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Whatever Happened to Yesterday?

April 13, 2026

Whatever Happened to Yesterday

Person in red jacket overlooking calm mountain lake with sunrays breaking through cloudy sky
A lone hiker stands at a rocky lakeside as sunrays break through dramatic clouds over snow-capped mountains.
  • schellenbarg
  • Feb 21
  • 2 min read

I certainly have fond memories of my childhood days: roaming our small town carefree; every night was another episode of kick-the -can throughout the neighborhood. The only real worry was making sure my homework was done before bedtime. That was life. 

Particularly in the last twenty years, much has changed. Children tend to be safely guarded and if more than eyesight away, a cellphone is attached to their hip. Worry seems to hang over us all the time. If not controlled, our worry can easily lead to anger issues. 

For many people, anger has taken over their lives. According to statistics, the number of people with severe anger issues has doubled in the past twenty years. In fact, 33 million Americans have been clinically diagnosed with explosive anger. And anger is not a fleeting moment.  One out of every three people in the United States report feeling angry every day. Every day of their lives. Every day. 

Anger can easily boil over. Other statistics state that road rage is involved in over 50% of fatal accidents; 37% of workplace violence is because of festering anger; 52% of childhood abuse is linked to parental anger. The statistics continue about the effects of anger and its toll on our mental and physical health. 

The good news is that anger management programs can reduce outburst by 70%. Relaxation techniques, journaling, and even regular exercise can help manage our frustrations. 

Nothing, though, works as well as your personal time with God.  

  • Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalms 119:105 
  • Come unto Me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Matthew 11:28 
  • Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2 
  • So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  Isaiah 41:10 
  • The joy of the Lord is my strength. Nehemiah 8:10 
  • Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalms 37:4 
  • Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4 

There is one constant when anger rules us. “Whatever begins in anger ends in shame.” Benjamin Franklin  

If you struggle with anger, know that you are not alone. Make the change for the betterment of not only you but those around you. Don’t be another angry headline. 

 

This post is appreciative to igniteamerica.com and gitnux.com for statistics. 

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BIG DREAMS

April 13, 2026

Big Dreams…..Coming of the Messiah 

In today’s world, we have lost the visions God wants to give us through dreams. God still hungers to use that as a direction for tomorrow, but  we tend to ignore that message.  Time, after time, God has used dreams for me to see the next steps in life when that happens, I just sit secure. I don’t need to share it and get anxious. Sometimes, the fulfillment is quickly, other times the fulfillment is after a period of waiting. 

The promises of God given through dreams might have lost it power in today’s world, but it was readily acknowledged in Biblical Israel. Some visions mentioned in the scriptures took hundreds of years to be fulfilled and others about Jesus’s second coming are still to be seen. Dreams and their fulfillment took on a large role in Israel. 

The years 1BC-4BC were ripe for good news to be heralded. The Roman rulers and their extreme taxation of every possible means—people, goods, and travel– took their toll. With each passing year, the longing for the Messiah to bring salvation grew.  

According to the teachings of that time, the Messiah was coming as a conquering king, overthrowing the present rulers. Yet in the tiny town of Nazareth, the illogical was occurring. The Holy Ghost had a better, a revolutionary plan. The Messiah would come not as a king, but as a representative of the common folk. 

Sometime between 4 BC to 2 BC Caesar Augustus became the Roman emperor and was given the title, Pater Patriae, Father of the Country. The author and theologian, James Nollet presents a compelling case that with the crowning of a new emperor, a census was always taken. (asa3.org). “And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.” (Luke 2:1). Because of this requirement, Joseph and Mary made the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, Joseph’s family’s original homebase. 

The journey from the small village of Nazareth to Bethlehem took at least three days to cover the 90 miles. To avoid Samaria, the group traveled through mountainous terrain and stayed overnight in the open countryside. This was a taxing journey for pregnant Mary. Trading caravans regularly made the trip and Joseph could have joined one of those groups for the safety they provided. Regardless, the journey was long, boring, and physically taxing. 

As the couple arrived in Bethlehem, they found a tiny village of 300-400 people crowded. With others also coming to register, a place—possibly an inn, or more likely a guest chamber (with relatives?) –was not found for the couple. Religious laws made it unlikely any Jewish adherents were willing to house the couple. Any female giving birth was considered unclean and defiled a home for seven days. In addition, it would be thirty days after the birth of Jesus before Mary could be purified. In either case in a cave, today within the Church of the Nativity, the infant son was born. “And she brought forth her firstborn Son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:7).  

The village of Bethlehem, shortly outside of Jerusalem, played a significant role in Temple sacrifices. The lambs that were used for the daily Temple sacrifices were housed around a watchtower called Migdal Eder. Interestingly, the Jewish scholars taught that from this watchtower the Messiah would be revealed. Where else, but from here, could one expect the angels to announce the birth to the shepherds? “Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” (Luke 2:9-10). 

