Leaping to Success 
A Shaping Vision
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Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. (Proverbs 31:25)

Twenty-eight years ago, I worked at a large, old company in Dayton, Ohio. I thrived in the collaborative environment! Every day, a huge stack of mail was dumped on my desk to distribute. A little booklet appeared in the mail that no one wanted, so I read it. It gave a list of principles for achieving one’s goals. I was attracted to its purity, simplicity, and freshness.

The Hebrew Names of God Collection 
A Story

The Hebrew Names of God Collection is shown on Page 1 of our new catalog. It contains 12 art cards, each with a different Name of God. The back of each card includes Scripture references, devotional thoughts, and connections to both Testaments.

The Two G’s 
Gossip and Grudges
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There were two Hebrew idioms that were popular at the time of Yeshua (Jesus). I learned them from Brandon of Brandon Robbins Ministry. I will share the simple definitions of these idioms along with my thoughts about them… and then, I will get personal, so I hope you will keep reading!

Do you see Him? 
Peter’s Letter, Part 1
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The Apostle Peter’s first letter was written to “those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen…”[1] Every word of his letter served the purpose of encouraging them to stand strong in the face of the horrific persecution surrounding them.  

As I sat at my table after reading Peter’s letter, the encouragement that surfaced was to see Him.

In His Dust 
Abolishing and Fulfilling
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The word Scripture is mentioned over 50 times in the New Testament. It refers to the Tenakh which had been the Bible of the Jewish people in Yeshua’s day for over 200 years. Their Tenakh was (and is) composed of three portions – The Torah (first five books of Moses), the Prophets, and the Writings. (See Luke 24:44 as an example.)

In His Dust 
The history and culture surrounding Yeshua’s life and teaching, A Brief Overview
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My Greatest Gift 
A message given on the day with the shortest period of daylight when the earth reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun. Today and always, Jesus is the Light of the world!
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The Greatest Gift anyone ever gave me was my new birth. It was given to me by my Father. I know I had to receive it, but I don’t remember receiving it. I just remember Him reaching out His hand into my darkness and touching me with a light so bright, I felt like I was swimming in a huge ocean of love, joy, and wholeness. I was completely new. It was like the words in a song – It was a “holy collision.” It was like the words that fell from Mary’s lips...

In His Dust 
The Nativity Festival
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These facts and suggestions were gleaned from Dwight Pryor’s message called The Christmas Controversy. It has been condensed from seven pages to one. I offer it because my subscribers encompass a diversity of understanding and conviction. This message refreshed me!

Facts about The Nativity Festival

• Just because Christmas is not mentioned in the Bible, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t celebrate Messiah’s birth. Post-biblical does not mean anti-biblical. Matthew and Luke both share this story that changed history forever! One more example among many of a post-biblical celebration is Hanukkah. Yeshua went up to the Temple in Jerusalem for this Feast of Dedication (John 10:22-23).

In His Dust 
Binding and Loosing
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Yeshua (Jesus) said to Peter, “I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:19)

The Hebrew ’āsar (bind) and hitir (loose) have many meanings in the Bible. In the first century, they meant prohibit and permit and pertained to what was prohibited or permitted according to the Torah (or Law, teachings of Yahweh).

In His Dust – A Quick Recap of the Purpose

In His Dust is a series based on my notes from Dwight Pryor’s teaching. (For details about him, please see In His Dust – An Overview at ShaleFragments.com.) Yeshua and His disciples were thoroughly Jewish and immersed in the study of the Tenakh (the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings). They spoke and studied in Hebrew. Since the New Testament was originally recorded in Hebrew before being translated into Greek, it is most valuable to learn the Hebraic context, meanings, and idioms that are not always apparent in the Greek. My ongoing study for this series pursues this goal.

Shalom,
Beth Ann

In His Dust – An Overview 
His Word, Our Defense
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Recently, I heard an online roundtable discussion among leaders who are exposing corruption and bringing truth to light so we can act accordingly. Each leader was asked, “What can we do?” One man said something I didn’t expect given the topics of discussion – he said, “We must learn all we can about Yeshua (Jesus). We must know Him, spend time with Him, and follow Him. Then, we will be ready.”

Are You Thirsty? 
Yeshua’s Supreme Invitation
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Are you thirsty?
Are you hungry?
Are you hungry for good to overcome evil?
Are you hungry for unconditional love?
Are you hungry to overcome habits that threaten your well-being?
Are you hungry for someone to listen… someone who would really hear?

