Shalom Macon: Messianic Jewish Teachings

A “holiday” based on remembering slavery? When you really think about it, it’s kind of strange, right? And the Torah has dozens of verses commanding Israel to remember their slavery? Shouldn’t that be something to forget?! Is this the best origin story Israel could have hoped for? There must be more, right? Let’s explore. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Did Yeshua come to disrupt the religious system of Judaism and replace it with a new religion called Christianity? He seemed to always be at odds with the religious people of his day. He confronted the religous authorities. He drove the money changers from the Temple. He contrasted the “old” way of doing things with his “new” way. But if that’s the case, why did Yeshua send the leper to the priests for inspection after he healed him? If he was already healed and Yeshua was coming to replace the priesthood—as many claim—why did he send him back to the priests “for a proof to them”? Was he really as much of a renegade as we’ve made him out to be? Let’s find out in this week’s 5 Minute Torah. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

First things first, leprosy isn’t leprosy! In this message we learn about “biblical leprosy“ and understand how this condition manifests in the community of Israel. From there, we’ll investigate tzara’at from the proper perspective and learn how we can apply these lessons even today. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Did Yeshua ever become “unclean” according to the biblical definition? Even when he touched leper or the dead? Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Imposter Syndrome. Although you may not have heard of it, you've probably experienced it. No matter how qualified you may be in reality, you feel inadequate and that at some point you are going to be exposed for the fraud you "really" are. If you've ever been paralyzed by past mistakes, then Aaron, the brother of Moses, has something to teach you. Join Rabbi Damian to discover a path to self-acceptance and the courage to step into greatness as we explore Aaron's story in this week's Torah portion. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Did Jesus declare all foods clean in Mark 7? https://youtu.be/IBZoibBPg6Q Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

As we delve into the book of Esther, we encounter an intriguing statement describing what she wore before approaching the king unannounced. Many translations oversimplify this moment by referring to her attire as "royal robes." In this teaching, we will uncover what Esther truly wore, according to Jewish sources, and we will examine other significant biblical figures who wore similar garments and transformed the world as a result. And as disciples of Yeshua, we are called to wear similar garments. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

As we dive into the lessons from Leviticus, we explore a different kind of sacrifice – the sacrifice of silence. When was the last time silence spoke louder than words for you? In an era where noise is constant, discover the profound impact of embracing silence. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Ever wondered why God seems hidden even when you've done everything right? Why does God choose to hide and how do we find Him when He does? Join Shalom Macon and learn how to seek and find the concealed presence of God, even when He seems most distant. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

This week's parsha witnesses Israel moving past the golden calf incident and beginning anew the work on the Tabernacle. However, before the work commences, we encounter a brief reminder from HaShem to the people about the Sabbath. The traditional explanation for its placement here is compelling, but in this message, Rabbi Damian explores a deeper meaning behind the inclusion of these verses and explains just how powerful they may have been to the children of Israel. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

This week, we delve into one of the Torah's most challenging sections: the golden calf incident. Following this event, there's a curious moment when the people “strip off their jewelry.” At first glance, this act may seem minor, but it marks a critical turning point in Israel's relationship with God. This teaching will illuminate the significance of this moment and its implications for Israel's spiritual journey. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Tetzaveh primarily focuses on the vestments of the High Priest. However, nestled within its verses, we find a singular verse that describes a unique communication tool with God: the Urim and Thummim. This week's lesson explores its purpose and use, its tragic loss, and a form of its reappearance in the lives of Yeshua's disciples. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Eeki Elner tells of his personal experiences of October 7 massacre and the aftermath as an Israeli living on the Gaza border. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Last week’s Torah portion was the climax of the Jewish experience after the Exodus — Mt. Sinai and the giving of the Torah. This week we find ourselves following up that spiritual crescendo with the Mishpatim (“ordinances”). And to be honest, they don’t seem to start off well do they? How do religious people derive any benefit from understanding slavery laws? If these are included here, how can any of the laws in the Torah be relevant? We’ll discuss a tough topic in this week’s teaching. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

The Torah provides a never ending source of lessons for life. In this weeks portion, Jethro teaches Moses, one of the most important leadership lesson: delegation. But when we read Jethro’s question to Moses, we discover that he’s teaching a lesson not just for Moses, but to the nation as a whole. A lesson that Yeshua would later echo for all of his disciples, and one that certainly still applies to us today. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Jewish tradition and commentary have dug deeply into the biblical texts for millennia. From the fruit of that labor, we are sometimes privileged to see stories beneath the story. This week presents an unknown hero of the Exodus. A name and a lesson that—after this teaching—you’ll always remember. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Why did God choose to bring the 10 plagues upon Egypt? Was there not a better way than the death of innocent children? Were the Egyptians treated unfairly by the God of justice? This week’s teaching explorers the purpose behind the last three devastating plagues in the story of the Exodus. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

