To access any archived recordings or slides, please reference the below, then email the office, with the dates and title of audio recording or slides requested.
31 December 2016 – Dreams and Chanukah – JLD. On the seventh night of Chanukah, Kyra Goldman sang Nes Gadol Haya Sham (a great miracle happened there), after which Mayor Dale Ross proclaimed 30 December 2016 Messiah Echad Day. Amen! Then in Shabbat Service, Dr. Greg Silverman blessed us with some Messianic Soul, singing Provide. Oh how awesome it is when El Shaddai (God Almighty) provides for our needs. Brother Mitch covered Miketz, From The End, Genesis 41:1 – 44:17, stating we all have a part to play in building God’s Kingdom. Stay true to your dream! After praise reports and prayer requests, to include another Kyra Goldman song, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Protecting the Lights of Judaism, and those of Chanukah. And finally, we lit the eighth light for Chanukah, with Police Chief Wayne Nero.
24 December 2016 – Suffering and Christmas – JLD. Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, and we enjoyed singing a new song, to Him who sits on, heaven’s mercy seat. Amen. Brother Philip covered Vayeshev, He Settled, from Genesis 37:1 – 40:23. Joseph was loved by his father, but hated by his brothers… who can relate to this concept? And this was actually a rather racy section in scripture, but the key take away is suffering for our God, is a good thing. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on what its like to have a strategy or vision from God, but be hated for it. Yet if we are doing the Lord’s work, things will always work out. Now ask yourself; is Christmas strategic, and winning? What about Chanukah? If you celebrate the later, see you every night at 05pm, in the Georgetown town square!
17 December 2016 – Righteousness and First Ladies – JLD. There is power, in the name Yeshua (Jesus), and when we declare this, every chain of bondage in our life, is able to be broken. Amen. In the torah portion, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Vayishlach, He Sent, from Genesis 32:3 – 36:43. God values unity, and He loves our seeking Him in rock bottom moments, but did you know “doing the right thing”, can become a form of idolatry? Simeon and Levi fell to this wickedness, over the Dinah incident, but don’t let it happen to you. Repent. After praise reports and prayer, First Lady Laura shared her heart for the Jewish People, First Lady Delilah talked about prayer and fasting, and Rebbetzin Melinda said we are all in this journey together. So stay with us, check out our redesigned mobile and desktop websites, then prepare for Chanukah!
10 December 2016 – “Rocks and Chanukah” – JLD. I will praise You forever Lord, for You are Adonai. You alone Yeshua, are the joy of my life. And we pray for that day when Israel declares You as Lord, and their joy (Mathew 23:39). Brother Alex covered Torah Portion Vayetze, he went out, from Genesis 28:10 – 32:2. The conjecture this year was G-d reaching out to us when we reach rock bottom. But do we reach back towards G-d, in these perilous moments, or stay at rock bottom? Praise reports included things like being on a path to full recovery from stroke, and prayer requests keep the blessings coming. Then Pastor Greg Stone from Gateway Church preached on Chanukah being Spiritual Warfare, and our needing teamwork, to defeat the enemy. And if you liked this sermon, also check out To The Jew First, and Your Family. And the slides are attached http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/31-Oct-2015-Slides.pdf.
03 December 2016 – “Promises and Inward” – JLD. O come to the altar. The Father’s arms are open wide. Forgiveness was bought with the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Praise and Worship at Messiah Echad was awesome, as always. Pastor Duane covered Torah Portion Family History, Toldot, Genesis 25:19 – 28:9. Esau the red haired hunter, and Jacob the conniving mommy’s boy, fought in the womb, and continued to do so through their life. Yet the focus this year, was seeking God first, to receive the blessings God promised. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan taught Part Three of Planting A Church. Even after you have the items necessary to succeed, and the culture is established, you need to capture people’s hearts. Amen. Lastly, as a bonus, we had a vow renewal, which we pray you enjoy.
26 November 2016 – Rebekah and Culture – JLD. For all your goodness, I will keep on singing; ten thousand reasons for my heart to find. Bless the Lord, oh my soul. We will worship Your Holy Name, at Messiah Echad! Torah Portion Chayei Sarah, Life of Sarah, from Genesis 23:1 – 25:18, was presented by our Shabbat School Coordinator (Paula). The focus was on Rebekah readying herself for her bridegroom, as should we for Yeshua. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, may we all continue with intercession for the health of every member, visitor, and guest of our congregation. Finally, Rabbi Jonathan taught Part Two of Planting A Church; establishing and shaping the culture. It has taken us three years to form our flavor, but thankfully, our culture is biblical, and aligned with the planter’s vision. Come join it.
19 November 2016 – Planting A Church – JLD. Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders… wherever You would call me, take me deeper… and my faith will be made stronger, in the presence of my Savior. The words from Oceans were so powerful during praise and worship, and it connected perfectly with Vayera, He Appeared, Genesis 18:1 – 22:4. God wants us to guard torah, and protect our faith. Brother Mitch reminded us that we cannot do it all, but we should do what we can, lest the progression of evil continue, and God cease to refresh our heart. Then after a little praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan took a walk down memory lane. The best part about the three-year history of Messiah Echad is that it is just the beginning of what we are about to do. All we need now is 50-100 people ready to help us explode.