These were not ordinary shepherds. These shepherds were Jewish adherents who were chosen and trained for this occupation. It was an honor to guard this special flock. The angels continued, “This will be a sign for you: You will find the baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”  

For these shepherds, the sign was significant. A manger was the area where the best lambs chosen for the next sacrifice were kept. The shepherds tightly wrapped the sheep in straps of cloth, called swaddling cloths to keep them warm and protected. One can only marvel at God’s planning. The Savior of the people, born in humble beginnings; yet from the beginning showing Himself as the Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the World. 

The question of whether Jesus was born on December 25 cannot be accurately answered. December 25th as the birth date of Christ was not formally accepted until 336AD. December 25th was already a Roman holiday to honor the birth of the sun, so Christians could celebrate freely, without insolent mockery by others. There is another side to the setting of the date. Irenaeus, a Greek bishop of the Christian church, lived about 120 years after Christ. He, along with Hippolytus, a Greek theologian and writer of the 2nd century, taught that Mary’s conception of Jesus occurred during the week of Passover, which in 2BC was the week beginning on March 25, by our calendar. Nine months, then brought one to the December date. In addition, Sextus Julius Africanus, a historian of the second century, listed December 25 as the birth of Christ and Cyril of Jerusalem, a bishop overseeing the Jerusalem congregation, claimed to have the official Jewish birth records that showed Jesus as having been born on December 25. The important question, though, is how one uses the opportunity the Christmas season provides. Is one’s allegiance to the commercialism of the season, or allegiance to the birth of the King of Kings?  

Following His birth, the young family had religious responsibilities to fulfill. According to religious law, every Jewish male child, was circumcised and officially named on the eighth day. Thirty-one days after birth, Mary traveled to the Temple to be purified, ending her time of uncleanness. The payment for Jesus’ redemption was given.  

While the family was there, Simeon, “Guided by the Spirit, entered the Temple.” (Luke 2:27). When he saw Mary with the infant, he took Jesus in his arms and praised God that now he could die in peace, for “It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah.” (Luke 2:26). Jesus would be “A light for revelation to the gentiles and glory to your people, Israel.” (Luke 2:32). The prophetess Anna also “Came up and began to thank God and to speak about Him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:38). God honored the righteous requests of both Simeon and Anna. Their words served as confirmation of what Mary and Joseph already knew. 

Rather than making the arduous journey back to Nazareth, Joseph and Mary possibly settled with relatives in Bethlehem. Joseph found work; Mary found assistance in caring for her infant child and the daily tasks of caring for family needs. While the infant child totally depended on His parents, they knew He one day would be their savior and redeemer.  

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, wise men (Magi) from the East arrived in Jerusalem saying, ‘Where is He who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw His star at its rising and have come to worship Him.’” (Matthew 2:1-2) The term, Magi, is an ancient Persian word and some theologians believe the Magi were priests within the Persian religious system who had studied Jewish beliefs under the influence of the prophet Daniel. Part of the doctrines he shared was the Jewish belief in a coming Messiah.  

The Magi traveled to Jerusalem and requested information from Herod the Great. The Magi told Herod, “We saw His star at its rising and have come to worship Him.” (Matthew 2:2). Frederick Larson states that in 2BC the planets Jupiter and Venus and the star Regulus crossed paths with each other multiple times. Because of their proximity, it appeared as one star. Jupiter was Greek for the Hebrew word Sedeq, meaning righteousness and Regulus was known as the King Star because of its brilliance. The righteous king “star” leading to the righteous king of all humanity. (en.wikipedia.org). 

When King Herod, heard the Magi’s word, his priestly advisors told him about the prophecy from Micah, “But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the rulers of Judah, for out of you shall come a Ruler, who will shepherd My people Israel.” (Matthew 2:6). After hearing this, the Magi completed their journey to Bethlehem and worshipped the infant. “Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country, another way.” (Matthew 2:12). 

When Herod discovered the Magi were not returning, and furious that another might try and usurp his throne, he did what he had done time after time—ordered the killing of his rivals. This time all males in Bethlehem and the surrounding area two years old or younger.  

Before the slaughter started, Mary and Joseph fled with Jesus to Egypt for safety. “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young child to destroy Him.” (Matthew 2:13). Egypt was a logical choice for their escape. Although it was part of the Roman Empire, it was not under the control of King Herod. A popular trade route connected both countries, making travel for the family easier.  

While they were living in Egypt, King Herod suffered an agonizing death. Jan Hirschman, professor of medicine at the University of Washington, postulates that “It was chronic kidney disease complicated by a severe infection that led to the rotting of his genitals.” (sciencedaily.com) Could there possibly be a worse way to die? 

The family resided in Egypt until the angel of the Lord appeared again, “Take the child and His mother back to the land of Israel, because those who were trying to kill the child are dead.” (Matthew 2:20). 

 Joseph wanted to return to Bethlehem, but “When he learned that the new ruler of Judea was Herod’s son, Archelaus, he was afraid to go there.” (Matthew 2:22). Instead of settling in Bethlehem or another section of Judea, they returned to Nazareth. The ruler, Herod Antipas was more tolerant of Jewish believers and rarely interfered with Jewish practices. “This fulfilled the prophet’s words, ‘He will be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:23). 