There are incidents in the Bible that sometimes cause people to question the motives of God. Pharaoh’s hard heart presents one of those challenges and sets the stage for the argument over free will versus predestination. Is there an answer if we look at the Jewish perspective? This message explores the story behind the story and offers an explanation that shows the true nature of our God. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

The “Bridegroom of Blood” episode in the Book of Exodus is undoubtedly one of the most peculiar events in the Torah. Various interpretations of this incident exist within Jewish thought. This message delves into a couple of traditional perspectives behind Zipporah's actions, but also introduces a novel interpretation that portrays her as a woman of faith and courage. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

What is higher purpose of life? Most experts argue its not status, wealth, or accumulating expensive cars, houses, shoes or watches, but rather finding peace and contentment. What is it that gives us the sense of contentment and accomplishment we seek? To Bless or Seek. That is the question. Let's explore the answer. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

If we look around, there are so many unhappy people in the world. It seems everyone is looking for happiness, but very few find it. This is a message for anyone who desires to live their life to the fullest. It integrates psychological insights with biblical teachings, offering a comprehensive view of achieving true, lasting happiness. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Every day we put on different clothes based on what we are doing or how we are feeling. But have you ever thought about putting clothes on your soul? It may sound like an odd concept, but we actually do it every day, and sometimes we show up in the wrong outfit. Join us to find out what these "soul threads," or garments of the soul are. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Hanukkah was a holy war, if by holy, we mean directed by God. There is currently a different kind of holy war being waged, and God is certainly not directing this one. It is imperative, not just for disciples of Yeshua, but for all of humanity, to be aware of this enemy and to stand united against it. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

What is Hanukkah? The Talmud asks the question, but today, many Christians are too. There are meaningful themes of the past associated with the Feast of Dedication, but it’s the the powerful message of hope for the future that makes the answer to that question one worth knowing. What is Hannukah? Find out here. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, pleaseconsider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/giveTithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563PayPal | [email protected] "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message.

A brief word from Rabbi Damian about one of life’s most important attributes: Gratitude. Then join Shalom Macon as we sings songs of thanksgiving to our God. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

The Bible is book of building, giving not taking. In a society built on consumption, the idea of building a better world has seemingly lost its luster. But the stories of the Bible call us to the task. Shalom Macon intends to bring that back, to live in service to people, to be builders not bystanders. Find out what that means in this week’s teaching. Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (#Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message. We thank you for joining us, Shabbat Shalom!

Israel has been “ruled” by a diverse cast of characters throughout history. Many empires have declared ownership of the land, but one people has a legal claim to it, politically and biblically. Who might you think that would be? Take a listen and share this message with others.

The expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael is a difficult read. Why do we need to know all the details of this event? Why does God allow Sarah to separate them from Abraham? What does this story have to do with Arab-Israeli relations today? This message offers some provocative answers for these questions.

It was inevitable that some, maybe much of the world would begin to see Israel negatively as this war has continued. It’s always this way. But the turning tide shares much in common with the antisemitism and hatred of Jewish people that we hoped had died with the Nazis. It’s imperative that the facts in this war are discussed and shared. This message intends to prepare you to be an informed advocate for Israel and the Jewish people.

The Torah says that during the days of Noah, the world became corrupt and was filled with … hamas. Yes - Hamas. Our Torah portion addresses our present situation and give us answers if we look deep enough. Let's take a look at this ancient foe and see what steps we can take to overcome it together.

Anyone who has even the slightest connection to Israel is reeling from the recent horrific attacks. For those who are strongly connected, there’s a chance that anger and even hatred are parts of these emotions. Is that okay? Should we feel bad about our emotional response to the hatred that others have shown? How do we deal with these negative emotions in light of our mission and calling as children of God and disciples of Yeshua? Join Shalom Macon Live! at 11am EST every Saturday (Shabbat) for uplifting Worship Music and Teachings at: https://www.youtube.com/shalommacon If you get value from our work, please consider Supporting Shalom Macon https://www.shalomacon.org/give -- Ways to Support Shalom Macon -- Our Website | https://www.shalomacon.org/give Tithe.ly | https://tithe.ly/give?c=329563 PayPal | [email protected] Text "GIVE" to (706) 739-5990 God provides for the work of Shalom Macon through the giving of those who benefit from that work and in turn, give generously to allow it to continue. Whether you are an in-person or virtual member, your support is vital to sharing the message.