12 November 2016 – All Children of God – JLD. Praise and worship was powerful as always, but today we really felt a powerful move of the Ruach (Spirit). Ki Gadol Elohai, How Great is our God, for sending us His Spirit. May we constantly remember how great He is, defeat any attack of the enemy. In the parsha, Brother Phillip covered on Lech-Lecha, Go forth, yourself, Genesis 12:1 – 17:27. The main point is God wants all of us to receive His blessings. Even the dirtiest of sinners, is wanted by God, to repent and turn to Him. Then after praise reports and prayer, we were pleased to welcome Reverend Ron Swain from First United Methodist Church. Rev. Swain is also the President of the Georgetown Ministerial Alliance and through the Courageous Conversations, he truly shows his belief that we are All, beloved Children of God.
05 November 2016 – Corruption and Prayer – JLD. In Messiah (Christ), we have the freedom to clap, sing, spin, and shout for the Lord. And we do this because we are freed from the shackles of sin, enabling us to lift our hands, love, worship, and scream louder than before. After worship, Pastor Joseph covered Noach, Genesis 6:9 – 11:32. Noah was righteous and walked with God, while the world around him grew corrupt. God brought an end to all flesh, save Noah’s Family, and it is prophesied the same will happen again. So let us flee from corruption! Next were praise reports and prayer requests, after which Rabbi Jonathan taught on prayer. Messiah prayed often and privately, in a way that transformed Him, and kept Him from temptation. Further, Messiah said prayer is a petition, which we should not cease, lest we give up our watch, over this dark world.
29 October 2016 – God’s Plan and Halloween – JLD. So although these are the days of Elijah, wherein we declare the name of the Lord, these are also the days of great famine, darkness, and sword. So as Halloween nears, pray that people beg for Yeshua (Jesus) to come into their life, thereby enabling His light to dispel the darkness. In the torah portion, Brother Mitch opened up Bereshit, On the Beginning, from Genesis 1:1 – 6:8. The focus was on an intelligent design creation, our subsequent fall, and God’s plan to restore His House. You can check out Mitch’s Torah: The 3 U’s Version, on Amazon. Then in the main message, Rabbi Jonathan kicked Halloween and Paganism in the butt! Boom. The truth has not changed, we should not repurpose dark things, and we can love people without participating in darkness. Listen at your own risk and as always.
22 Oct 2016. Praying and First Love – JLD. Coming back from joyous fellowship under the Sukkah, many of us are on such a spiritual high; do not let HaSatan bring you down! Focus on the manner of love that Messiah has for you, which through His blood, can make you blameless. Alleluia, Praise Yah and Praise God, for everything He has done in our lives life, and will continue to do, as we lift things up in prayer. So there was not torah portion during Sukkot week, but Pastor Duane did cover the third part of our Mission and Vision; showing people how to love Messiah, as per John 14:15. Remember to not make the commandments burdensome, or your first love, as that should be God. And if the example of a host offering you an unkosher meal hurt your brain, this Shabbat, Rabbi Jonathan will discuss how to make Halloween “kosher”. Scary.
15 Oct 2016. Punishment and Humility – JLD. Although the High Holy Days are over, may we continue to declare that I am not alone, because You will go before me, and never leave me. We carry His atoning blood, with us, everywhere we go. Amen! Brother Chris closed out our Torah Portions, Simchat Torah style, with Ha’azinu and V’Zot HaBerachah, from Deuteronomy 32:1 – 34:12. Heaven and earth witness our life, so it is wise to remain faithful to God, lest we get dealt with. True. Then in the main message, Rabbi Jonathan covered the 5 W’s (Who, What, Where, When, Why) for Sukkot, and then connected it with the effect of being humbled. Romans 12:16 echoes the importance to not set our minds on high things, nor extravagance, so let us not think we are better than anyone, and enjoy some sweet fellowship during Sukkot.
12 Oct 2016. Surrender and Yom Kippur – JLD. On this most Holy of Holy Days, where many believe God completes His yearly review of man, before writing names in the book of life, do you think you stand worthy to say you surrendered your will, to His? If not, we encourage you to re-invite Yeshua (Jesus) into your heart, and re-commit to obey His word. It is never too late to T’Shuva or Return, to His ways. In our service, we discussed the wholly inspired aspect of the bible, so if we accept what Paul says is good for us to do in Corinthians, how much more should we value The Lord’s Feasts of Leviticus 23? After a little responsive reading, we went into the Al Chet confessions, to put aside our transgressions and mistakes. Then from that feeling of being renewed, many of us took the broken body and shed blood, as we begin a new year. Amen.
