jewish state was selling the bonds in a desperate effort to raise capital for the defense of the besieged nation.
In 1967, Taylor played a major role in raising $840,000 for Israel at a gala event in London. That same year, she cancelled a visit to Moscow after the Soviet Union harshly criticized Israel’s actions in the Six Day War.
In 1975, Taylor joined 59 other prominent women in signing a letter to then-UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim condemning the UN General Assembly’s equation of Zionism with racism.
A year later in 1976, Taylor offered to take the place of 104 Israelis and foreign Jews who were being held hostage by PLO terrorists at Uganda’s Entebbe Airport. She made the offer while in Israel fund-raising for the Jewish National Fund. The hostages were freed shortly after in a stunning IDF rescue operation.
In the following decades, as her star in Hollywood began to dim a little, Taylor visited Israel frequently. She became a close friend of former Prime Minister Menachem Begin.
During these later years, Taylor auctioned off her legendary collection of jewelry, and donated a sizable chunk of the earnings to the Israel War Victims Fund, one of her favorite charities.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Ephraim and the Orphans in Liberia - Sleeping in Bus Station
Shalom Dad,
How are you and the entire family doing today? I hope and pray that you all are doing great in the Lord.
Dad, I feel real bad sleeping in the buses station with the kids as it's not safe at all. I thank you once again for saving our lives from beeen killed in the hands of the Ghana police, but it's like living in Ghana was much better then the situation that we find ourselves into. Every night I can't sleep, as I am watching over the kids and our things from being taken away.
Dad, you have been doing well for us wish I highly appreciate,but it will be a pity continue sleeping here and then get kill. Honestly Liberia is a country thatjust from war and there are alot of criminal activities that are going on here every dasy and night, it is just by the grace of Adonai that we're alive here. From last night the owner of the bus station that we're sleeping said that if we don't leave or fine place to go by next week he will be left with no option then to kick us out of the place. I'm afraid what is going to become of us if this man put us out of this place.
It's not that i'm just here to be asking you for money. It's not my aim to keep asking you always for money. But if the situation with us is very bad and we don't know any other person as father to turn to. Even though you are not working right now, But if we continue sleeping out side here, any bad thing can happen to us at any time which we're not praying for. I really feel bad bothering you each time for money. But I'm kindly appealing to you so that you can try your possible best to help us pay for the Renovation of this place.
I pray that you'll not find this as embarrassment to you.
May the good Lord of Israel touch your heart and provide for you to rescue us from here. All the kids extend their greeting to you and MOM.
Ahava and shalom,
Son
How are you and the entire family doing today? I hope and pray that you all are doing great in the Lord.
Dad, I feel real bad sleeping in the buses station with the kids as it's not safe at all. I thank you once again for saving our lives from beeen killed in the hands of the Ghana police, but it's like living in Ghana was much better then the situation that we find ourselves into. Every night I can't sleep, as I am watching over the kids and our things from being taken away.
Dad, you have been doing well for us wish I highly appreciate,but it will be a pity continue sleeping here and then get kill. Honestly Liberia is a country thatjust from war and there are alot of criminal activities that are going on here every dasy and night, it is just by the grace of Adonai that we're alive here. From last night the owner of the bus station that we're sleeping said that if we don't leave or fine place to go by next week he will be left with no option then to kick us out of the place. I'm afraid what is going to become of us if this man put us out of this place.
It's not that i'm just here to be asking you for money. It's not my aim to keep asking you always for money. But if the situation with us is very bad and we don't know any other person as father to turn to. Even though you are not working right now, But if we continue sleeping out side here, any bad thing can happen to us at any time which we're not praying for. I really feel bad bothering you each time for money. But I'm kindly appealing to you so that you can try your possible best to help us pay for the Renovation of this place.
I pray that you'll not find this as embarrassment to you.
May the good Lord of Israel touch your heart and provide for you to rescue us from here. All the kids extend their greeting to you and MOM.
Ahava and shalom,
Son
Here is a photo of Ephraim before they left Ghana.
If you can help us help them, we are a 501(c)3 ministry and accept gifts through our website: http://www.loveforhispeople.com/ on the "Gifting Opportunities" page. Thank you.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Ahava Love Letter - "Raise & Release - Not Catch & Cook"
“Raise Up & Release – Not Catch & Cook”
“He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. (Eph. 4:16 NLT) |
Dear family of friends,
Back in the day, in a real small section of southwest Minnesota, my older cousin Richard Shultz and I “went fishin’.” Well, I tagged along at least. I was about 12.
We hiked along the cold spring stream, poles and gear in hand. The former “Catch & Keep” fish pond, that had been stocked with bullheads (and some good fish) for nearby state park campers, was just a mile from his house. It had been shut down for years. We didn’t cut the barbed wire to get in. That would have been wrong. So we just pulled it apart. With a town of less than 200, no one cared about this forgotten hole anymore.
