Digging Deeper - Bar and Bat Mitvahs

Apologies that I have not been in touch for a while; I have had my head down, working hard. I have finally completed my first module of Messianic Jewish Theology. My two essays have been returned, with marks that I can only have dreamed of, so I am very much encouraged, as most importantly it has given me the confidence to disseminate this information to you all in due course. Get ready for plenty of materials to be coming your way soon!

Digging Deeper - Bar and Bat Mitvahs

I'm really enjoying my journey of discovery, as each time I dig deeper He enriches me with more nuggets of pure gold.

This term I have been studying anthropology. It has been quite eye opening to look at how cultures are studied and how this is relevant to us as Messianic believers. I recently did an assessed presentation on Bar Mitzvah, which will turn into a ‘more in depth’ presentation early next year. However, it was amazing how the Lord spoke to me about my daughter through my preparation. She will be soon at the age for her Bat Mitzvah, as she turns 11 in a couple of weeks. If you are on a journey with preparing your son or daughter with their Bar / Bat Mitzvah, watch this space, as I will be sharing lots of material on this and would welcome your thoughts over the coming months. However, I hope even if you don’t have a child of this age, you will still be interested to discuss and feel an important part of this community, as we are all integral at preparing the next generation to walk with their Father. 

Next Essay - Messianic Jewish Identity

My next essay is to assess a book by Shoshanah Feher, Passing Over Easter. I will be considering how Messianic Jewish identity is constructed in this book and what additional anthropological and theological insights on the nature of Messianic Jewish identity could be used to qualify Feher’s arguments. I am finding this study not just academically challenging, as anthropology is a new discipline for me, but also spiritually and emotionally exhausting.

I have to grapple with my own Messianic Jewish identity, and think seriously and self-critically about who I am and what I do. At times I cannot even articulate what I am feeling, as tears roll down my cheeks. Messianic communities are so misunderstood by both Judaism and Christianity, and the critical analysis can be piercing when you are so close yourself.

We are still a relatively new movement, despite our ancient history, so the challenge is that we can still be open to constructive criticism and not become egocentric. We are still learning, and we are on an arduous journey, with opposition from all corners, so we must keep our eyes focused on the author and maker of creation.

Slammed Doors and Open Pathways

God is good, gracious, patient and so faithful. He is always there when we cry out to Him. The past couple of years have been tough ones for Andy and I, with doors metaphorically being slammed in our faces. Things have not always made sense, yet He has always been there in the midst of it all. He has opened up new pathways I would never have dreamed of walking along. It seems that life takes you on a strange journey at times, but without being in certain predicaments, or facing trials you would rather avoid, He then opens up unchartered territory.

I have learnt so much over the last couple of years, especially in believing in the unexpected, and knowing God may well turn my well intentioned plans upside down. It’s vital that we keep our ears open and always hear His voice.

Don't Underestimate Him

Let’s not underestimate the journey YHWH has us on. In essence, Messianic Judaism, or an Hebraic understanding of the Christian faith, is the missing link between the Church and Israel; our role (as Jew / Gentile) is to be ready and fully equipped to help re-unite the two.

However, as the devil seeks to destroy the plans of YHWH, yes our task is onerous, but don’t ever forget that the battle belongs to Him, and Him only. So friends, be encouraged and keep digging into His Word, and endeavour to stand boldly for truth in these dark days, as the time is coming when you WILL see Him face-to-face.

Natasha 

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