08 Oct 2016. Cowardice and Sukkot – JLD. Oh, how we should all want more of Your Love, and more of Your Power, as we seek to have more of You, in our lives! Beautiful praise and worship, after which Brother Alex covered Parsha Vayelech, He Went, from Deuteronomy 31:1 – 31:30. Moses says to be strong and courageous, because Adonai (The Lord) walks with us… does this need for confidence, apply today? Revelation 21:8 shows yes, as a coward is someone who knows right, but does wrong, for comfort’s sake. Let us never do that! Our praise reports brought visitors from Florida, and our prayer was for God to continue bringing us back to Him. Amen. Then for Shabbat Shavuh, Rabbi Jonathan read Hosea 14, recapped Rosh Hashanah, and referenced Yom Kippur, but our focus was on Sukkot, and the fruit we need to gather or show.
02 October 2016. Yom Teruah and Trumpets – JLD. The traditional greeting for the High Holy Days of Leviticus 23 is L’Shana Tova or “For a Good Year”. Our community believes Man was created around the time of Rosh Hashanah (Yom Teruah), and Christ was actually born during Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles). So as any father might be reflective on the birthday of his children, maybe God is ending a year thinking about us. And if so, what notes might He make about you, in His Book of Life? In these ten Days of Awe, we encourage you to rest, and reflect. Find fellowship with like-minded folks, and make this a holy convocation. Sound a shofar if you have one. And before you make any offering to God, asking Him to forgive you of your sins, please, take the time to forgive others. From all of us at Messiah Echad, a place “Where Christian, Jewish, and Non-Religious Believers find Echad (Oneness)”, a place where all lives truly do matter, L’Shana Tova!
01 October 2016. “If and Rosh Hashanah” – JLD. As we near the High Holy Days, praise and worship was amazing, espcailly with all the shofars we sounded. Then in the parsha, Duane covered Nitzavim, Standing, from Deuteronomy 29:9 – 30:20. The bonus was feeling God hug us, and the main point was there being a blessing or a curse, dependent upon IF we keep the Lord’s Commandments, or not. Let us continue choosing the blessings, so we can speak about them in praise report time, and may Adonai answer our prayer requests. In the main message, Rabbi Jonathan spoke about Spongebob Squarepants, the upcoming High Holy Days, and Rosh Hashanah (Yom Teruah) logistics. Please listen, then email or text an RSVP for the upcoming feasts. Lastly, please set aside any boxes or bins you have, for the Lawrences move. L’Shana Tova (To A Good Year)!
24 September 2016. Blessings and Neighbors – JLD. Amen on Mya leading us as we sang praises to the King of kings, He is our everything, and we will adore Him. As we near the High Holy Days, we were blessed with Mitch doing his inaugural torah portion at Messiah Echad, Ki Tavo, When You Come In, Deuteronomy 26:1 – 29:8. Big idea is we worship a loving God, who wants to bless us, and we should allow said blessings to overtake our lives. Praise reports included overcoming addictions, and pray requests will keep the cycle of healing going… Amen. In the main message, Rabbi Jonathan gave a nod to his plaid suit, which the Rebbetzin thinks is 1980’s style but it is not. We digress; the drash was about the loving our neighbor part of our Mission and Vision. So do that, be living waters to people, and invite someone to our High Holy Days.
17 September 2016. “If You Want, and Orphans” – JLD. Praise and worship included a style of music from our past… good ole recorded tracks! Yet even in that, the glory of the Lord sure filled our place. Amen. Sister Shandilyn delivered a wonderful prophecy on being keys to open doors, after which Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Ki Teitzei, “When you go forth”, from Deuteronomy 21:10 – 25:19. And since we have permission to voluntarily obey torah, reviewed the instruction to respect captives, avoid cross dressing, not send escaped slaves back, treat foreigners well, and never deal falsely. Then in the sermon, Guest Pastor Nate Cashdan from Fervent Embrace Ministries, spoke on Father God’s Heart being for the orphans (Romans 8:14-18). So at the least, please pray for them, and catch us next week for monthly oneg. Blessings,
10 September 2016. “Judges and Sermon on Mount – JLD”. Shalom, and if no one has told you yet that God has a blessing, with your name on it, now you know. Go claim it! In the torah portion, Brother Chris covered Shoftim, Judges, from Deuteronomy 16:18 – 21:9. By studying the Mosaic justice system, we better understand the Apostolic Writings, which show Yeshua (Jesus) did not break (end), rather He fulfilled (did). Amen. Praise reports continued our three-year trend of God blessing us every week, and prayer requests kept the cycle going. Finally, Rabbi Jonathan covered the Sermon on the Mount, from Mathew 5:2 – 7:29. This was where Yeshua taught in Capernum, using allegory and analogies, along with pointed phrases, to point Jews to faith, which we still need today, along with works. Great sermon!
