In this issue of the Restoration Times we discuss:
• Christmas – The Folly of the Holly-day
• Fruits of the Spirit – Gentleness
• Earth’s First and Last Language
• Q&A
• Letters
Presentation Computer Upgrade
For many years, we have been getting by with a home-grade computer to process our slides and other presentations for the overhead screen on Sabbaths. Thanks to a donation from a brother, who covered half of the purchase of a professional system, we will have the proper equipment to render the right results. The balance of the purchase is about $1500. If you would like to help with the cost, we would be very grateful. Donate Here>>
Clarification of a Previous e-News Report
Regarding our previous e-News on COVID and the Feast of Tabernacles, we want to clarify that there were several cases of COVID and other sicknesses reported from the Feast (most reports came after the Feast). To our knowledge, everyone has recovered. Praise Yahweh for a great Feast of Tabernacles and for restoring the brethren back to health.
2021 Feast Dates are Up!
The projected dates for the 2021 Feast days are available from yrm.org! Click here>>
TEST YOUR TUTELAGE
How much of the New Testament originates in the Old Testament?
A. 25 percent
B. 60 percent
C. 80 percent
D. 100 percent
There are 1,600 quotations, references, and allusions linking the New Testament with the Old. The importance of the Old Testament in the teachings of the New is clearly undeniable. Answer: C
Baptisms Abounding
We had six immersions in the past month, including Feast baptisms. Two more immersions are scheduled for tomorrow’s Sabbath service and another on the 21st! We will not slow our efforts to reach out to the world in the time Almighty Yahweh gives us. Praise Him for His blessings as we teach His truths.
Commercial Kitchen Mostly Completed
We were successful in having most of the commercial kitchen usable by Tabernacles. Thanks to the hard work of Ryan Mansager, Chris Fouts, and James Duenow, the kitchen is now mostly finished. We are turning our attention now to discussions about future facility expansion to accommodate the growing numbers who are coming to Holts Summit to observe Yahweh’s Feasts. An essential part of that preparation is to increase our building fund. We will have more in future newsletters.
Bible Orders Continue Apace
Each day brings orders for the RSB 4th edition. Recently we filled bulk orders for 50 and more Bibles. A great way you can evangelize is to order extra copies to share with family and friends. The Outreach (paperback) edition is affordable for anyone, and contains all the material found in the two other versions.
TEST YOUR TUTELAGE
Who specifically was known by Yahweh before they were born? (Select 2 answers)
Many in our culture treat abortion with little regard, arguing that the “fetus” is not a person until born. All life is sacred, including the life of the unborn child. The Scriptures show that Yahweh considers the unborn belonging to Him, and He even knows them in the womb. No one has the right to take life through abortion. The corresponding Scriptures for the two correct answers are:
Please pray for us and our nation in these difficult times!
Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of Elohim, and his righteousness; and all these
things shall be added unto you.”
The first time I read Yahshua’s words, I realized that, of course, this is important. However, it
took reading Yahshua’s words several times and building up a daily practice over time, before
my actions reflected my desire to seek the Kingdom and Yahweh’s righteousness first.
It is useful, for deeper understanding, to read the Scripture in context. Matthew 6:33 is part of
what is known as the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1-7:29), a significant sermon from
Yahshua. It is important to follow Yahshua’s examples and teachings (1Peter 2:21); therefore, I
believe the Sermon on the Mount is precious Scripture. This Sermon contains key concepts and
guidelines that Yahshua teaches us, including:
1) the mindset, behavior and attitudes that we are to embrace and engage in as believers;
2) Yahweh’s laws as found in the Torah are still relevant and endure forever;
3) how to treat others and how we ourselves are to live righteously;
4) expounding on the definitions and spiritual intents of the Law;
5) prayer;
6) key principles about serving Yahweh with complete devotion and obedience.
(These topics will be covered in future parts of this series.)
The focus of this article is on “seek ye first the kingdom of Elohim and his righteousness”
specifically, and what this may look like in day-to-day life. I found the footnote in the
Restoration Study Bible, 4th edition, helpful in understanding the importance of this verse: “These
likely represent the promise of eternal life and the perfection of Yahweh’s holy Word. By these
two attributes a believer finds Yahweh’s blessed assurance and provision.”
