The Jewish Road Podcast

Summary In this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, Matt and Ron Davis discuss the topic of the red heifer, which is a question they frequently get asked. They explore the biblical significance of the red heifer and its connection to the purification rituals in the Old Testament. They also discuss the current interest in the red heifer and its potential role in the construction of the third temple in Jerusalem. While they acknowledge the importance of the red heifer in Jewish tradition, they caution against getting too caught up in the speculation surrounding its significance in end-time prophecy. Takeaways The red heifer is a young female cow without blemish that plays a significant role in the purification rituals of the Old Testament. The red heifer is mentioned in Numbers 19 and is associated with the cleansing of those who came in contact with dead bodies in the wilderness. The red heifer is seen as a prerequisite for the construction of the third temple in Jerusalem, and its potential availability has generated interest and speculation. While the red heifer and the third temple are important in Jewish tradition, it is important to focus on the spiritual significance of the temple within ourselves and the future temple that the Messiah will build.

Summary In this episode of the Jewish Road Podcast, we discuss the current state of the world through a Messianic Jewish lens. We look at the idea that America, once a safe place for Jewish people, is now experiencing disarray and division. Drawing parallels to the story of Joseph in the Bible, we emphasize the importance of not getting too comfortable in the current world and longing for a greater homeland. We talk through the rise of anti-Semitism and the need for believers to live in the world but not be of the world. Takeaways America, once a safe place for Jewish people, is experiencing disarray and division. Believers should not get too comfortable in the current world and should long for a greater homeland. Anti-Semitism is on the rise, and believers need to be cautious and aware of the changing landscape. Living in the world but not being of the world is a challenge, but believers are called to follow the great commission and bring the gospel to the ends of the earth. Prayer for peace in Jerusalem is important, especially in the current climate.

Imagine this: You're shipwrecked and find yourself on an island inhabited by Jewish people. Your New Testament is gone, sunk to the bottom of the ocean. All you have to share the story of the Messiah is the Old Testament. Could you share the Good News? Welcome to Episode 101 of The Jewish Road Podcast, where we dive into how to share the Good News of the Messiah using the Old Testament, or as it's known in Jewish tradition, the Tanakh. In this episode, we discuss how the so-called "Roman Road" may not resonate with Jewish people, as it leads to a spiritual dead end for them. Instead, we introduce you to The Jewish Road – a path paved with Old Testament scriptures pointing to the Messiah. Learn how these ancient texts show the Good News in a way that connects deeply with Jewish hearts and minds. Equip yourself with knowledge and confidence to share the Messiah's story from the Tanakh. It's not just good news - it's the story of hope and salvation! Join us for a journey back to the roots, where the message of the Messiah shines brightly through the Old Testament. Get ready to walk The Jewish Road.

Summary In this episode, Matt and Ron Davis interview Joshua Aaron, a musician and believer in Jesus. They discuss Joshua's background, his journey to Israel, and the impact of conflict on his family. They also explore the significance of his songs and their message of unity and love for Israel. In this conversation, Joshua Aaron discusses the impact of his song 'Zion' and how it has resonated with listeners. He also talks about his approach to songwriting and the importance of interpreting the Bible accurately. The conversation touches on the appreciation for old Messianic worship and the idea of music coming full circle. Joshua Aaron shares details about his upcoming concert in Lexington and introduces his crew and the instruments they play. Takeaways Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 09:40 - Calling to Reunite the Church 15:12 - Moving to Israel 23:26 - Impact of Conflict on Family 36:10 - Songs of Significance 42:07 - The Impact of Aaron's Song 'Zion' 43:06 - Interpreting the Bible in Songwriting 44:18 - Appreciation for Old Messianic Worship 45:31 - Music Coming Full Circle 46:21 - Upcoming Concert in Lexington 49:38 - Closing Prayer and Benediction