In Galilee, “The Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him.” (Luke 2:40). 

For the Holy Family, dreams, and dreaming, were a regular part of their lives. Dreams of why God had chosen them. Dreams of how God would use their Son. Dreams that were filled with possibilities. Dreaming was the perfect way for God’s Spirit to direct their path forward. 

Don’t miss God’s direction when you have similar occurrences. Dream big my friend, dream big. 

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What if…..part 5

April 3, 2026

We call it Good Friday. Then we realize it is only Good because of the horrendous torment,suffering, and agony Jesus allowed himself to experience for us. I urge you to read this account of the horrid suffering Jesus underwent.

Chapter 41 

Malchus, continued 

Caiphas might be the cause of Yeshua’s crucifixion, but he refused to attend. I had once heard Caiphas say that only once had he attended a crucifixion. The dismemberment of the body by the beating even before being placed on the cross had sickened him. He told me that he could still remember the vile odor when he had thrown up all the contents from his stomach. The gross mixture of puke still gave him shivers when he thought about that incident. As his primary lackey, I needed to be his representative at the beating and crucifixion.  

I found a bench inside the praetorium at Pilate’s castle to witness the scourging. This open courtyard would allow any blood, vomit, pee, or defecation by the bowels to be easily cleaned up. The Roman guards chosen to scourge the body were experts at bringing the human’s body to the point of death without ending life. Pain, agony, every fiber of the body screaming in torment was their goal. 

In this early morning hour, a rugged experienced punisher would handle the whip from the left side of the body, but a new trainee would whip from the right side.  

Stripped naked, Yeshua offered no complaint. Instead, He had a look of complete surrender. When they were ready to begin the beating, Yeshua looked my way. Was I right? Was he mouthing the words, “I forgive you?” It was an unsettling moment that made me want to abandon my post.  

With Yeshua’s hands tied to the whipping post. The experienced punisher carefully chose his cat-of- nine tails whip. Interestingly, besides the balls of metal and sharp-edged rock, it had numerous sheep bones interspersed. The new trainee gathered his whip and took his position. 

With the first crack of the punishers whip, my body jumped out of shock. In my time of witnessing this torture, I always experienced the jolt of the first crack. The sound of the whip digging into the skin plus the sharp cries of agony from the punished always made sleeping later difficult. I was not the one suffering, but never-the-less I internally sensed the agony. 

As soon as the expert pulled his whip with rocks, stones, and bones from Yeshua’s body, the trainee followed through from the other side. Although it still dug into the body, the expert was irate. “You fool,” he yelled at the trainee. “Crack that whip into him. Dig deep or someone else will finish for you.” 

For excruciating minutes the pattern followed. After five or six whips by the trainee, the expert told him, “Begin aiming for the areas already lacerated. I want to see exposed muscles or else.” 

By now other guards are regularly dumping water on the floor to drain the blood and pieces of flesh that were carved out of the body. After a few more cords into the body, vulgarities filled the courtyard. Yeshua had emptied his bowels. The contents of the Passover meal lay at Yeshua’s feet. I had to leave. This was more than I could handle. 

I only came back inside when I heard the centurion’s words, “Stop. That is enough. We don’t want him to die here. He is ready for a brief time on the cross before death.” 

 As the guards prepared for Yeshua’s walk to Golgotha, Pilate’s aide delivered the placard to hang from the cross, announcing the reason for the crucifixion. The sign read, “Yeshua, the Nazarene, the King of the Jews.” Riotous laughter filled the guards. One of the guards bowed down low in mockery, “Hail oh King.” Someone else grabbed a scarlet robe and another a crown of thorns. Dressed as an honored king, the derision of Yeshua continued. The guards were having fun. 

Then the walk to Golgotha, “place of the skull” began. The cross for the execution was already in place, having been used before. Yeshua carried the crossbeam, weighing at least seventy-five pounds. As they started up the hill to his execution spot. I saw the extreme effort Yeshua was exerting to walk with the extra weight. We had gone only a few yards when Yeshua stumbled, was helped up and continued. Again, he stumbled. The third time, the centurion overseeing the guards grumbled at how slowly the attachment was moving. “Grab someone to carry the crossbeam,” He ordered.  

Within minutes an able-bodied man, named Simon, was ordered to carry it. “Good, now we can get this over with,” replied the centurion. 

As we walked, a crowd gathered out of curiosity. Some were verbally tormenting him, while some grief-stricken Israelites trailed behind. When reaching Golgotha, Yeshua was laid on the ground and bound to the crossbeam. Spikes were driven through his wrist and into the crossbeam. Using ropes, the crossbeam was lifted into place and nailed to the base. Finally, the feet were nailed to the cross. The sign announcing his crime was affixed. Within three hours after daybreak, the true agony of the cross began. 

The two criminals crucified beside him, begged for more wine mixed with gall to deaden the pain, but Yeshua refused the drink. 

