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Weekly Parashah |
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| Torah: Num. 8:1–12:16 | Haftara: Zech. 2:14–4:7 | Brith Chadashah: Lk. 17:11–18:14 1 Cor.10:6-13 Rev.11:1-19 |
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| Beha'alotekha (When you set up) |
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Scripture: |
Num. 8:1–12:16 |
Torah |
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Dedication of the Levites 8 Adonai spoke to Moses saying, 2 “Speak to Aaron and say to him: When you erect the lamps, the seven lamps are to illuminate the area in front of the menorah.” 3 Aaron did so. He erected the lamps facing forward so they illuminated the area in front of the menorah, just as Adonai had commanded Moses. 4 Now this is how the menorah was made: hammered gold from its base to its blossoms. Just as was the pattern that Adonai had shown to Moses, so he made the menorah. 5 Again Adonai spoke to Moses saying, 6 “Take the Levites from among Bnei-Yisraeland ceremonially cleanse them. 7 This is what you must do to them to make them clean: Sprinkle the purifying water on them,[a] then have them shave their whole bodies and wash their clothes, thus purifying themselves. 8 “Then they are to take a young bull with its grain offering of fine flour mixed with oil, plus a second young bull for a sin offering. 9 Bring the Levites before the Tent of Meeting, and gather the whole community of Bnei-Yisrael. 10 Bring the Levites before Adonai, Bnei-Yisrael will lay their hands on the Levites, 11 and Aaron will present the Levites before Adonai as a wave offering from Bnei-Yisrael. Then they may go about the work of the service of Adonai. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Num.+8%3A1%E2%80%9312%3A16&version=TLV |
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Scripture: |
Zech. 2:14–4:7
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Haftarah |
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14 “‘Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will live among you’[a]—it is a declaration of Adonai. 15 ‘In that day many nations will join themselves to Adonai and they will be My people and I will dwell among you.’ Then you will know that Adonai-Tzva’ot has sent me to you. 16 Adonai will inherit Judah as His portion in the holy land and will once again choose Jerusalem. 17 Be silent before Adonai, all flesh, for He has aroused Himself from His holy dwelling.” Joshua the Kohen Gadol3 Then he showed me Joshua the kohen gadol standing before the angel of Adonai and the satan[b], standing at his right hand to accuse him. [c] 2 Adonai said to the satan, ‘Adonai rebukes you, the satan. Indeed Adonai, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you.[d] Is not this man a brand plucked out of the fire?’ 3 Now Joshua was wearing filthy garments and standing before the angel 4 who answered and spoke to those standing before him saying, ‘Remove the filthy garments from him.’ Then to Joshua he said, ‘See, I have removed your iniquity from you and will dress you with fine clothing.’[e] 5 Then I said, ‘Place a clean turban on his head.’ So they put a pure turban on his head and clothed him with garments while the angel of Adonai stood by. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Zech.+2%3A14%E2%80%934%3A7&version=TLV
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Scripture: |
Lk. 17:11–18:14
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Brit Chadashah |
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On the Move through Samaria11 Now while going up to Jerusalem, Yeshua was passing between Samaria and the Galilee. 12 As He entered a certain village, ten men with tzara’at came toward Him. They stood some distance away [a] 13 and raised their voices, saying, “Yeshua, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the kohanim.”[b] And as they went, they were cleansed. 15 Now one of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back, glorifying God with a loud voice. 16 And he fell at Yeshua’s feet, facedown, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Yeshua answered and said, “Weren’t ten cleansed? But where are the nine? 18 Weren’t any found who came back to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19 Then Yeshua said to the man, “Stand up and go! Your faith has made you well.” 20 Now when Yeshua was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God does not come with signs to be seen. 21 Nor will they say, ‘Look, here!’ or ‘There!’ For behold, the kingdom of God is in your midst.” https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Lk.+17%3A11%E2%80%9318%3A14&version=TLV 1 Corinthians 10 : 6 – 136 Now these things happened as examples for us, so we wouldn’t crave evil things, just as they did. [a] 7 Do not be idolaters, as some of them were. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” [b] 8 And let’s not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day 23,000 fell. [c]9 And let’s not test the Lord, as some of them did—and were destroyed by serpents. [d] 10 And let’s not grumble, as some of them did—and were destroyed by the destroying angel. [e] 11 Now these things happened to them as an example, and it was written down as a warning to us—on whom the ends of the ages have come. 12 Therefore let the one who thinks that he stands watch out that he doesn’t fall. 13 No temptation has taken hold of you except what is common to mankind. But God is faithful—He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can handle. But with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so you will be able to endure it. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Cor.10%3A6-13+&version=TLV Revelation 11 : 1 – 19Two Witnesses11 Then a measuring rod like a staff was given to me, saying, “Get up and measure the Temple of God and the altar, and count those worshiping in it. [a] 2 But do not measure the court outside the Temple—leave it out, because it has been given to the nations, and they shall trample the holy city for forty-two months. [b]3 And I will grant authority to My two witnesses and they will prophesy for 1,260 days,[c] dressed in sackcloth.” 4 These are the two olive trees and the two menorot that are standing before the Lord of the earth. [d] 5 If anyone wishes to harm them, fire comes out of their mouths and consumes their enemies. If anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this way. [e] 6 These two have the power to shut the heavens, so that no rain may fall during the days of their prophesying.[f] And they have power over the waters to turn them into blood, and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they wish.[g] 7 When they have finished their testimony, the beast that rises from the abyss will make war on them, and overcome them and kill them. [h] 8 And their corpses will lie in the open street[i] of the great city that figuratively is called Sodom and Egypt—where also their[j] Lord was crucified. 9 Some from the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations will look at their corpses for three and a half days, not allowing them to be placed into a grave. [k] 10 Those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them. They will celebrate and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Rev.11%3A1-19&version=TLV
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Parashah in 60 seconds |
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EWCMI Logo
Our Logo
Reasoning for an updated logo
In unveiling this revised logo, we unequivocally affirm our steadfast support for the nation of Israel, which is inextricably linked to our doctrinal tenets. Moreover, it underlines our commitment to the "Back to our Roots" movement, articulating its significant resonance within our Messianic Charismatic theology. This visual representation serves as a continual reminder of our spiritual lineage, while also affirming our contemporary responsibilities as bearers of light and fellowship in both the Christian and Messianic communities.
By incorporating these potent symbols into our visual identity, we aim to present a harmonious blend of historical truth, faithfulness, and present-day relevance, thereby encapsulating the core values and Intentions of Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International.
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The Bible, The Cross, The Eagle, The World, The Ring of Fire, The two Flags, and the ICHTUS (Fish) with the Menorah, |
The Bible
The belief that the Bible is the "inspired, infallible and only authoritative Word of God" stands as a foundational tenet within Christian and Messianic theology.
When we say the Bible is "inspired," we refer to the divine guidance that the human authors received from the Holy Spirit. This doesn't imply that these authors were merely passive scribes; rather, their unique personalities, styles, and cultural contexts were employed by God to communicate His eternal truths. This inspiration is not sporadic but extends to all the Scriptures, making the Bible a unified yet diverse collection of books that speak coherently about God, humanity, and the cosmos.
The term "infallible" affirms that the Scriptures are wholly reliable and without error in all matters they intend to address. Whether discussing historical events, moral principles, or spiritual truths, the Bible stands as a dependable guide. This infallibility is not just a feature of the text but is intrinsically tied to its divine Author, who is Himself infallible. Therefore, the Bible can be trusted to accomplish its purpose, which, according to Isaiah 55:11, "so My word will be that goes out from My mouth. It will not return to Me in vain, but will accomplish what I intend, and will succeed in what I sent it for." is to achieve the ends for which God sent it.
Finally, the Bible's status as the "only authoritative Word of God" positions it as the final arbiter on all matters of faith and practice. While traditions, reason, and experience can offer valuable insights, they are always to be tested against the canon of Scripture. This authoritative role of the Bible is emphasized repeatedly in both the Old and New Testaments, asserting its unique capacity to guide believers in all aspects of life.