I had never caught so much fish before in my life. It had always been too boring back at the golf course pond in Cedar Falls, IA. But here was a different fish story! It was great! Toss the line. Reel it back in. Pull the bullhead off the hook and do it again. After 32 of them (no, I don’t exaggerate, but I did count them!) we had our work cut out for us in getting them back to his house and preparing them to fry. (Now you know my good wife would never allow these “unkoshered” fish in our house this current day!)
Remembering that story brings me to this one. Laurie and I, on our earlier prophesied “labyrinth journey” these past 33 years together (labyrinth – “an intricate structure of interconnecting passages through which it is difficult to find one's way; a maze”) has taken us to many locations and experiences (*see below.) Many of you have gone on this journey also. (Maybe still are!) Along the way, we had good, and needed, training times.
The places we tremendously appreciated over these past years were the organizations with leadership who had hearts to “raise up and release” those the Lord had entrusted into their hands for a certain period. Those places with the “catch and cook” mentality were more of a challenge. Though some members were indeed called to stand alongside and serve with the appointed leadership for many years, many others were brought into their care for the purpose of training, supporting, releasing and walking together in unity, even more so, as each moved onward.
If you are a member of a church family that treasures each and every part of the Body, you are indeed blessed. If you need to be in one that is truly seeking to raise up and release people for God-given callings, and you are not experiencing that, then my prayer is that the Lord will direct your steps to another place. If that may mean a move for you, then seek the Lord for His response. Then hear and obey.
It is going to be very vital and important, even right now, that you and your family are in the right place. Each member of the Body of Christ needs to know their place and part, and be it. We are going to need each other, even more so in these coming days and years of trial.
As for my final thought, I don’t think we are getting “raputured out of here” before a lot more happens. That keeps my perspective in line, to raise up and release, not catch and cook.
Ahava to you my family of friends,
Steve Martin
Founder
Love For His People, Inc.
P.S. Our 2nd annual “Ahava Adventures” service trip to Israel is set, with flights, hotels, and ground transportation in place. On the date of Oct. 29, 2011, only ten will depart from Charlotte (or join us in Philadelphia) to spend six days/nights in Jerusalem and two days/nights on the Sea of Galilee in Tiberias (only $2495 for the entire trip!) Our Israeli friends will meet us there, as we further connect with the believers in The Land.
This isn’t your “basic tour” time. We go where not many can, or would go, for we want to be more adventurous, more supportive, and experience even more what Israel’s people and land is about in this day and age. We do see spiritually and historically important locations, but our primary focus is to bless the ones living the day to day life there. Curious enough to find out further? Contact info is below.
Can’t go yourself? Please consider sponsoring a friend, family member, or person in your church, especially of “the next generation” age group. Trust the Lord to highly impact their lives for life, to impart to them a heart for His people that will never leave them, and give them an adventure they will never forget. (Heh, it is tax-deductable for you too. In part or full, it doesn’t matter.)
One special note: When we are there in The Promised Land, we will spend time with three local organizations that serve the youth and so many more of Israel, each in their special ways. One of these will be with us at the Beit Tikvah meeting on March 25, 2011. Friday night, 7 pm, Antioch International Church, in Fort Mill, SC. After meeting him, you may want to come and see what they do first hand with the youth in Jerusalem!
We also will be having a Passover Seder on Good Friday, April 18, 2011. We can only hold 200, so please get your $10 registration tickets ASAP at Antioch International Church, home of Beit Tikvah.
*Our Labyrinth Connections
I. Churches
A. Victory Community Church – LaSalle/Peru, IL 1977-1980
B. Shiloh Fellowship/New Covenant Christian Church - East Lansing, MI 1980-1987
C. Good News Church – Ft. Lauderdale, FL. 1987-1992
D. Cornerstone Church – Davie, FL 1992-1994
E. All Nations Church (part of the founding members of five couples) – Ft. Lauderdale, Fl & Charlotte, NC 1994-2001
F. Cornerstone Church – Pineville, NC 2001-2004
G. St. Giles Presbyterian – Charlotte, NC 2004-2007
H. MorningStar Fellowship – Fort Mill, SC 2007-2010
I. Antioch International Church – Fort Mill, SC 2010 to present (on the pastoral team)
II. Ministries
A. Derek Prince Ministries (1987-1990, 2001-2005
B. Mahesh Chavda Ministries (1987-2000)
C. Vision for Israel (2005-2010)
III. Boards
A. Christian Friends of Israel (USA) 1994-2009
B. Christians for Messiah Ministries 2008-present
C. Love For His People 2010 to present (Founders/President & VP)
Love For His People, Inc. truly appreciates your generous support. Please consider donating now on-line by clicking here http://www.loveforhispeople.com/ for our website’s “Giving Opportunities” tab, or by sending checks to the address below. Todah rabah! (Hebrew - Thank you very much.)