Permeating Rest 
His Desire and Design
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In my writing from October 11, Coming Home for the Holy Days, I shared ways our faith in Yeshua (Jesus) is true, high, and distinct from all other worldviews or so-called “religions.” Here are three of many ways:

Acute Anchor Awareness
Our Sure Hope
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God is our Anchor of Hope. When we are acutely aware of our Anchor, we live in abundance and rest. “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us...” Hebrews 6:19

Our Anchor is

1. Our Reality
2. Our New Birth
3. Our Definer

The Highest Form of Worship 
Learning from the Master
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In his book New Light on the Difficult Words of Jesus, Insights from His Jewish Context, David Bivin writes about the first century schools in which Jewish children began their study of Torah (the first five books of our Old Testament) at five years of age. He writes,

“One might assume that the synagogue as the place of worship would be considered more important or more sacred than the schools, but this was not the case. To this day the bet midrash [the secondary school in which children and adults studied Torah and the oral traditions] is given more prominence than the synagogues – not because education is valued more highly than worship, but because Judaism does not make a distinction between the two. Indeed, Judaism has always held that study of Torah is one of the highest forms of worship.”

In His Dust
Staying Close
A very short devotional and prayer
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As I continue to learn more about Yeshua (Jesus) by understanding the culture in which He lived, I fall more and more in love with Him! The autumn tasks seem to multiply, but I want to keep lots of room for this pursuit!

Coming Home for the Holy Days 
Coming Home to Him
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He is our Home
Most days my heart can barely take the news. How thankful I am that Yahweh, the Eternally-Existent, Majestic Creator, and Sovereign One is our only Home. Although He has allowed the waywardness of humankind to run its course, He is full of hesed (His indescribable, undeserved, vast love) to those who seek Him. Our faith in Him is true and high and distinct from every other so-called “religion” because:

Stress Relief 
Finding calm, clarity, and cleansing
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Dorcas came to my home a few weeks ago. Although I had never met her, I knew her like a sister. We had conversed many times, mostly through email. She is one of those called forth[1] gems in the body of Messiah. We had been praying for years to blanket certain communities in northeast Ohio with Flower Girl Greetings Art Cards. Finally, the day came. We filled her van and prayed for the ways the cards would be distributed and hearts would be softened and transformed by His Word of life.

His Very Words, Part 5 
Unsnatchable and Unhindered – An Understanding of the Jewish Context
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This study will show the importance of interpreting the New Testament from the Jewish perspective in which it was written. You may want to read the first four parts of His Very Words before you begin - Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4!

His Very Words, Part 4 
Interferences to Hunger – Delight Deficiency, Dessert, Difficult Passages, and Distractions
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Before reading this Part 4 of His Very Words, it might be helpful to read Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 first!

A good friend met me over lunch this week. I don’t see her often because her children, grandchildren and other responsibilities keep her life full! She is overwhelmed most days. But she said, “I cannot miss my time with God in the morning. It is the best part of my day.” She delights in God’s presence and the rest falls into place with few interferences to her hunger for His Word.

His Very Words, Part 3 
Infallible, Inexhaustible Word – How I know the Bible is His Very Words
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The image for this post is a photograph I took at the location in Israel where the Dead Sea scrolls were found.

His Very Words, Part 2 
Invaluable, Irreplaceable Word – And a Fun, Do-able Reading Plan
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Amos, a sheepherder from Tekoa (about 10 miles south of Jerusalem), prophesied to the northern kingdom of Israel in about 750 BC with a call for justice. He cried out against the unspeakable transgressions of Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, Moab, and even worse, against Judah and Israel to whom He had given His covenant and precious statutes.

After a lengthy dirge, Amos called out to the house of Israel:

• “Seek Me that you may live” (Amos 5:4) and,
• “Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord God, “When I will send a famine on the land, not a famine for bread or a thirst for water, but rather for hearing the words of the Lord.”

Beautiful Word
An oil painting of three passions

The original artwork for this greeting card was created in an oil painting workshop taught by nationally-known impressionist painter and friend, Mark Gingerich. I arranged the still life that included items representing my passions – my Bible, flowers and study books, symbolizing the beauty and depth of God’s Word. 

His Very Words, Part 1 
Accuracy of Translation – A Fresh, Life-giving Perspective
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The spiritual gifts Father has given to each one of us rise within us despite the batterings and surprises of life. We may even be taken out for a while, but the Holy Spirit in us shines like a clear and perfect star through imperfect circumstances and unique personalities.

Eternal, Life-Giving Word 
Our Certainty in Difficult Times
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Greetings to you on this hot July weekend! This morning, the garden has been watered, the laundry started, the kitchen cleaned up, and here I am with a message on my heart!

He Rested
A Missing Piece Found
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One of my greatest delights recently has been writing a soon-to-be-printed booklet for a Passover Seder called The Feast of the Lamb, Past, Present, and Future – A Passover/Resurrection Devotional Haggadah.