As a reward for carrying out the crucifixion, Yeshua’s garments were divided among the soldiers, with a valuable inner garment being the main prize.  

As he hung there, people came and went from the site. Some paused for a few minutes, while others stayed for longer voicing sick mockery. Some even yelled at Yeshua, “Look at you now. You said you were going to destroy the Temple and rebuild it in three days. Well then, if you are the Son of God, save yourself and come down from the cross.” Many of the religious leaders seemed to take even greater delight in the tirade. “He saved others, but he can’t save himself.” 

As I watched him hang there, Yeshua was scanning the crowd. Then his eyes homed in on a haggard looking man and the tear-filled woman standing next to him. Recognizing them, Yeshua cracked out a request for the Israelite to care for this woman. “Maybe, Yeshua’s mother?” I wondered. 

For an estimated three hours, Yeshua hung on the cross. Suddenly darkness fell across the whole land. The effect was total fear! Eclipses had happened in the past causing panic, but this was different. Previously they ended in a few minutes and at least there was some light. This darkness did not cease and seeing others near me was difficult. The darkness lasted for longer than I thought possible.  

Then I heard him call out with a loud voice, “My God, my God, why have You abandoned me?”  Shortly thereafter, Yeshua quietly whispered, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” His head slumped down. His legs relaxed making it impossible for him to breathe, and I knew death had overcome his mortal body. It is finished.  

As Yeshua said his last words, it was as though all of nature was revolting against the loss. An earthquake hit. Before my very eyes, leading to the Temple mount itself, the earth opened a huge fissure. The shock of the last moments reverberated in me. Never had I witnessed anything as unsettling. My thoughts were exactly those of the centurion overseeing the event, “Certainly this man was innocent.”  

Yet my observation was not done. While the Jewish leaders asked that his legs be broken to confirm death, there was no need. It was clear that he had succumbed. For certainty, a sword was drawn by the centurion overseeing the event. He pierced deeply into the criminal’s side until blood and water drained out. Death was then certain. “Wow,” I thought, “He died with a broken heart.” 

The events of the last eighteen hours left me shaken. I had come to oversee the death of a criminal. Instead, my entire being began questioning what I witnessed. I had no choice but to disappear before being consumed with guilt over my part in this brutality.  

Matthew 27:27-56    Mark 15:16-47    Luke 23:26-49    John 19:16-37 

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What if……part 4

April 3, 2026

With Yeshua, Jesus’s arrest the trial and conviction must follow before the scouring and crucifixion.

Chapter 40 

Malchus, servant of the High-Priest 

Early in life, I had been trained to follow in my father’s footsteps. He was a servant for the High-Priest Annas. When his son-in-law Caiaphas was anointed High-Priest in place of Annas, my father stayed in the service of Annas, and I was chosen to serve Caiaphas. 

My duty can be summed up in a few words: see that Caiaphas’ dictates were followed. I was his connection to the Temple police, his personal attendant at social events, and most importantly, his eyes for any possible conflicts.  

I was not surprised when in the middle of the night Caiaphas summoned me. It happened so often that my body became accustomed to little sleep. Caiphas and a few close confidants had made their decision. Yeshua must be arrested. The Temple police and a team of Roman guards were dispatched for his capture. I was to accompany them with the task of overseeing Yeshua’s arrest. 

All went fine until one of the criminal’s sleepy-eyed followers took a sword to my ear! I screamed in agony and wanted to throw-up, my body revolting against the pain. Almost as an apology, the criminal told his followers to cease, and he healed my ear!  

With the insurrectionist bound, we left. Yet I knew not what to think. Why would someone facing death care more about my ear than his own life? 

Within an hour, we reached the castle of Annas. I understood why we first went to his residence. Annas has all the power. My boss, Caiaphas, was just a lackey doing Annas’ dirty work. 

It might be the dead of night, but Annas was awaiting Yeshua’s arrival. I waited in the outer courtyard of the palace while Annas spent three hours questioning Yeshua. I could tell as they left Annas’ residence, that Annas was irate. Annas told one of the guards, and subsequently me, that Caiaphas was to find Yeshua worthy of crucifixion, regardless of how he did it. And Annas always got his way. My boss was a lily liver wimp when it came to his father-in-law. 

At the meeting in Caiaphas residence confusion reigned as this small group interrogated Yeshua. Branding him an insurrectionist was important if they wanted a Roman death sentence. The infighting continued amongst Caiphas’s friends for at least thirty minutes because no acceptable charges could be found. Men made claims, but none were substantiated. Then two came forward, “This man claimed that he would tear down Yahweh’s Temple and build it again in three days.” 

 Caiaphas demanded an answer, yet Yeshua gave none. When peppered with questions, Yeshua finally answered, “Soon you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right side of God, all powerful and coming on the clouds of Heaven.” 

Tearing his robe, the high priest screamed, “This man claims to be God. We don’t need any more witnesses. You have heard what he said. What do you think?’ 

