“Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.  He who goes out weeping carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.”  Psalm 126: 5-6

I was speaking on the phone with my daughter yesterday, when, she told me that she had been researching the family name earlier that morning and had found somewhat by accident, that there were three Pole’s, with our same family name, who had been killed for aiding and assisting Jews in Poland in 1943.  I was surprised to hear this information, because, I had never considered the possibility that we could have family members listed among the registry of Righteous Gentiles, (those who gave their lives in an attempt to rescue Jews) and, she was surprised to learn that yesterday, the day, she discovered this information was Yom HaShoah – Holocaust Remembrance Day. An amazing coincidence, I would say.

There is an on-line registry of 700 Poles, who were killed for helping Jews during the holocaust. The Poles with our family name are listed among this group:

shot by an SS unit on Feb. 24, 1943, together with a group of 14 people, victims of a provocation: several weeks earlier they rendered help to a Nazi agent, who pretended to be a Jewish fugitive. Died also Zygmunt Dryga, Franciszek Kirylski, Józef, Ewa and Stanis³aw Kotowski, Stanis³aw Piwko, Jan Oliwiñski, Aleksandra Wiktorzak (see: 111, 216, 259-261, 469, 609, 648) Stanis³aw Kusiak and Stanis³aw Mazurek died in the Treblinka camp (see 314, 374) Died also Czes³aw Borowy, Jan Brzozowski and Stanis³aw Henduszko (see: 43, 57, 166)   http://www.holocaustforgotten.com/list.htm

These are just a few of the heroic people, who sacrificed their lives in doing the right thing.  Yes, doing the right thing.

But, what is the right thing?  In 1943 Poland, the choice was clear. Give aide to Jews and you could die.  But, here in the United States and around the world 2012 - the choices seem a lot less clear.

Instead, we sit on our hands and delude our selves in to thinking that because there are no immediate consequences to our actions, (or, rather inaction) there are no consequences at all.  

Last Sunday, was the day set apart for the remembrance of a holocaust of another kind. The holocaust of abortion and the millions of babies, who have been killed in the years following the 1973 Roe v Wade decision. 

 At a rally held at the Capitol in Honolulu last Sunday, several hundred gathered to march for life and to demonstrate their support for saving the lives of the unborn. I don’t have an official count, but, by my estimation, there were several hundred – perhaps, four or five hundred, maybe more, but, given the number of churches on this island, there could have been thousands.  A rally so dismally small that it garnered only a couple of protestors with cardboard signs – one in support of sex education and one claiming “my body, my right to choose”.  In other words, the opposition, was clearly not threatened by our little gathering.  A lion ignoring a mouse, you might say.  And, while of course, God  does not need an army, when he has a David, nonetheless, it is sad to think how many could have been there that weren’t.  A “light turnout” many were saying; the NFL playoff’s, in direct competition to Sunday’s rally; it appears.

All around us, we see the rot and decay or our society and we throw up our hands and ask “O, God, why”?  Never thinking, that the same question could be ask of us by God - ”Where were you, when, I was calling on you, for doing the right thing?”

Every day, in one way or another, we have a choice for making right decisions and acting upon them. As the scripture says in James 2:18 - ”our faith is demonstrated by our works”.  Which, includes the little things, I might add, as well, as the big; for, if we cannot make the easy choices, how will we ever make the hard?

Thank God for those Righteous Gentiles, who stood with God’s people even at the cost of their own lives.  I pray that we in our generation, would be found doing the same.

“Help us, O God, to stand for what is right, to not shrink back from that to which you have called us” -and by God’s grace, to always be found - doing the right thing”.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus! Cindy

My daughter and her husband awoke to a series of strange footprints in the snow outside their rural Washington state home on Wednesday morning.  It had been snowing in the Seattle area since early the day before, a steady blanket of snow, (which, would later turn to ice) transforming the Pacific Northwest into a beautiful, albeit, dangerous winter wonderland.

My daughter, her husband and three children live in a densley forested area with a river running just yards behind the home in which they live.  They had turned in early Tuesday night, (as twilight comes early to the deep dark woods of the Northwest this time of year) and passed an uneventful night in the hush of the falling snow.  The next morning, on awakening, a single set of enormous prints or tracks could be seen leading single file from the trees along the riverbank to the back side of the house, where they abruptly stopped just outside the two-story windows of the living room area of the house.

My son-in-law was the first to spot the tracks as he was getting his morning coffee, along with my  nine-year old granddaughter, who, after seeing the tracks came bounding down the stairs exclaiming that  “Sasquatch” had been in their yard.  Seems everyone knows about Yeti!