03 September 2016. “Jews Blessings and Tithe” – JLD. We shout out Your name, and from the rooftops we proclaim, we are Yours! Our identity, purpose, and worship, is to and for G-d. Rabbi Jonathan opened our study with Re’eh, See or Behold, from Deuteronomy 11:26 – 16:17. We should want to claim our blessings by finding fellowship, watching out for apostates, eating kosher, tithing, releasing each other of debts, and sanctifying our firstborns. Praise reports included one lady returning home from her heart transplant, and another being cleared of blood clots. God is good. Finally, Pastor Duane delivered an amazing sermon on the importance of tithing, which is our duty to G-d, and enables Him to bless us. If you struggle with tithing, want to learn more, or wonder why P. Duane is so blessed, HEAR THIS SERMON!
27 August 2016. “Fear The Lord and Vision” – JLD. Praise and Worship was powerful as always, but this week it included vocals from Mya, who at the age of nine, proudly sang “Glory, glory, hallelujah, He reigns!” Amen. In the torah portion, Pastor Harry covered Ekev or Consequence, from Deuteronomy 7:12 – 11:25. Where Moses again gave Israel instructions from God, but notable is grace after meals, the golden cow incident, and a reminder to fear the Lord. Then after a little praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan covered the first part of our Mission and Vision at Messiah Echad, showing people how to love God. Spoiler alert; loving God starts in the home. Finally, R. Jonathan would like to thank our special guest, John Wayne Walding, a fellow wounded veteran who is a powerful testimony to never giving up.
20 August 2016. “Three and Righteousness” – JLD. We began praise and worship with gadol Elohai, shiru ki gadol Elohai, which means how great is our God, sing with me how great is our God! Amen… Our God is so great, and never leaves us alone. In the parsha, Rabbi Jonathan covered Va’etchanan, I Pleaded, Deuteronomy 3:23 – 7:11. Our focus was Moses not being permitted to cross into the Promised Land, but Moses was allowed to see it. Further, Moses prepared Israel by leveraging the three data point model. Next, we had praise reports about new jobs and prayer requests for continued blessings, after which our special guest, Pastor Whit Anderson from Christ Presbyterian Church, brought a message on righteousness. Everything we do should be for the glory of God, not for the public exaltation of ourselves.
13 August 2016. “Trusting and Neighbors” – JLD. With special guests in from all over the nation, we were pleased to witness Rabbi Jonathan and Rebbetzin Melinda dedicate their newly adopted children, Karissa (5) and Tristen (3), to Adonai (The Lord). Praise and worship finished with a song very near to the Dades; a song which says we are all children of God. Next, Brother Chris opened up Devarim, Words, with the parsha from Deuteronomy 1:1 – 3:2. We focused on trusting God and obeying His Word. Then after some praise reports and a little prayer, Rabbi Jonathan delivered a heartfelt sermon on identifying, then loving our neighbor. And after laying that foundation, The Dades dedicated their children to Adonai, while also vowing to be their forever parents. Amen!
06 August 2016. “Inheritance and Politics” – JLD. As we concluded praise and worship, Rabbi Jonathan and Worship Leader Danaë, felt a nudge to heal those who were hurting. So no matter what the pain, and even to those online, we pray Adonai provides healing, and gives you His Shalom (Peace). As for the parsha, Brother Chris summarized Matot, Tribes, and Masei, Journeys of, from Numbers 30:2 – 36:13. The focus was on the inheritance we strive to receive, which is a function of our obedience and interestingly, also our humility. Praise reports and prayer requests were great, after which Rabbi Jonathan brought a (non-political) message on animals. Whether you support Elephants, Donkeys, or Gulls, this is not the message to miss, as it will help you choose!
30 July 2016. “Convince and Fear God“ – JLD. Shalom and how wonderful it is when we can tap into that more love, more power, which can only be found in Him. May you be blessed as you enjoy this audio recording, spending time with Adonai (The Lord). Torah Portion Phinehas, Numbers 25:10 – 30:1, was presented by Pastor Duane. The theme was about following the leader, which is common in Numbers, after which we pondered if man can change the mind of God. Praise reports and prayer requests showed us a God that still heals, and then Brother Alex did a sermon around man’s purpose on this earth. The great commission is one part, but fearing God by giving glory to him, is the other. Amen, and catch you next week for Shabbat, as we continue preparing for God.
23 July 2016. “Balak, and Interconnectedness” – JLD. Oh how we enjoyed hosting Micah and Abby Mahoney from Congregation Zion’s Sake in Newport News VA! If you enjoyed today and want more worship like this, check out our album Awakened at Messiah Echad, and the project Heartcry of David. As for the word, P. Harry covered Balak, Destroyer, from Numbers 22:2 – 25:9. In portion, we get the beautiful Ma Tovu. Then after numerous praise reports and soulful prayer, Rabbi Jonathan proceeded with a drash on being balanced Messianic Jewish Believers, who leverage a divinely, interconnected scripture. See you next week (30 July) for monthly oneg,
16 July 2016. “Ordinances and Grace” – JLD. It is great to share spirit filled worship with believers who run to him. Granted, Rabbi Jonathan did not physically run in the service, he did drum pretty fast in some of the songs, then briskly walked off stage to cover Chukat, Ordinance of, from Numbers 19:1 – 22:1. Our focus was on the red heifer purification, Israel complaining about thirst, and Israel complaining against God. Israel should have trusted more in Adonai! A few praise reports and prayer requests bridged us into the sermon, which was covered by Brother Chris. Many believers misunderstand grace, and misquote Hebrews, but the “better” covenant is being given the power to keep the law. Amen. Catch you next week, and with special guest, Micah Mahoney in concert.