The purpose of this booklet will be to make it easy for you to gather friends around your table each spring to celebrate Passover and to remember the Lord’s deliverance (unless He returns first)! I plan to use the booklet at other times of the year, because writing it has been a worshipful experience for me.

Making Forgiveness a Reality 
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As the darkness deepens around us, we need spiritual sight more than ever to discern truth and hear God’s voice. He calls us to start by humbling ourselves (2 Chronicles 7:14). Last week, I shared three papers called Beautiful Progressions of Repentance to help us.

Part of humbling ourselves is walking tangibly in forgiveness. I like to ask Father simple questions, and so in my need to be sure my heart was clear toward the one who sinned against me, I asked, “What is forgiveness? When does the idea of forgiveness become a reality?”

His Promise of Freedom
He brought me forth into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me. (Psalm 18:19)
(my completely untouched photograph of vineyards and cherry trees on Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan)
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Loving Him First
This morning, the Lord reminded me of a revelation He gave to me 20 years ago. I was single. My pastor encouraged me to attend The Great Commandment Principle Seminar given by David Ferguson. In a moment during the seminar, I sat stunned, awed from head to toe. Mr. Ferguson read the words of Yeshua from John 14:15, “If you love Me, you will keep my commandments.” Then, he asked us –
“What if this statement is not a warning, but a promise?”

The Place of Knowledge and Understanding 
John 8:31-32
A Short Devotional and Simple Reminder
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Yeshua was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly disciples of Mine, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (John 8:31-32)

Monday morning, I sat at my dining table. My Bible was open – Adonai’s[1] love letter that has been with me for so many years through thick and thin.

A Passover Meditation 
We have passed through the waters of forgiveness into freedom!
This writing is a sequel to The Feast of the Lamb[1]
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The Israelites’ deliverance from judgment at Passover by the blood of spotless lambs foreshadows our deliverance from judgment through the blood of the Passover Lamb, Yeshua the Messiah.

The Israelites’ subsequent deliverance out of the enemy’s control through the Red Sea foreshadows our deliverance out of the enemy’s control through our new birth in the Holy Spirit.
We have passed through the waters of forgiveness into freedom!

The Feast of the Lamb – Past, Present, and Future 
Passover – Our Heritage Forever
(This writing may be used during your Passover celebration)
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In this writing I use the Name Yahweh (YHWH) for the Lord God, since it is His Name used in the book of Exodus.[1] I use Yeshua, Jesus’ Hebrew name, and kedoshim, the Hebrew word for God’s set apart ones and His children.[2] These names are highlighted in crimson to create a sense of the oneness of our family.

When we look back to that first Passover Feast over 3,000 years ago and to Yeshua’s Passover Feast with His disciples over 2,000 years ago, and then look forward to that glorious Feast with Yeshua in our Father’s kingdom, His shalom blankets us with an incredible sense of belonging to His family and with an assurance of His redemption. He chose us, adopted us, loves us, and invites us to remember His sacrifice and hope!

The trees clap 
You will go out with joy!
Isaiah 55:12

The original artwork for this art card was created with vibrant Ukrainian ink dyes and pointed pen calligraphy. The dyes were sprinkled and sprayed across the paper. The delicate lettering on the spray is Isaiah 55:12, “The trees clap their hands!”

Our Father 
The Lord's Prayer

In the 1990s in my small art room, I would press pansies in phone books and let them dry for a few months. Then, I would arrange them in sprays on different papers using glue sticks. Then, I would calligraphy with the script pen around the floral designs. I loved how the flourishing of the Zanerian Script alphabet harmonized with the shapes of the flowers!

Nani 
A Brief Beauty

The text on the back of the card is:
This rare hibiscus, a gift from a friend, took my breath away one morning. The span of her bloom measured eight inches and lasted one day. Another friend named her Nani, the Hawaiian word for beautiful or splendor. Her photograph was superimposed onto a green watercolor wash to show off her exquisite salmon color.

Spacious place 
He rescued me!
Psalm 18:19

The calligraphed words on this card were a result of my Hebrew word study for this verse.
He brought me forth into a spacious place of freedom;
He rescued me because He delights in me!

High mercy 
Psalm 103:11

All of God’s works are covered by the huge umbrella of His love. Everything He does emanates from the higher purpose of His love!

The Mountain View
Transfixed by His Glory
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When I was a teenager, my family vacationed in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. I vividly remember sitting on top of a huge sand dune at dusk to see the view of the shoreline. I remember the deep loneliness I felt, wanting to share the experience with a forever-partner who would love me always no matter what.

Spirit of power 
Do not be afraid
2 Timothy 1:7

The original art for this card was commissioned by a counselor for his office wall. It was quite large and matted and framed. The art is called an illumination because the text has been decorated. It incorporates four calligraphy styles:

Springs in the midst 
Refreshment in the valleys

He brings forth springs in the midst of the valleys;
They flow between the mountains.  Psalm 104:10

In the valleys, God’s presence brings springs of refreshing until that time when we are through the valley and walking up the mountain again.

