Catch the Jew! - Includes Q&A with the Author
An insightful and often comical commentary, Catch the Jew! follows Tuvia Tenenbom in his seven-month search for the truth about Israel.
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
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BOOK REVIEWS
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ADVENTURES IN ISRAEL
Is the Holy Land on your bucket list? Join me on my adventures as I explore, experience, and enjoy the land of Israel! Click Here
We all yearn to be loved unconditionally. During our childhoods, we seek this from our parents. Then, as we reach adolescence, we try to win it from our peers. Through the years, that desire to be known, seen, and loved grows into something more — often all-consuming. Search for it in the wrong places, and we’ll be left in a crumpled heap, but find it in the One who will never abandon us, and we’ll discover the joy and belonging we’ve been looking for.
Love is a fickle business. We want to believe that people will take care of our hearts and accept the love we have to offer, but not all friendships last, and romance often fades. However, that doesn’t mean our quest is in vain. Thankfully, we have the best role model and teacher to show us what true love and commitment look like!
Yeshua is the definition of selfless love. He sacrificed Himself because of His love for us and so we could be reunited with the Father. (Ephesians 2:1-10) As the foundation of our lives, our relationship with Yeshua should not only be reflected in our relationship with others but be the measuring rod for how we treat others and how we should be treated in return. Satan wants us to believe that we’re unloveable, overlooked, and unworthy, but Yeshua says we are fearfully and wonderfully made! Though you might be in a season of waiting, be encouraged, God is cherishing your heart and wants to use this time to teach you how to love others first! (John 15:13)
Love is a massive lesson in relinquishing control and being our barest selves, yet not all of us are ready to do this. We want the fairytale but forget the work it takes to cultivate, maintain, and produce what we desire. That’s why it’s so important to understand who our first love is and practice the art of loving others right now! So, don’t let the enemy steal your peace and joy in this season and lean into the love already around you (family, friends, God)
God will reveal the path at the right time, but don’t settle just because you’re tired of waiting or have found someone close to what you’ve been praying for. Newsflash: Close isn’t good enough!
Take heart! The Father SEES you, KNOWS you, and LOVES you!!
From Jeremiah 29:11 to Philippians 4:13, there are so many scriptures we take out of their full context. The other week, I was listening to Michael Todd’s sermon, Cuffed to Comparison, and his explanation of Philippians 4:13 hit close to home!
Though we often use the verse to help us push through whatever battles we’re facing, that wasn’t how Paul intended us to interpret his words. Instead, he was writing about learning the secret of contentment and rejoicing in the Lord in ALL circumstances. WHY? Because through Yeshua’s strength, he can do ALL things!!
Stop comparing your journey to somebody else’s. Just because they got a job promotion, married, or moved into a new home doesn’t mean your life is less valuable. God knows the timing and plans for your life, but we have to get out of the mindset that it will align with the ways of this world. None of us will have the same story, nor are we all called to the same things, but unless we stop comparing ourselves to others and complaining about where God has us right now, we’re never going to have the strength, patience, or tools to step into what God has in store for us!
I love what Michael Todd said, “Be careful how much you listen and look to people who are so great if your self-esteem isn’t solid because what it will do is rob you from the first steps you need to make because we’re being so critical to ourselves that we won’t even give ourselves the grace to become!! If we don’t unplug from this destructive engine of comparison, you will miss your calling doing something you were never fashioned and formed to do! DON’T LET COMPARISON KILL YOUR CALLING!!!!”
Jeremiah 29:11 is one of the most famous verses to recite, yet we're so focused on finding comfort in the words that we miss what the Lord asks His people to do.
Addressing Judah, the Lord declares that at the end of their seventy years in captivity, He will bring them back to the Land (vs.10), sealing the promise with the assurance that He knows the plans He has for them, plans for prosperity, hope, and a future. However, while they wait for the fulfillment of God's promise, Judah is not to sit idly. Instead, the Lord instructs His people to grow (vs.5-7) and, most of all, call on Him and seek Him with all their hearts (vs.12-14).
Like Judah, the Father has His hand on our lives and has promised to direct our steps; but, while it's encouraging to hear that the Lord knows the plans He has for us, that doesn't mean we don't have a duty to obey. I love what Changed Women's Ministry wrote in their devotional, Living Change: Provision, "God is still giving us gifts today. He gives us peace, strength, comfort, and wisdom. He's faithful to care for our every need. In return, He asks us to seek Him, spend time with Him, and trust Him. He asks us to surrender control and offer Him our whole lives."
Especially in hard times, it can feel difficult to come before the Lord, yet that's precisely what the Father instructs us to do. It's not enough to memorize Jeremiah 29:11; we must actively obey verses 12-14.
No matter which season you're in right now, I want to encourage you to dedicate each day to the Lord. Spend time with Him. Build your relationship with Him. Fervently seek His face. And meditate on the Word. When we do these things, not only will the Lord's plans be revealed, but you'll be taking active steps to ensure that they come to pass!
