David Simon's Blog, page 19
November 12, 2016
NOT NOW! It’s too soon for Christmas!
Many books have a presence in the cyber world on Amazon.com. My books are in the company of those of 5,000,000 other authors! The problem with being an author in the United States is that people are reading less and less. I learned while in Israel that per capita more books are printed in Israel than any other country in the world. I need to get my book translated to Hebrew!I have written books to be read. It takes work to write a book. Although at times the material for the book pops out, and goes on the page easily, it is not in presentable format. Sarah can tell you from proofing my books when I write the tenses I use get all messed up, so what was written needs improvement. The author of a book goes through the book seven or more times to make sure what was written is accurate, to correct spelling and punctuation errors, and to remedy other issues.I write books because there are things I desire to share, and things that need to be shared. I want people to understand the world of Biblical times. I desire to open doors for people to understand the Jewishness of the New Testament. I want the world to see the reality and truthfulness of scripture. It takes hard work to write a book, and harder work to market a book.Because Christmas is now only two months away, it is time to recommend my book Advent Journeys to those who are reading this blog. Advent Journeys is enjoyable to read, for yourself or as a gift for you to give. In the pages of this book Sarah and I have worked to bring out the real meaning of Christmas.Each week during the Christmas season, Advent Journeys invites people to walk with men and women of the Christmas story. The first week, readers will join Zechariah in the Temple. The second week, the reader will walk alongside Joseph and Mary as they journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. On the third week, a shepherd shares what life is like in the fields. During the fourth week, the reader will journey with the Magi from Persia to Bethlehem. The fifth week contains Joseph’s journals from the day he leaves Bethlehem until the time he settles with his family back in Nazareth. The fifth week is shared to help people get ready for the New Year. The book includes a bonus Chanukah week, written through the experiences of a Maccabee. Each day’s presentation includes a short journal and three or four thought ideas and questions.The books, especially (at this time of year) Advent Journeys, are great reads. Advent Journeys can actually bring someone (if read) a better Christmas.
September 23, 2016
Travel To Israel in 2018
Trips to Israel are always filled with interesting experiences and learning. The picture below is one of my favorites. It shows the rabbinic interest in education. We observed this “school group” from the Western Wall.
School Group at the Western Wall, JerusalemDuring trips to Israel, I have been able to learn from some great teachers. Our first trip, led by John Delancey, introduced me to Shlomo ben Asher. John is a great Bible teacher and Shlomo, a native of Israel, has an intense interest in architecture. This year, my daughters and I enjoyed touring with Dr. David Ilan, director of the school of Archeology at Hebrew Union in Jerusalem. Sarah shared what she learned from archaeologists she met while on a trip with her school. My family has toured at locations with various guides; a notable one was at the Underground wall tour.
Precipice at Nazareth. Jezreel Valley behind.A tour of Israel with great leaders will benefit every Bible teacher and every Christian. For one thing, many stories in the Bible are tied to features of the land. As one becomes acquainted with the Sea of Galilee, Jezreel Valley, Mt. Carmel with its three passes, the central mountain highlands, the valleys of the Shephelah, the wilderness of Judea, the Negev, the plains of Moab and the great rift valley, a new dimension is added to the Biblical narrative. By walking the land of Israel one is able to visualize where many stories took place.
Great name for a boat!!A tour of Israel will enable the traveler to see where people of the Bible lived. Most tours will include a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. At Katzrin, travelers are able to enter and see the typical Jewish home. At Magdala and Gamala, tours include synagogues which were visited by Jesus. A great tour of Israel includes visits to the tops of mountains, visiting water sources, and experiencing the commotion and commerce of large cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Learn how about how Israel gained IndependenceOn my next tour of Israel, in addition to the Biblical sites, I would like to take people to the Palmach museum and Israel’s Independence Hall in order to discover the heart of the people of the land and further enrich the experience - bringing together ancient history with modern, and gaining an understanding that spans history.
You can join us on the tourI want to invite you to join my family and me on a trip in June 2018. While that seems to be a long way off, time will pass faster than we think. Before the trip, I need your help to identify any locations in Israel you would like to see. I also need to know how many days we should be in Israel (most trips last from 10-14 days). I also need to know if a trip in June would keep any from joining us on this trip.I would like to know if people are interested, and stay in touch with you. No deposit is needed, and there is no obligation. I would like to travel with about 50 people, filling one bus. This is the ideal experience, as each person will get to know our guides and ask questions. (This does not happen in large organizational tours).
If you are interested or have comments, please e-mail me. If you have an interest in one of the greatest educational opportunities of a lifetime, please mark June 2018 on your calendar, and begin to save money (about $5,000 per person) to cover the trip. (This amount will pay for airfare to Israel, transportation in Israel, lodging, 2 meals a day, tour guides, admissions, tips and other things.)
School Group at the Western Wall, JerusalemDuring trips to Israel, I have been able to learn from some great teachers. Our first trip, led by John Delancey, introduced me to Shlomo ben Asher. John is a great Bible teacher and Shlomo, a native of Israel, has an intense interest in architecture. This year, my daughters and I enjoyed touring with Dr. David Ilan, director of the school of Archeology at Hebrew Union in Jerusalem. Sarah shared what she learned from archaeologists she met while on a trip with her school. My family has toured at locations with various guides; a notable one was at the Underground wall tour.
Precipice at Nazareth. Jezreel Valley behind.A tour of Israel with great leaders will benefit every Bible teacher and every Christian. For one thing, many stories in the Bible are tied to features of the land. As one becomes acquainted with the Sea of Galilee, Jezreel Valley, Mt. Carmel with its three passes, the central mountain highlands, the valleys of the Shephelah, the wilderness of Judea, the Negev, the plains of Moab and the great rift valley, a new dimension is added to the Biblical narrative. By walking the land of Israel one is able to visualize where many stories took place.