My son-in-law went out side with a measuring tape and a camera to get some pictures. He measured the tracks to be approximately 17 – 23″ in length, 12″ wide and 6 and a half feet from step to step.  They were enormous!  And, there was only one set of tracks leading towards the house and none leading away.  Whatever had been in the yard, seemed to have disappeared in to thin air!  *  photos linked below

The legend of Big Foot, Yeti or Sasquatch is well-known around the world. Frequently sighted, but, never caught, these elusive creatures leave little hard evidence behind, (to the frustration of those, who have spent countless hours tracking them), which lead some to believe, that they simply do not exist. But, like the UFO phenomenon, thousands of eye witnesses and countless photographs, which seem to prove otherwise, the old addage ”where there is smoke, there is fire” seems to apply.

But, just what are these creatures?  Could there really be an undiscovered species in this day and age?  Or, are they something entirely different?  Are they perhaps, less natural, than they are supernatural?  Could they be what the Bible refers to as Nephilim, or something closely related? One website, I found, discusses that very real possibility. Check it out for yourself:  http://www.bigfootsounds.com/biblical.asp    

It’s interesting that just three nights prior to this incident, (Saturday night),  I had a dream regarding a Yeti like creature. Which, I find to be very odd as Yeti is not something I normally dream about!   On Saturday,  I had gone to Waikiki to visit some of the homeless people, who live on the beach (as I do now and then) and for some reason came away at the end of the day feeling a little bit discouraged.  The number of homeless seems to be growing and I began to feel heavy with doubt that anything I was doing was making any difference at all.  That night, I had a most unusual dream.

In the dream, my friend Nan and I had gone to visit the homeless living along the beaches of Waikiki.  For some reason, I decided that the car we had parked needed to be moved.  We walked to the car and got in and I began to drive, but, instead of finding another parking spot to park in, I kept driving until we had reached a remote desert location.  I then stopped the car on a sandy flat and we both got out. As soon as we got out, I noticed some very large tracks in the sand, which led from the sandy  flat to the top of a very steep hill.  My eyes followed the tracks to the top, where, I at once saw the head of a very large and hairy  looking creature peering over the hilltop looking down at us. As soon as I saw it, I  yelled for Nan to get back in to the car and to lock the doors. We jumped in and the last thing I remember is fumbling with the keys trying to get them into the ignition.  [End of dream] 

Three nights later …. large footprints outside my daughters home.  Watching …..  The same feeling I had about the creature in the dream - not friendly, but, not necessarily menacing – just ….  watching.

Leading me to ask, just who was the visitor outside my daughters house that night?  Why is he watching and what does he want?  Is he the same visitor that appeared in my dream just three nights before?  I have to wonder …..

To see the photos taken by my son-in-law Craig, click on the links below. The photo at the top of this post is not one of them, as I could not get them to fit.

http://webmail1.mail.aol.com/35363-111/aol-6/en-us/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=27749300&folder=Inbox&partId=6&saveAs=IMG_0374.JPG

http://webmail1.mail.aol.com/35363-111/aol-6/en-us/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=27749300&folder=Inbox&partId=5&saveAs=IMG_0378.JPG

http://webmail1.mail.aol.com/35363-111/aol-6/en-us/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=27749300&folder=Inbox&partId=4&saveAs=IMG_0376.JPG

http://webmail1.mail.aol.com/35363-111/aol-6/en-us/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=27749300&folder=Inbox&partId=3&saveAs=IMG_0370.JPG

http://webmail1.mail.aol.com/35363-111/aol-6/en-us/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=27749300&folder=Inbox&partId=7&saveAs=IMG_0373.JPG

http://webmail1.mail.aol.com/35363-111/aol-6/en-us/mail/get-attachment.aspx?uid=27749300&folder=Inbox&partId=8&saveAs=IMG_0361.jpg

*Please pray for those in the Seattle area, who are still without power following last weeks powerful storm.  Both of my daughters and their families were displaced from their homes for several days due to the power outage, one was able to return home yesterday, but, the other is still without power in her area.

And, as always,

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee” Psalm 122:6  Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!   Cindy

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, when, you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses”.  1 Timothy  6:12

In just a few hours, Tim Tebow and the Denver Bronco’s will face off against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in what may become one of the mostly highly viewed play off games in the history of the sport.

Tim Tebow has taken the world by storm and every one is talking!  And, with the appearance of the halo over Invesco field at last weeks game, it seems that even God is pleased!