As we begin preparing for the Passover Seder and Feast of Unleavened Bread, now is the perfect time to reflect on who our Passover lamb is and how His sacrifice continues to affect our lives today! Each year, we clean the leaven out of our homes, but what about the leaven in our hearts?
In Luke 23:39-43, we read about the two criminals crucified next to Yeshua. One of them spits insults, mocking Yeshua and holding onto the leaven (sin) in his heart, while the other humbles himself before the King of Kings. Instead of begging Yeshua to save him, the criminal confesses, “We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong. Yeshua, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (vs.41-42)
I don’t know about you, but this passage is an excellent reminder that we are the ones who should’ve died that day on the cross, not Yeshua. Yet, despite our sins, mistakes, and rebellion, He saved us and wants to restore our lives to bring glory to His kingdom! No matter what you’ve done, it’s never too late to turn back to Yeshua and be forgiven!
So, rather than going into the Spring Feasts focused on the cleaning, food, celebrations, or getting time off work, I’m going to reflect on the significance of the feasts and press in to what the Lord is saying.
Many of us are going through the motions of observing the feasts, but God watches our hearts and sees the fruit we are producing. Are we humbling ourselves and doing these things in honor of the Messiah who sacrificed His life for us, or are we merely dressing up and pretending to be His sheep?
Yeshua, thank you for being our Passover lamb and revealing the leaven in our hearts. Forgive us for our sins and wash us in your blood so we can draw close and have a personal relationship with you! Use this week to open our eyes to your truth, love, and restoration. We are the true sinners, but you see us as worthy of being saved! Thank you for your goodness and faithfulness! We praise your mighty name and rejoice that you are ALIVE and among us today! AMEN!
How often do we question the voice in our head when it tells us to do something? Let me rephrase that... How often do we hide away when the Holy Spirit asks us to do something outside our comfort zones?
As followers of the Messiah, we are called to follow the voice of the Holy Spirit and put our faith in the One who saved us, but when it comes to doing something new or hard, we tend to panic. We let go of our trust and return to our old ways of fear and doubt. So, how do we stop allowing our flesh to dictate what the Spirit calls us to do?
I believe that the answer requires a long look at our hearts. Are we still out to serve ourselves, or are our lives about serving others? Do we not believe that the Lord will protect us and knows why He's telling us to do each task?
Today, many believers are trapped in the 'I'll bless you so I will be blessed' movement, but that's not true servanthood. The Father wants to lead us in His ways, counseling us with His Word as a tool to strengthen our faith, but are we ready for what that might entail?
This week, I really pressed in to what the Holy Spirit has been saying to me. While it can feel taboo to differentiate between our spirit and flesh, there's nothing better than obeying the Father and watching His plans come together. Seeing the fruit of our actions and blessing Yeshua while we serve others is a reminder that God has His eye on us and wants to use us in His Kingdom if we'd only have the faith to free-dive into the unknown!
“So often we say we are willing to do what God asks, but when push come to shove, we reason away the inconvenience. When we do this, we not only miss out on a great blessing but may rob someone of theirs.” ~ Corrie ten Boom
What if Love is the Point?
Carlos and Alexa PenaVega have grown up in the spotlight, but there is one thing that makes the PenaVegas stand out — their faith!
When the Day Comes
When the Day Comes is a PHENOMENAL novel! Similar to Outlander — though cleaner — the time jumps were flawless, and the plot was engaging!
The Happiest Man On Earth
The Happiest Man on Earth is more than a memoir, it’s a reminder to all of us that there is always beauty to be found in life.
Alone on a Wide Wide Sea
Alone on a Wide Wide Sea will take you by surprise & lead you on adventures that will feel as though you too have sailed around the world!
All That It Takes
All That It Takes is a love letter to anyone who has felt like their lives were over, only to have someone help them stand again.
God is My Hiding Place: 40 Devotions of Refuge and Strength
God is My Hiding Place takes a deep look into Corrie ten Booms writings, sharing wisdom that will open your eyes and renew your strength!
The Summer We Forgot
Gripping your attention from the opening police statement, The Summer We Forgot is a murder mystery perfect for teens!
Find Your People
Find Your People is just the book we need to read in 2022! Jennie Allen returns to encourage us to build community & connections!
Meet Me in the Margins
I found Meet Me in the Margins to be a witty and entertaining read; however, I still can't find the words to rave about it.
The Significance of the Feasts: Shavuot (Pentecost)
Each Spring feast has a profound meaning to the Messiah's life, death, and resurrection; it's an exciting time to read through the Scriptures!
The Significance of the Feasts: Firstfruits
One of the least spoken about or underrated Feasts of the Lord, is the Feast of Firstfruits; but, why is this feast so important?
The Significance of the Feasts: Passover & Unleavened Bread
What is Passover about? How does Yeshua play a role in this feast? And, is Unleavened Bread a separate holiday? Let's dive in!
Coping with Suicide
Suicide affects us all. Everyone handles it differently, but there is always hope. No matter how bad it feels now, the sun will rise again!