Great name for a boat!!A tour of Israel will enable the traveler to see where people of the Bible lived. Most tours will include a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. At Katzrin, travelers are able to enter and see the typical Jewish home. At Magdala and Gamala, tours include synagogues which were visited by Jesus. A great tour of Israel includes visits to the tops of mountains, visiting water sources, and experiencing the commotion and commerce of large cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Learn how about how Israel gained IndependenceOn my next tour of Israel, in addition to the Biblical sites, I would like to take people to the Palmach museum and Israel’s Independence Hall in order to discover the heart of the people of the land and further enrich the experience - bringing together ancient history with modern, and gaining an understanding that spans history.
You can join us on the tourI want to invite you to join my family and me on a trip in June 2018. While that seems to be a long way off, time will pass faster than we think. Before the trip, I need your help to identify any locations in Israel you would like to see. I also need to know how many days we should be in Israel (most trips last from 10-14 days). I also need to know if a trip in June would keep any from joining us on this trip.I would like to know if people are interested, and stay in touch with you. No deposit is needed, and there is no obligation. I would like to travel with about 50 people, filling one bus. This is the ideal experience, as each person will get to know our guides and ask questions. (This does not happen in large organizational tours).If you are interested or have comments, please e-mail me. If you have an interest in one of the greatest educational opportunities of a lifetime, please mark June 2018 on your calendar, and begin to save money (about $5,000 per person) to cover the trip. (This amount will pay for airfare to Israel, transportation in Israel, lodging, 2 meals a day, tour guides, admissions, tips and other things.)
September 16, 2016
Autumn on the Calendar
One look outside will tell us our world is changing. We have proceeded from the lush green world of spring through the productive days of summer into a time of drying out. Fall with its cooler temperatures, pumpkin harvest and leaf coloration is getting close.
Pumpkin Days are almost hereDays are getting noticeably shorter with the sun rising later and later each morning. Older people are asking when the time change occurs [and are suddenly interested in yard work … although they have only rarely performed a horticultural task during the course of their 85-90 years of life]. The procession of the autumn equinox, which is when the Sun crosses the Equator, occurs Thursday.Man has for thousands of years taken note of the seasons out of interest and necessity. In the year when Cain planted his first crop it became necessary to know when spring would occur. For those with tomato plants it is important to know the timing of the first and final frosts. In the prehistoric times man first began to count days, and in time he wrote the counting of days down on a calendar.
The Gezer CalendarThe world’s oldest calendar is found at Gezer in Israel. It counts the days in this way: “Two months of harvest, Two months of sowing, Two months of late planting, One month of hoeing flax, One month of barley harvest, One month of harvest and measuring, two months of vine pruning, One month of summer.” The calendar is important so the farmer gets his timing correct.
Gezer Calendar ExplainedThe calendar of the Bible is based on agriculture, just as the calendar of Gezer. The Biblical calendar is a twelve month lunar calendar, adjusted with a leap month by the Mesopotamian astronomers to maintain a proper planting season. The months are named “Aviv” for spring, “Iyar” for blossom, “Sivan” for season, “Elul” for harvest, “Tishri” for beginning, “Ethanim” and “Bul” meaning brooks and rain. The Hebrew calendar looks to God as the provider.The major events of the Hebrew people are agricultural. Passover is celebrated at the time of the first spring harvest. Shavuot or Pentecost is when the first fruits of the summer crop are given to God. The festivals of the seventh month are connected to the autumn ingathering. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur involve cultivation and care for the soul. Sukkoth (Feast of Tabernacles) thanks God at the time the final harvest. Simchat Torah represents the beginning of a new cycle.
Calendar ComparisonOur current calendar when placed alongside the Biblical calendar will show some glaring, unthought-of differences. Under our current calendar and culture our holidays are civil and not agricultural. We think of people and not God. The names of the months (and even the days) honor Roman gods who’s sole ambition in life was to serve themselves, often at the expense of others.In any study of the Bible it is important rise above our cultural biases in order to learn about the people of the book and the desires of the Lord God, the creator of all things.
Pumpkin Days are almost hereDays are getting noticeably shorter with the sun rising later and later each morning. Older people are asking when the time change occurs [and are suddenly interested in yard work … although they have only rarely performed a horticultural task during the course of their 85-90 years of life]. The procession of the autumn equinox, which is when the Sun crosses the Equator, occurs Thursday.Man has for thousands of years taken note of the seasons out of interest and necessity. In the year when Cain planted his first crop it became necessary to know when spring would occur. For those with tomato plants it is important to know the timing of the first and final frosts. In the prehistoric times man first began to count days, and in time he wrote the counting of days down on a calendar.
The Gezer CalendarThe world’s oldest calendar is found at Gezer in Israel. It counts the days in this way: “Two months of harvest, Two months of sowing, Two months of late planting, One month of hoeing flax, One month of barley harvest, One month of harvest and measuring, two months of vine pruning, One month of summer.” The calendar is important so the farmer gets his timing correct.
Gezer Calendar ExplainedThe calendar of the Bible is based on agriculture, just as the calendar of Gezer. The Biblical calendar is a twelve month lunar calendar, adjusted with a leap month by the Mesopotamian astronomers to maintain a proper planting season. The months are named “Aviv” for spring, “Iyar” for blossom, “Sivan” for season, “Elul” for harvest, “Tishri” for beginning, “Ethanim” and “Bul” meaning brooks and rain. The Hebrew calendar looks to God as the provider.The major events of the Hebrew people are agricultural. Passover is celebrated at the time of the first spring harvest. Shavuot or Pentecost is when the first fruits of the summer crop are given to God. The festivals of the seventh month are connected to the autumn ingathering. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur involve cultivation and care for the soul. Sukkoth (Feast of Tabernacles) thanks God at the time the final harvest. Simchat Torah represents the beginning of a new cycle.
Calendar ComparisonOur current calendar when placed alongside the Biblical calendar will show some glaring, unthought-of differences. Under our current calendar and culture our holidays are civil and not agricultural. We think of people and not God. The names of the months (and even the days) honor Roman gods who’s sole ambition in life was to serve themselves, often at the expense of others.In any study of the Bible it is important rise above our cultural biases in order to learn about the people of the book and the desires of the Lord God, the creator of all things.