And, no wonder as Tim Tebow seems to be the real deal in a world jaded by spoiled sports stars, Hollywood egocentrics and Washington phonies. For Tim Tebow does not just “talk, the talk, he walks the walk”.

It seems for Tim, that he was aptly named, as the name Timothy, means “honoring God” and the surname Tebow, means “brave or bold“.  http://www.behindthename.com/name/timothy

http://babynamesworld.parentsconnect.com/meaning_of_Thibault.html

But, what really excites me about Tim is the affect he has on other people, the obvious work of the Holy Spirit in his life.  And, while our President and first lady are hosting lavish parties, drinking faux blood from test tubes and meeting with Hollywood celebrities, Tim is meeting with the sick and disabled before and after even his most important games, offering them both hope and inspiration.

I read an article today about witches in Salem praying against Tim Tebow and today’s game with the New England Patriots – in their words, “attempting to heighten Tom Brady’s amazing energy and positive mojo”   Mojo ???  Really? And, just what exactly is ”mojo”?  I’ve heard the term before, but, would be hard pressed to define it, so, I googled it and found, that while it is often used in slang as a term for sexual appeal, it actually means “charm or spell”.  http://www.theblaze.com/stories/salem-witches-hold-ritual-to-stop-tebow-broncos-from-winning/

Make no mistake about it, this is spiritual warfare, for the enemy is not at all pleased with the positive press that God and Tim Tebow have been getting lately.

But, mojo?  I really had to laugh for as it says in Psalm 37:12-13,

“The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them; but, the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming”. Psalm 37: 12-13

Football, it is just a game. But, for some reason, perhaps, because of the boldness of a man named Timothy, who, ”in the presence of many witnesses” has chosen to honor God –  has God chosen this particular venue, at this particular point in time for both glorifying his name and making his presence known.

May God bless Tim Tebow both on and off the field today and may the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, be glorified and exalted, both now and forever!  Amen!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee.” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus! Cindy

“The word of the LORD came to me, What do you see, Jeremiah?  I see the branch of an almond tree, I replied.  The LORD said to me, You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.”   Jeremiah 1:11-12

Many of us have read the recent posts by Ron Reece, on which, he has calculated the rapture/sudden destruction to be January 28 of this year.  And, while, I have always favored a Feast of Trumpets rapture, I find it both interesting and beneficial to at least consider the work of someone, who has spent so many hours in study, thought and prayer in reaching their conclusions.

On doing some thinking about this, I realized that January 28 falls within the early part of the Jewish month of Shevat.  Shevat is the eleventh month of the Jewish religious calendar and the fifth month of the Jewish civil calendar.  And, January 28 falls on Shevat 4.

Now, this is interesting because the month of Shevat has everything to do with two words that any watchman would recognize – watching and awakening!  For it is during the month of Shevat, that the almond tree first begins to blossom. And, the almond tree is the first tree in Israel to bloom or awaken, while, the other trees are still dormant or sleeping. 

In fact, the Hebrew words for almond tree and watch are almost exactly the same word.

Shoqed: Hebrew word # H8245 Strongs Concordance – “to awake, watch, wake, be alert”, and, to “keep watch of, be awakeful over”.

Shaqed: Hebrew word # H8247 Strongs Concordance – “almond tree, almonds” 

So, with that in mind, consider once again the verse from Jeremiah 1:11-12 -

“The word of the LORD came to me, What do you see, Jeremiah?  I see the branch of a “shaqed”, (almond tree), I replied.  The LORD said to me, You have seen correctly, for I am “shoqed” (watching) to see that my word is fulfilled”.

Therefore, we can see that the almond tree and the concept of watching are inextricably tied together.  One website, puts it this way:

“The almond tree is the first tree to sprout and the last one to lose its leaves. Its flowers symbolize the cups that crown the seven branches of the Jewish candelabra (Ex. 25:33-36; 37:19-20). In the biblical books, the almond tree is mentioned several times (e.g., Gen. 30:37-39; 43:11; Qo.12.1-5). The prophet, Jeremiah, mentions it in a vision: The word of Yahweh was addressed to me asking, “Jeremiah, what to you see?” “I see a branch of the watchful tree,” I answered. Then Yahweh said, “Well seen! I too watch over My Word to see it fulfilled” (Jer. 1:11-12). In this text there is a word game between the Hebrew words shaqed, almond tree, and shoqed, I watch. Also, the image of the almond tree, the first tree to bloom, reminds us of the watchful eye of God, that watches over His word to set it to practice. God is the almond tree of Israel”. http://198.62.75.1/www1/ofm/mag/HolyLnA2.html

Therefore, the almond tree is very important; for the seven branched Menorah which stood in the Holy place was specifically designed by God to be fashioned liked one.