How high can the walls of your sukkah be? It’s an actual discussion we find in rabbinic literature. Our first response might be, “Who cares?!” As we close out the fall holidays, this message investigates what this seemingly trivial argument can reveal to us about ourselves.

The most famous part of the Sukkot celebration has to do with the sukkah, the temporary dwelling. But there is another component of the holiday which is mentioned even before God commands us to dwell in Sukkot. It called the arba minim, the four kinds, and it has a lot to say about you, your heart, and your joy. We’ll investigate that story in this teaching.

It’s Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat of Return. One last step remains on the repentance road we’ve been walking—one last rock to confront, and then we can look to tie the knot with our Father and our King. You need to hear this message to understand!

On Rosh Hashanah, we simultaneously meet regret and hope with the sound of the shofar. Both are powerfully pointing us to be the people God intends us to be.

We’ve walked the Repentance Road for 4 weeks in this series. Hopefully, we’ve learned the steps to take, prepared for the challenges ahead, and set our hearts and minds on being transformed during the upcoming High Holidays. In this conclusion, Rabbi Damian shares a powerful action step for us all to take as we enter the gates of repentance on Rosh Hashanah.

Is forgiveness a part of repentance? If I’ve been wronged, and no one has apologized, how can I be expected to repent? When we see repentance for what it really is, a turning, forgiveness fits within it. When we decide to turn, we see the true power and freedom of forgiveness in our lives.

There are 4 steps to repentance. We’ve covered the first three, but the fourth part is considered the most important, the commanded component — confession. But why? What’s happening when we confess our transgression? What does “I’m sorry” really accomplish?

The season of repentance is in full swing now. The month of Elul brings our focus to repentance and positive change. Sounds great, but how do we do it? How do we succeed?

Press on, make progress, don’t look back. These are common themes in the teaching at Shalom Macon. But there is a time to look back and do some serious soul searching. That time is starting very soon, as we begin our journey through Elul and enter the fall festivals, the High Holidays. It starts with seeing the path, so let’s get started!

Last week we talked about the value of teaching through repetition. This week we are connecting the Promised Land to our obedience. The Promised Land produces fruit if properly tended… but obedience to God is directly tied to its productivity. You may be asking, what does The Land have to do with learning lessons 101 times? And what does that have to do with us? This is what we will discuss in this lesson.

Hillel said, “One who reviews his studies one hundred times is not comparable to one who reviews his studies one hundred and one times.” What does this mean? Judaism is a faith of repetition: Shabbat every week, the festivals every year, prayers every day. Why? What is the value of teaching through repetition? Let's learn this together.

The last two teachings have given us a better understanding of the purpose of tests/trials and how our response to them can either open up space for God to move on our behalf or cause us to repeat the same trials over and over. This final message is focused on turning God's interventions into milestones that will help navigate us to our ultimate reward.

In our last message, we talked about the purpose of tests and trials. Now that we know the purpose, we need to figure out how to navigate them. This requires hard work. But if you want to break out of the endless loop of trials and testing that you’re currently in, then you need to learn how to pass your test and “level up” for greater things that God has for you. You can definitely do it, but you’ll never know if you’re not aware of what the Lord is trying to tell you.

Life has its twists and turns and is constantly full of surprises. We all have to endure tests and trials to various degrees. Are they an attempt to destroy us or is there a greater purpose they serve? How are we supposed to stay focused on the spiritual side of life when things are falling apart all around us? Part one of this series takes a look at trials and their purpose in each of our lives.

We all want to be “happy.” In the last three parts of this series, Rabbi Damian taught you practical, biblical ways to work toward this goal in your life. This concluding episode brings it all together with the most important components of a happy, content life and challenges you to consider—and possibly change—“who you are listening to.”

Korach provides us with a perfect example of what NOT to do if we expect to be content in this life. Entitlement, lack of humility, and comparison are all fatal flaws in his attitude. It’s what he’s missing that makes the biggest difference. We’ll explore some connections and make life-changing applications in this message.

In Part 1, we learned about not letting the grumblers and complainers get us down. But there’s a more important part of this battle that needs to be explored. You must become the master of your own thinking. Here’s how to do it.

The children of Israel were headed for the Land. The goal was about to be realized. All was going well and then… the complaining. In hindsight, we know the outcome. The negative chatter derailed the mission and the hope. Poor Israel, right? Well, we’re just as vulnerable. Who are you listening to?

Judaism asks questions. Even in things that are presumed to be good and holy. We ask questions to understand and apply. The Nazirite vow is no exception. It’s described as a good thing in Torah, how could there be any other way to view it?! We’ll investigate the discussion that has occurred through the ages and find a modern application along the way.