09 July 2016. “Follow and Serve” – JLD. During an extremely anointed worship time, many of our members re-dedicated themselves, and prayed for our community, at the altar, which is always open, especially during the final song. As for the word, P. Duane covered torah portion Korah from Numbers 16:1 – 18:32, which was about following the leader. Note, following does not connote complaining or rising against. Next was our usual, awesome, praise reports, which this week included our Rabbi being hit while cycling, and not breaking a bone. Praise God! In the main message, Rabbi Jonathan covered our seventh statement of faith (Membership) after which Cruz Correa from CASA of Travis County, showed everyone one way that they can serve the community.
02 July 2016. “Trust, Obey, and Will” – JLD. How great is our God, and worthy of the praise we lifted up in our Service. Rabbi Jonathan started us off by asking four questions on parsha Shlach, Send For Yourself, Numbers 13:1 – 15:41. Even after the lessons learned in Numbers, on trusting and obeying, did Israel believe they could claim the land God gave them? How did Israel treat godly voice of reason? Did Israel heed Moses’ direction? There are so many things to learn from torah! Then after praise reports and prayer, with the guidance of P. Duane, Brother Phillip brought forth his inaugural sermon at Messiah Echad. The topic was doing the will of God, with what God has given you. Amen and Happy Fourth of July (Independence Day).
25 June 2016. “Levites and Orlando” – JLD. After an awesome praise and worship set, to include vocals from a guest worship singer, Pastor Duane summarized the torah portion Behaalotecha, In your making go up, Numbers 8:1 – 12:16. The key points were setting the Levites apart, observing the commandments, and not complaining as Miriam did… God does not like complaining. We then thanked God for our praise reports, and humbly submitted a few prayer requests. Lastly, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on the recent shooting at a gay club in Orlando, and Rabbi reminded us to embrace the person, yet shun the sin. Spoiler Alert… we do not take a stance on homosexuality. We take a stance on sin.
18 June 2016. “Sent Out and Brooding” – JLD. The audio recording is http://messiahechad.org/blog/18-june-2016-t7h/ and the slides are http://messiahechad.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/18-Jun-2016-Slides.pdf . Oh how great is our God, and lively the praise and worship at Messiah Echad! It is worth every minute, of the drive you will make. This past Shabbat, Brother Chris spoke on parsha, Naso, Elevate, Numbers 4:21 – 7:89. This was a power packed section on; placing the defiled outside the camp, accused women drinking bitter waters, the Nazarene vow, the Aaronic benediction, and the dedication offering. Then in the drash, Rabbi Jonathan delineated between salvation and sanctification, after which we explored various commandments surrounding the Shabbat. Yet it was the concluding admonition, on being pastoral or motherly, like a broody hen (Luke 13:34), which reached so many hearts. Amen.
11 June 2016. “Ownership and Shavuot” – JLD. Master of the universe, ha tov shimcha; we gratefully acknowledge you in worship and in praise! We also heard a reading prompted by Brother Alex, along with a new song. Next, Bamidbar, In The Wilderness, Numbers 1:1 – 4:20, was covered by Brother Chris. Our focus was on our bodies, like the temple, belonging to The Master of The Universe. Then after praise reports and prayer requests, Rabbi Jonathan led us in a fun, scriptural, Shavuot or Pentecost Service. We also don’t care if you observe yours differently. Those passages again, were (1) Leviticus 23:16-22, (2) Acts 2:1-5, (3) Exodus 19:1, 34:27, 40:17, (4) 1 Corinthians 15:20, (5) Ruth 1:4-22, (6) Galatians 5:22-23, (7) Deuteronomy 26:9-10, and (8) Colossians 2:16-17.
04 June 2016. “Tithing and Discord” – JLD. Healing is here, and I believe it! And we were so blessed as S. Danaë led us into a healing time of praise and worship, after which B. Alex felt God wanted to heal someone on the spot, which he did! Amen! The parsha was presented by Rabbi Jonathan, Bechukotai, In My statutes, Leviticus 26:3 – 27:34. Walking in the statues of The Lord brings blessings, while dismissing them brings oppression. We also explored redemption, and the tithe, before counting more blessings, then submitting praying requests. Lastly, Pastor Duane delivered a powerful sermon on Messiah Echad’s sixth statement of faith – unity. After hearing it, you will abhor disunity or discord. See you next week for Shavuot (Pentecost) Shabbat and Monthly Oneg.