Have you ever stopped to think about Jesus as a Jewish rabbi, walking the dusty roads of Galilee, celebrating Passover, and teaching in the synagogues? It’s a side of His story that often gets lost in translation. In this episode of The Jewish Road, we’re peeling back the layers to reveal Jesus in His original, Jewish world. Imagine sitting down to a meal with Jesus in Jerusalem, hearing Him explain the Old Testament (Act One) Scriptures in the context they were written. With the world spinning into chaos, and with Israel at the heart of so much conflict, understanding Jesus as the Jewish Messiah has never been more critical. Not just for the Jewish people, whose Messiah He is, but for everyone who follows Him. We're talking about what it means to be Jewish today - the whole spectrum from Orthodox to Messianic - and why Jesus, a Jew born in Bethlehem and raised in Nazareth, matters to every one of these groups. This isn’t just about looking back - it's about looking forward, to how understanding the real Jesus can change the future. This conversation is a call to look at Jesus with fresh eyes. We’re moving past the divisions to find the Jesus who loves His people passionately and fulfilled every prophecy about the Messiah in the Hebrew Bible. Join us on a trip through the life of the most influential Jew in history, and let’s rediscover together why His Jewishness is not just a footnote - but the heart of the story. This is a chance to see Jesus in a whole new light. So, grab a cup of coffee and lean in. This is a story about Jesus you haven’t heard before, but it’s been there all along, waiting to be told.

Summary In this heart-stirring episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, join Travis and Emily Hough as they share their extraordinary journey of planning a dream wedding in Jerusalem, set against the backdrop of unexpected conflict. Scheduled to marry on October 10, 2023, their plans were abruptly overshadowed by the tragic events of October 7, when Hamas launched an attack in Southern Israel. This episode looks into the couple's emotional and spiritual ordeal, navigating the complexities of celebrating their union while grappling with the realities of conflict, fear, and uncertainty. Their story is not just about a wedding - it’s a profound narrative of faith, love, and resilience, mirroring the collective journey of the bride of Messiah in these tumultuous times. Takeaways Resilience in Love: Explore how Travis and Emily's love and commitment were tested and strengthened in the face of unforeseen adversity. Decision Dilemmas: Gain insight into the couple's decision-making process amid the crisis, balancing the safety of their guests with the significance of their wedding date and location. Symbolic Union: Discover how their personal story is emblematic of the broader spiritual narrative of hope, perseverance, and divine provision in turbulent times. Community and Support: Understand the role of family, friends, and faith in providing support and making tough choices in times of crisis. Reflections on Conflict: Reflect on the impact of the regional conflict on personal lives, highlighting the intertwining of individual stories with larger historical and spiritual themes. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:18 - Impact of October 7th 04:17 - Emily's Passion for Israel 06:35 - Travis' Journey to Israel 08:33 - Coming Together and Discovering Israel 15:07 - Choosing to Get Married in Jerusalem 23:26 - The Impact of the War on Wedding Plans 28:13 - Managing the Stress and Tension 36:24 - Finding Peace and Joy Amidst the Chaos 41:28 - The Prophetic Picture of the Bride 45:05 - Lessons Learned and Obedience to God 51:13 - Sense of Bonding and Camaraderie 52:04 - Life-Changing Experiences 52:32 - Documentary: Make Love Not War 53:28 - Perseverance and Faith 54:24 - Relationship with God Takes Work 54:53 - Marriage as a Picture of Perseverance 55:22 - Blessings and Future Trips to Israel

Summary Severyn Ashkenazy, a Holocaust survivor and key figure in the creation of West Hollywood, shares his story and insights on Jewish identity, anti-Semitism, and the importance of education amongst the Jewish people. He emphasizes the need for Jews to understand and explain their heritage, and for others to learn the truth about Jewish culture and history. Ashkenazy also discusses the role of humor in Jewish culture and the challenges facing Israel today. He calls for unity and support in the fight against anti-Semitism and for peace in Jerusalem. Takeaways Understanding and explaining Jewish heritage is crucial for combating anti-Semitism and promoting understanding. Jewish humor is a unique and important aspect of Jewish culture, even amidst the pain. Education and knowledge are key to preserving Jewish identity and combating ignorance. Support and unity are needed to fight against anti-Semitism and promote peace in Jerusalem. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 05:48 - The Experience of the Holocaust 09:34 - The Meaning of Being Jewish 10:48 - Religion and Education 19:40 - The History of Anti-Semitism 23:58 - The Power of Jewish Humor 28:29 - The Return to the Land of Israel 36:32 - Fighting Anti-Semitism and Spreading Truth 39:29 - A Message to Christians 41:18 - Closing Remarks