Exod 25:31-40 “You shall also make a lampstand of pure gold; the lampstand shall be of hammered work. Its shaft, its branches, its bowls, its ornamental knobs, and flowers shall be of one piece. And six branches shall come out of its sides: three branches of the lampstand out of one side, and three branches of the lampstand out of the other side. Three bowls shall be made like almond blossoms on one branch, with an ornamental knob and a flower, and three bowls made like almond blossoms on the other branch, with an ornamental knob and a flower– and so for the six branches that come out of the lampstand. On the lampstand itself fourbowls shall be made like almond blossoms, each with its ornamental knob and flower. And there shall be a knob under the first two branches of the same, a knob under the second two branches of the same, and a knob under the third two branches of the same, according to the six branches that extend from the lampstand. Their knobs and their branches shall be of one piece; all of it shall be one hammered piece of pure gold. You shall make seven lamps for it, and they shall arrange its lamps so that they give light in front of it. And its wick-trimmers and their trays shall be of pure gold. It shall be made of a talent of pure gold, with all these utensils. And see to it that you make them according to the pattern which was shown you on the mountain.”

From an article titled, “The Golden Lampstand” -

“Each of the six branches and the center shaft ended in a cup made in the form of an open almond flower. At the very top the opened petals of the flower held an oil lamp. The branches and the central shaft were skillfully decorated with that same open-almond blossom design with three on each branch and four on the center shaft”.  http://www.bible-history.com/tabernacle/TAB4The_Golden_Lampstand.htm

So, as you can see, the design for the Menorah was very detailed and very specific; for the seven branced Menorah would be the only source of light in the Holy place of the temple burning olive oil day and night in its blossom shaped cups.

The question is, why, was the almond tree God’s chosen design?

And, while I can’t be exactly sure of the answer, it is interesting to note that the seven lampstands (churches) of Revelation 1:2  are most likely of the same design. And, Jesus while walking among them is examining them for their works; for believers, by virtue of the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit are God’s one and only source of light in the world today, therefore, he expects to see their lights shining brightly and continuously, as did the Menorah in the temple of old.

Interesting, when you compare to Song of Songs 6:11 where, the bridegroom goes down among the nut trees (most likely almond) to see if they are in bloom.

“I went down to the grove of nut trees to look at the new growth in the valley, to see if the vines had budded or the pomegranates were in bloom”.  (Pomegranate is another early bloomer).

It is obvious to see, therefore, that the blossoming of the almond tree is important to the prophetic timing of God’s word and God’s strength and power to bring it to pass. Making it, therefore, one of the most important symbols in the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy. 

  Consider also, this verse from Ecclesiastes 12:5

” … when men are afraid of heights and of dangers in the streets; when the almond tree blossoms (Shevat) and the grasshopper drags himself along and desire no longer is stirred. Then man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets”.

And, from Genesis 43:11 -

¹¹ Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your bags and take them down to the man as a gift—a little balm and a little honey, some spices and myrrh, some pistachio nuts and almonds.

Both important verses, because the almonds were a gift to Joseph ( a type of Christ), while, his brothers were still in unbelief, (in other words, while, they still did not recognize him), just as Israel will be, at the time of our departure.  And, from  Ecclesiastes -  Men in fear at the same time the almond tree is in bloom;  some taken to their eternal home, some left to mourn. 

Leaving me to wonder ….

 …..  a Shevat rapture?   Awake and watch, it just might be!

“Pray for the peace of Jerusaelm, the shall prosper who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting  with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

2012. We’ve seen the movie, we’ve read the hype, but, what does the year really have in store for us? 

All around the globe, people are welcoming in the new year with the hope that the coming year will be anything, but, a repeat of the last one.

And, what a year it has been, the mysterious deaths of thousands of blackbirds on New Years day 2011, an omen, it would seem, of the months that would follow. 

 And, while, many hope that the tragic events of the previous year are behind us and soon to be forgotten, in reality, the spectre of 2011 is already casting a long shadow in to the far reaches of the coming year.