©2011 Steve Martin Love For His People, Inc. P.O. Box 470035 Charlotte, NC 28247-0035
E-mail: ahavaloveletters@gmail.com
Facebook pages: Steve Martin and Love For His People
Twitter: martinlighthous and LovingHisPeople
Love For His People, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit USA organization. Fed. ID#27-1633858. Tax deductible contributions sent by mail or given on-line will receive an e-receipt for each donation, for you to print out. (Saves the ministry on postage!)
On the Sea of Galilee heading towards Capernaum.
Photo by Steve Martin
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Ephraim Shaul & the Oprhans in Liberia - latest report
Ephraim Shaul Report from Liberia
March 19, 2011
March 19 at 12:40pm
Ephraim,
Shabbat shalom. Tell me how you all are doing now that you have gotten out of Ghana and made it to Liberia safely. Are you in a town, city, out in the country? How is the food?
We are praying for the Lord's daily provision for you and the orphans.
Ahava,
Dad
Shabbat shalom. Tell me how you all are doing now that you have gotten out of Ghana and made it to Liberia safely. Are you in a town, city, out in the country? How is the food?
We are praying for the Lord's daily provision for you and the orphans.
Ahava,
Dad
Ephraim Shaul March 19 at 1:32pm Report
Shabbat Shalom Dad,
Praise be to Adonai for his life care towards us. We're doing well by his grace. Some of the kids were sick,they were suffering from Malarial and fever, but through our Master and Yahshua, now they are doing well. As i told you the other time that before leaving from Ghana i bout some malarial treatment that I'm now treating the kids, and they recover.
We're in Liberia Grand Gedeh county. It's at the east part of Liberia. We're not too far from one of the city name Zwedrue, the capital city of this county.
Dad, it's not that I'm keeping on asking you for money. I know that if you have money, you'll bless us with it. But it's because of the situation with us that's why I'm asking you always. I don't want all your support and effort to go in vain. I think i told you the other day that the Lord reveal this to one of the ladies on our bus that you really love us and and you have more passion on us. You're always with us in prayer.
It just happen that we're in New Land, a new country which we have not seen before. So please don't be up set of i ask you for any thing. You are the only father we have right now on the earth. If i don't mind you next to God in our LIFE. Our Creator is using you to safe our life. Todah for your email and let us keep in touch and prayer. I know that you love us and care for us here.
Still we don''t have place to sleep. And we know that you're with us in prayer. I talk with brother Ben Martin and he's also etxtend his great love to the Kids.
I'll like to stop here for now. Please extend our greeting to MOm and the entire Martin family there.
May the Lord bless you more for your great love and concern towards us. You behave like a true father to us.
Ahava and Shabbat Shalom,
May the Lord bless you more for your great love and concern towards us. You behave like a true father to us.
Ahava and Shabbat Shalom,
Son and the kids
Ephraim with Israeli flag
Ephraim with the boys he cares for.
Ephraim teaching Shabbat class in Ghana before they had to flee in March.
Ephraim on Skype when we spoke to him.
Beit Tikvah celebrating Purim
The King & Queen - (a.k.a. Gloria & Chuck Williams)
Geoff Graham and Laurie Martin
Colleen Baker
All dressed up for Purim celebration!
Little Big Eagle & Steve Martin
Laurie & Steve Martin
Steve & Laurie Martin dress up for the Beit Tikvah Purim celebration
at Antioch International Church in Fort Mill, SC.
With the worship team and the reading of the entire book of Esther, we had a great time!
Peter Wyns & Steve Martin
Peter Wyns
Senior Pastor Peter Wyns reads the story of Esther (Hadassah), whom the Lord used to save the Jewish people. Thus the beginnings of Purim, celebrating deliverance. Once again!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Jews in India - Morris Ruddick
Dear Steve,
Prior to our departure I wrote that "in the natural, our task might be described as hunting for a needle in a haystack; or even perhaps taking a shot in the dark." We set out on this journey believing that the Lord would uniquely lead each step. Even more than we realized, what we posed to do, in the natural, within the time we scheduled was more than just ambitious, it probably wasn't even realistic.
Yet, due to being convinced this mission was born in the heart of God, in retrospect, the Lord has exceeded our expectations. Praying frequently and taking time to discern developments, we have had many wonderful surprises as the Lord has arranged the pieces of this mosaic in a way we could have never done on our own.
We have traveled to three cities within India: Pune, Goa and Mumbai. We've visited synagogues, ancient Jewish quarters, interviewed rabbis, pastors, nuns, heads of local ministries, a journalist, community leaders, Christian and Jewish-Christian lay people, along with Indian nationals of both Catholic and Jewish heritage. We've been exposed to the history of the Jews in India; reviewed local books with insights into the time of the inquisition in India and visited the ruins of what some feel may be India's original synagogue in Goa, destroyed during the inquisition.
As I share just a few of the highlights, let me say that some things we have sought have not yet materialized; while others have far surpassed what we expected. However, an incredible foundation has been laid for the "next steps." In it all, God has been faithful. We also are so very grateful for your undergirding in prayer, as indeed, through faith and patience we are inheriting the promises (Hebrews 6:12).