When Caiaphas’ confidants agreed, Yeshua was hurriedly taken to the Sanhedrin’s council chamber for the official pronouncement of death. Charges were quickly reached. Death was the only solution.  

In a state of frenzy, the mockery of Yeshua began. It started slowly with someone spitting on Yeshua. Wild hysterical laughter followed as the drool fell down his face. Seeing the response, the leader of the temple police blindfolded Yeshua and the beating of him started. Blow by blow, as a gladiator taking his punishment, Yeshua groaned in agony at the continual pummeling but stood silent as a sheep being led to the slaughter. 

It was now early morning, and death needed to occur before sunset and the beginning of a Sabbath day. I was dismissed from the council chambers to awaken Pilate so that he could hear the charges. 

In the courtyard, the guards were warming themselves, trying to fight the chilly night air. Early morning hours always created a slight shiver. Because of the fog that had set in, I quickly went back to my room for a heavier cloak. When I arrived back in the courtyard, the sun started to rise. Then I heard the screaming, “No, I am not. A curse on me if I am lying.” The language that followed was what I had heard only from a drunken sailor lying in the alleyway. When I asked what had happened a servant girl said that two men had paid coin to warm themselves inside. One was thought to be a follower of Yeshua. When questioned, he denied knowing the criminal three times then hurriedly left. With the crowing from a nearby rooster announcing daylight was approaching, I knew I must hurry. Time was running out. 

   As I approached the palace of Pilate, I knew the claim that the prisoner was inciting an insurrection against the government would get Pilate’s attention. Pilate’s reign as governor was on shaky ground. Coming to power only five years earlier, Hebrews had already rioted twice against his rule; one for placing images of the emperor throughout the city promoting Caesar as a god, and a second for taking money from Temple’s treasury to build a Roman aqueduct. Pilate could not afford another revolt against his authority. If a speedy trial did not bring about a guilty verdict, then a riot against Pilate’s rule could follow. King Herod would then have to deal with the mess. Would he exile Pilate and appoint someone else as governor? 

When Pilate acquiesced, the religious leaders quickly arrived, and the charges were read. “We caught this man trying to get our people to riot and stop paying taxes to Caesar. He also claims that he is the Messiah our king.” 
When silence finally prevailed, Pilate interrogated Yeshua. Yeshua only admitted that it was true that he claimed to be the Son of God, but Pilate only found the charge humorous. Romans had the right to worship whatever god they wanted. If Yeshua wanted to be known as the son of some god, this was of no consequence to Pilate. Let him claim that title if Yeshua wanted. Pilate’s answer? “Take him and judge him by your own laws.” 

Yet the battle for Yeshua’s death was not over. The leaders’ war of words ignited a ferocious fire against Pilate. Trouble seemed imminent. Then Pilate breathed a sigh of relief. The leaders offered another solution when they said, “He has been teaching and causing trouble all over Judea. He started in Galilee and has now come all the way here.”  

Pilate realized Herod, ruler of Galilee, could render a verdict. And since Herod was visiting Jerusalem, send Yeshua to him.  

King Herod Antipas was excited to meet Yeshua. Herod hoped for a show, even a miracle or two, for the king’s pleasure. Yeshua only frustrated Herod when Yeshua remained silent. After allowing his troops to mock Yeshua, King Herod Antipas had him sent back to Pilate. 

 Caiaphas now recognized only drastic action could keep his hope for a guilty plea alive. While we made the short trip back to Pilate’s judgment hall, my subordinates went throughout Lower Jerusalem to offer coins to the peasants. It took less than thirty minutes to find citizens that would follow them back and be paid to do whatever the religious leaders demanded. The religious leaders had their weapon. Oppose them and a riot would quickly follow. 

Still, Pilate refused to condemn Yeshua. “I will have him beaten with a whip and set free.” Instead, the leaders whipped the crowd into a frenzy demanding death. 

Pilate saw only one possibility to avoid a riot. As was custom at Passover, he would free one prisoner. Surely the crowd would choose to free Yeshua rather than a mass murderer. Simce  the leaders were controlling the crowd, they insisted that Barabas be freed instead. Then Pilate asked, “What do you want me to do with this man you say is the king of the Jews? They yelled, “Nail him to the cross.” Pilot asked, “But what crime has he done?” “Nail him to the cross, they yelled even louder.” 

 As a final statement, Pilate sadly said, “I will not have anything to do with killing this man. You are the ones doing it.” Everyone answered, “We and our own families will take the blame for his death.”  

 Pilate ordered the crucifixion. The death of the people’s Messiah was now a forgone conclusion. Only carrying out the order remained. 

Matthew 26:49-27:26    Mark 14:48-15:15    Luke 22:47-23:25    John 18:7-19:16 

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What if….part 3

April 2, 2026

Following the Passover supper, the reality of his upcoming death, overwhelmes Jesus. In the garden of Gethsemane he must chose to make the final sacrifice…..