In summary, we believe that the Bible as an inspired, infallible, and only authoritative word serves as a cornerstone for the Christian and Messianic faith. It informs doctrinal integrity, ethical conduct, and spiritual growth, offering a reliable standard by which all other truth claims are measured. This resonates deeply with the objectives of Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International, as you endeavor to lead your community in a deeper understanding and application of these foundational tenets.
The Cross
The Cross occupies a central and profoundly significant place in Christian and Messianic theology, aligning closely with the focus of the ministry of Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International (EWCMI). It is not merely a religious symbol but serves as the very core upon which the salvation narrative hinges.
The Cross is the instrument of Jesus Christ's ultimate sacrifice—where He voluntarily gave up His life and shed His holy blood for the atonement of humanity's sins. This was not a random or arbitrary act but was divinely ordained, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and providing a permanent solution to the problem of sin that separated mankind from God.
When Jesus uttered, "It is finished," as recorded in John 19:30, He indicated that the work of redemption was fully accomplished. His sacrifice was both perfect and complete, sufficient to cover the sins of all who would believe in Him. This paves the way for what the New Testament refers to as "being born again" or receiving a "new beginning." It is a transformative experience that involves repentance, acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
But the implications of the Cross extend beyond earthly life; they carry eternal ramifications. For those who believe in Jesus and accept His atoning sacrifice, the promise is not just a life altered for the better here and now, but the assurance of eternal life in the presence of God. As stated in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Therefore, the Cross is not simply a symbol; it is the epitome of divine love, justice, and grace converging at a singular point in history. It captures the essence of the Gospel message, which the ministry seeks to propagate in alignment with the "Back to our Roots" movement and Messianic Charismatic theology. In contemplating the Cross, believers are reminded of both the gravity of their sin and the grandeur of God's mercy, motivating them to live a life that is in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In summary, the Cross serves as a profound representation of the love and sacrifice that form the cornerstone of Christian faith. It encapsulates themes of redemption, new beginnings, and eternal life, resonating deeply with the aims and aspirations of Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International as we guide our community in deepening their understanding of Christian and Messianic beliefs.
The Eagle
The eagle is a powerful bird, often regarded as one of the strongest avian species. With a wingspan that can reach up to 10 feet, it is a creature that commands awe and respect. Its imposing presence serves as an apt metaphor for divine protection and guidance, especially as depicted in the Christian and Messianic Scriptures.
Revelation 12:14 uses the imagery of the eagle to symbolize divine intervention: "And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent." In this apocalyptic vision, the "woman" is widely understood to represent the Church—God's covenant community. The eagle's wings signify the divine means by which God will transport His Church to safety during tumultuous times, reminiscent of periods of tribulation or the end times.
This symbolism is not unique to the New Testament but has roots in the Old Testament as well. In Exodus 19:4, we find a similar metaphor: "Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself." Here, the Israelites are led out of Egyptian bondage, carried "on eagles' wings" to safety, and brought into a covenant relationship with God. This serves as a prelude to the giving of the Ten Commandments and establishes the Israelites as God's chosen people.
The recurrent imagery of the eagle across both Testaments serves to underscore a consistent theme: the extraordinary lengths to which God will go to protect and preserve His people. The eagle becomes a potent symbol of God's providential care, especially when His people are faced with insurmountable challenges. It captures the essence of divine deliverance and sanctuary, making it particularly relevant for your ministry, which aims to guide people back to the roots of their faith and offer spiritual sustenance in complex times.
In summary, the eagle serves as a multi-layered symbol that encapsulates themes of divine protection, covenantal relationship, and eschatological hope. It resonates with the core values and aspirations of Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International, as you guide your community in understanding the depths of their Christian and Messianic heritage.
The World
In Matthew 28:19, the Bible tells us, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." This important command from Jesus is often called the "Great Commission."
The Great Commission is not just a good idea; it's a clear instruction from Jesus to all of His followers. It's not just about telling people about Jesus; it's about helping them become true followers or disciples. When Jesus says "make disciples," He means that we should help people to really get to know Him and grow in their faith.