The Process
Closing the gap on a word received from God, such as the guidance for this mission, is and has been a process. Our broad guidance, to search for the lost sheep of the House of Israel in India, included a more specific task of seeking Indian nationals of Jewish heritage descended from ones who fled persecution during the inquisition.
On a personal basis, my Israeli Ethiopian partner for this mission has wanted to close the gap on his family origins. The book of Esther notes a connection between Ethiopia and India. My partner has long suspected that his Ethiopian lineage may be traced to roots in India.
The survival of the hidden Jews during inquisition generations was based on their true identities being carefully masked. Gaining the trust of their modern-day descendents bears the same challenge with a definite relationship-building need.
After flying out of Denver and a six-hour layover in Newark, we left on a 15 hour flight to Mumbai. A referral made after our arrival in India put us in touch with a local pastor, whose heart seemed to leap as we shared our mission. Our first meeting with him was delayed several hours first due to his young son getting sick and then his old car breaking down, as he traveled across town to meet with us. After on-site repairs, this brother finally picked us up.
We then found ourselves in Mumbai rush hour, with an extended snarl of traffic in the midst of a tangle of vehicles, going nowhere fast, all trying to out-honk one another, seemingly intent on adding layers to the delays of our inauspicious start. It was roughly 8:30 p.m. that first day before we finally sat down for a meal and were able to make plans with this gracious brother.
The next morning, having hired a car and driver, we still didn't know whether the turbulence at home for this pastor was going to allow him to accompany us to Pune. To our joy, he did and we headed off on the three hour drive through terrain that we heard looked much like Ethiopia.
The Quest Begins
Our visit in Pune began at one of the city's two synagogues. Since the terrorist attack on the Jewish Chabad Center in Mumbai in 2008, entrance is screened and synagogues are guarded by armed Army security. Having called ahead of time, we were warmly welcomed by the rabbi. He explained that he had an active congregation of about 50 families, since most of the Jewish population in Pune had made aliyah, immigration to Israel, almost 50 years prior. This synagogue was on a street aptly named "Israel Lane" in the center of Pune's original Jewish neighborhood.
Our next visit was with a Jewish believer whose roots she could trace back to her Jewish grandfather in Karachi before the Indian/Pakistani partition. After her grandmother died, her grandfather was unable to give proper care to his nine children, so he put them in an orphanage where they were raised as Christians.
She called her cousin who soon joined us with her 88 year old father. As one of the children raised in the Karachi orphanage; he interestingly now lived in Pune's Jewish neighborhood on "Israel Lane." This kindly old man told us the story of his childhood. Yet when my partner spoke to him about his "Jewish" roots, he seemed to react fearfully, saying "no, no I am a Christian." Yet his flat was in the center of the Jewish quarter in Pune.
Their family tradition held they were descended from the Tribe of Benjamin. We heard about a menora passed down from her grandmother. She also shared her lifelong dream of making aliyah to Israel.
The next morning, our local pastor and friend traveling with us, who had grown up in Pune, astutely asked a guard at a complex of flats if there were any Jewish families still living there. This inquiry led to our introducing ourselves to an 84 year old Jewish woman whose son happened to be visiting from Great Britain. They proudly told us of being descended from the tribe of Judah.
They also explained the origins of the Jews in India. After the destruction of the second temple, there had been a shipwreck off the coast of Alibar, north of Goa. The nine surviving families had developed a trade of pressed oil and became known as the Shanivar: the Saturday oil people. We concluded this unplanned warm exchange by singing the Shema with them. A meeting with her younger brother, who was not only one of the former presidents of Pune's two synagogues, but a respected community leader in the city.
This man was a recently retired professor, as well as having been an Air Force pilot for India years prior. He and his Indian-Jewish wife, a double-certified MD, retained a role and status in the upper strata of Indian society. While strongly Jewish in their identities, their roots were clearly as Indian citizens, with no desire to make aliyah.
Going for More Clues
With strong indications that the area of Goa would hold clues to the answers we sought, we left Pune and headed for Goa. The Portuguese settlement at Goa is reputed to be the original locale where those fleeing to India from the Portuguese inquisition had come.
Our driver, who I glibly described as having an Esther anointing ("if I perish, I perish"), expertly navigated our 12 hour drive to Goa through hair-pin curves over mountain passes with 1500 foot drop-offs at speeds that defied gravity, passing trucks and other cars on curves with a bravado that we are glad is now just a memory. The arid hills around Pune gave way to a more tropical environment with monkeys, ox carts and water buffalo adding to the uniquely colored lorries, cars and three-wheeled motor-scooter taxis which were sprinkled along the route.
One of our first meetings in Goa was at a convent. Having dropped our bags at Goa's YMCA, we left to investigate Catholic resources about those we were seeking. Our drive was interrupted as we heard a whine in the engine indicating a bad belt. Within a few minutes we were stranded. Gratefully, instead of this happening at 11 p.m. the night before on a remote mountain road, it happened in front of a car dealership.