How many of you saw the photo of the “giant” in the crowd that had gathered to observe the funeral procession for Korean leader Kim Jong Il?  Thought to be Korean basketball player Ri “Michael” Myung Hun, at 7’8″ tall, he towers above the other spectators; a good illustration, in my opinion of the previous year and the effect it will have on the coming year.  For we have only begun to see the effect the “Arab Spring”, the Fukushima meltdown, and the current middle-East stand-off (and other 2011 events) will have on the months ahead. http://www.news.com.au/world/giant-spotted-at-funeral-of-north-koren-leader-kim-jong-il/story-e6frfkyi-1226233344857

For those of us who understand Bible prophecy, we know these are the things the Bible refers to as “birth pangs”.  And, 2011, if nothing else, was a year for pushing us closer than ever before to the final events that will culminate in the return of Jesus Christ.

2012 will be a year unlike any other. Not because of the Mayans, Nostradamus or any other prognosticators, but, because of the sure word of God.

I don’t know how much time is left, most likely not much. I’ll leave the numbers crunching for those who are much better at it than I would be. For me, its enough to know that it is soon.

My prayer for you and for myself, is that you would be grounded in the word of God, and, that you would find peace and joy, in spite of a world that appears to have gone crazy, knowing that God is in control; God is still on his throne.

And, as always -

 ”Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

Hi everyone! I will be traveling to the mainland tomorrow to spend the holidays with my children and grandchildren, so, I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukkah!

It’s been a great year and I have enjoyed so much getting to know all of you through the format of this blog.  How blessed we are to live in a time when we can share information like this. My hope and prayer is that we will continue to make wise use of this tool (the internet) for as long as God makes it available to us in these days before his soon return.

How blessed we are to live in a time when we are seeing Bible prophecy fulfilled before our very eyes. I was tremendously excited to receive information via the Joel Rosenberg blog yesterday, regarding a Bible study to be held in the home of Prime Minister Netanyahu.  Amazing!  I was giddy with happiness and expectation all day long after reading it. God is beginning to move in the heart’s of his covenant people, just stand back and watch!  The more isolated they feel, the more driven they will be to look back in to their history and to search their scriptures – and, to ultimately receive their rightful King, Yeshua!  I believe we are seeing the first move in that direction today.

*If you haven’t yet read this exciting article, take a few minutes to check it out, its copied below.

On that exciting note, I will sign off.  Feel free to post in the comments section, (news, links, comments for discussion, etc.) while I am away – I’ll check them as often as I can.  

 Until then, see you in the air or back here in time for 2012.  Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem and keep looking up!  Much love and aloha in Messiah Jesus!  Cindy

* (Washington, D.C., December 13, 2011) — I read a fascinating story in the Jerusalem Post this morning and it gave me fresh hope for the nation of Israel.
“Taking a page out of David Ben-Gurion and Menachem Begin’s playbook, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu will begin hosting a regular Bible study group in his official residence for researchers, public officials and invited guests, “reports the Post. “Netanyahu announced the establishment of the study circle on Friday at a ceremony marking 30 days since the passing of his father-in-law, Shmuel Ben-Artzi. The study group will be named after Ben-Artzi, a noted poet and Bible teacher. Both Ben-Gurion and Begin, when they each served as prime minister, hosted regular Bible study groups. Netanyahu said he was establishing the class to perpetuate love of the Bible.”
This is an excellent step by the Prime Minister, and he should be commended for it. Indeed, let us pray that the study of the Word of God has a powerful, personal impact on the Prime Minister and his family and each of his colleagues and guests. Let’s pray that many Israelis would follow the Prime Minister’s lead and begin reading the Holy Scriptures again, and that Bible studies in people’s homes would spring up all over the Land of Israel.
Such a national reawakening to the importance of the Scriptures has happened before in Israel’s history. Remember men like Nehemiah, Ezra, Josiah, and Joel? These were beloved governors, priests, kings and prophets whom the Lord used to turn the Jewish people back to the Scriptures and the need for national and individual prayer, fasting and repentance. One of my favorite examples is found in 2 Kings 22. I’d encourage you to read it afresh, for it is the remarkable story of King Josiah.
At the age of 8, Josiah took the throne. When he was 18, he instructed the temple to be cleaned and renovated. In so doing, he learned that a long forgotten copy of the Scriptures had been found in the temple. Indeed, someone brought him the dusty scrolls and read the Word to the king. “When the king heard the words of the book of the law, he tore his clothes” in repentance for all of Israel’s sinful ways, and his own. Then the king commanded Hilkiah the priest and several other servants, “Go, inquire of the Lord for me and the people and all Judah concerning the words of this book that has been found, for great is the wrath of the Lord that burns against us, because our fathers have not listened to the words of this book, to do according to all that is written concerning us.”
In 2 Kings 23, then, comes the equally amazing story of King Josiah gathering all the people of Israel tand reading the Word of the Lord to them. Together, convicted of their own sins, they chose to make a covenant before the Lord to obey His all of His commandments. “Before him,” the Bible says, “there was no king like him who turned to the Lord with all his might, according to the law of Moses; nor did any like him arise after him.” Let us pray that Israel once again experience a national renaissance of hunger for the Word of the Lord. Amen.
[To see read the full Jerusalem Post story -- and more details about Netanyahu's growing interest in Bible study in recent years -- please go to: http://flashtrafficblog.wordpress.com/; or go to www.joshuafund.net] 