Summary This conversation with Josh and Tommy Doyle from Uncharted Ministries revolves around the recent events in Israel and the impact on the Jewish people. The hosts share their personal experiences and observations from their numerous visits to Israel before October 7, and since. They discuss the openness and humility of the Jewish people, the unity and comraderie among the supporters, and the need for support and love for Israel during these challenging times. Takeaways The recent events in Israel have had a profound impact on the Jewish people, and they are in need of support and love. The Jewish people are open and humble, and there is an opportunity to show solidarity by visiting Israel. There is an expectation for future escalation and potential flare-ups in the region. There are sympathizers and innocent bystanders affected by the conflict. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 06:33 - Impact of Recent Events on Israel 10:23 - Expectations for Future Escalation 15:32 - Sympathizers and Innocent Bystanders 18:59 - Openness and Humility of the Jewish People 22:01 - Unity and Comraderie 25:22 - Impact of Violence on Kibbutz 27:47 - Support and Love for Israel 30:06 - Closing Remarks

In this episode of The Jewish Road Podcast, Matt and Ron Davis are joined by Jane Carter, who shares her family's involvement in the Holocaust and her journey of reconciliation. Though generations removed from the atrocities, Jane apologizes for her family's past actions and stands in solidarity with the Jewish people today. She expresses her support for Israel and encourages others to take a stand against anti-Semitism. The conversation highlights the importance of not remaining silent in the face of evil and the need to love and support the Jewish community. She shares her journey of standing with Israel, what it costs, and the ongoing battle against anti-Semitism. Takeaways Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Context 01:27 - Family Background 03:31 - Discovery and Response 06:20 - Faith and Visit to Dachau 07:52 - Jane's Trip to Israel 10:18 - Reactions to Repentance 11:48 - Expressions of Support for Israel 15:07 - Taking a Stand and Not Remaining Silent 18:13 - Shame and Evil in the World 20:07 - Anti-Semitism and Ignorance 22:07 - The Battle Beyond the Physical 25:17 - Feeling Isolated and Standing Firm 27:35 - The Importance of Standing with Israel 29:41 - Encouragement for those Listening 30:13 - Conclusion

Summary In this episode, Ron and Matt Davis interview David Hoffbrand about his book, '52 Sabbaths: Unwrapping the Gift of God's Rest.' They discuss the importance of the Sabbath, its significance in the Bible, and its relevance in modern life. David explains that the Sabbath is not just about rest but also about restoring relationships and finding wholeness. He emphasizes the need to prioritize family and invest in faith and trust. The book provides 52 reflections on different aspects of the Sabbath, helping readers understand and apply its principles in their lives. Takeaways Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 02:06 - The Genesis of the Book 03:04 - God's Affirmation and the Importance of the Sabbath 04:57 - Understanding the Sabbath Beyond Tradition 07:17 - Restoring the Heart of the Sabbath 08:43 - The Sabbath as a Gift and Meeting Our Needs 09:40 - Entering into God's Rest 10:09 - The Sabbath as a Celebration and Holiday 11:03 - The Sabbath as a Time for Healing and Restoration 12:03 - The Sabbath as a Time to Remember Who We Are 13:32 - The Sabbath as a Time for Prioritizing Relationships 14:57 - The Sabbath as a Time for Reflection and Listening 16:49 - The Sabbath as More Than Just "Going to Church" 18:41 - The Sabbath as a 24-Hour Period of Living Differently 19:39 - The Sabbath as a Cathedral in Time 21:04 - The Sabbath as a Pivot for Relationship with God and Others 22:03 - The Sabbath as an Act of Trust 23:00 - The Sabbath as a Different Way of Living 24:50 - The Sabbath as an Act of Obedience 25:44 - The Sabbath as an Act of Trust in God's Provision 26:43 - The Sabbath as Exercising Faith and Trust Muscles 28:07 - The Sabbath as an Investment in Rest and Relationships 29:37 - The Sabbath as a Reminder of God's Power and Deliverance 31:35 - The Sabbath as a Building Block for a Different Society