September 9, 2016
Revelation Class
Between eight and ten years ago I finally threw in the towel and accepted the challenge … My senior adult group asked me, and then pushed me to teach the book of Revelation. I had never taught this book as a class other than under the protective resource of a Sunday school quarterly.I know there are many who can identify with me. The teaching of the book of Revelation opens doors of conflict. People have their pre-millennial, a-millennial, tribulation, spiritual, historic and other opinions. They love to draw the teacher into arguments about things they do not understand themselves.It is not that I have not studied the book of Revelation. I have taken courses under some of the best teachers in college and seminary. I have read many books, and tried to find out which camp I belonged to through self-study. I am not alone in this opinion. Many other pastors and teachers fear to teach this book. The great John Calvin, who wrote commentaries on most other books of the Bible, refused to write a book on Revelation.But members of my church kept pushing me to teach the book. So I forged a compromise. I would tech topics from Revelation which related to worship and prayer. I would teach the book on Sunday night and then use the topic as a springboard for prayer on Wednesdays.The classes soon became a game as members peppered me with questions on eschatology. I tried to avoid these traps, but found myself preparing so as not to be caught off-guard.And then I came to Revelation 12. I googled “seven heads, ten horns.” Many of the finds I trashed (they were too sensational), but two results grabbed me. The first contained archaeological finds from Tel Asmar dating back to 2400 BC. Among the findings were two clay seals with images of a seven headed beast and a myth to go along with the pictures. These stories would have been known to Abraham of our Bible.The other article I read related to Mucalinda, a seven headed snake who coiled around Gautama Buddha so he would not be distracted during his “vision” under the Bo tree. (Yes, the snake which slithered out of the tree to protect Buddha from the elements reminded me of another serpent, which came while Eve stood under the tree of the knowledge of Good and Evil.)I discovered the Book of Revelation is much more than a crystal ball timeline to predict the future (and the second coming of Christ). I saw this book as rooted deep into the past of God’s people. I saw the Apostle John as a scholar who understood these teachings and had a message of importance which needed to be shared.The bug bit, and I was drawn to this book, digging deeper every time.And then the strangest thing happened. The book made sense. No, not in any of the classic interpretations, but I now understood Revelation in a new and different way. I saw the book against the backdrop of first century Judaism. I found John speaking of things he knew and experienced (some good and some very horrible). I found John appealing to friends, family and people of his faith, “Worthy is the Lamb,” and telling to receive Him as your atonement.The book of Revelation fit the rest of the New Testament. The book was unveiled. (That is what the word Apocalypse means, to uncover so the mystery can be revealed!) The story line of the book is well known. The symbols were understood by most first century Jews. The literary methods are totally consistent with a mirror (or chiastic pattern) built in to confirm correct interpretation. And the book contains succinct teaching drawn from Tanach lessons and actual history.
September 2, 2016
Teaching of God
In my last blog I shared my passion for teaching children about God. This passion in my life was not a passing phase or a job-related necessity. I truly believe we must put time, effort, energy, creativity, substance and finances into preparing our children to receive the torch of life from us and sprint into the future.One way I followed my heart was to teach children the true meaning of Christmas. (it is not too early to prepare or to tell. The Christmas season will consume us with activity and meaningless tradition unless we prepare ahead!) While in ministry I would begin planning for the Christmas season as soon as fall activities were functioning, generally toward the end of September.The activities I planned for the Christmas season were personal for my family, and were shared with others. The plans made revolved around the idea that time given to my children is the best gift of the season, and that the time is only worthwhile if it furthers their faith in God. The object of the plan was to provide, lead, and/or join my children in at least one activity each day to enhance the Biblical story.
Our activities included eating birthday cake (for Jesus’ birthday), going on trips, making and sending Christmas cards (they announce our faith in Jesus, just as the angels announced His coming), eating at Burger King (and wearing crowns like the magi), visiting sheep farms and serving our neighbors and other community members in service. Each day of Christmas was carefully planned around a theme and given a scripture to set context. Many of these ideas can be found under the Advent Tab on www.KosherCopy.com. My best ideas for daily activities are on my website.I also published a devotional entitled “Advent Journeys”, a book containing six weeks of devotionals. The devotionals are written like short diary entries and spoken by the people of our Biblical story. The diaries help the people of the Bible stories, who can at times seem two-dimensional, become three-dimensional as the reader gets a look into what their daily lives were like. Each diary entry links to the ideas found under the Advent tab on www.KosherCopy.com.
Readers of Advent Journeys remark that the diaries make the Bible come alive. The favorite chapter seems to be the first week’s journal about Zechariah (John the Baptist’s father) at the Temple; the chapter has even been awarded. When a reader embarks on, and finishes the week’s journey with Zechariah, he will experience with Zechariah what it is like to serve in the Temple and tend the altar of incense in the Holy Place. The reader will see the pure joy Zechariah and Elizabeth experience when they find out about their baby.On the second week, the reader will meet Joseph and Mary and walk alongside them on their journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. During the third week the reader will join the shepherds in the fields tending sheep. He will find himself there the moment the Angel announces Christ’s birth. In the fourth week the reader will experience the anticipation and adventure of the Magi as they travel across the desert and through the throne room of King Herod in search of the newborn king.. The book, Advent Journeys, also contains a week of devotions for Chanukah. The book is meant to be read by either individuals, groups, or families: your family will enjoy reading the book together each day.
Last year I did a giveaway for a short time on Kindle. This year I am asking people who read the book to share the experience by giving Advent Journeys as an Advent gift (before Thanksgiving) or a Christmas gift. My goal is for children and their families, at least for a moment, to leave the schedule and demands of the Christmas season and escape into the world of the Bible in order to seize the wonder of the first Christmas.