Unexpected Rescue
With the driver working on getting our vehicle back into working order, we were then "rescued" by a cheerful nun in a white habit, who arrived in a taxi to pick us up. The five nuns who manage the convent, along with a local kindergarten of 200, greeted us warmly. Our time yielded no tangible clues, but we left with the sense that the sister in charge would be back in touch after making inquiries.
Our Goa meetings concluded the next day with us being taken to an ancient ruin in Old Goa by a Norwegian brother who is married to an Indian national and has lived in India the last 11 years. He operates the local Goa Chamber of Commerce and also has an outreach to both Indian gypsies and the many Israeli soldiers who frequent Goa after concluding their army service. He reflected a deep passion for Goa inquisition history and shared in our desire to discover the hidden or crypto-Jews.
He was particularly keen about my partner's Ethiopian roots. The ancient ruin we visited, that many feel once was a synagogue in Old Goa, includes Ethiopian Orthodox symbols.
Discerning the Pivotal Questions
Having authored three texts on research-based planning, I know there is a stage in any investigation in which the insights gleaned begin to uncover more pivotal questions. From all the input received to this point, more questions are starting to arise. Jewish history is indelibly entwined into Indian history. The Jews shipwrecked on the Western coast grew into a vital part of Indian society. The apostle Thomas came to India during the first century and established the roots of Christianity in the Kerala area of the western coast. The first settlement of the Portuguese preceded the inquisition, but only by a generation. Then with the inquisition in Portugal came more Jews who joined what was already a strong Jewish community in Goa.
It was at that point, that history becomes vague. There already had been vibrant Jewish communities extending along the western coastline from Alibar to Goa to Kerala. Into this setting came the hidden Jews fleeing the inquisition, whose true identities were despised by both Jews and Catholics. The outgrowth of the first century church established by Thomas was another long established part of India's infrastructure in this region at the time. This was this area's mix of European settlers in the mid-1500s, which was followed by what locally is referred to as the Goa inquisition. So, the questions begin.
Thomas, one of the original 12 disciples of Jesus, was a Jew. His church would likely have reflected the strong Jewish roots of the first century church. The question remains whether the post-Constantine church of the fourth century, with its expunging of the original Jewish roots to the church, had made its way to India and reshaped the Thomas Church prior to the settlement of the Portuguese around 1500.
Today there remains little indigenous Jewish population in Goa. With the incredible level of Jewish activity along India's western coast; followed by the influx of the hidden Jews immigrating to Goa: where did all the Jews of that time go? What happened to the hidden Jews? The mystery has led one we spoke with to conclude that the Goa inquisition was all-encompassing and akin to its own holocaust. Without discounting the impact of the inquisition, historical patterns of Jewish persecution more likely support the premise of flight and relocation over the 250 years in question.
Lost Sheep of the House of Israel
Assuming that to be the case, what is the lineage of the fearful 88 year old Jewish Christian we met, who was raised as a Christian in Karachi and then settled in the Jewish quarter in Pune? What about the Jewish believer Yerush whose grandmother passed down a menora? With two of the families interviewed knowing the tribes of Israel of their heritage, is it not likely that we have made initial connections with lost sheep of the house of Israel?
This is proving to just be the start. Indeed, there will be more steps to our quest. The importance of these issues has spilled over to the Indian brethren who have helped and collaborated with us; and to you with your prayers. Likewise, the invitation has already been extended to return with the God's economy program. Our pastor/guide, as General Secretary for his denomination in India is eagerly embracing the mantle to make this happen, along sharing our next steps in discovering the anusim of India.
This has been a most unusual journey. Unlike most I've been on, we've been without any internet access until just before departing and were unable to give you any glimmers of our progress, or to ask for interim prayer support. Yet it's been enough.
Jesus said, "That which is hidden will be revealed and that which is covered will be made known." God's faithfulness with your prayers has already uncovered a great deal; indicating there to be much more. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
Gratefully in His service,
Morris Ruddick
Global Initiatives Foundation
http://www.strategic-initiatives.org/
Added note by Love For His People: Morris spoke recently at a conference in Charlotte, NC. Here is Part 1 of that message. (Parts 2 and 3 also available.) Morris Ruddick Speaks on the Jewish Gift
Prior to our departure I wrote that "in the natural, our task might be described as hunting for a needle in a haystack; or even perhaps taking a shot in the dark." We set out on this journey believing that the Lord would uniquely lead each step. Even more than we realized, what we posed to do, in the natural, within the time we scheduled was more than just ambitious, it probably wasn't even realistic.
Yet, due to being convinced this mission was born in the heart of God, in retrospect, the Lord has exceeded our expectations. Praying frequently and taking time to discern developments, we have had many wonderful surprises as the Lord has arranged the pieces of this mosaic in a way we could have never done on our own.