Summary Matt and Ron Davis discuss their year-end impact report and their mission to help Christians understand the roots of their faith and help Jewish people make sense of Jesus. They highlight the dilemma of Jewish identity and the misidentification of Jesus among both Christians and Jewish people. They emphasize the urgency of the times and the need to be a voice in the wilderness. The conversation also covers their methods of spreading the message, including writing a book and fundraising for projects in Israel. They conclude by calling for support and prayer for their ministry. Watch the entire episode on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/ZH7aQvOMeBg?si=IBeB7mPvII-2LDSD Takeaways The Jewish Road aims to help Christians understand the roots of their faith and help Jewish people make sense of Jesus. There is a misidentification of Jesus among both Christians and Jewish people, leading to a disconnect from the roots of faith. Living in biblical times today means living in a time of prophetic fulfillment and awaiting the second coming of the Messiah. The Jewish Road uses various platforms, including speaking engagements, podcasts, articles, and trips to Israel, to spread their message. Supporting The Jewish Road is an opportunity to give life and stand with Israel in a time of increasing anti-Semitism. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 01:19 - Cancellation of Israel Trip 02:18 - Year in Review 03:11 - The Dilemma of Jewish Identity 04:38 - Misidentification of Jesus 06:05 - Disconnect from the Roots of Faith 08:16 - Finding Purpose and Meaning 09:38 - Living in Biblical Times 10:36 - The Urgency of the Times 12:00 - Being a Voice in the Wilderness 13:56 - Methods of Spreading the Message 15:50 - Writing a Book 16:45 - The Lamb of God 18:09 - Jesus' Week Leading to the Crucifixion 20:25 - Fundraising and Future Plans 25:38 - Project Bulletproof and Project Shield 27:00 - Financial Investment and Giving Life 37:31 - Conclusion

Do you feel worn down? There's lots of places and opportunities to feel it. The politics, the divisions, the world situation, the wars, the rumors of wars, the devastation and hatred we see on every screen we face - it's all there. In this episode, Matt & Marilee Davis sit down with Candyce Hyslip to look into the recent turmoil in Israel following the Hamas attacks and the distressing rise of anti-Semitism. What does it look like to pray and the significance of being physically and emotionally present for those enduring suffering. The truth is, two months into the war in Israel, it's easy to desensitize, disconnect, and disengage. Candyce talks through how the Lord revealed to her how to not only pray FOR, but pray WITH those who are suffering, but also to bring comfort through our words, gifts, and meals. Key Takeaways: Embracing the Power of Prayer: The importance of finding solace in prayer, particularly in times of crisis. Candyce's personal story about her dream leading her to Hebrews 13, offers a poignant example of how scripture can guide our prayers. Bring Comfort: How do we extend compassion to the Jewish community? It focuses on offering words of comfort, hospitable gestures, and thoughtful gifts to those impacted by the turmoil. Combating Anti-Semitism with Compassion: Simple acts of kindness and hospitality can be powerful tools in the fight against anti-Semitism. Creating spaces and sharing meals are highlighted as meaningful ways to support and heal. A Call to the Church: How can the church actively demonstrate their love for Jewish people and Israel. As anti-Semitism rises, the need for support and solidarity becomes more critical. The episode, "Speak To The Heart Of Jerusalem," is a reminder of the power of compassion, prayer, and solidarity in times of conflict. It calls on us all to step beyond our comfort zones and actively support those who are suffering, particularly in the Jewish community. Follow Candyce on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tent_and_table

In Episode 91 of The Jewish Road Podcast, titled "Why This Hanukkah Is Different...And The Same," we look into the essence of Hanukkah, connecting its historical roots to the present-day challenges facing the Jewish people. Hanukkah began as a story of resistance against Antiochus IV, a ruler intent on eradicating Jewish identity and practices. This year, as we light the menorah, our reflections take on a deeper, more urgent tone. We find ourselves amid a continued conflict following the October 7 war, where the threat to Jewish existence is ever-present, this time posed by a radical Islamist group, Hamas, a recognized terrorist organization. What makes this Hanukkah different isn't the nature of the threat -historically, the Jewish people have faced numerous existential threats -but its global reach. The shadows of hatred and violence extend beyond Israel, seeping into streets and campuses worldwide, affecting Jews in every corner of the globe. Yet, amidst these sobering realities, Hanukkah remains a beacon of hope and resilience. It's a time to recall and celebrate the enduring miracle of Jewish survival and God’s unwavering protection. As we gather to remember the Maccabees' triumph, we're also reminded of a greater miracle: the persistent preservation of the Jewish people against all odds. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 125, "As the mountains are around Jerusalem, so the Lord is all around His people," we invite you to understand the deeper significance of Hanukkah. It's more than a commemoration of a past victory - it's a reaffirmation of faith and a call to solidarity in a world where challenges to Jewish safety and identity persist. Join us in this episode as we explore the relevance of Hanukkah, its significance in today's world, and the unbreakable spirit of a people who have withstood the tests of time.