Our activities included eating birthday cake (for Jesus’ birthday), going on trips, making and sending Christmas cards (they announce our faith in Jesus, just as the angels announced His coming), eating at Burger King (and wearing crowns like the magi), visiting sheep farms and serving our neighbors and other community members in service. Each day of Christmas was carefully planned around a theme and given a scripture to set context. Many of these ideas can be found under the Advent Tab on www.KosherCopy.com. My best ideas for daily activities are on my website.I also published a devotional entitled “Advent Journeys”, a book containing six weeks of devotionals. The devotionals are written like short diary entries and spoken by the people of our Biblical story. The diaries help the people of the Bible stories, who can at times seem two-dimensional, become three-dimensional as the reader gets a look into what their daily lives were like. Each diary entry links to the ideas found under the Advent tab on www.KosherCopy.com.Readers of Advent Journeys remark that the diaries make the Bible come alive. The favorite chapter seems to be the first week’s journal about Zechariah (John the Baptist’s father) at the Temple; the chapter has even been awarded. When a reader embarks on, and finishes the week’s journey with Zechariah, he will experience with Zechariah what it is like to serve in the Temple and tend the altar of incense in the Holy Place. The reader will see the pure joy Zechariah and Elizabeth experience when they find out about their baby.On the second week, the reader will meet Joseph and Mary and walk alongside them on their journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. During the third week the reader will join the shepherds in the fields tending sheep. He will find himself there the moment the Angel announces Christ’s birth. In the fourth week the reader will experience the anticipation and adventure of the Magi as they travel across the desert and through the throne room of King Herod in search of the newborn king.. The book, Advent Journeys, also contains a week of devotions for Chanukah. The book is meant to be read by either individuals, groups, or families: your family will enjoy reading the book together each day.Last year I did a giveaway for a short time on Kindle. This year I am asking people who read the book to share the experience by giving Advent Journeys as an Advent gift (before Thanksgiving) or a Christmas gift. My goal is for children and their families, at least for a moment, to leave the schedule and demands of the Christmas season and escape into the world of the Bible in order to seize the wonder of the first Christmas.
August 26, 2016
Children & Education
As the month of August draws to an end, families across the United States focus on the beginning of the new school year. A good education is often the key to a successful life. Children are taught math, reading, languages, social studies, and science with a dose of physical education mixed in. Curriculum is developed to help children and youth find success in their careers and in life.With the dawn of a new school year it is time to note that the most important place for a child’s education is at home. Children from the time they are born depend on their parents for all things in life: for food, for shelter, for teaching, for comfort, for security and for life.
The Bible, recognizing the importance of parents in the lives of their children, instructs parents on many occasions to teach their children. Moses instructed parents, “be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” (Dt. 4:9-10) Jewish parents repeat this every week as part of the Shema (Dt 6:4-9). Other imperatives include Deuteronomy 11:1-2129:11-29; 31:12.During my childhood I experienced my parents share the Biblical injunction as part of the Passover Seder: “When your son asks you … tell him.” (Ex 13:14; Dt. 6:20) My mother read me the Bible and my family attended synagogue together. Memories were forged which remain in my heart today.
Jesus, according to his Jewish heritage, told his disciples, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:16-17) It is the obligation of the church and of each parent to personally teach their children about God.All too often parents today, as the disciples of the Bible, send the children away. Across our nation churches put time and effort into children’s worship service “so children can understand the gospel on their own level.” But this brings irreparable harm, for through this act the church has removed responsibility for spiritual development from parents and from the family.Parents kindly say, “but my children won’t understand the pastor.” Or they share their children will get bored. Some parents have also told me the truth: “I don’t want my children to attend the service, because they bother me with questions and I cannot worship myself.” The last statement is one of extreme selfishness and displeases God (Mt 18:1-10).My wife and I took my children to worship, and throughout the years we have encouraged parents to sit next to their children in worship service. Here are some ideas to help children “grow into” worship service:First Grade: teach children to sing in worship service. You can do this by playing CDs of music sung or singing them in the car. I would sit while my children stood so they could hear me singing behind them and follow my example. During the sermon we gave our children a book or coloring book to keep them quiet, and taught them to sit during the sermon.Grade two: By this point children are reading. When the pastor read the scripture we would follow along in the Bible. Otherwise they had their book and remained quiet.Third Grade: We asked the children to share something from the sermon in the car as we left church. Through this activity we were teaching them to listen. Third graders have an 8-10 minute attention span, so asking them to hear something is totally fair.Fourth Grade: We asked the children for the theme of the message. We expected them to know what the pastor was talking about.Fifth Grade: We began to work with them on listening for the points of the sermon and the outline so we could talk about what the pastor said on the way home.My children learned what worship was about. To this day my children love the Lord and remember early lessons learned at home and in church. The Bible tells fathers to bring their children up “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Eph 6:4).One of the things I enjoy speaking about in church is how to share our faith with our children. As a Minister of Education I have studied, trained and applied time tested principles with preschool, children, and youth teachers and parents. I would be glad to come and help your church teach and reach more children. I have learned through experience that a church where the Bible is taught on the level of its students generally grows and experiences great blessings.
The Bible, recognizing the importance of parents in the lives of their children, instructs parents on many occasions to teach their children. Moses instructed parents, “be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” (Dt. 4:9-10) Jewish parents repeat this every week as part of the Shema (Dt 6:4-9). Other imperatives include Deuteronomy 11:1-2129:11-29; 31:12.During my childhood I experienced my parents share the Biblical injunction as part of the Passover Seder: “When your son asks you … tell him.” (Ex 13:14; Dt. 6:20) My mother read me the Bible and my family attended synagogue together. Memories were forged which remain in my heart today.Jesus, according to his Jewish heritage, told his disciples, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Luke 18:16-17) It is the obligation of the church and of each parent to personally teach their children about God.All too often parents today, as the disciples of the Bible, send the children away. Across our nation churches put time and effort into children’s worship service “so children can understand the gospel on their own level.” But this brings irreparable harm, for through this act the church has removed responsibility for spiritual development from parents and from the family.Parents kindly say, “but my children won’t understand the pastor.” Or they share their children will get bored. Some parents have also told me the truth: “I don’t want my children to attend the service, because they bother me with questions and I cannot worship myself.” The last statement is one of extreme selfishness and displeases God (Mt 18:1-10).My wife and I took my children to worship, and throughout the years we have encouraged parents to sit next to their children in worship service. Here are some ideas to help children “grow into” worship service:First Grade: teach children to sing in worship service. You can do this by playing CDs of music sung or singing them in the car. I would sit while my children stood so they could hear me singing behind them and follow my example. During the sermon we gave our children a book or coloring book to keep them quiet, and taught them to sit during the sermon.Grade two: By this point children are reading. When the pastor read the scripture we would follow along in the Bible. Otherwise they had their book and remained quiet.Third Grade: We asked the children to share something from the sermon in the car as we left church. Through this activity we were teaching them to listen. Third graders have an 8-10 minute attention span, so asking them to hear something is totally fair.Fourth Grade: We asked the children for the theme of the message. We expected them to know what the pastor was talking about.Fifth Grade: We began to work with them on listening for the points of the sermon and the outline so we could talk about what the pastor said on the way home.My children learned what worship was about. To this day my children love the Lord and remember early lessons learned at home and in church. The Bible tells fathers to bring their children up “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Eph 6:4).One of the things I enjoy speaking about in church is how to share our faith with our children. As a Minister of Education I have studied, trained and applied time tested principles with preschool, children, and youth teachers and parents. I would be glad to come and help your church teach and reach more children. I have learned through experience that a church where the Bible is taught on the level of its students generally grows and experiences great blessings.
