Shalom, Mitspacha!
Struggle and transformation / New Year
Abba YHVH, we stand before You on this set-apart Double Shabbat, marking the threshold of the New Year 6028 AA. We thank You for the renewal of the moon and the renewal of our spirits. As we enter this first day of the first month, we ask that You set us apart for Your service. Open our hearts to the message of transformation and the power of Your stillness.
Baruch YHVH.
As we partake of the bread and the cup, we celebrate the everlasting covenant that carries us from one year to the next. In this act of remembrance, we acknowledge that our life and our peace are found in the Messiah. We dedicate the year 6028 AA to walking in His footsteps, renewed by His sacrifice and strengthened by His life.
"Be still, and know that I am Elohim: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth."
- Tehillim (Psalms) 46:10
"And he said, Your name shall be called no more Ya'aqob (Jacob), but Yisra'el (Israel): for as a prince have you power with Elohim and with men, and have prevailed."
- Bereshit (Genesis) 32:28
The transition into a new year often reflects the life of Ya'aqob. His journey was defined by a constant wrestle - with his past, his family, and ultimately with Elohim Himself. Transformation rarely comes through comfort; it is forged in the struggle.
Today, as we observe Human Rights Day in South Africa, we are reminded of the global struggle for human dignity and the right to be recognized. Just as Ya'aqob refused to let go until he was blessed and given a new name, we are called to persevere in our faith until we are transformed into the image of Yisra'el - those who prevail through the strength of YHVH.
As the moon renews for the first month of 6028 AA, the command of Tehillim 46:10 provides the blueprint for the coming year: "Be still." In a world of noise and constant striving, our power is found in the quiet recognition of His Sovereignty. We acknowledge our Muslim cousins who celebrate Eid-ul Fitr today too; while our paths differ, we recognize this shared moment of spiritual significance and the human desire to honor the Creator at the start of a new season.
To be still is not to be passive, but to be positioned in absolute trust that YHVH is exalted in all the earth.
Abba YHVH, we thank You for the blessing of this Double Shabbat. We ask for Your protection and favor over the Mitspacha as we begin the year 6028 AA. Grant us the courage to face our struggles and the wisdom to remain still in Your presence. May Your Peace reign in our homes and Your Light shine through us to the nations.
Baruch YHVH.
Shalom until tomorrow!
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