Continuing our dialogue with David Hoffbrand, Episode 90, titled "Why The Israel Story Isn't Resonating With This Generation," shifts the focus to the present and future of Israel's narrative. We look into the complex reasons behind the growing disconnection between modern global Christians and Israel, including: This candid conversation seeks to understand God's unwavering heart for Israel amidst a generation that often seems at best indifferent, and at worst, hostile. David's insight into the issue is profound, highlighting the critical need for dialogue and education on the historical and spiritual significance of Israel. With an ever-growing detachment from traditional Christian values in the West, an aging population who loves Israel but is not effectively passing it down to the next generation, this episode poses challenging questions about the role of Christians in bridging the gap. It's an urgent call for a return to biblical truths and a compassionate, informed stance towards Israel and comprehending the mindset of her enemies. Join us as we explore these pressing issues, seeking wisdom and understanding to engage with this generation more effectively, and foster a genuine connection with the enduring story of Israel. Check out all things David Hoffbrand at DavidHoffbrand.com and be connected to his ministry and upcoming book, 52 Sabbaths.

The truth is, miss out on the fact that Jesus is Jewish and you’re missing out on Jesus. You could go to church every Sunday, read your Bible everyday, and even lead a Bible study, and unless you look at Jesus in His Jewish context, you're missing something. In this episode of The Jewish Road podcast, we're joined by David Hoffbrand, author, church leader, and musician from Brighton, England, to discuss his thoughtful book, "The Jewish Jesus - Reconnecting With The Truth About Jesus, Israel, & The Church." It should provoke some thoughtful questions: By seeing Jesus for who He is, we are brought closer to the authenticity of Jesus' message and identity. As we listen, we begin to grasp the profound connection between Jesus' teachings and the vibrant Jewish culture from which they sprung. Moreover, David sheds light on the divine design for a unified Church, bringing together Jews and Gentiles. This episode is a call to dive deeper into the essence of Jesus' life, to enrich our walk with Him, and to see God’s enduring love for Israel and His people in vivid color. Check out all things David Hoffbrand at DavidHoffbrand.com and be connected to his ministry and upcoming book, 52 Sabbaths.

The narrative surrounding Israel and the Jewish people is one that's deeply interwoven with history, culture, and prophecy. But more often than not, the intricacies of these stories are overshadowed by generalizations and misconceptions. It's why our conversation with Avner Boskey, founder of David's Tent and a Messianic Jew residing in Beersheva, Israel, becomes profoundly significant. In episode 88 of the Jewish Road podcast, "Who Is A Jew? The Anti-Semantics of The Chosen People," we look into the origins and implications of words like 'Jew', 'Israeli', and 'Zionism', alongside the associated "anti" language that often paints a distorted picture. Living a mere 62 seconds away from the threat of a rocket from Gaza, Avner offers a perspective that is as grounded as it is enlightening. There's a raw authenticity in his words, reflecting his deep-rooted love for Israel despite its challenges. Our discussion ranges from debunking the misconception of Israel being a colonial occupation to understanding the descendants of Ishmael. However, the essence of our conversation was about seeing beyond the end times and the prophetic narrative. It's about genuinely feeling for the Jewish people, empathizing with their struggles, and reflecting the heart of God in our attitudes towards them. Avner poignantly mentions, "We sometimes look at the Jewish people as pieces on a grand prophetic chessboard, trying to fit them into the bigger picture, without truly understanding or feeling their pain." God's heart aches with His people. Isaiah 63 reminds us that in their suffering, He too suffers. So, the question we must ask ourselves is, do we mirror that heart? Or are we so engrossed in deciphering the prophetic sequence that we forget to genuinely care? Tune into this episode and immerse yourself in a conversation that goes beyond the surface, urging us to approach the narrative of Israel and the Jewish people with a compassionate heart. Check out the great work of David's Tent and stay informed on all Avner is doing in Israel.