August 19, 2016
What a Summer!
With the beginning of school in focus, summer travel is officially over. For my family, this summer will long be remembered. Both of my daughters were involved in archeological digs in Eretz Israel with their schools. Sarah went to Tel Gezer in May (see her blog here), and Chelsea dug at Tel Dan in July (see her blog here). Both digs had significant findings.
Joppa - Andromeda Rocks behind usI traveled to Israel with Chelsea to meet Sarah at the end of her dig. We toured Tel-Aviv, Jerusalem and areas in-between for a week and a half before joining Chelsea’s Hebrew Union archeology introduction. Four days into the lessons taught by Dr. David Ilan (which we thoroughly enjoyed), Sarah and I flew back to the United States.
Eiffel Tower in ParisAlong the way, we visited the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Sarah visited with friends in New York City.Our time together and apart in Israel allowed each of us to experience life and see sights beyond the scope of a normal tour group. The sights, sounds, smells as well as the people we met will long be remembered.
Modi'in from Ayalon Canada Park, IsraelWhat were my favorite places? I can not relate them all (see my blogs from June and July), but one of my personal favorites was Canada Park.The park was so named because Jewish communities in Canada planted trees through the area creating an attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. I talked to bikers and hikers who shared their enthusiasm for the area. The weather is often idea for outdoor recreation. The scenery is beautiful and history is to be found throughout the area.I was drawn to the park because it is close to Modi’in, home of the Maccabees of Chanukah. I had previously looked up an ancient synagogue, which I hoped to find. Before our arrival I had learned the ruins were covered over to protect them, but I could not learn of their location.I asked one group of bicyclists if they knew of the ruins. They pointed me to Emmaus, which is at the entrance to the park. Emmaus (which means warm spring) was identified by Eusebius as the site where Jesus broke bread with Cleopas. Emmaus is also recorded in 1 Maccabees 3:55-4:22 as the place Judas Maccabeus claimed a victory over the Seleucids. This was not the site of the Synagogue, so we went further.Another group of bikers pointed us up a ridge to more ruins. The view from the ridge was beautiful, looking down on the modern city of Modi’in. We took several pictures from an overlook, and more bikers too a picture of the three of us together. Then they told us of some more ruins which were on the other side of the ridge.
Hasmonean Fortress Ayalon Canada Park, IsraelWe crossed over and hiked higher up the ridge. There appeared before us a long wall of large stone. Inside the wall we found ruins of buildings along with olive presses. From the ruins we could look across Ayalon Valley to Latrun Hill (where Sarah stayed during her dig) and Gezer. [for more photography from this area see background photos on Sarah’s website … excellent job Sarah!!]
Looking across Ayalon Valley toward GezerThe ruins are called Eked Antiquities, and is a fortress built by the Hasmoneans (Maccabeaus) in about 167 BC. Soldiers of Simon Bar Kochba also used this fortress and dug “get-away” tunnels through the cisterns of the fortress. We later saw more information on these tunnels and a note written by Simon Bar Kochba at the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv.
Sign in Eretz Israel MuseumDo you like adventure? If so, I want to invite you to go with my family to Israel in June 2018. We will walk and explore the land. (Yes, we will have busses, if you do not want to walk, but something is missed unless we journey at least part of the way on foot, as the people of Jesus’ day walked the land.) I promise that on the trip we will explore new places, learning more about the land and the people of the Bible. If you are interested in this trip, please let me know. The trip is limited to about 50 people, which is one bus load.
No deposit is needed at this time, only a group of people who say, “I’m interested.”