The part about "baptizing them" is an invitation for new believers to join the community of Christians. It's a public way to say, "I believe in Jesus," and it also marks the start of a new life in faith. The mention of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit shows how deeply connected these three are in Christian belief.
Finally, "teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" means that learning doesn't stop at baptism. Being a disciple of Jesus means continually learning to live like Him, following His teachings in every part of life.
In summary, the Great Commission is a key task for Christians. It wraps up the important jobs of spreading the word about Jesus, helping new believers grow in their faith, and teaching them to live according to Jesus's teachings. For communities like Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International, this isn't just history; it's our ongoing mission to share the message and impact of Jesus all over the world.
The ring of fire
A wish for the Nations
Luke 3:16 provides an illuminating exposition on the distinction between the baptism administered by John the Baptist and the baptism yet to be imparted by the one he heralds—Yeshua Ha'Mashiach or Jesus the Christ. John states, "I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." This verse serves as a profound declaration that the impending baptism by Jesus would not merely be ritualistic or symbolic, but transformative in nature—imbued with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
This "Ring of Fire," as we may term it, signifies an ardent desire for the nations—that the consuming fire of the Holy Spirit would be deeply embedded within the hearts of God's sanctified people, the Christians. The fire serves as both a purifier and an empowerer, enabling believers to emerge as spiritual catalysts in a world veiled in spiritual darkness. This divine fire, once embedded, is not to be contained but is to be disseminated globally, effectively fulfilling the mandate of the Great Commission.
In this conceptual framework, the Ring of Fire becomes not merely a metaphorical construct but a faith-based imperative. It captures the urgency and the necessity for believers to take up the mantle of spiritual leadership, evangelism, and discipleship. This aligns with the ministry's ultimate aspiration—namely, the worldwide propagation of the Gospel, as exemplified by the "Back to our Roots" movement and Messianic Charismatic theology.
Therefore, the Ring of Fire symbolizes a global aspiration, anchored in scriptural truth, for a transformative spiritual experience that radiates from the individual to the collective, fulfilling God’s divine plan for humanity as laid out in the Great Commission.
The Two Flags
The flag of the United States of America signifies not just geographical location but also the foundational principles that underlie the mission of Eagle Wings Charismatic Ministries International (EWCMI). It represents the liberties and freedoms that enable the practice and spread of our faith, which align closely with the ministry's objectives. Within the American context, the flag serves as a testament to the nation where the ministry was founded, emphasizing the call to be both socially and spiritually active citizens.
Conversely, the flag of the State of Israel serves as an enduring symbol of the divine promise as articulated in Biblical texts. The inclusion of Israel's flag encapsulates the theocratic significance of the land as the 'Promised Land,' a land flowing with "milk and honey," a land where God’s covenant with His people finds its ultimate realization. Israel is not merely a geopolitical entity but a theological cornerstone in Messianic Charismatic doctrine.
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he juxtaposition of the two flags encapsulates a dual allegiance—created both here on earth and in heaven—that is bound together by an unwavering love for God and an abiding respect for the governance under which one resides. It underscores the notion that these two entities, though geographically and culturally distinct, are united in a higher purpose. This unity is fortified by a commitment to the principles of divine love and national responsibility, which we see as not just compatible but intrinsically connected to the life and mission of your ministry.
Messianic Symbol of the Fish and the Menorah
The Menorah serves as an emblematic beacon, representing not just literal illumination, but also the spiritual enlightenment disseminated by Yeshua Ha'Mashiach, or Jesus the Christ. The shamash candle, often referred to as the servant candle, epitomizes Yeshua's role as the light-bearer. This sacred flame is perpetuated through His Ruach Ha'Kodesh, commonly known as the Holy Spirit, which acts as the conduit for divine illumination and guidance in a world in need of such light.
Similarly, the Ichthys or Fish symbol, historically employed in cryptic form through its Greek acronym ICHTUS, played an instrumental role in identifying safe havens and sacred sites for the early Christian community. This symbol not only functioned as a mark of religious affiliation but also exemplified the covert fellowship among believers during periods of persecution.
