Shalom Mishpacha,
We are slowly coming to the end of the Jewish Civil Year! If you did not know, the Civil Jewish Year begins with Rosh Hashanah (Yom Teruah - Feast of Trumpets), and is separate from the Biblical New Year. The last two months of the Jewish calendar are marked with such emotion. The month of Av (beginning Monday, August 5), holds two important observances in the Jewish community: 1. 9th of Av, and 2. Tu B'av
The 9th of Av is a day of mourning and praying as the temple in Jerusalem during both eras of it's existence were destroyed. Today, we know that we are the temples of the L-rd meant to come together B'Yachad (in unity). Unfortunately, as sin is in the world, communities are broken, people are distraught, and unity seems impossible.
But, Yeshua!
Yes, the Light of Messiah has entered into the world to restore us back to the Promise given by G-d! Following such a terrible day Tisha B'Av, the community of Israel began to observe Tu B'Av.
Tu B'Av is known today as Israel's love day. In days of old, it is recorded in Jewish writing that this was a day where single people would go to find their forever match to fulfill the promise of Israel's restoration. It was a day seen to restore the hope and joy, and it is the beginning to which we greet one another with the saying, "ketivah vachatimah tovah (to be signed and sealed for a good year)".
In all, we see that "perfect love casts out all fear", and it is the Love of Messiah, the giving of His life - that restores us to perfect unity! With this, let us love God, love our neighbor, even our enemies, to pray for each other in this time of trial and change in order to be ready for the redemption of the whole house of Israel!
"For His anger lasts for only a moment, His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may stay for the night, but joy comes in the morning. When I felt secure, I said: “I will never be shaken.”" Psalms 30:6-7 TLV
Check out the upcoming calendar & Register for Events below:
- Aug 13, 2024 9th of Av - Day of fasting (no Service)
- Aug 19, 2024 Tu B’Av - Love day (no Service)
- August 26, 2024 Worship Event with Shai and Emmanuel - Free Event
- Pantry indefinitely closed - If you are in need you can look up these organizations and pantries (Harvest Time International, Jewish Family Services, Christian Family Services, or The Sharing Center)
- August 23, 2024 Friday Shabbat at Rabbi Jacob’s home (If you are interested in hosting a Friday night shabbat, please let us know!)
- Aug. 31 Shabbat TBD (we will be having service at another location)
- Young Adult Retreat @ Canada (Aug 30-Sept 2)