I have been wondering, as many of you have, if there is any significance to the early celebration of Hanukkah at the White House on December 8, when, Hanukkah as we all know, does not officially begin until the evening of December 20.  The official story is that it was held early as the President and his family will be traveling to Hawaii for their Christmas vacation on December 17, so, whether it was deliberate or merely for convenience sake, it really doesn’t matter, the fact, is, the President chose to change it regardless of the reason.

There have been a number of comments about the party held at the White House, some commenting on the fact, that all eight candles were lit, instead, of lighting one candle daily over the course of eight days, as is customary, until all eight have been lit.  I thought that a little unusual, but, not all-together surprising given the fact, the event was hosted by someone with little regard for the actual meaning of the holiday.

What I did find unusual was the design of this particular Menorah. Normally, the servant candle from which all the other candles are lit stands in an elevated position above the others. In all fairness, it appears, that the servant candle on this one, juts out front, separating it from the others, but, this is not a typical design, for it makes it appear, at least in photos, that the servant candle is positioned lower than the others – an important detail, when, you understand that the servant candle represents Jesus, the light of the world, who, came as a servant and from whose light, all others (believers) are lit.  It would be a rare Hanukkah Menorah that would not have the servant candle elevated above the others, a subtle, yet important difference. For a sample of what the typical Hanukkah Menorah looks like, click here:   http://www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&hl=en&source=hp&biw=911&bih=457&q=hanukkah+menorah&gbv=2&oq=hanukkah+menorah&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&gs_sm=s&gs_upl=0l0l0l2601l0l0l0l0l0l0l0l0ll0l0

After giving it some thought and for curiosity sake, I decided to see how many days there were between December 8 and the first day of Passover, 2012, which, is April 6 of this coming year and, using a date to date calculator, I found out there are exactly 120 days!  Wow, 120 days!  Now that got my attention!

We’ve all become familiar with the meaning of numbers in scripture and the number 120 is a particularly interesting one; according to Bullinger, it is made up of three forties, 3 x 40 =120, which, when applied to time signifies a divinely appointed period of probation, a divinely appointed number during a period of waiting.

It is also a factor in the number of the 144,000, who will be sealed from the 12 tribes of Israel, 144,000 being 12 x 1200.  And, 10 x 12 =120.  Twelve representing perfection in government, there, again, signifying a divine probationary period. http://www.agapebiblestudy.com/documents/The%20Significance%20of%20Numbers%20in%20Scripture.htm

The question, we might ask ourselves, then, is why, there appears to be a 120 day probationary period between December 8, 2011 and April 6, 2012; what purpose would this serve and and to whom, would it apply? 

To answer that question, we need to look at the Feast of Dedication itself. Hanukkah, as most of us know, recognizes the historical event of the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian King Antiochus Epiphanes, who, in 167 B.C erected an image of Zeus in the temple of God and sacrificed a pig on the altar.  In cleansing and re-dedicating the temple, oil was needed to burn for 8 days, but, only a small amount of oil could be found; oil enough for one day only, but, miraculously, this small amount of oil burned for full 8 days - just long enough for new oil to be consecrated.  Thus, the miracle of Hanukkah!

There is much symbolism to be gleaned from this event and it’s interesting, that only now, has the Feast of Dedication been looked upon as a strong contender for the rapture. Which, is kind of surprising, considering Jesus himself observed it (John 10:22) and spoke of it in reference to his second coming.  In fact, Matthew 24: 15-22, seem to be an almost exact mirror of the previous events.

¹⁵When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

¹⁶Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains:

¹⁷Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house:

¹⁸Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes.

¹⁹And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!

²⁰But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day:

²¹For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.

²²And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.

Amazing! When you think about it, it sounds as if Jesus is warning them (the Jewish people) that events preceding his second coming would be much like events that they were already very familiar with.    

