Shalom Mishpocah,

We are looking after our grandchildren for a few days while our son and his wife get their condo ready to sell.  I understand why there were not too many ladies inventing things and exploring new worlds until recently.  They were busy cleaning, cooking, washing, cuddling and stopping fights, only to have to do it all over again several times a day!  I am enjoying every second of it and am remembering the joy of multitasking with four little ones who tag team me!

Today, on the Jewish calendar, we are commemorating Tisha B’Av, the fast of the month of Av, also known as the fast of the fifth month.  It was on this date when both temples were destroyed and all the Jews were expelled from Spain during the inquisition.

How should we observe it as Messianic Jews and Gentiles?  It is traditional to read the Lamentations, which was composed at this time. Other observances vary from community to community. We should pause to consider the causes of the calamities of our Jewish people, both those for which our stubborn folly is the cause and those which come from the enemy who is bent on our destruction.  Mainly we need to see that the purposes of G-d are never thwarted and if we want to be part of the solution and not part of the problem, we need to align our lives with these same purposes.

Do not forget prayer meeting tomorrow night and Yeshiva Bible Study on Thursday.  Also we are having our congregational BBQ on Saturday at our home (11634 111A Avenue).  The service will start at 11 am, followed by the BBQ.  Please bring chairs and hats and remember to use only unscented sunscreen.

Since I started writing this I have changed two diapers, settled two disputes and the day is still young.

Praise the L-RD for His goodness and His faithfulness.

Please remember Israel in your prayers during the current crisis with Gaza – that a durable peace would be found and that innocent civilian lives on both sides would be spared.

Shalom,

Rabbi Mike