Joppa - Andromeda Rocks behind usI traveled to Israel with Chelsea to meet Sarah at the end of her dig. We toured Tel-Aviv, Jerusalem and areas in-between for a week and a half before joining Chelsea’s Hebrew Union archeology introduction. Four days into the lessons taught by Dr. David Ilan (which we thoroughly enjoyed), Sarah and I flew back to the United States.Eiffel Tower in ParisAlong the way, we visited the Eiffel Tower in Paris and Sarah visited with friends in New York City.Our time together and apart in Israel allowed each of us to experience life and see sights beyond the scope of a normal tour group. The sights, sounds, smells as well as the people we met will long be remembered.Modi'in from Ayalon Canada Park, IsraelWhat were my favorite places? I can not relate them all (see my blogs from June and July), but one of my personal favorites was Canada Park.The park was so named because Jewish communities in Canada planted trees through the area creating an attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. I talked to bikers and hikers who shared their enthusiasm for the area. The weather is often idea for outdoor recreation. The scenery is beautiful and history is to be found throughout the area.I was drawn to the park because it is close to Modi’in, home of the Maccabees of Chanukah. I had previously looked up an ancient synagogue, which I hoped to find. Before our arrival I had learned the ruins were covered over to protect them, but I could not learn of their location.I asked one group of bicyclists if they knew of the ruins. They pointed me to Emmaus, which is at the entrance to the park. Emmaus (which means warm spring) was identified by Eusebius as the site where Jesus broke bread with Cleopas. Emmaus is also recorded in 1 Maccabees 3:55-4:22 as the place Judas Maccabeus claimed a victory over the Seleucids. This was not the site of the Synagogue, so we went further.Another group of bikers pointed us up a ridge to more ruins. The view from the ridge was beautiful, looking down on the modern city of Modi’in. We took several pictures from an overlook, and more bikers too a picture of the three of us together. Then they told us of some more ruins which were on the other side of the ridge.Hasmonean Fortress Ayalon Canada Park, IsraelWe crossed over and hiked higher up the ridge. There appeared before us a long wall of large stone. Inside the wall we found ruins of buildings along with olive presses. From the ruins we could look across Ayalon Valley to Latrun Hill (where Sarah stayed during her dig) and Gezer. [for more photography from this area see background photos on Sarah’s website … excellent job Sarah!!]Looking across Ayalon Valley toward GezerThe ruins are called Eked Antiquities, and is a fortress built by the Hasmoneans (Maccabeaus) in about 167 BC. Soldiers of Simon Bar Kochba also used this fortress and dug “get-away” tunnels through the cisterns of the fortress. We later saw more information on these tunnels and a note written by Simon Bar Kochba at the Eretz Israel Museum in Tel Aviv.Sign in Eretz Israel MuseumDo you like adventure? If so, I want to invite you to go with my family to Israel in June 2018. We will walk and explore the land. (Yes, we will have busses, if you do not want to walk, but something is missed unless we journey at least part of the way on foot, as the people of Jesus’ day walked the land.) I promise that on the trip we will explore new places, learning more about the land and the people of the Bible. If you are interested in this trip, please let me know. The trip is limited to about 50 people, which is one bus load.No deposit is needed at this time, only a group of people who say, “I’m interested.”
August 12, 2016
Politics 2016
Yes, we are in that season … like it or not.The politicians (Democrat, Green, Libertarian, Republican, Publican and Sinners) are attempting to out Trump each other and spreading Hillarity on the evening comedy shows. They are collecting money and spending money. They are pounding on doors, making telephones ring around the nation and will soon be pushing out anything other than political advertisements on television.The politicians are spreading truths and half-truths alongside believable non-truths. How do you know which is what? Through commentators, of course! And the commentators are easy to find, on every newsstand, in many magazines, on the radio and television. They can even be found spreading like summer weeds and viruses by twitterpated followers on Facebook and other social media.Will they help us or hurt us? Only time will tell, not the near future but in the time beyond what is called current. We will have a clue by the end of their term, and then they will be judged by history in about fifty years.Will they solve our problems? For some of them, the answer is yes.So, where can we find a savior offering the hope and help we desire? [ok, the hint was obvious] He is the One who tells us, “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn,and provide for those who grieve in Zion-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. Aliens will shepherd your flocks; foreigners will work your fields and vineyards. And you will be called priests of the LORD, you will be named ministers of our God. You will feed on the wealth of nations, and in their riches you will boast.”If we want to change our communities, our counties, our states, our nation and the world, it must be done by us. Jesus set the pattern, sending His disciples saying, “preach this message: `The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep.”We, members of “the church” are to solve the world’s problems … one life at a time. We are to bring light into the darkness. What about the sin issues of our nation? The government was never intended to solve those. We are to go and share the Gospel. [have you ever shared the gospel with anyone?] What about poverty? Look at the government’s track record on solving this problem, it is abysmal. Only the Love of Christ can change hearts and lives, cleansing our souls and our nation. [for more info read Deuteronomy 27-28 … also Deuteronomy 17:14-20]
August 5, 2016
Speaking to Groups, Bible Studies and Jerusalem Tours
In my last post I began telling how I taught Adult Vacation Bible School at Fairview Baptist Church recently. The lessons were simple, and well known: Zacchaeus (little man up in a tree), Samaritan Woman (came to the well), Nicodemus (came to Jesus at night), Blind Bartimaeus, and Jesus’ rebuff to his disciples “Let the children come to me.”
The Cardio ... Main Street in JerusalemOne lesson which captured the people’s interest was on Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. He was of the wealthy ruling class of the city of Jerusalem. As I began the lesson, I took my class to places I did not know existed until only recently.
Herodian Home from the Wohl MuseumOn my last visit to Israel with Chelsea and Sarah we visited the Wohl museum and the Western Wall Tunnel. These tours were a fascinating exploration of the city as known by the Nicodemus of John 3. I shared pictures from the upper city where the High Priest lived. The class also viewed maps of the bridge which connected the upper city to the Temple. Then I showed pictures of our tour under the bridge, then north along the wall of the Temple. We walked on the very streets where Jesus walked, and experienced a part of Jerusalem frozen in time.
Basement level of a Herodian home. The Mikvah is down there.I showed the class mikvah pools in Jerusalem. These included both ancient pools which had been dug up and modern pools. We learned about the purpose of cleansing, and visited a few of the pools near the Temple. I also showed how the Essenes cleansed themselves. The Essenes were a Jewish group who lived in the desert, south of Jericho and near the Dead Sea. Some think John the Baptist was an Essene.
Qumran, home of the EssenesI shared differences between Essenes, Pharisees, Sadducees, and Zealots. We also looked at the Herodians and the Sanhedrin. I shared pictures, experiences in Israel, and readings from Josephus and the MIshnah. The class began to understand life in Jerusalem in the days of Jesus and the religious groups which vied for power. The evening tour brought Jerusalem to life. 
Street Jesus walked on -from Underground Western Wall TourOur story the third night of Adult VBS was about Nicodemus, who came to Jesus at night. This was not because he was fearful, but because he walked in Spiritual Darkness. He wanted to know how Jesus performed miracles. Jesus said, “you must be born again.” Jesus explained that Nicodemus must be born anew through the Spirit of God. He must come to know the gift which Jesus came to give. “No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man.” Jesus explained to Nicodemus how God gave His only Son so whoever believes might have eternal life. Jesus explained light which came into the world, and Nicodemus understood. The Bible tells us Nicodemus came into the light.