We have traveled to three cities within India: Pune, Goa and Mumbai. We've visited synagogues, ancient Jewish quarters, interviewed rabbis, pastors, nuns, heads of local ministries, a journalist, community leaders, Christian and Jewish-Christian lay people, along with Indian nationals of both Catholic and Jewish heritage. We've been exposed to the history of the Jews in India; reviewed local books with insights into the time of the inquisition in India and visited the ruins of what some feel may be India's original synagogue in Goa, destroyed during the inquisition.
As I share just a few of the highlights, let me say that some things we have sought have not yet materialized; while others have far surpassed what we expected. However, an incredible foundation has been laid for the "next steps." In it all, God has been faithful. We also are so very grateful for your undergirding in prayer, as indeed, through faith and patience we are inheriting the promises (Hebrews 6:12).
The Process
Closing the gap on a word received from God, such as the guidance for this mission, is and has been a process. Our broad guidance, to search for the lost sheep of the House of Israel in India, included a more specific task of seeking Indian nationals of Jewish heritage descended from ones who fled persecution during the inquisition.
On a personal basis, my Israeli Ethiopian partner for this mission has wanted to close the gap on his family origins. The book of Esther notes a connection between Ethiopia and India. My partner has long suspected that his Ethiopian lineage may be traced to roots in India.
The survival of the hidden Jews during inquisition generations was based on their true identities being carefully masked. Gaining the trust of their modern-day descendents bears the same challenge with a definite relationship-building need.
After flying out of Denver and a six-hour layover in Newark, we left on a 15 hour flight to Mumbai. A referral made after our arrival in India put us in touch with a local pastor, whose heart seemed to leap as we shared our mission. Our first meeting with him was delayed several hours first due to his young son getting sick and then his old car breaking down, as he traveled across town to meet with us. After on-site repairs, this brother finally picked us up.
We then found ourselves in Mumbai rush hour, with an extended snarl of traffic in the midst of a tangle of vehicles, going nowhere fast, all trying to out-honk one another, seemingly intent on adding layers to the delays of our inauspicious start. It was roughly 8:30 p.m. that first day before we finally sat down for a meal and were able to make plans with this gracious brother.
The next morning, having hired a car and driver, we still didn't know whether the turbulence at home for this pastor was going to allow him to accompany us to Pune. To our joy, he did and we headed off on the three hour drive through terrain that we heard looked much like Ethiopia.
The Quest Begins
Our visit in Pune began at one of the city's two synagogues. Since the terrorist attack on the Jewish Chabad Center in Mumbai in 2008, entrance is screened and synagogues are guarded by armed Army security. Having called ahead of time, we were warmly welcomed by the rabbi. He explained that he had an active congregation of about 50 families, since most of the Jewish population in Pune had made aliyah, immigration to Israel, almost 50 years prior. This synagogue was on a street aptly named "Israel Lane" in the center of Pune's original Jewish neighborhood.
Our next visit was with a Jewish believer whose roots she could trace back to her Jewish grandfather in Karachi before the Indian/Pakistani partition. After her grandmother died, her grandfather was unable to give proper care to his nine children, so he put them in an orphanage where they were raised as Christians.
She called her cousin who soon joined us with her 88 year old father. As one of the children raised in the Karachi orphanage; he interestingly now lived in Pune's Jewish neighborhood on "Israel Lane." This kindly old man told us the story of his childhood. Yet when my partner spoke to him about his "Jewish" roots, he seemed to react fearfully, saying "no, no I am a Christian." Yet his flat was in the center of the Jewish quarter in Pune.
Their family tradition held they were descended from the Tribe of Benjamin. We heard about a menora passed down from her grandmother. She also shared her lifelong dream of making aliyah to Israel.
The next morning, our local pastor and friend traveling with us, who had grown up in Pune, astutely asked a guard at a complex of flats if there were any Jewish families still living there. This inquiry led to our introducing ourselves to an 84 year old Jewish woman whose son happened to be visiting from Great Britain. They proudly told us of being descended from the tribe of Judah.
They also explained the origins of the Jews in India. After the destruction of the second temple, there had been a shipwreck off the coast of Alibar, north of Goa. The nine surviving families had developed a trade of pressed oil and became known as the Shanivar: the Saturday oil people. We concluded this unplanned warm exchange by singing the Shema with them. A meeting with her younger brother, who was not only one of the former presidents of Pune's two synagogues, but a respected community leader in the city.
This man was a recently retired professor, as well as having been an Air Force pilot for India years prior. He and his Indian-Jewish wife, a double-certified MD, retained a role and status in the upper strata of Indian society. While strongly Jewish in their identities, their roots were clearly as Indian citizens, with no desire to make aliyah.
Going for More Clues
With strong indications that the area of Goa would hold clues to the answers we sought, we left Pune and headed for Goa. The Portuguese settlement at Goa is reputed to be the original locale where those fleeing to India from the Portuguese inquisition had come.