Therefore, we can surmise that the divinely appointed period of waiting (120 days)  has everything to do with the Jewish people and not the Church.  After all, it was not Gentiles that the party at the White House was held, but, Jewish constituents, for whom, the President likes to throw a bone every now and then. In other words, it was his change in date, that created the 120 days between Dec. 8 and Passover, therefore, the probationary or divinely appointed waiting period, has to do expressly with them and not with us.

Many of you are familiar with the work of Ron Reese, whose contention it is, that we are already in the midst of the week, which, he believes began in 2008.  I like the work that he has done and find his work to be quite compelling.  There are many things that can be argued, but, numbers are not one of them, for, like it or not, numbers are what they are.  So, is he right? Are we indeed, in the midst of the week?  Only time will tell.

Supposing he is right, the witnesses and the 144,000 would have to appear very soon to work within his 2008 – 2015 time frame.  According to scripture, the witnesses will minister for 1260 days, so, based on this, I did a little date calculating to see if there was a possible fit, and, I found out, there is exactly 1260 days between the evening of April 1, 2012 (which, is Palm Sunday) and Rosh HaShannah, September 13, 2015. Which, if you subscribe to Ron’s theory makes sense, as the witnesses would have to appear before the revealing of the Anti-Christ, which, he says, will take place on April 11, 2012.

Dates and numbers aside, we know from Daniel 7:25, one of the things the Anti-Christ will do is change the set times and laws.  So, what are the set times and laws?  I believe, it is a reference to God’s appointed Feasts (Leviticus 23, including, Hanukkah and Purim) and, the law as given in the Torah.  Therefore, observing Hanukkah on any other date than it’s actual date could perhaps fall in to this category, or may at least, serve as a foreshadowing for what lies ahead. 

And, pressuring the world to accept practices, such as homosexuality, which are expressly forbidden in the Torah, could also represent an attempt to change the law; God’s law.  Never forget, this is the President, who won the election on the promise of change – “change you can believe in”.

So, where does that leave us, the Church, if the next 120 days have to do specfically with Israel?

And, my answer would be – very close to the rapture!  Oil has everything to do with the Holy Spirit and just as the light of the Menorah in the temple was never to be extinguished, but, to burn day and night, the oil that burns in us, also, will never be extingushed. For it says in 2 Thessalonians 2:7 -

“For the mystery of lawlessness is at work and will continue to do so, until he who restrains is taken out of the way”.

Brothers and sisters, it is the Holy Spirit present in each one of us that holds back this day.  The closer we get, the less of a mystery it becomes, and, suddenly, once, we are gone, a mystery it will no longer be. Therefore, the closer we get to the day, the clearer we see, the clearer we see, the closer, we are to going home!

*Please keep in mind, all observations and opinions expressed here at Cindy By The Sea are for the purpose of study and discussion only and never constitute a”thus saith the Lord” unless quoting scripture.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee!” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

I would like to thank Jean Stepnoski for her recent post on Five Doves as it provided the inspiration for writing this post. As usual, Jean provides thoughtful commentary along with astute observations from a Messianic point of view, which, I greatly appreciate. In her post of 12/2/11, Jean points out that the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 was both a trial by fire and by water. Important, when you consider that the judgments of God almost always involve one or both of these elements – fire and water. And, the attack on Pearl Harbor involved both.

 http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/dec2011/jeans122.htm 

I think this is an important observation, because, it was the attack on Pearl Harbor that brought a previously reluctant United States in to the war.  Up until then, the United States had taken an isolationist position (in regard to the war in Europe),  in spite of, numerous reports being received of horrific treatment of European Jews (and others) at the hands of theNazi regime. And, even then, did not join in on the war in Europe (just Japan) until Hitler first declared war on the US.

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Why_did_the_US_become_involved_in_World_War_2

Seventy years, later, we find ourselves in a similar position.  

War in the middle-East is brewing and Israel is in danger of perhaps it’s greatest threat ever. And, while time is running out on a decision to stop Iran from successfully achieving their nuclear aspirations for the express purpose of annihilating the state of Israel, the United States, via, the Obama administration continues to dilly dally with the idea of sanctions, which, in the long run will probably not work anyway – should, they even approve it.

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/middle-east/US-Senate-Advances-New-Sanctions-on-Iran-134875403.html

There was an article by Paul McGuire posted on Five Doves today by Ron Reese titled – “Is Russia Preparing to Attack the United States?” And, as chilling as that thought may be, it appears that there is mounting evidence to suggest just that.

http://newswithviews.com/McGuire/paul105.htm

 And, when you look at Jeremiah 50 and 51, one would be hard pressed to say why the United States would not fit the numerous descriptions of an end-time “Babylon” coming under judgment by a kingdom who descends on them out of the far north.