Robinson Arch and southern approach to Temple MountI desire to share the light of the Bible with Christians so they can understand Israel and Jerusalem in the days of Jesus. Perhaps the best way to do this is to take people to the very streets where Jesus walked. I have written about my desire to take a group to Israel in June 2018. Will you go with me?
Jerusalem from the top of the Tower of David MuseumSome cannot travel with me to Israel, so I want to mention a second way to take the trip (not as good, but still very worthwhile). I have put together several presentations to bring Israel to your church. I am available to speak to Senior Adult groups, Sunday school classes, and worship services to share tours of Israel. For more information, please contact me.
Vacation Bible School group at Fairview Baptist Church, StatesvilleMy presentations include pictorial tours of various areas of Israel as well as bringing the Bible to life for people. I want to help people walk in the shoes of men and women of the Bible so they can better understand the world about which they read.
I also share (visit KosherCopy on Facebook) the Jewish Passover (and other holidays) in order for people to understand the culture of the people of the Bible. And I enjoy taking people on a tour of the Tabernacle built by Moses in the Wilderness. As we tour the Tabernacle, people come to understand what God desires of us in worship and how we can please God.
The Cardio ... Main Street in JerusalemOne lesson which captured the people’s interest was on Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin. He was of the wealthy ruling class of the city of Jerusalem. As I began the lesson, I took my class to places I did not know existed until only recently.Herodian Home from the Wohl MuseumOn my last visit to Israel with Chelsea and Sarah we visited the Wohl museum and the Western Wall Tunnel. These tours were a fascinating exploration of the city as known by the Nicodemus of John 3. I shared pictures from the upper city where the High Priest lived. The class also viewed maps of the bridge which connected the upper city to the Temple. Then I showed pictures of our tour under the bridge, then north along the wall of the Temple. We walked on the very streets where Jesus walked, and experienced a part of Jerusalem frozen in time.Basement level of a Herodian home. The Mikvah is down there.I showed the class mikvah pools in Jerusalem. These included both ancient pools which had been dug up and modern pools. We learned about the purpose of cleansing, and visited a few of the pools near the Temple. I also showed how the Essenes cleansed themselves. The Essenes were a Jewish group who lived in the desert, south of Jericho and near the Dead Sea. Some think John the Baptist was an Essene.Qumran, home of the EssenesI shared differences between Essenes, Pharisees, Sadducees, and Zealots. We also looked at the Herodians and the Sanhedrin. I shared pictures, experiences in Israel, and readings from Josephus and the MIshnah. The class began to understand life in Jerusalem in the days of Jesus and the religious groups which vied for power. The evening tour brought Jerusalem to life. Street Jesus walked on -from Underground Western Wall TourOur story the third night of Adult VBS was about Nicodemus, who came to Jesus at night. This was not because he was fearful, but because he walked in Spiritual Darkness. He wanted to know how Jesus performed miracles. Jesus said, “you must be born again.” Jesus explained that Nicodemus must be born anew through the Spirit of God. He must come to know the gift which Jesus came to give. “No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man.” Jesus explained to Nicodemus how God gave His only Son so whoever believes might have eternal life. Jesus explained light which came into the world, and Nicodemus understood. The Bible tells us Nicodemus came into the light.Robinson Arch and southern approach to Temple MountI desire to share the light of the Bible with Christians so they can understand Israel and Jerusalem in the days of Jesus. Perhaps the best way to do this is to take people to the very streets where Jesus walked. I have written about my desire to take a group to Israel in June 2018. Will you go with me?Jerusalem from the top of the Tower of David MuseumSome cannot travel with me to Israel, so I want to mention a second way to take the trip (not as good, but still very worthwhile). I have put together several presentations to bring Israel to your church. I am available to speak to Senior Adult groups, Sunday school classes, and worship services to share tours of Israel. For more information, please contact me.Vacation Bible School group at Fairview Baptist Church, StatesvilleMy presentations include pictorial tours of various areas of Israel as well as bringing the Bible to life for people. I want to help people walk in the shoes of men and women of the Bible so they can better understand the world about which they read.I also share (visit KosherCopy on Facebook) the Jewish Passover (and other holidays) in order for people to understand the culture of the people of the Bible. And I enjoy taking people on a tour of the Tabernacle built by Moses in the Wilderness. As we tour the Tabernacle, people come to understand what God desires of us in worship and how we can please God.
July 30, 2016
Sharing Jericho from our tour in Israel
Recently I taught Adult Vacation Bible School at Fairview Baptist Church. The lessons were simple, and well known: Zacchaeus (little man up in a tree), Samaritan Woman (came to the well), Nicodemus (came to Jesus at night), Blind Bartimaeus, and Jesus’ rebuff to his disciples of “Let the children come to me.”
Fairview Baptist Church, Statesville, NCThe group I was teaching was well versed in the scripture, and I knew some of them had studied the Bible stories twenty or more times. I did not feel comfortable moving away from the curriculum lessons, so I prayed, and the Lord showed me how to teach the all too familiar lessons in a different way.
Ben Gurion Airport on our 2012 trip to IsraelThe inspiration came because of my recent trip to Israel. I could see, feel, and hear elements of the Bible stories through my experiences at the locations and on the very streets these events took place. I decided to take my class “on location” so they could experience the stories also.
"Elisha's Well" in JerichoFor the first lesson I brought my class to the well in Jericho, Israel. As we sat facing the well, I told them how important water was for the land of Israel. Elijah had visited this well and healed its waters.
Bedouin village in Jordan. Mt. Nebo is in the backgroundNot only had Elijah visited Jericho, but also Joshua as Israel was entering the land. The people came down from the mountains of Nebo and crossed the Jordan River (on a familiar trade route). They prayed at Gilgal, and then approached the walled city of Jericho.
Excavated walls of Jericho. Notice the different types of walls.After marching around the walls seven times, the walls fell down. They gave the first city taken in the land as a “first fruits” offering totally dedicated to God. Only Rahab and her family were saved.
Date Palm farm south of Jericho near the Dead SeaI showed the class that Jericho is in a rich agricultural valley. In addition to commercial opportunity which came from Jericho sitting on the trade routes, they raised sheep, camels, dates, bananas, and other produce. Taxes were collected on each commodity and at every opportunity.