The promise of eternal life is certainly a promise I would like to be part of! Living a life of peace
and harmony on earth forever without pain and suffering, living with Yahweh and with Yahshua
and with my spiritual family, is a big motivator to keep me walking this walk and enduring
whatever trials and challenges come ahead! (Matthew 24:13; Revelation 21:1-7) The perfection
of Yahweh’s holy Word is definitely something I agree with, as when I continue to read and
study the Bible, it is continually reinforced that Yahweh’s Word is “perfect, sure, right, and
pure” (Psalm 19:7-11), and that it is inspired by Yahweh (2Timothy 3:16-17).
These two attributes in Matthew 6:33 help us comprehend the “big picture” of what Yahweh’s
kingdom and righteousness bring us, both in daily life and in the future. (Big picture is defined in
the Meriam Webster Dictionary as “the entire perspective on a situation or issue”.)
(www.meriam-webster.com) In the Torah, Yahweh gives us His Laws, which are clear
expectations of how to live righteously and do His will. In the prophetic books and chapters of
the Bible, Yahweh gives us valuable lessons and information so we can learn His ways, live
righteously, be prepared for what the future holds, and potentially be a part of the Kingdom to
come. The New Testament reinforces and expounds on Old Testament Scriptures. Those who
obey and follow Yahweh’s Word are blessed (Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Psalm 119; Matthew 5:19).
I also felt compelled to look up the definition of the word “first” to further discuss Matthew 6:33.
According to the Meriam Webster Dictionary, “first” means: “preceding all others in time,
order, or importance: before another in time, space, or importance: one that is number one in a
series: something that is first: at the beginning.” (https://www.merriam-
webster.com/dictionary/first) As we see in this definition, “first” has to do with importance
and with sequential order. Therefore, according to Yahshua’s teaching, if we seek Yahweh’s
Kingdom and righteousness “first”, meaning we place those first both in importance and
before other aspects of daily living, then “all these things shall be added unto you” – referring
to what Yahshua spoke of in preceding verses i.e. what to eat, drink, wear (things we need daily
for living).
Now that the big picture and the significance of this Scripture became clearer, I was left with the
question, how can I show by my actions that I am seeking first the Kingdom of Elohim and his
righteousness?
It is important to have faith in Yahweh and Yahshua, AND to obey (Romans 3:31). We show our
faith by our actions (James 2:14-18). Therefore, it is important to keep the Sabbaths and the
Feasts according to the biblical calendar, and obey the Commandments, as this is important for
our very salvation! (Leviticus 23; Deuteronomy 4:40; Matthew 7:21; 1John 5:1-3; Revelation
22:14).
I also asked myself, what actions can I do daily to express to Yahweh that I love Him
(Deuteronomy 6:5), want to worship only Yahweh (Exodus 20:2-3), and want to obey Him,
because I trust in that He knows what is good for me? (Deuteronomy 10:12-15; Proverbs 3:5-6)
How do I spend time with Yahweh, my Heavenly Father, day to day, because our relationship is
important to me?
To me, the answer is to develop and engage in a daily spiritual practice. Over time, I have put the
following in place:
First thing in the morning, before I get out of bed, I pray and give thanks to Yahweh.
I have an app on my phone with which I see a Bible quote of the day. I check it and read
it, think on it, and then share it.
After breakfast, I spend time reading the Bible every day. I am following the 52-week
Bible reading plan in the back of the Restoration Study Bible, so I read the portion of the
day based on that plan. (I like the structure of it, and it works well for me. My son reads a
few chapters at a time in sequence, which works well for him.) After I finish reading the
portion of the day, I record in my journal a Scripture that I find inspiring and think on
what the words in those pages could mean. On Sabbath mornings, my family and I read
together for about 45 minutes and then discuss what we read. (Psalm 143:8)
If something happens where I feel very blessed by Yahweh and it is a joyous event, I say
a prayer of thanks to Yahweh for His blessings, and I like to share my joy with others
(Psalm 9:1).
I also like to sing songs of praise and to listen to devotional music, at varied times (ex.
while commuting, after dinner, whenever I need a “pick me up”, etc.) (Psalm 100).