I think, therefore, that there is sufficient evidence to suggest that judgment by fire is in the not-to-distant future for this end-times nation – Babylon.  The lessons of Pearl Harbor, seventy years, after the event, apparently, unheeded.  This time though, judgment will be complete, as this will not be, the “kick in the pants” type of event that Pearl Harbor was, which, finally got us to enter the war.

There are a number of reasons, why God may allow this nation to be removed. First of all, if we will not stand for Israel, then, we are of no use to him – as far as end time scenarios go.  Secondly, the sins we have accumulated in the seventy years since Pearl Harbor have become increasingly grievous before him, demanding his righteous judgment.  Therefore, there is no real reason this rich and arrogant nation should continue as is. 

Once Babylon is destroyed (or, severely disabled), it will appear that Israel will be easy pickings and her enemies will swoop down for the spoil.  But, they will be in for a big surprise, as God himself will fight on her behalf.

When you think about it, “judgment” by fire and water is the flip side or reverse of what it is to be “saved” by fire and water, (figuratively, speaking of course).  Water, symbol of the new birth and fire, symbol of the filling of the Holy Spirit.

The question then is, are you ready for what lies ahead?   Will you be “saved” by fire and water or “judged” by it?  If you haven’t yet made that decision, I implore you to do so now, in fact, no-decision is a decision and time is running out.

It’s very simple, call on the name of Jesus, ask him to forgive your sin and to come in to your life; it’s as easy as that.  Just take that first step and, he will do the rest – you have his promise on that!

Grace and blessings to all!  And, -

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee” Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy

Wild turkey’s – the almost national bird.  On June 20, 1782, the Bald Eagle was chosen as the emblem of the United States for its long life, great strength and majestic looks. But, if it had been up to Benjamin Franklin, the national bird would have been the turkey. In a letter to his daughter dated January 26, 1784, Mr. Franklin laments the choosing of the Bald Eagle, stating the Turkey was a more “respectable bird, and though a little vain and silly, a Bird of Courage”.  In his mind, a much better choice than the eagle, which he called a “bird of bad moral character, who does not get his Living honestly.”  http://www.greatseal.com/symbols/turkey.html

When you think about it, Mr. Franklin, may have been right in his observation, at least in some respects, and, the turkey has become our national bird, if only, un-officially, as it has been the center piece of the Thanksgiving table for most Americans, since the first Thanksgiving in 1621; a symbol since that time, of the bounty, goodness and provision of God. 

With that in mind, I find it interesting that a wild turkey flew into the glass of an empty restaurant in Penn Hills, PA, this past Thanksgiving causing its demise and setting off the alarm. I can’t say for sure, but, I think the death of the bird and the Thanksgiving message by President Obama may have occurred very close to the same time, as both were in the afternoon, EST.  

At just about the time, the poor turkey made its last flight in to the window of the Eat N’ Park Restaurant, the President was giving his Thanksgiving day address. It’s telling, I believe, that in his 3 minute speech, the President failed to mention or thank God, even once, for the many blessings, he has bestowed upon us, both personally and corporately, referencing instead, luck, self-determination and community as the basis of the holiday and the basis, for which, this nation gives thanks.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/25/obama-god-thanksgiving-speech_n_1113295.html

On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, the President offered the traditional Presidential pardon to two turkey’s, named Liberty and Peace, who, by Presidential pardon supposedly escaped the butcher’s cleaver.  Unusual names for the two pardoned birds, as they are more typically named things like:  flyer and fryer, apple and cider and biscuits and gravy – and such.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Thanksgiving_Turkey_Presentation

Which reminds me for some reason of the old adage: “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” - in other words, why, when you have Liberty and Peace in hand, would you let them go?  

Add to the fact, that the very next day, a wild turkey, (a symbol of the American people and the blessings of God) crashed in to the Eat n’ Park Restaurant in Pennsylvania shattering not only the glass to the restaurant but, the afternoon peace. There, the turkey died on the floor of the empty dining room, it’s life, a sacrifice for nothing. No one there to appreciate, no one, there to give thanks.

Hmmm …….

Liberty, Peace and Plenty

Pray for our country, pray for our leadership, (it’s mandated by God, that we do) and,

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, they shall prosper who love thee”  Psalm 122:6

Watching and waiting with YOU for the soon return of Jesus!  Cindy