Chosen for the Surge
His Purpose vs. My Dreams
Written August 17, 2020, revised February 16, 2022
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His Purpose
As Yeshua (Jesus) and His disciples walked from their last Passover feast together through the gates of Jerusalem and on toward the garden of Gethsemane in the night, He spoke these words, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should remain that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you." (John 15:16)

The original Greek word for appoint is tith’emi and means to place. Yeshua chose you and placed you. Your calling is His choosing, His placing, and His purpose.

Purifying Fire 
A New Beginning
My Biblically Based Personal Journey through January 2022
January 29, 2022
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“Rejoice in this, even though for a little while you may have to experience grief in various trials. Even gold is tested for genuineness by fire. The purpose of these trials is so that your trust’s genuineness, which is far more valuable than perishable gold, will be judged worthy of praise, glory, and honor at the revealing of Yeshua the Messiah.” (1 Peter 1:6-7, CJB, Complete Jewish Bible)

Made for Another World 
Windows into Joy
written December 18, 2021
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On Saturday morning, December 18, 2021, I awoke after a long night’s sleep to waves of thoughts, all connecting into a powerful revelation that produced joy in me. I grabbed my journal to capture the thoughts. After writing them down, I realized what I so often realize when writing… that the thoughts were not particularly profound in themselves; but rather they were powerful because they were personal. The Lord simply wanted to give me joy.

Readiness for Yeshua’s Return 
He is eager to come for you!
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Every message these days seems to flow from the Song of Songs. He is coming back for us, His Bride! We are the delight of His heart, created in His image, the apple of His eye, the crown of His creation!

His love is our driving force for readiness. Let’s love Him back with all our hearts, minds, souls, and strength by the power of the Holy Spirit!

Quiet confidence 
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Dear friends,

At the end of this writing, I share the steps I took to paint this landscape. If you follow the simple instructions, I think it would be fun for you to try. This method would also be fun to share with children. But first, here is a bit about the text on the card:

The words on the front of the Quiet confidence Art Card are:
In returning and rest you will be saved; in quietness and trust is your strength. (Isaiah 30:15)

The Song of Songs 
Deepening in His Love
A Preface
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My in-depth study of the Song of Songs began in 2016 when my husband and I listened to Rabbi K.A. Schneider’s DVD series Song of Songs – Journeying into Divine Love. As we listened over a period of weeks, I read Jill Shannon’s book Unveiling the Song of Songs and aligned her chapters with the DVD series. Later a dear friend and customer from Oregon, Lois Jean, who mentored many young women until she went home to be with her Bridegroom, introduced me to other books on the Song of Songs.

The Song of Songs 
Deepening in His Love
Part 3 of 5
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As I wrote in The Song of Songs – An Overview, Jewish thought teaches three progressions of intimacy:  Proverbs is the outer court; Psalms is the inner court; and The Song of Songs is the Holy of Holies. Our goal in this study is to seek God’s revelation of the love He has for us until the reality and depth of His love seeps into every fiber of our being, and we experience Him intimately in the Holy of Holies.

Messiah Now 
Visions of Yeshua revealed in His eternal state. Let us look upon Him and live!
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We most often picture Yeshua as He walked on the earth in human form as recorded in the historical narratives of the Gospels of the New Testament, because His glory was revealed to us in this way (John 1:14). But, how does He appear now as He intercedes for us? Although His splendor is beyond description, the Scripture gives us a glimpse into His eternal majesty!

The Birth of Messiah 
O Come Let Us Adore Him!
New Perspectives
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(See also A Chronology of Jesus Birth. This writing merges the Biblical accounts of His birth and is great for family reading. Print the PDF here.)

• When was He born?
• Where was He born?
• What did the wise men know?

“I glorified You on the earth having accomplished the work You have given Me to do. Now, Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.” (John 17:4-5)

Yeshua Messiah existed before all time. His physical birth into the world allowed our finite frames to see and receive His glory. He visited us and accomplished our redemption! (Luke 1:68) So, when was He born?

Beckoning Almond Blossoms 
A Symbol of Eager Anticipation
A Hanukkah Message
A Dream and a Devotional
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The celebration of Hanukkah began last night this year, November 28^th, at sunset and ends at nightfall on December 6^th. I would like to share with you how I will recognize Hanukkah this year in a new way!

The Wooing God 
A Brief Summary of the Bible
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God created the heavens and the earth and all they contain. He created man and woman for relationship with Himself. He expressed His love to them with His presence and an earth full of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and pleasures to enjoy with Him and with each other.