Our driver, who I glibly described as having an Esther anointing ("if I perish, I perish"), expertly navigated our 12 hour drive to Goa through hair-pin curves over mountain passes with 1500 foot drop-offs at speeds that defied gravity, passing trucks and other cars on curves with a bravado that we are glad is now just a memory. The arid hills around Pune gave way to a more tropical environment with monkeys, ox carts and water buffalo adding to the uniquely colored lorries, cars and three-wheeled motor-scooter taxis which were sprinkled along the route.
One of our first meetings in Goa was at a convent. Having dropped our bags at Goa's YMCA, we left to investigate Catholic resources about those we were seeking. Our drive was interrupted as we heard a whine in the engine indicating a bad belt. Within a few minutes we were stranded. Gratefully, instead of this happening at 11 p.m. the night before on a remote mountain road, it happened in front of a car dealership.
Unexpected Rescue
With the driver working on getting our vehicle back into working order, we were then "rescued" by a cheerful nun in a white habit, who arrived in a taxi to pick us up. The five nuns who manage the convent, along with a local kindergarten of 200, greeted us warmly. Our time yielded no tangible clues, but we left with the sense that the sister in charge would be back in touch after making inquiries.
Our Goa meetings concluded the next day with us being taken to an ancient ruin in Old Goa by a Norwegian brother who is married to an Indian national and has lived in India the last 11 years. He operates the local Goa Chamber of Commerce and also has an outreach to both Indian gypsies and the many Israeli soldiers who frequent Goa after concluding their army service. He reflected a deep passion for Goa inquisition history and shared in our desire to discover the hidden or crypto-Jews.
He was particularly keen about my partner's Ethiopian roots. The ancient ruin we visited, that many feel once was a synagogue in Old Goa, includes Ethiopian Orthodox symbols.
Discerning the Pivotal Questions
Having authored three texts on research-based planning, I know there is a stage in any investigation in which the insights gleaned begin to uncover more pivotal questions. From all the input received to this point, more questions are starting to arise. Jewish history is indelibly entwined into Indian history. The Jews shipwrecked on the Western coast grew into a vital part of Indian society. The apostle Thomas came to India during the first century and established the roots of Christianity in the Kerala area of the western coast. The first settlement of the Portuguese preceded the inquisition, but only by a generation. Then with the inquisition in Portugal came more Jews who joined what was already a strong Jewish community in Goa.
It was at that point, that history becomes vague. There already had been vibrant Jewish communities extending along the western coastline from Alibar to Goa to Kerala. Into this setting came the hidden Jews fleeing the inquisition, whose true identities were despised by both Jews and Catholics. The outgrowth of the first century church established by Thomas was another long established part of India's infrastructure in this region at the time. This was this area's mix of European settlers in the mid-1500s, which was followed by what locally is referred to as the Goa inquisition. So, the questions begin.
Thomas, one of the original 12 disciples of Jesus, was a Jew. His church would likely have reflected the strong Jewish roots of the first century church. The question remains whether the post-Constantine church of the fourth century, with its expunging of the original Jewish roots to the church, had made its way to India and reshaped the Thomas Church prior to the settlement of the Portuguese around 1500.
Today there remains little indigenous Jewish population in Goa. With the incredible level of Jewish activity along India's western coast; followed by the influx of the hidden Jews immigrating to Goa: where did all the Jews of that time go? What happened to the hidden Jews? The mystery has led one we spoke with to conclude that the Goa inquisition was all-encompassing and akin to its own holocaust. Without discounting the impact of the inquisition, historical patterns of Jewish persecution more likely support the premise of flight and relocation over the 250 years in question.
Lost Sheep of the House of Israel
Assuming that to be the case, what is the lineage of the fearful 88 year old Jewish Christian we met, who was raised as a Christian in Karachi and then settled in the Jewish quarter in Pune? What about the Jewish believer Yerush whose grandmother passed down a menora? With two of the families interviewed knowing the tribes of Israel of their heritage, is it not likely that we have made initial connections with lost sheep of the house of Israel?
This is proving to just be the start. Indeed, there will be more steps to our quest. The importance of these issues has spilled over to the Indian brethren who have helped and collaborated with us; and to you with your prayers. Likewise, the invitation has already been extended to return with the God's economy program. Our pastor/guide, as General Secretary for his denomination in India is eagerly embracing the mantle to make this happen, along sharing our next steps in discovering the anusim of India.
This has been a most unusual journey. Unlike most I've been on, we've been without any internet access until just before departing and were unable to give you any glimmers of our progress, or to ask for interim prayer support. Yet it's been enough.
