Rejoicing in my Grief

Today is a fast commemorating the siege of Jerusalem. It is also a time to remember the Holocaust and to reflect on the past, repent and draw closer to our G-d. 'Tis day to reflect on His gifts as well, so I pray for those who suffered so much and am thankful for The Word...

I love the L-rd's gift of the Shabbat. Richard and I stayed home on Erev Shabbat (Friday evening). I had planned to go to services, but because he worked late, we held our candle lighting ceremony at home and shared a nice dinner of beef, baked potatoes, etc. His favorite things.

Then, yesterday, I went to my Hebrew class and services at the congregation. I love the L-rd's Shabbat! I am so thankful to be a part of the Mishpoka (family) at Beit Yisrael and am amazed at the joy each time I go to services.

Unlike any other worship service I have seen or heard of, there is an enthusiastic rejoicing in the music, dancing and celebration of all the L-rd is and has done for us. There is also the joy of the complete Word, the joy of my salvation in Yeshua, the joy of Torah observance (more than I could have believed!) and the joy of being with my Mishpoka.

I have been a part of several "church families" in my 58 years as a follower of the Messiah, and I have encountered genuine love in each. These dear ones are still dear to me and I remain in contact with many.

So, what is so different about my Messianic Mishpoka? Perhaps it is the depth that comes from living the Torah. As Richard put it, "Becoming Messianic changes everything about your life." It changes what we eat, when and how we worship and celebrate... it even changes our language and heritage! We are different now in ways only another Messianic can comprehend.

So, today, I fast in grief and repentance and rejoice even as I offer prayers for the peace of Jerusalem.