28 May 2016. “Six Days and Storms” – JLD. We began by remembering how You are the one who walks through fire, You take the orphan’s hand, You are the one Messiah, You are I am. Amen. Next, Rabbi Jonathan did the torah portion, Behar, On The Mountain, Leviticus 25:1 – 26:2. The three points to consider were taking a Sabbath year of rest, returning possession in the year of Jubilee, and respecting God’s Sanctuary. Praise report time is always joyous, and may our prayer requests turn into praise, in the coming weeks! And finally, we were blessed to have Pastor David Cobb from The Worship Place, speak on navigating the storms of life. The sermon begins 50 minutes into the audio recording, and we pray the slides also bless you.
21 May 2016. “Punishments and Following” – JLD. We are no longer strangers to your arms. By your grace you have saved us… we’re no longer strangers arms. Beautiful praise and worship Danaë. Brother Alex covered parsha Emor, Say, Leviticus 21:1 – 24:23, which included difficult things to preach. After all, who wants to embrace the harsh punishments for breaking the Laws of God… but then again, how well does it go when we attempt to break the laws of gravity? It’s a good thing we heed God, as was evident in our praise reports and prayer requests. Lastly, Rabbi Jonathan recapped his Sacred Name message, before digging into our second Statement of Faith… following His commands (John 14:15).
13 May 2016. “Kedoshim and Holy Names” – JLD. On a rainy day here in Texas, we stayed dry in our Sanctuary, while bidding farewell to our Brother Caleb. Thank you for your music, to the solo He (God) Wants It All. In the torah portion, Brother Phillip spoke on Kedoshim, Holy Ones, from Leviticus 19:1 – 20:27, where God wants all of us, in holiness. Let us help the needy and not place stumbling blocks. Praise reports included vehicles, healings, and financial blessings… amen! Then we prayed, after which Rabbi Jonathan spoke on being right. Many of us feel we are right, especially when it comes to Theologies, but what does Gad say?
07 May 2016. “Rejection and Mothering” – JLD. How beautiful it is to know that we glorify a Risen Savior, which we did at The Worship Place in Georgetown. Praise and Worship was lively as always, after which Rabbi Jonathan covered Acharei Mot, After The Death, Leviticus 16:1 – 18:30. We talked about not making profane fire, modern day scapegoats, atonement processes, dedicating things to God, and things from which we believers are prohibited (i.e. consuming blood). Powerful connections. In the drash, Pastor Duane dedicated his time giving thanks for all the Mothers in the congregation, who show a love Fathers simple are not created to provide. And for those counting omer, sunset on Sunday 08 May 2016, marks day 16, but also Mother’s Day, to don’t forget to call Mommy.
30 April 2016. ““Soteriology and Weddings” – JLD. There’s no fear in love… I want to stay close to You, It’s really that simple, I want to stay close to You, My whole life long (Gretzinger and Ward). Beautiful sentiments of worship, after which B. Phillip explained to us how me and Jesus, we go together, like Pinky and the Brain. Being this close with Him has its benefits, chiefly seen in our praise reports, which are a function of our earnestly put prayer requests. Then in the drash, Rabbi Jonathan concluded on Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, and First Fruits, before making connections to Yeshua and Soteriology. Finally, we wedded Anthony and Christina Velez! Mazel Tov to you and thank you for sharing your day with us.
23 April 2016. “Passover and Chametz” – JLD. In our third year as a Messianic Congregation, we were so blessed to have well over a hundred native born (Jews) and strangers (Christians), together, for Seder. We always have a great time and our Passover audio recording is online. Then on the Shabbat, Brother Chris read a scripture that had been on his heart, about removing the physical and spiritual leaven from our lives,. Finally, after a little praise report and prayer request time, Rabbi Jonathan dug deep into the implications of feasting and fasting, in the same season. Although seemingly contradictory, like going up a mountain and then down a valley, our lives are like this, yet through Him, we somehow remain level or moderate.
16 April 2016. “Defiling and Passover” – JLD. Brother Chris did an awesome job speaking about the nature of our living God, from Metzora, Leper, Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33. Any death that stains or defiles, has to be cleaned before we approach our Creator, and thankfully, through the Son of God, we are given another, powerful way to atone. That video we played was https://youtu.be/l9vn5UvsHvM, complements of The Bible Project. Then were some amazing praise reports, followed by prayer requests, which will become praise reports soon! And welcome back from your cycling event Rabbi Jonathan; we enjoyed your message on the Passover Story and Commandment. Information for our Seder (Friday 22 April, 07pm) can be found at http://messiahechad.org/events/#pesach, our audio recording from this past Shabbat is online.
09 April 2016. “Baptism and Bible 101” – JLD. Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: “My God, how great Thou art! And how great our God is, which we praise even through traditional hymns. In the torah portion, Pastor Harry covered Tazria, She bears Seed, from Leviticus 12:1 – 13:59. This section was about cleansing, spiritual diseases, and the atonement we ultimately receive, through Messiah. Amen, and our praise report time was so lively, from God bringing cooling breezes, to being reminded to “Watch God”. Please pray for those with needs, and our veterans. And finally, Pastor Duane covered his first in a series about the Bible… a book that remains a number one best seller, but takes study to understand correctly.