Jesus said, "That which is hidden will be revealed and that which is covered will be made known." God's faithfulness with your prayers has already uncovered a great deal; indicating there to be much more. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
Gratefully in His service,
Morris Ruddick
Global Initiatives Foundation
http://www.strategic-initiatives.org/
Added note by Love For His People: Morris spoke recently at a conference in Charlotte, NC. Here is Part 1 of that message. (Parts 2 and 3 also available.) Morris Ruddick Speaks on the Jewish Gift
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Fogel Family Murdered in Itamar, Israel
The Fogel Family from Itamar, Israel
Murdered March 11, 2011
- in their home by terrorists.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." -- Yeshua HaMashiach
Monday, March 14, 2011
"Solid in Constant Change" - Ahava Love Letter
Ahava Love Letter
“Solid in Constant Change”
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrew 13:8 NASB) |
Dear family of friends,
Seasons come and go, except if you live in southern Florida, and other parts of this small globe, where it is just hot and hotter. Or wet and wetter. Some like it that way. I prefer the seasons myself.
In the natural, spring is a great time following a long, hard winter. Blankets and blizzards of snow can be a good change for a while. But after shoveling many feet of the heavy white stuff over several months, you are ready for the next climate rotation. You are looking for the higher, “warmer” sun of the new season. You are ready for change.
Scripture says that the Lord never changes. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. So how is it that the Creator of seasonal change never changes in His love and compassion for the people of earth?
I believe it is through the changes we experience, both in the natural and the spiritual, where we see more of the Lord’s character, and Who He is. When we delight ourselves in His natural changes all around us, and give thanks for the hope that they bring, we can further appreciate the fact that even among continual change that He is constant. What He said He will do. What is written will be done.
I am daily encouraged in my regular Bible reading that His promises spoken to us, and specifically to the Jewish people, are proof of His bedrock truth, even in the midst of ongoing change. As the Jews have gone through so much movement over the past twenty centuries, He has now brought them to their Promised Land. The God Who is the Solid Rock has shown His constant, faithful love for them, and protection over them, even as the world around them erupts in upheaval and uncertainty.
He never changes, and yet works all things for good in the midst of constant change.
The Jewish nation of Israel will always be further ongoing proof of His promises being fulfilled. No person, nation, or enemy in the natural or spiritual will keep them from fulfilling His Word. Not even themselves, among themselves.
Our faith is based on solid ground, that the One Who promised to fulfill His Word, never changes. Even as earthly seasons and the acts of the nations come and go, the fact that Israel and the Jewish people are protected from an ever increasing hostility towards their existence is proof of His constant and living love.
During these times of ongoing upheaval and constant change, the Jewish nation of Israel is a sign to the world of His faithfulness. Our love and support for them must never change, if we serve the God we say we do.
Ahava to you my family of friends,
Steve Martin
Founder
Love For His People, Inc.
P.S. Our 2nd annual “Ahava Adventures” service trip to Israel is set, with flights, hotels, and ground transportation in place. On the date of Oct. 29, 2011, only ten will depart from Charlotte (or join us in Philadelphia) to spend six days/nights in Jerusalem and two days/nights on the Sea of Galilee in Tiberias (only $2495 for the entire trip!) Our Israeli friends will meet us there, as we further connect with the believers in The Land.
This isn’t your “basic tour” time. We go where not many can, or would go, for we want to be more adventurous, more supportive, and experience even more what Israel’s people and land is about in this day and age. We do see spiritually and historically important locations, but our primary focus is to bless the ones living the day to day life there. Curious enough to find out further? Contact info is below.
Can’t go yourself? Please consider sponsoring a friend, family member, or person in your church, especially of “the next generation” age group. Trust the Lord to highly impact their lives for life, to impart to them a heart for His people that will never leave them, and give them an adventure they will never forget. (Heh, it is tax-deductable for you too. In part or full, it doesn’t matter.)
One special note: When we are there in The Promised Land, we will spend time with three local organizations that serve the youth and so many more of Israel, each in their special ways. One of these will be with us at the Beit Tikvah meeting on March 25, 2011. Friday night, 7 pm, Antioch International Church, in Fort Mill, SC. After meeting them, you may want to come see what they do first hand with the youth in Jerusalem!
Before then, on Friday, March 18, and again on Sunday, March 20, Antioch International Church and its Beit Tikvah gathering will celebrate the Lord’s feast of Purim. Come if you can. We also will be having a Passover seder on Good Friday in April.
Love For His People, Inc. truly appreciates your generous support. Please consider donating now on-line by clicking here http://www.loveforhispeople.com/ for our website’s “Giving Opportunities” tab, or by sending checks to the address below. Todah rabah! (Hebrew - Thank you very much.)
©2011 Steve Martin Love For His People, Inc. P.O. Box 470035 Charlotte, NC 28247-0035 E-mail: ahavaloveletters@gmail.com
Facebook pages: Steve Martin and Love For His People Twitter: martinlighthous and LovingHisPeople
Love For His People, Inc. is a charitable, not-for-profit USA organization. Fed. ID#27-1633858. Tax deductible contributions sent by mail or given on-line will receive an e-receipt for each donation, for you to print out. (Saves the ministry on postage!)
Ahava Love Letter #18 Date: March 15, in the year of our Lord 2011
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