If something happens that is sad, stressful, challenging, etc., I do my best to remember
that Yahweh is there, and I go to Him in prayer first. I have other tools to use as well if
needed to get me through challenges, but I find that going to Yahweh first is important
(Psalms 55:16-17, 22; Philippians 4:6-7).
If I feel like I have erred/sinned, I go to Yahweh in prayer for forgiveness and ask for
help with how I can change and do better (Psalm 103; Matthew 6:12-13; Luke 11:4).
Pray for others (James 5:16).
Night time before bed:
My husband, son, and I sing and say prayers to Yahweh at night before bedtime
(Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and Numbers 15:40-41; 1Thessalonians 5:17-18).
These are things I have built into my life and my routines over time. I am not saying that folks
need to engage in a daily routine as I have done it; I am merely listing what I currently do as a
practice, just as an example of what spending time with Yahweh every day and putting His
Kingdom and righteousness first, means to me.
There have been days in the past that I did not read the Bible in the morning, for whatever
reason, and became busy with day-to-day things like work, cleaning, cooking, and life-stuff in
general; looking back, those days did not go very well and were stressful! I felt a big difference
in how my day went when I started with prayer and Scripture, my days went much smoother! I
definitely feel like starting my day with prayers to Yahweh and with Scripture reading set up my
mindset and heart with faith, love, hope, and inspiration, and I feel better overall and ready to go
about my day and whatever it brings.
I believe we can see in Scripture that Yahweh loves His children and wants a relationship with us
(Proverbs 8:17; John 3:16-17; Romans 8:28; 1John 4:7-16). Therefore, in order to nurture that
relationship, and because we need to seek the Kingdom and Yahweh’s righteousness first, it
stands to reason that need to spend time daily with Yahweh Our Father in Heaven, and read His
Word, every day (Psalm 143:10; Proverbs 2:6, 3:1-6, 4:13; Acts 17:11; 1Thessalonians 5:17-21).
If ye then be risen with Messiah, seek those things which are above, where Messiah sitteth on the
right hand of Yahweh. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
(Colossians 3:1-2)
~ Submitted by Judy Stern
A Collection of Poetry and Scriptures
Praise Yahweh! The Bible is full of so much inspiration!
I was reading the Bible one day and was inspired to write poetry. In addition, I felt inclined to
find and list related Scriptures.
This is the Scripture that moved me:
1Samuel 12:22, 24
For Yahweh will not forsake his people for his great name’s sake: because it hath pleased
Yahweh to make you his people.
Only fear Yahweh, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he
hath done for you.
Yahweh has indeed done so much for us!
Yahweh Elohim
King, Holy, Savior, Father,
In Him I will trust.
(Psalm 99; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 12:2-6; Jeremiah 10:6-7; Matthew 6:9 and Luke 11:2)
Yahweh Elohim
In Him all is possible
Love, have Faith, Obey.
(Matthew 19:26; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; 1John 5:1-4)
Yahweh hears our prayers
Glory and Praise to Yahweh
He does wondrous things!
(Psalm 40:1-5)
Yahweh answers prayers
If you Love Him and Obey
Then He will bless you!
(Deuteronomy 28; John 9:31)
Yahweh’s Commandments
Can be summed up in this: Love
Yahweh, neighbors, self.
(Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:28-31; Luke 10:25-28)
Yahshua Messiah
Our Rabbi, our example,
Obey his teachings.
(Matthew 23:8; John 14:15; 1Peter 2:21)
Study Yahweh’s Word
Read, Be Inspired, Learn! It’s
Perfect, sure, right, pure.
(Deuteronomy 29:29; Psalm 19:7-8; Romans 15:4; 2Timothy 3:16-17)
Read, study and think on the Scriptures for your own edification and inspiration!
~Submitted by Judy Stern
After the week-long office shutdown for the Feast of Tabernacles followed by another Covid-cautious interruption, YRM is now back up to full throttle. We are holding in-person Sabbath services once more and all office operations are up and running. Thankfully, the Feast was free of any known illness and all who had contracted the virus afterward have reported have recovering or are in the final stages of recovery. Nearly all the positive cases reported mild symptoms similar to a weak flu or cold. Even those tagged “high risk” had few problems. Yahweh is good and watches over His people when we put Him first.