02 April 2016. “Teachers and Groups” – JLD. Here’s my heart Lord… Here’s my life Lord… Speak what is true. Beautiful words, dedicating ourselves in heavenly service, to our Lord God. Then after praise and worship, Chris delivered his inaugural torah portion at Messiah Echad, on the responsibilities of being teachers, priests, and congregational leaders, from Shemini, Eighth, Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47. It was a very insightful word Chris. Next in the service were praise reports, which we are not at liberty to share online, but would love to tell you about personally, followed by our prayer request time. Finally, the main message was about why believers of the New Testament, should follow the Old. Lastly, please share our new video – https://youtu.be/fUCNvwZzwrA and building plans – http://messiahechad.org/about-us/#NB.
26 March 2016. “Queens, Kings, and Esther” – JLD. So while some, unknowingly, paid homage to Ishtar, we gave Praise and Worship to Adonai, by proclaiming MaTovu or How Lovely are His Dwelling Places, then singing Shalom Aleikhem or Peace be Upon You. After that was torah portion Tzav or Command, from Leviticus 6:1 – 8:36. Phillip explained how we are called to be clean, anointed, and filled with Adonai’s Spirit. My brothers and sisters; we live in this world, but are not of it. Lastly, after prayer, we read the Book of Esther… Purim is where King Ahasuerus’ (bless him) invited Queen Vashti (tisk tisk) to dinner, but she refused! So she was replaced by Esther (aww), who spoke up at just the right time to save the Jews from Haman (boo), with the help of her Uncle Mordecai (yay).
19 March 2016. “Worship and Burnt Offering” – JLD. It was such a blessing to hear over 90 minutes of praise and worship, which was recorded, and will be sent to a studio for our second album release; Freedom at Messiah Echad. Stay tuned on CD Baby and iTunes! In between our songs, we enjoyed poetic reading from Phillip… we are cool if we are saved, and its cool be heaven bound! Finally, we enjoyed the torah portion from Rabbi Jonathan, Vayikra, And he called, Leviticus 1:1 – 5:26. The burnt, grain, peace, sin, and trespass offerings may not be active in the physical sense, as Messiah is our offering (Hebrews 10:14), since He lives in us spiritually, the effects of the offerings should be manifest in our lives. See you next week, in Purim attire, and with sandwich items for monthly oneg.
12 March 2016. “Temple and Transformed” – JLD. During some passionate, tearful worship, we implored God to pull us a little closer, and take us a little deeper, so we can know His heart. Amen. We began with Pastor Nate of Fervent Embrace Ministries, connecting Pekudei, Accountings Of, from Exodus 38:21 – 40:38, with the modern temple. As God, via the Ruach, dwells in us, our bodies are now the temples. Amen again. In the drash, Rabbi Jonathan expounded upon the Ruach; we explored the gifts, fruits, expressions, personalities, and relationship thereof. And the Ruach is ready, to dwell in and transform us. Lastly, for those who attended (not recorded), Raymond Jarmillo McCleod from Broadway, showed us how to leverage those vocal chords, speak emphatically, and present ourselves well.
05 March 2016. “Socialism, Praise, Asking” – JLD. Gearing up for our All Praise and Worship Service on 19 March, both teams encouraged us to “Clap Louder”, and “Worship Deeper”, as we embrace our Freedom. Amen. In the parsha, Alex connected current events with Vayakhel, And he assembled, from Exodus 35:1 – 38:20. Each person is to to give as God commands, and God Blesses back, however not equally, rather accordingly. During praise reports, Margarita and Dave expressed how a few months with Messiah Echad, positively changed their whole family… thanks for sharing! Lastly, Duane delivered an engaging sermon on everything in this world, giving praise to Adonai. And after the service was our first Ask The Rabbi. Wow. See you next week for Services, and Stage Training with Raymond.
27 February 2016. “Aleph Tav, Men of God” – JLD. This is my prayer in the desert, when all that’s within me feels dry… we know that our God, will always provide. Amen. In the torah portion, Joseph Bailey spoke on Ki Tisa, When You Lift Up, from Exodus 30:11 – 34:35. We all need to be redeemed, Yeshua is the ransom that was paid, and He (the Alpeh Tav) brought holiness since the beginning. Then after praise reports, and prayer, Rabbi Jonathan concluded the Men of God Series, encouraging men to be committed or dedicated, and loving or forgiving. And after services, we had some awesome oneg fellowship, to include the college and career group (Chavurah B’samim) bowling at Mel’s Lone Star Lanes. Catch you next week for Shabbat at 03pm, followed by our first Ask The Rabbi at 05:30pm.
20 February 2016. “Fire and Men of God” – JLD. After some amazing trumpet from Caleb, along with the rest of an awesome praise and worship set, our souls were made ready to be filled for another week. And P. Duane did a great job doing so, from parsha Tetzaveh, You Shall Command, from Exodus 27:20 – 30:10. Its uplifting to know that even the temple laws, still have relevance today. Then after thanking God via praise reports, followed by praying for some more blessings, Rabbi Jonathan began a two part series on being Men of God. This time was men (1) being true worshippers, and (2) being biblical scholars… catch you next week for monthly oneg, and Part Two! Oh, and the Paint Party after services was colorful, no pun intended. Be sure to share our messages with a friend.