This is the Message 
An Encapsulation of our Faith
And this is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you that God is Light! (1 John 1:5)
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This past year, I have listened to many incredible speakers who are combatting the darkness with their expertise; they are doctors, lawyers, pastors, senators, journalists, nurses, and others willing to stand strong against the lies coming from every sector of our society. I appreciate their willingness to share their faith in Jesus as they put their lives on the line to address the relevant issues of the day.

The Song of Songs 
Deepening in His Love
Part 2 of 5
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The purpose of this study is to ground ourselves in God’s love. When we are fully convinced of His love by way of His personal revelation to us, we will stand in joy and hope as the darkness increases.

The theme of The Song of Songs is – Our Bridegroom, Yeshua, is intensely aware of His Bride at all times. All His actions lead us into deeper intimacy with Himself until we are completely consumed by Him. We can find instruction, comfort, healing and joy in the Bride’s journey.

The Song of Songs 
Deepening in His Love
Part 1 of 5
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Dear friends,

Please read The Song of Songs – An Overview before beginning this 5-part study. The information in the Overview is necessary to understand the rest of the content. (It is best to print the PDF for the most readable, ordered version of this study.)

Below, I have placed a part of the Overview called An Overview of The Song of Songs in 5 Parts – The Progression of Holy Romance (RS) for your convenience, so you can review where we are going in the next weeks. This week, I am starting with Part 1. Father, give us revelation in the knowledge of Your love!

The Song of Songs 
Deepening in His Love
An Overview
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I engrossed myself in The Song of Songs in May 2016. Now in the fall of 2021, I am revisiting it and formatting it to be clear. My sources and influences over the last five years are following:

A Word from Yeshua to Those Who Have Failed 
His Covenant is Always in His Mind
Psalm 106:44-48
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Dear friends and beloved of the Lord,
I am quite sure that those who subscribe to receive my emails are those who love the Lord. You are not trying to make excuses for wrong behavior. You love Adonai with all your heart. You’ve been born again by the Ruach, the Holy Spirit. You seek to walk triumphantly, and you enjoy His presence daily. You likely take sin seriously; however, you may have failed.

Called to be Friends 
Nurturing Strong Sisterhood – 12 Principles
Understand what makes a good friend.
Then, take Beth Ann’s Fun Challenge at the end!
March 5, 2020, completed October 7, 2021
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I compiled this information for a retreat in March of 2020 that did not happen due to the lockdowns and the uncertainty of the time. I wrote it for those seeking to break down barriers to community and seeking to bring unity in diversity among the kedoshim (God’s children).

A Word from Yeshua to the Downtrodden, Abused, Hurting or Weary 
from the following Scriptures:  (Print the PDF)

• Matthew 11:28-30
• Psalm 37:7
• Genesis 49:10-12
• Psalm 1:2
• John 10:8-11; 27-29
• Psalm 23
• Romans 8:33-39
• Matthew 28:16-20
• John 14:1-3
• Revelation 19:7; 21:4
• Isaiah 35:10b

The Masterpiece of Messianic Prophecy in Scripture 
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Messianic prophecies foretell the events of the life of Yeshua the Messiah (Jesus Christ). The shadows, hints, and direct predictions of His life unfold off the pages of the Old Testament!

These writings are often mysterious. They overlap with multiple meanings – with colors from the past, the current time of the writing, and the future. They are like paintings with initial main strokes that have layer upon layer of richness as more nuances are revealed.

This writing is a simple backbone of understanding. The examples are numerous; I only give a few. You will discover more on your own. Biblical literature is beautiful! The truth revealed in it brings a fountain of joy within us as He speaks, and it prepares us for the trials ahead.

The Great Governor 
Who Brings Order, Goodness, and Equity
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The Names of God
There are many Names for God in Scripture. They were either declared by God Himself or given to Him by people when He became personal to them. For instance, the Hebrew Name of God, El Roi, was given by Hagar, Sarai’s maid. After Sarai’s harsh treatment of her, Hagar fled and found herself in a desperate, lonely place. An angel of the Lord came to her by a spring in the wilderness with instruction and comfort. She declared, “You are El Roi!” meaning You are God Who sees me ! 

The Gospel
Focusing on the Root which is His Love
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Gospel means Good News. The more I scrutinize the simple Gospel of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah, the more I am changed by it. We must grasp the Gospel because through its message, the Lord frames our hearts and thoughts. Our behavior is not a concern, because it simply flows from the core of the Gospel’s message. If we try to align our behavior instead of our hearts, we are devastated when we fail. If we allow Him to align our hearts, even when we fail, we know we are safe in His love.