Happy hearts and pristine weather characterized the Feast of Tabernacles 2020. We were at near capacity for lodging and dining, prompting a consideration of future ways to prepare for more expansion. Four individuals were immersed at the Feast, another two weeks later, and a likely sixth candidate this Sabbath. Praise Yahweh!
Be aware that these days must be confirmed by the barley and new moon sightings.
How did the use of holy water become a practice of the Roman church?
D. It was part of infant baptism rites first used at Alexandria, Egypt
We are going to give away one FREE outreach bible! This bible will make a great addition to any bible students collection! It answers the tough questions that most churches refuse to answer!
To enter simply follow the instructions below!
Contest starts Friday October 30th and runs until Friday Nov 6th! So get your entries in! A winner will be randomly selected from all entrants.
[rafflepress id=”1″]
Last Minute FOT Information
Many are packing up and heading for YRM for an inspiring and exciting Feast of Tabernacles. Several are already here, helping out with the huge effort to get the facilities ready for eight days of joyful observance of this last appointed time of the year. Having only virtual observances of the previous feasts of 2020, we are anticipating a great time. All rooms in the activity center have been reserved, the camping area is nearly full, and tenting areas are being maximized. There are still motels in nearby Jefferson City and Fulton, and we encourage all who have not committed to come and honor Yahweh at His Feast.
We have a website showing the times we will be livestreaming daily. Click Here>>
You can also find the printable Feast calendar there listing all the planned activities for the week. Click Here>>
May Yahweh bless you and we hope to see you at the Feast!
So, what’s happening this Feast of Tabernacles? Check out the list below! We will be livestreaming every day so please check the times and dates so you don’t miss anything.
The list of LIVE events will be as follows:
Day 1: Services @ 10:30 am
Day 2: Services @ 10:30 am
Day 3: Services @ 10:30 am
Day 4: Services @ 10:30 am / Outdoor Worship at 6:30 pm
Day 5: Teen led services @ 10:30 am
Day 6: Services @ 10:30 am
Day 7: Services @ 10:30 am / Night of special Music 6:30 pm
Last Great Day: Services @ 10:30 / Final Service @ 3:00 pm
All Live events can be watched at yrm.org/live!
Trumpets New Moon Tonight
If confirmed, tonight’s new moon will mark the start of the seventh scriptural month and its feasts. We will have a live, outdoor new moon (Feast of Trumpets) service at 8 p.m. Central time and encourage all to watch for the crescent and report it on the new moon site if seen (https://yrm.org/new-moon-network/). The skies in the Midwest have been hazy for weeks because of the massive fires in California and other western states. This may make the crescent sighting more difficult even with otherwise clear skies. Technically, the crescent should be the easiest of the year to spot. It will be out for 70 minutes, 12 degrees high, 17 degrees south of the setting sun and 3.8% illuminated.
The Feasts Begin Under the Stars
Besides tonight’s outdoor new moon service, a double Sabbath/Trumpets service will be held outside tomorrow and we invite all to attend in person or to watch online. A high day offering will be taken as usual. We have also been working hard preparing the facilities for the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles, with 25 local volunteers attending a special work day Sunday to help get the grounds in top shape. Watch online HERE>>
Kitchen Addition in the Works
Construction continues on expanding the kitchen facilities. Two gas stoves, a double oven and fryer will be added, along with a recently installed, large exhaust hood. A door to the outside allows easy access to this part of the kitchen. The additional space should be partly functional by Tabernacles. We thank all who contributed to this much-needed expansion.
TEST YOUR TUTELAGE
Jeremiah is considered one of the greatest prophets of the Bible. Which of the following about him is true?
A. He was ordained a prophet to the nations before he was born.
B. When formally called by Yahweh he declined, saying he was still a child (young man).
C. His prophecies can be challenging because they often lack chronological sequence.
D. The Book of Lamentations is attributed to Jeremiah.
E. None of these
F. All of these.
Jeremiah was shy and disposed to melancholy. That is one reason to believe that he wrote the Book of Lamentations (Lamentings) that directly follows Jeremiah. His character parallels Moses’ in his reluctance to take a leading role for Yahweh. As Moses taught the Hebrews in their first 40 years of national history, Jeremiah admonished them in the last 40 years. Answer: F