Daily Devotionals

They began yelling at the top of their voices, so that they wouldn't have to hear him (Acts 7:57).

When I was in elementary school, Bible reading, prayer, even Christmas carols were still allowed in the public school system in the United States. As a Jewish child who had no personal experience with Christmas at home, I nevertheless found the songs to be very beautiful and enjoyable to listen to. However, I can still vividly remember my response to the song, "Come All Ye Faithful." I could listen to it up to the chorus, but then at the lyrics "Come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord," I would put my fingers in my ears and hum loudly to avoid hearing those words. I do not recall ever being taught to do such a thing, but that declaration seemed to be a threat to my very being.

It is an enormous tragedy that over the last 1900 years our people have stopped their ears to the message about Yeshua. It is not a message about some pagan god of the winter solstice, but about our very own Messiah bringing redemption to his own people. However, there is hope; for even as that little boy grew to manhood, the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) in grace, lovingkindness, and mercy, removed the fear and uncovered my ears. Even so, he can do the same for the whole house of Israel.

...be encouraged to persevere in prayer for my nonbelieving family, knowing that perfect love casts out fear, and that the mercy of God is able to penetrate even the most resistant heart.

MM