A Portrait of Paul
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Dear Heavenly Father, the Apostle Paul said, “But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come.” (2 Timothy 3:1f)  We are there. Our hearts break for our brothers and sisters around the world, but we are one kedoshim, one family in You. Although imprisoned at the end of his life, Paul said, “but the word of God is not imprisoned.” (2 Timothy 2:8) There is a glorious picture of lights shining up from the globe as the Gospel of Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah goes forth from the plains, the mountains, the prisons, the suffering, and the pain. The Lord reigns! Adonai wins!

The Trinity
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The Trinity refers to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Although the word trinity is not found in Scripture, the concept is. We must have an accurate understanding of Who God is, so we are not deceived and “tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine by the trickery of men and by craftiness in deceitful scheming…” (Ephesian 4:14-15)

Pray It Through 
A Very Short Devotional
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A few years ago, Dusty and I planned a getaway to our usual spot in Michigan. We had just one day to visit my favorite place – an overlook of Lake Michigan from the top of a 450-foot sand dune. When the sun shines on the water, the view is breathtaking! I like to just sit on the dune for hours and allow the grandeur and beauty to refresh my spirit.

The End Times – Yeshua’s Words to Remember 
An Organization of Matthew 24-25, Mark 13, and Luke 21
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As you may have noticed from my last writing A Distant Grief / An Abiding Joy, I have been asking Father, “How shall I live in light of the unthinkable current events?” If we are in the throws of the end of time or not, we should heed the words of the One Who died, rose, and ascended to heaven on our behalf, even Yeshua¹ our Lord. Every word that fell from His lips is crystal clear – truth, purity, and beauty. His words will guide us.

A Distant Grief / An Abiding Joy 
How to walk and work in joy in hard times
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A Distant Grief
Years ago, I read a book called A Distant Grief by Kefa Sempangi, the founding pastor of the Redeemed Church of Kampala in Uganda. 14,000 members attended in the early 1970s. Kefa’s family and church were targets of Idi Amin’s brutal regime. By God's grace, they escaped from Uganda, but many did not.

A Small Instruction
A Personal Story about my Dad in honor of Father’s Day
A Free Printable PDF

It was 2005. My parents had come for a visit. Sometime that weekend, I was sitting alone with my dad in the lower level of our apartment. He was sitting on a wooden chair he had just fixed for me. I thanked him, and we sat in silence for a few minutes. My father was not one to talk a lot with me. Finally, I asked him, “Daddy, do you have any words of wisdom for me?” I would ask him this question on occasion because
I wanted to get to know him more.

Prepared by Hesed
Hesed is Hebrew for the indescribable, undeserved love of God.

After a drive along the craggy Jordan Valley on an early morning in January 2020, we stopped by the river with our new tour family. Michael Card shared lessons about the wilderness – lessons worthy of contemplation:

A Reclaimed Species
The Kedoshim
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Dearly beloved of God,
At the beginning of July, I sent this message to you, because the Lord used it to change the way I thought and prayed. A few weeks later, I simplified it to share at a large retreat. I think this version is clearer in its simplicity, and so I am re-sending it to you. Why? Because it is important for us to understand and be reminded of who we are. When I know who I am in Yeshua (Jesus), I can better navigate the adversity around me.

The Feast of First Fruits 
Celebrate the Resurrection of Messiah
April 3-4, 2021

In this year of 2021, The Feast of First Fruits begins at sundown on April 3^rd and ends at sundown April 4^th. It is celebrated on the Sunday after Passover and during The Feast of Unleavened Bread. God appointed this day of observance for the Jewish people over 3,500 years ago as a day of praise to Him for the early spring harvest and the resurrection of the earth. (See Leviticus 23:9-14)

Turning Points in Prayer 
The Psalms
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In the early days of my new life in Christ, I would often skim through the many verses in the Psalms about the wicked; sometimes they seemed wearisome. In fact, I scripted the entire Psalm 145 on a large piece of parchment, because it only contained one line about the wicked!

But these days, I have been greatly comforted in every word of the Psalms that lets me know I am not alone in my questions of “Why?” “Why would God allow so much evil?” I deeply appreciate the Psalmist’s detail.

Hesed
The Indescribable Love of God

In the autumn of 2004, I heard about the Hebrew word hesed (or chesed) for the first time. My new husband and I had left our jobs to go to a 22-month Bible school in a new city. I remember walking out into the dark night after a class in a trance of joy. The deep, vast meaning of hesed captivated me.

Prayer
The Work of the Kingdom
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The King of the universe created us for relationship with Himself! He is the Lover of our souls! Hearing His voice is our greatest joy! He invites us into prayer that brings light into His kingdom!

Great love
Lavished upon us!

Behold, how great a love the Father has lavished upon us that we should be called the children of God! (1 John 3:1)

Beloved
I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine. (Song of Songs 6:3)

Many waters cannot quench love, neither can a flood drown it. (Song of Songs 8:7)

The Charges of Paul to Timothy 
for All Soldiers
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Dear beloved of God, you may replace Timothy's name with your own as you continue reading these charges.

