ISRAEL UPDATEMarch 30, 2003 – It appears that whenever a nation goes to war in the free world - both sides, pro and con - attempt to use it as a catalyst to promote other causes.
As America and Great Britain lead the coalition forces against Saddam Hussein's regime, protesters at multiple rallies are brandishing signs calling for a free Palestine. What’s wrong with this picture?
So, as the war has just begun, and before any stabilization can come to Iraq, these promoters of what they call Palestine are trying to add more to the agenda. This, even after the Arab/Palestinian leadership has continually rejected multiple plans that have included partition and statehood.
But even more puzzling is the fact that a definitely more “local” issue is much more relevant - that being the Kurdish people.
The Kurds have suffered at the hands of nearly every nation in the four state region of Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Turkey.
To date there are an estimated 25 million Kurds, both Sunni and Shi'ite. living in this region without a country,. They are both Muslim in practice, but excluded, abused, neglected, and even persecuted by their Arab brothers.
If the Arab/Muslim world and their supporters are so serious about the rights and freedom for Palestinians living in Israel, surely they will be willing to address the needs of the Kurds. But then again, the cause of the Kurds is not as popular – and it certainly does not receive the same attention as does the Israeli / Palestinian issue. So while the Kurds look for a home, the Palestinians will receive the publicity.
March 30, 2003 – The fourth and final concept of the altar, chayah, or life, is a fascinating one - as it is the culmination of all the principles that revolve around the concept of the altar.
First, we discussed forgiveness at the altar - how we must forgive that we might be forgiven – opening the floodgate of blessing in our lives.
Second, the merit of coming to the altar knowing that G-d rewards those that diligently and persistently seek Him.
Third, the blessing of the altar lets us meet G-d and see His mighty power, as He establishes covenants and performs miracles for all to see.
So as we come to life as a concept of the altar, we must understand that all of the principles “dovetail” together. Forgiveness will lead us to merit, merit leads to blessing, and if we receive the blessing of G-d it leads to life – which He maketh rich and addeth no sorrow.
Jesus said it best, "The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." John 10:10
Many times the children of Israel and Christian believers have had the option of choosing life or death, sin or holiness, blessing or cursing…
If we would but fully embrace the concept of the altar in all of its fullness, we would have all that G-d desires for us and we will be truly blessed.
“Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.” 1 Timothy 4:15
To be continued . . .