Chapter 39 

Michael, Speaking for the Four Archangels 

  Throughout the early years of Yeshua’s life, we watched from a distance as Yeshua grew from childhood to teen, to adulthood. We were unseen and involved only a few times. We helped comfort Yeshua, for example, when his earthly father died, and we helped him recognize when it was time to proclaim his role as the Messiah. During the past three years of his ministry, we rarely aided. Yahweh trusted Yeshua to fulfill the role planned from eternity. He needed to live his spotless life without our involvement.  

When Yahweh called us into the throne room, his announcement was what we had waited since the fall of Adam to hear. Tonight, would be the closing chapter in the story of the old covenant. The promised new covenant between Yahweh and his people awaited. I silently thought, “Yes, tonight our Heavenly swords will finally defeat the adversary once and for all.” After so many years of preparation, the fulfillment of Yahweh’s promise of a redeemer was finally at hand. 

All four of us, along with a host of minor angels, were being sent to make certain there was no demonic interference. That we could handle. Swords were ready for demonic slicing. 

Then the shock. Instead of going into battle, we were to invisibly surround the Mount of Olives area and particularly the section made into a garden called Gethsemane. Our role was only to oversee. Yeshua needed to wrestle alone about completing his task and surrendering his life for humanity. Knowing that hours of agony that would be required, could this become Yeshua’s personal decision? 

Before we left to guard the garden, I longed to protest Yahweh’s command. We were made to battle against the adversary. It was an honor to win victory after victory for our Heavenly King. We lived to defeat demonic forces. Sitting on the sidelines was going to be difficult. But we must. Then I shouted, “For Yahweh, for mankind!” Winning or defeat rested only on Yeshua. With this rallying cry, we left the Heavenly realm. 

We arrived in Jerusalem in time to watch Judas leave the dinner to complete his betrayal. Then we followed the disciples and Yeshua to a favorite spot of Yeshua’s, the garden of Gethsemane. Many moments of prayer were spent here by Yeshua and his disciples. Tonight though, the atmosphere was different. Darkness seemed to settle over the area like a blanket. Even the moon’s light disappeared, making the garden even more sinister. Evil lurked hidden in the shadows. That was just a premonition of the night ahead.  

Yeshua asked Peter, James, and John to travel further into the garden with him. Shortly, deeper in the garden, he told the three, “I am so sad that I feel like I am dying. Stay here and keep awake with me.”  

 I wanted to help the three keep from falling asleep, but fatigue was setting in. The three chosen disciples tried all types of gimmicks to obey Yeshua’s request including communal prayer and walking prayer. Every tactic failed and eventually each follower succumbed and fell asleep. There Heavgroaning among my fellow angels. Still, we understood. 

If I had been human, not an angel, Yeshua’s prayers would have torn me apart. “My Heavenly Father, if it is possible, don’t make me suffer a crucifixion.” Then after a lengthy pause, he added, “But do what you want and not what I want.”  

As Yeshua wrestled with being an obedient son, the agony overwhelmed every pore of his body. Then it happened. Tiny blood vessels in the outer layer of his skin were bursting! He was sweating drops of blood that could lead to death. We sent frantic words to the Throne Room and Raphael was given permission to come along side Yeshua and comfort him. The redemption of mankind was still alive. 

Three times Yeshua found the disciples asleep. After the third time of prayer, Yeshua woke them up and spoke the dreaded words. “Are you still sleeping and resting? The time has come for the Son of Man to be handed over to sinners. Get up! Let’s go. The one who will betray me is already here.” 

Within seconds, Judas and a large mob with swords and clubs approached. Judas gave the fatal kiss that stated this is Yeshua. 

Suddenly, Peter with an ounce of courage pulled out the sword he brought. Blindly swinging it, Peter cut off the ear of the servant of the High-Priest.  

“Put your sword away. I must drink from the cup that the Father has given me,” was Yeshua’s response. 

We watched in silence as the companions of Yeshua, Yeshua’s best friends, fled. as 

Yeshua was led away.  

Now it was only a matter of time. Humanity’s redemption was only hours away. The greatest battles in Heavenly history will not be won by Heavenly intervention but by Yahweh’s only begotten Son. 

Matthew 26:36-56    Mark 14:32-52    Luke 22:39-53    John 18-1-11 

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What If…part 2

April 1, 2026

What if the Apostle Peter was recreating the events of the Passover supper in today’s vernacular? What might he wish for today’s society to remember? Maybe it would sound like chapter 38 from the book, Yeshua..Redeemer…Savior…Friend. Enjoy

Chapter 38 

Peter 

   Being an apostle of Yeshua was not easy. For example, I was happily married, and travel often took me away from family for long stretches of time. Despite some rocky moments early on, my wife and I resolved the issue. My wife’s support was critical to my walk with Yeshua. As the saying goes, “A happy wife, a happy life.” 

As my wife witnessed Yeshua’s miraculous healings and heard his teachings, she developed her own faith. Having a loving partner that shared my thoughts, hopes, and dreams was a blessing. Her choosing to travel with us for Passover was one of those moments. I had shared with her my dread of the future. Yeshua’s talk of death overwhelmed my spirit. I knew she would be interceding for me as this year’s celebration occurred.  