Jesus said, "In this world you will have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) These are just a few of Paul’s encouragements to his beloved son in the faith as Paul faced serious persecution.

Spiritual Warfare – Arise! 
Lessons in the Book of Daniel for Today
Written December 2018, Revised January 12, 2021
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We are all soldiers. We are not all on the physical front lines, but we are all on the front lines in prayer.

A Chronology of Jesus’ Birth 
A Family Reading and A Fun Quiz
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The following passages are taken from the three Gospels accounts in the Bible that contain portions of the story of Jesus’ birth. As best as I could, I wove them together in the order that the events took place, gave subtitles, and color-coded the portions. I hope you enjoy reading the complete story with your family and friends.
Matthew 1-2 – Verses are in red.
Luke 1-2 – Verses are in black.
John 1 – Verses are in green.

A Baptism to Undergo
Passing through the waters
A Short Scripture Study and Personal Story
Luke 12:49-50
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Last July 7, 2020, I awoke with Luke 12:50a on my mind – “I have a baptism to undergo…” This morning, November 16, 2020, I awoke with the verse on my mind again. I had not been reading in the Gospel of Luke on either day, so I believe the Lord brought this verse to my mind to consider.

Kedoshim, Talmidim Favor
Ephesians 1
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Ephesians 1 is a favorite chapter in the Bible for many people. My Who I Am Journal Art Card Collection was inspired by it. The Apostle Paul begins this letter by addressing the faithful saints in the city of Ephesus. The Hebrew word for saints is kedoshim and means holy ones or set apart ones. Anyone can be a part of this family! (See John 1:12)

Mary Stayed
The Adoration and Tenacity of Mary of Magdala
A Passover Story
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God appointed seven annual Feasts for His people to observe to remember His faithfulness.¹ These Feasts are prophetic foreshadows of Jesus’ life, sacrifice, death, burial, resurrection, and return.² The people knew when to observe them by counting from the new and full moons.

The following events in the life of Mary of Magdala took place on the first full moon of spring on the first Feast of the year – Passover and Unleavened Bread.
(I am writing about these events during the 7^th full moon on the last Feast of the year –The Feast of Tabernacles. The fullness of God’s plan in Jesus is reflected in these two full moons that encase His Appointed Days like bookends!) 

Yom Kippur
The Veil has been torn!

In this year of 2020, Yom Kippur or The Day of Atonement begins at sundown on September 27^th and lasts through the 28^th. 

The Feast of Trumpets, celebrated last weekend, is followed by The Days of Awe – ten days of repentance and preparation. These days end with a day of fasting called Yom Kippur, the most sacred Jewish holiday of the year. On this day, only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies in the temple to offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people. A large veil of blue, purple, and crimson linen blocked access to this holy place where God dwelled. (2 Chronicles 3:14).

The Highway and Messiah’s Return! 
In Celebration of the Feast of Trumpets
A Scripture Study in Isaiah 35
Written for September 18, 2020
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The Feast of Trumpets begins at sunset on September 18^th in this year 2020. This celebration foreshadows the return of our Beloved Messiah Jesus! Christians and Christian leaders all over our nation and the globe have joined hands to declare September 18^th through the 29^th as a time to turn to the Lord in personal and national repentance (See 2 Chronicles 7:14). We have been asked to pray for revival in our land at this critical time. Saturday, September 26^th will be a National Day of Prayer on the National Mall in Washington D.C., as well as in State Capitols, in our churches, and in our homes.

This time between September 18^th and 29^th is also known as The Days of Awe on the Hebrew calendar. These days are marked by repentance and preparation and end with a day of fasting called Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement.

The Feast of Trumpets
On the Feast of Trumpets and Every Day, We Celebrate His Return!

The Feast of Trumpets will be celebrated this year on September 19^th and will begin at sunset the evening before. It falls on the new moon of the 7^th Hebrew month Tishrei.

God appointed seven yearly feasts for the Israelites to observe (found in Leviticus 23) to foretell and foreshadow Jesus’ life, sacrifice, death, burial, resurrection and return!

Living in God’s Undeserved Love (Hesed) 
A Devotional Scripture Study
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Last October 15^th 2019, I woke up to this message. In 2020, it became a Scripture Study on the Shale Fragments website called The Tabernacle Hesed Moon, Living in God’s Undeserved Love. Now, almost a year later, I have been asked to share this message at a conference, so I am sharing this more ordered version with you.

Abiding Tools
A Scripture Study in John 15:1-17
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First written, September 2004
Final revison, August 2020

This study is 16 years old. It began as a 15-minute message I gave in my teaching class in Bible school in the fall of 2004. The message impacted me so much that I revisited it often. At one point, I developed it into material for a weekend retreat. This week, it became a Scripture Study to share with you!