13 February 2016. “Offering and Messiah” – JLD. Ki Gadol Elohai; How great is our God, indeed! Praise and Worship time at Messiah Echad is always lovely. In the torah portion, Pastor Harry summarized Terumah or Heave Offering, from Exodus 25:1 – 27:19, which was about the temple and holy of holies. Lots of detail and lots of scripture were in this section, so make sure to review, as you are able. Then in the main message, Rabbi Jonathan covered our second statement of faith, belief in “ the Son of God, Born to Joseph and Mary of Nazareth, known as Yeshua (Jesus), or simply, Messiah.” The big points were (1) Messiah being the Son of God, (2) Messiah also being a man, and (3) Messiah being Jewish, to include embracing that culture. Amen. Catch you next week, and for Date Night!
06 February 2016. “Laws and Valentines” – JLD. Hallelujah, grace like rain, falls down on me. Hallelujah, all my stains are washed away; they’re washed away. Amen, and thank you Alex for the energizing praise and worship. Next was parsha Mishpatim, Laws, from Exodus 21:1 – 24:18, and it was presented by Phillip. First time delivering a message at our congregation from our brother, but he did a smooth job. Yeah man. In the main drash, Rabbi Jonathan mentioned being wise, before we dug into Mathew 24:37. The end of our world will be like that of Noah, which included giants, spawned from evil forces. Are those entities still alive, fighting against the powers of God? Do you know the origins of Valentines Day? Is Cupid’s reach large, enticing, and not of God?
30 January 2016. “Shema and Yahweh God” – JLD. I will call upon Your name, and keep my eyes above the waves. My soul will rest in Your embrace, for I am Yours and You are mine. Beautiful praise and worship Danae! In the torah portion, Pastor Joseph covered Yitro, Jethro, Exodus 18:1 – 20:23, which spoke on the importance of hearing, then doing something with the word we receive. Amen. And in the main message, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Of the 2,500+ gods out there, Messiah Echad worships a God who is not a plural unity, rather He is an all powerful ONE God, as per the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4. So to help us distinguish between our God and the others, we talked about attributes, characteristics, and natures that are unique to each.
23 January 2016. “Yahweh Nissi and Worthy” – JLD. While we lift our East Coast brothers who are experiencing a harsh winter, here in Central Texas, we were blessed with a mild day and some hot word. After the announcements and one worship song, which was included in the recording, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Beshalach “When he let go”, from Exodus 13:17 – 17:16. The Lord is our banner, Yahweh Nissi, and we should picture or remember Him, in front of us, no matter the situation. Then after some amazing praise reports and heartfelt prayer requests, P. Duane spoke on how we are worthy enough to be God’s hands and feet, and He bought us with a price. Finally, we ordained Duane Smale as an Elder. and Associate Pastor. Messiah Echad is growing; see you next week for monthly oneg!
16 January 2016. “Freedom and Contentment” – JLD. After some spirit filled praise and worship by Team Bet, Daniel set aside the drums to present Torah Potion Bo, Come, from Exodus 10:1 – 13:16. Daniel did an amazing job speaking about God showing Himself, and His Power, through all the plaques; the first seven were for the nations, while the final three were for Israel. Powerful. Finally, we had some powerful prayer, after which Rabbi Jonathan spoke on being content, inspired by the encouragement found in Philippians 4:11. The key to being content is having (1) happiness, making sure we have (2) peace, and focusing on being (3) satisfied. We even covered some practical truths to being content. Catch you next week for services, and Duane Smale’s Ordination!
09 January 2016. “YHVH and Leadership” – JLD. Messiah Echad was blessed to have Alex speak on Vayera, I appeared, from Exodus 6:2 – 9:35. We saw how there were magicians who could copy the first three plagues, but after that, they could not compare to the power of YHVH (often pronounced Yahweh). His name and power, is above all, although He is also known by titles, manifestations, or attributes. So after praying in His name, Rabbi Jonathan taught on the leadership structure of Messiah Echad, which is founded in His Scriptures. As opposed to the downsides of being led by emotions or mobs (crow psychology), we see how God more often led through one, called out person. And this is the model we follow at Messiah Echad, as alluded to in our About Us Page, and Constitution.
02 January 2016. “Commands and Unity” – JLD. After praise and worship, then a brief prophetic message, Rabbi Jonathan spoke on Shemot from Exodus 1-6. Rabbi summarized the beginning section, then quizzed us on the rest. How did God appear to Moses, what was His Name, how many signs were given to Moses, how many people led the rival, and do Gods commands matter to people? After the parsha was praise reports, then prayer requests, then another prophetic message, which concluded in more prayer… oh how we are praying in 2016! Next, our special guest, Pastor Nate Cashdan from Fervent Embrace Ministries and Agape Life Church, spoke on why unity is important, what unity is, what should we unify around, what does unity look like, and why we should unify.