 As Passover approached, my wife and I reflected on its meaning. For the past 1400 years, the Hebrew people celebrated their freedom from Egyptian slavery. The event was named Passover because Yahweh passed over the homes of the Hebrew slaves when the firstborn of the Egyptian people were killed. It was both a solemn reminder of Yahweh’s faithfulness and a celebration of our freedom. While it should have been a joyous time, I was filled with sorrow. I knew this was our last celebration with Yeshua. Yet I believed freedom from spiritual slavery would follow. 

When I inquired about my wife attending the meal, Yeshua said. “No.” Tonight was just for him and us twelve. Reluctantly, my wife made plans to join other family members. I promised to remember all the details and share them with her. 

For Hebrews, a new day began at sunset and ended at the next sunset. That meant time was seen a little differently from common conceptions. For example, the sixth hour was in the middle of the night and the twelfth hour around daybreak. 

I awoke early in the morning on the day before Passover and joined others to break the fast. After a simple meal and devotional time, Yeshua asked John and I to “Go and prepare the Passover meal so that we can eat it together.”   

When I asked where should we go? Yeshua replied, “As soon as you enter Jerusalem, a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you. Follow him. At the house he enters, say to the owner, ‘The teacher asks, ‘Where is the guest room that I can eat the Passover meal with my disciples?’ He will take you upstairs to a large room that is already set up. That is where you should prepare our meal.” 

Just as Yeshua had said, it happened. After seeing the room, John and I went about our first duty–inspection of the room for any leaven or yeast. When the Israelites were redeemed from slavery in Egypt, they hastily left, and bread did not have time to rise from the addition of yeast. Inspection of the room for leaven served as a reminder of that sudden departure. 

In the intervening hours before Passover officially arrived, John and I gathered the necessary items for the supper: unleavened bread, wine, and the bitter herbs. After taking them back to the room, John and I joined Yeshua and the others at the Temple. 

The Temple area was a madhouse. It had not taken long for the Court of the Gentiles to be reassembled after Yeshua’s earlier wrecking. The profits from Passover were a major source of income for the Jewish council and its members. Nothing would stop the leaders from lining their pockets. 

In the Court of Gentiles, it was business as usual. Some families brought their own lamb from home and were having it inspected for any blemishes. For many of these, their lamb was rejected. Irate tirades echoed beyond the courtyard, knowing a lamb still needed to be bought. Others were exchanging coin for the Jewish shekel, the only accepted payment.  

We bypassed both and joined one of the lines to purchase our unblemished, perfect lamb. As the sun set on Nisan 13, and Nisan 14 began, our lamb was sacrificed and carried back home to be prepared. 

The host family did not interfere with our Passover meal but did the necessary cooking and helped with serving. I was humbled to see the loving way our needs were met without infringing on our evening together. When the lamb was thoroughly cooked, the last supper began. 

As we gathered and took our places, John, as expected, took the seat to the right of Yeshua, but I was surprised when Yeshua asked Judas of Iscariot to sit to his left. I was a little perturbed as I thought I deserved that special seat but reluctantly reclined across from John. 

The Passover meal was always a solemn occasion, particularly tonight. Sorrow filled me when Yeshua stated, “I have been very eager to eat this Passover meal with you before my suffering begins. For I tell you now that I won’t eat this meal again until its meaning is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.” 

 There was a stillness that encompassed that room as everyone realized Yeshua was serious! I had not forgotten his comments about death, but there had always been hope for a different outcome. I wanted to shout, “No, it can’t happen,” but the words refused to come out. 

The ritual passed down for generations began. Yeshua took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. Then he said, “Take this and share it among yourselves, for I will not drink wine again until the Kingdom of God has come.”  

While I contemplated Yeshua’s words, the meal continued. We ate the bitter herbs, a reminder of our people’s suffering in slavery, had a second cup of wine, and waited for the serving of bread. Yeshua took the bread, gave thanks for it, and served it. He humbly stated, “This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”  

After supper, he took another cup of wine and said, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people, an agreement confirmed with my blood, which is poured out as a sacrifice for you.” 

Bewilderment filled me. Unanswered questions came to my mind. Why was the history of our enslavement and freedom not mentioned as in every other seder? Then I understood: this was the beginning of a new era. The old covenant was ending; a new one was taking its place. I could sense the barrier between us and Yahweh being lifted. As a husband lifted the veil of his wife at their wedding ceremony, we were celebrating a new relationship, a marriage, to Yahweh. I could not wait to share my revelation with my wife. A new freedom to serve Yahweh was ahead! 

 Two difficult moments followed. The first was Yeshua’s words, “But there at this table, sitting among us as a friend, is the man who will betray me.” His words of torment tore our group apart and that led to the boasting by each of us of our own importance and our love for Yeshua. 

Yeshua called for each of us to relax. Then he asked a servant to bring a large bowl containing clean water. Yeshua took off his outer cloak, wrapped a towel around his waist, and washed each of our feet. I tried to protest, but it did no good. 