Set Your Face Like Flint - Feeling '22
Whenever we come to the end of another year, I find it so exciting to revisit all of the ups & downs that have gotten me to where I am today.
The Significance of the Feasts: Shabbat
In the Bible, there are seven commanded feasts, separated by two seasons; however, there is one feast that takes place every week — Shabbat!
The Significance of the Feasts: Introduction
Recently, I’ve been struggling to understand why my family observes the Feasts of the Lord while the rest of the Christian world ignores them.
Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones: Doubt
One of the most dangerous stumbling blocks of our faith is doubt. No one is exempt from its attack, we will all question God's existence.
The Story I’ll Tell - Bring on 2021!
We made it!!! Who would've thought that 2020 would actually come to an end? This has been one of the most challenging years I have ever known!
Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones: Wisdom
Throughout the Bible, we are told to ask for wisdom and understanding, and we shall receive it; but, what happens when our prayers are answered?
Adventures in Israel: The Jerusalem International Book Forum
As a writer, I'm always looking to learn about the publishing world so I jumped at the chance to go to The Jerusalem International Book Forum
Adventures in Israel: Hike Turned Trek
With 2,747 hiking trails in Israel — full of beauty, ancient ruins, and people seeking adventure — you're sure to have an unforgettable day.
Adventures in Israel: Hannah's Declassified Israeli Wedding Survival Guide
Israeli weddings are very different from the ceremonies we’re used to witnessing in movies or typical Western settings.
Adventures in Israel: Yemenite Henna Ceremony
We were invited to attend a traditional Yemenite henna ceremony — a pre-wedding gathering that celebrates the bride leaving her family..
Adventures in Israel: The Facial Shocker
Getting a facial should be a revitalizing experience, right? At least, that’s what it seems like when influencers post about facials.
Adventures in Israel: Driver’s License Edition
I recently discovered that to renew your license after driving for five years, I was required by Israeli law to take a “refreshers” course.
Adventures in Israel: Picnic in the Snow
Most people go to the beach or forest for a joyful picnic, not the Russells; we go to the snow, where our butts freeze, and we're layered up!
Adventures In Israel: X-Ray Edition
When someone breaks a bone, it's important to get follow up x-rays to determine the healing process. These visits to the clinic tend to be straightforward; you walk in, give the front desk your doctor's note, get the x-ray, and leave. However, at my six-week check-up, it was anything but a walk in the park…
Adventures in Israel: Let's Go Ice Skating!
Since the beginning of this year, I’ve been craving the true essence of winter; but what can you do to get the feeling of winter in a country that can’t seem to make up its mind? Well, the expensive solution would be to fly to a place where there is snow, and the temperature is …
Adventures in Israel: Massage Edition
The event you’re about to read, in the coming paragraphs, is just a sneak peek into what life can be like in Israel. It’s not always like this, but it sure does make my day better when it is!
The Significance of the Feasts: Shavuot (Pentecost)
Each Spring feast has a profound meaning to the Messiah's life, death, and resurrection; it's an exciting time to read through the Scriptures!
The Significance of the Feasts: Firstfruits
One of the least spoken about or underrated Feasts of the Lord, is the Feast of Firstfruits; but, why is this feast so important?
The Significance of the Feasts: Passover & Unleavened Bread
What is Passover about? How does Yeshua play a role in this feast? And, is Unleavened Bread a separate holiday? Let's dive in!
The Significance of the Feasts: Shabbat
In the Bible, there are seven commanded feasts, separated by two seasons; however, there is one feast that takes place every week — Shabbat!
The Significance of the Feasts: Introduction
Recently, I’ve been struggling to understand why my family observes the Feasts of the Lord while the rest of the Christian world ignores them.
Poem: Into Space (I Am Found Series)
Then everything stops... Floating in the space of her thoughts, Joy Lucia Hunneyball compares the May 30th launch to her own achievements. With skills in a multitude of things, but mastery of none, she wonders how she can make a difference and what landmark she will leave behind.
Poem: For Your Glory (I Am Found Series)
Joy Lucia Hunneyball stands in awe of God, breathing in His goodness and declaring, "To Him be the glory!" This inspiring poem will encourage readers to look at the gifts God has given them and offer up a shout of praise, even when the fight seems hopeless!
Poem: Overcomer (I Am Found Series)
In a moment of reverence, Joy Lucia Hunneyball goes into her room to intercede, cry, and worship before the Father. With a heavy heart, she shares a special prayer to encourage those feeling lost. We are all overcomers through Him, and we are not alone!
Poem: From the Inside Out (I Am Found Series)
Joy Lucia Hunneyball shares an intimate conversation with God about growth, guidance, spiritual battles, and admiration, in this original poem!
Poem: A Speck Within the Cosmos (I Am Found Series)
An original poem by Joy Lucia Hunneyball. In a moment of awe and wonder, Joy expresses her admiration of God's care and faithfulness. We are warriors and vessels to by Him!