Introduction
Hudson Taylor was the founder of the China Inland Mission. At his death in 1905, there were 125,000 Chinese Christians in the mission – a fruitful life! But Hudson writes about a time in the early years of his ministry when his life was marked by exhaustion and deadness in his spirit. He belonged to God, but he was not experiencing joy and rest. He said, “I prayed, agonized, fasted, strove, read the Word diligently, sought more time for meditation, but all without avail. I strove for faith, but it would not come.”

His Fullness
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The Hebrew words for the Holy Spirit are Ruach HaKodesh. I quickly drew this image I saw in the early morning hours of February 2019 for a conference where I was to speak. It is a hovering covering of angels and the Ruach over, in and surrounding us!

Spirit of God
Principle 3 of 10 Principles of Responsible Scripture Interpretation from HIS SIGWORK
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We must acknowledge the Holy Spirit’s presence in and with us and our reliance on Him for understanding. He invites us into an intimate relationship with Himself through His Word.

This writing is part of the entire HIS SIGWORK Group Study. For the overview, see HIS SIGWORK – 10 Key Principles of Responsible Scripture Interpretation. This writing is also in the form of a Short Devotional called His Fullness at Shale Fragments.com.

You Have Arrived!
Forest Flowers
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“He [Jesus] said to them, ‘It is I. Do not be afraid.’ Therefore, they were willing to receive Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.” (John 6:20-21)

Jesus had travelled an arduous four-day journey north from Jerusalem to Tiberias on the western side of the Sea of Galilee where a great crowd had followed Him because of the miracles He performed.

Heaven's Leaven
The River of Life
The Witness in the World
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Jesus spoke a parable, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three pecks of meal until it was all leavened.” (Matthew 13:33)

The kingdom of heaven is the rule and reign of God. It is found in every place that is touched by the ways of Adonai, the Master and Lord of the universe. He has allowed His beautiful, perfect creation to be spoiled by the sin of man until that day when “He Who sits on the throne says, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’” (Revelation 21:5a)

Saved by the Blood
On the night that Jesus was betrayed, He celebrated the Passover with His disciples. He Himself became our Passover Lamb. The Passover card celebrates God’s deliverance for us through Yeshua’s blood. The card includes the artist’s notes and a celebration greeting on the inside. Here is some of the text included on the back of the card:

The Great Transition
Maundy Thursday and The New Covenant Given
Compiled in 2014, revised for April 3, 2020
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Contents

• The Passover Meal and the Last Supper
• The Passover and the New Covenant Connection
• The Intimate Transition
• The Scriptural Anticipation and Fulfillment
• Addendum: Explanation of the Last Supper Timeline of the Last Supper.

The Master Marksman
The Sword/Mouth Connection
A Personal or Group Scripture Study with Conclusions and Questions
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(blue letters represent Scripture references)

What is the Word of God?

Psalm 138:2   

I will bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth for You have magnified Your Word above all Your Name.

The Word of God is the expression of His heart that reflects His character.

HIS SIGWORK
10 Key Principles of Responsible Scripture Interpretation
March 6, 2020
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Dear friends,

If I were to choose my greatest passion, I think it would be purity – purity in the food I eat, purity in the soil that grows the herbs in my backyard, purity in my morning coffee, the pure smell of sheets on the laundry line, the purity of simple times with friends, and the purity of God and His Word.

Purim
Esther's Story
2018
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The Feast of Lots or Purim Card is from the The Feasts of Israel Fulfilled Collection at Flower Girl Greetings.com

The celebration of the Feast of Lots or Purim (poo reem’) is celebrated in the Spring. The first Feast of Purim was recorded in the Megillah, the Scroll of Esther.  

When I decided to add the Purim Art Card to The Feasts of Israel Fulfilled Collection, I had no idea how difficult it would be… Capturing the dazzle and gold leaf reflections from the original art to reproduce for the printer was daunting! 

A Timeline of Yeshua's Life
A devotional walk with Messiah focusing on His last days taken from the Gospel accounts and other Scripture
To read about the accompanying Light to Light bookmark on this blog, click here. 
To purchase the Light to Light bookmark, click here and scroll down.
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Shavuot or Pentecost

The Feast of Weeks or Shavuot is celebrated seven weeks and one day (50 days) after The Feast of First Fruits to rejoice in the late spring wheat harvest. It is also called Pentecost, the Greek word for fiftieth.

Jewish tradition also calls this day The Time of the Giving of Our Torah when the Lord revealed Himself to His people at Mount Sinai; Mount Sinai quaked violently as He came in glory with thunder, fire, thick clouds and smoke to write His law on tablets of stone. (Exodus 19)