A village in Jordan Valley. Olive Trees in foreground.The amenities of Jericho drew the richest people in the world. Jericho is well below sea level, so winters are mild. The air is dry and allergies are few. Herod had a palace in Jericho and Cleopatra had business interests in the area.
Ruins of King Herod's Winter Palace in JerichoZacchaeus was the Roman-backed IRS. Within the lessons monologues were given by the toll collectors on the roads, the agricultural tariff takers, the commercial tax agents who received a portion of goods sold, and the real estate tax assessors. All of these “publicans” worked for Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector. He was very rich.
Camel for Tourists entering JerichoThe Bible tells us Jesus entered Jericho from the north. As he approached the city gates a blind man called out for healing. Jesus healed him before entering the city. As the report of the healing spread through the city gates, Zacchaeus heard. Because he was short, he could not fight the crowd and climbed up in a Sycamore tree (the saviour he wanted to see).
Perhaps Zacchaeus climbed a tree like this in Jericho city squareJesus called him down, and ate lunch at his home that day. The discussion at the home of Zacchaeus is not recorded in the Bible, but the results are. This man of wealth, who in a sense lorded over the people of Jericho, gave half of his wealth to the poor. Then he restored fourfold all that he had taken illegally.Class members shared with me what they received from the lesson. My journeys to Israel enabled me to share the old story in a refreshing way. Can a trip to Israel refresh and bring a new sense of reality to your understanding of God’s word?
Join me next timeI am planning a trip to Israel in 2018, probably in June. To accomplish this I need 45 people who will travel with me to Israel. The cost will be about $5,000 per person (start saving money now)! … Let me know you are interested … and I will put you on the mailing list (no obligation at this point).I will let you know through e-mails the steps in the planning process. If you are interested, you can help confirm the date (June 2018), or help set another date. I will be asking along the way what you want to see in Israel. Over the next year (until March 2017) I will be collecting ideas in order to plan. Then I will be talking to an experienced tour leader who will help put the trip together. (The price and plans will be complete about a year before the trip). My e-mail is KosherCopy@gmail.com. (Write to let me know you are interested, or to ask questions).I will let you know of other plans as they develop, such as a potential add-on dig in the land, or an add-on side trip. What I need now is simply people who are interested (no obligation) and ideas for the trip.
Fairview Baptist Church, Statesville, NCThe group I was teaching was well versed in the scripture, and I knew some of them had studied the Bible stories twenty or more times. I did not feel comfortable moving away from the curriculum lessons, so I prayed, and the Lord showed me how to teach the all too familiar lessons in a different way.Ben Gurion Airport on our 2012 trip to IsraelThe inspiration came because of my recent trip to Israel. I could see, feel, and hear elements of the Bible stories through my experiences at the locations and on the very streets these events took place. I decided to take my class “on location” so they could experience the stories also."Elisha's Well" in JerichoFor the first lesson I brought my class to the well in Jericho, Israel. As we sat facing the well, I told them how important water was for the land of Israel. Elijah had visited this well and healed its waters.Bedouin village in Jordan. Mt. Nebo is in the backgroundNot only had Elijah visited Jericho, but also Joshua as Israel was entering the land. The people came down from the mountains of Nebo and crossed the Jordan River (on a familiar trade route). They prayed at Gilgal, and then approached the walled city of Jericho.Excavated walls of Jericho. Notice the different types of walls.After marching around the walls seven times, the walls fell down. They gave the first city taken in the land as a “first fruits” offering totally dedicated to God. Only Rahab and her family were saved.Date Palm farm south of Jericho near the Dead SeaI showed the class that Jericho is in a rich agricultural valley. In addition to commercial opportunity which came from Jericho sitting on the trade routes, they raised sheep, camels, dates, bananas, and other produce. Taxes were collected on each commodity and at every opportunity.A village in Jordan Valley. Olive Trees in foreground.The amenities of Jericho drew the richest people in the world. Jericho is well below sea level, so winters are mild. The air is dry and allergies are few. Herod had a palace in Jericho and Cleopatra had business interests in the area.Ruins of King Herod's Winter Palace in JerichoZacchaeus was the Roman-backed IRS. Within the lessons monologues were given by the toll collectors on the roads, the agricultural tariff takers, the commercial tax agents who received a portion of goods sold, and the real estate tax assessors. All of these “publicans” worked for Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector. He was very rich.Camel for Tourists entering JerichoThe Bible tells us Jesus entered Jericho from the north. As he approached the city gates a blind man called out for healing. Jesus healed him before entering the city. As the report of the healing spread through the city gates, Zacchaeus heard. Because he was short, he could not fight the crowd and climbed up in a Sycamore tree (the saviour he wanted to see).Perhaps Zacchaeus climbed a tree like this in Jericho city squareJesus called him down, and ate lunch at his home that day. The discussion at the home of Zacchaeus is not recorded in the Bible, but the results are. This man of wealth, who in a sense lorded over the people of Jericho, gave half of his wealth to the poor. Then he restored fourfold all that he had taken illegally.Class members shared with me what they received from the lesson. My journeys to Israel enabled me to share the old story in a refreshing way. Can a trip to Israel refresh and bring a new sense of reality to your understanding of God’s word?Join me next timeI am planning a trip to Israel in 2018, probably in June. To accomplish this I need 45 people who will travel with me to Israel. The cost will be about $5,000 per person (start saving money now)! … Let me know you are interested … and I will put you on the mailing list (no obligation at this point).I will let you know through e-mails the steps in the planning process. If you are interested, you can help confirm the date (June 2018), or help set another date. I will be asking along the way what you want to see in Israel. Over the next year (until March 2017) I will be collecting ideas in order to plan. Then I will be talking to an experienced tour leader who will help put the trip together. (The price and plans will be complete about a year before the trip). My e-mail is KosherCopy@gmail.com. (Write to let me know you are interested, or to ask questions).I will let you know of other plans as they develop, such as a potential add-on dig in the land, or an add-on side trip. What I need now is simply people who are interested (no obligation) and ideas for the trip.