This episode of the Jewish Road podcast dives into the timely relevance of Psalm 83, a biblical passage that feels as if it was ripped straight from today's headlines. The psalm is a fervent plea, calling on God to not remain silent in the face of evil. As the quote goes, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing"—and the same might be said about divine silence. This episode explores the deeply unsettling plans of evil forces aimed at the annihilation of God's people, plans that go beyond mere military strategy to touch upon a darker, more insidious agenda. Why should you listen? Psalm 83 isn't just an ancient text; it's a contemporary call to action. In a world where evil seems to grow bolder by the day, understanding the psalm's plea for divine intervention can embolden our own prayers and actions. We've often heard the stirring words from Isaiah, "For Zion's sake, I will not keep quiet." Yet, what does it mean when it feels like God Himself is silent? This episode challenges us to grapple with that difficult question and urges us not just to seek God's voice, but to become catalysts for His action in the world today. So tune in to Episode #87, "O God, Do Not Keep Silence." It's a message for our times—a message that prompts us to fill the silence with both prayer and purpose. Let this episode arm you with the insights to be not just hearers, but doers, in a world that's desperate for informed, divine action.

The clock keeps ticking, and we're 18 days into the war in Israel. As news headlines whip by at a blinding pace, they often miss the mark, leaving gaps that need to be filled. We're here to fill them. Episode 86 of the Jewish Road podcast looks into the news narratives that are spinning uncontrollably. More alarmingly, there's a noticeable silence from quarters that should be vocal - particularly the American church. It's about more than just filling in the gaps; it's about understanding the complexities and the moral imperatives at the heart of the situation. Don't just be a spectator; be a participant in a much-needed discourse. Listen in to challenge your perspectives, ignite your compassion, and be better prepared to advocate for a cause that needs your voice now.

In our latest episode, episode 85, titled "Living Six Miles From Lebanon," we were graced by the unexpected but deeply enriching presence of Efraim Goldstein, a missionary with Chosen People Ministries. What started as a prayer night in our community turned into an eye-opening conversation when Efraim walked in and we decided to hit the record button. Efraim has been in ministry with his wife, Jeannie, since 1975. They've spent the last few decades in Israel, serving communities and sharing the love of Yeshua. Currently, Efraim pastors the Light of Galilee Congregation in Nahariyya, a city that lies just six miles from the Lebanese border. His congregation is unique as it consists of both Jews and Arabs, and he even co-pastors with a Lebanese Christian. His early years in a Conservative Jewish home in the Bronx instilled in him a deep love for his Jewish heritage. However, it was in college, amidst the turbulence of the 1960s counter-culture, where he discovered Yeshua as the promised Messiah. Ever since, he's carried a burden to share this life-changing message, especially within Israel. According to Efraim, "Israel is one of the most open places to share the message of Yeshua with other Jewish people. All you need is some courage, and the willingness to share your faith." As if the night couldn't get any more remarkable, a Jordanian Christian friend of ours joined us toward the end. We seized the opportunity to capture her perspective on how the current events in Israel and Gaza are affecting the Jordanian Arab community. Right now, Efraim is heading back to Israel, to a community on edge as tensions with Hezbollah escalate. We invite you to keep him, his family, and his congregation in your prayers. This episode provides firsthand insights into what life really is like so close to conflict and how faith plays a pivotal role in navigating these uncertain times.

In today's world, misinformation spreads rapidly, making our role as truth-bearers more critical than ever. We're not just presenting different perspectives on the biblical story, but also to unveil the whole truth against a backdrop of global narratives rife with deception. It's a challenging mission, but it becomes more manageable when we remember who our ultimate shield is. In the midst of rising tensions and unsettling circumstances, the concept of shields takes on a deeper meaning. Episode 84, titled "Human Shields and Heavenly Protection," explores the dichotomy of earthly and divine shields. While we hear about organizations like Hamas using innocent lives as human shields, there's an age-old truth in scripture that has stood the test of time: the Lord is our ultimate shield. For Abram, it was a covenantal promise. For David, a source of courage when enemies closed in. From Genesis to Revelation, the message is consistent and clear - God is a protective force, a sanctuary in times of crisis. So as we work to debunk false narratives that create division, let's not forget where our ultimate trust should be anchored - in God, our ever-present shield and guide in all truth.