When done, Yeshua explained, “You call me your teacher and lord, and you should, because that is who I am. And if your lord and teacher washed your feet, you should do the same for each other. I have set an example, and you should do for each other exactly what I have done for you.” In humility, I accepted his lesson. In the Kingdom of God, no one had the right to lord it over another. 

After Judas left to accomplish his final task, Yeshua gave us important thoughts to burn into our memory. “I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It is not like the peace that the world can give. So do not worry or be afraid. You have already heard me say that I am going and that I will also come back to you. If you really love me, you should be glad that I am going back to the Father because he is greater than I am. I am telling you this before I leave so that when it does happen, you will have faith in me. I cannot speak with you much longer because the ruler of this world is coming, but he has no power over me.”  

Then words of comfort for my spirit.” Do not let your heart be troubled. Trust Yahweh and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s house. If it were not so, would I not have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you so that you will always be with me wherever I am.” 

 Finally, Yeshua said what strengthened my will. “If you love me, obey my commandments and I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit who leads you into all truth. I am the true grapevine, and my father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that does not produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so that they will produce even more. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” 

As Yeshua’s words settled into my spirit, I would need time to review all Yeshua said. It was not until later that week before the full significance of our night together was clear.  

My resolve to be Yeshua’s servant was tested in the next twenty-four hours. Later, only my wife could offer me comfort for my terrible decisions. My actions would dishonor my savior. Would it be possible to be forgiven? 

Matthew 26:14-30    Mark 14:10-26    Luke 22:3-30    John 13:1-35    John 14:1-51:17 

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What if?

March 31, 2026

What if the Apostle Matthew was retelling the story of Palm Sunday and the next day’s visit to the Temple? This chapter from the book Yeshua…Reedemer…Savior…Friend tells the story in a modern style. Might this 6 minute read add to your understanding of the days of the Holy Week. Might it lead you to a further study of the events from the Holy Word of God, the Bible. Enjoy and feel free to share.Chapter 36,

(This follow the banquet at Lazarus home and the anointing of Yeshua, Jesus’s feet by Mary.)

Matthew also known as Levi  (continued) 

On the morning following our banquet, I noticed a definite spry step in Yeshua’s countenance. There was a look of excitement for the day ahead. When I tried to casually ask, he only replied that today would be a party. He saw my look of confusion, but only replied that I would see. It had been a few weeks since I had seen such joy. I waited with anticipation for what was ahead of me. 

Shortly thereafter we started out for Jerusalem. I do not know how it started, but the trip became just a gigantic parade. It started out slowly with just Yeshua’s followers from the banquet. Then those that had heard about the resurrection of Lazarus joined in. The celebration just continued to grow.  

About halfway there, the fervor from the crowd exploded. Yeshua sent two of his followers into the nearby settlement of homes, and they brought back a colt and its mother. When Yeshua mounted the animal, the chants, “Here Comes Our King” started slowly and echoed out into the crowd. People grabbed palm fronds to wave while continuing to shout, “Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in Heaven and glory in the highest Heaven. God bless the king of Israel.” Others were overcome by emotion and took off their cloaks to cover the trail. I was not certain whether someone was celebrating Yeshua as the Anointed One or were innocently joining the celebration. 

We had gone near the city when the leaders of the Sanhedrin came yelling at everyone, “Stop it! Stop this commotion right away. Yeshua, tell these people to go home. This must stop! They are calling you, their king! If they do not disband, the Roman government will come in to stop this insurrection. Have them stop right now.”  

“Even if I could,” replied Yeshua, “I would not. If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers.” 

As we rounded the top of the Mount of Olives and looked down on Jerusalem, Yeshua began to weep. Quietly, I heard him say, “How I wish that you, Jerusalem, of all people would understand the way to peace. But now it is too late, and peace is hidden from your eyes. Before long, your enemies will build ramparts against your walls and encircle you and close in on you from every side. They will crush you into the ground and your children with you. Your enemies will not leave a single stone in place because you did not recognize it when Yahweh visited you.”  

It was not until later that I recognized the significance of his remarks. He was genuinely sorrowful for those that had not believed him. He was hurting over the future of the nation. 

After almost two hours of our celebration, Yeshua arrived at the Temple. He went into the outer courts, looked around, but left. I could tell that his spirit was unsettled; yet no explanation followed. As the afternoon hours started to fade, Yeshua, his other apostles and I returned to Lazarus’s home. 

The next morning, we gathered with Yeshua for our morning meal, and he casually mentioned we were going to return to the Temple. Little did I realize the significance of the day. 

As we entered the Temple mount and made our way into the Court of the Gentiles, I noticed Yeshua picking up some cord left over from the unpacking of goods to be sold. Something about this seemed familiar.  

As He began to use the cords to violently drive out the moneychangers and vendors, Yeshua told them, “The scriptures say, ‘My house should be a place of worship.’ But you have made it a place where robbers hide.” Then I realized this was a repeat of the actions three years earlier. His first cleansing of the Temple was the moment the religious leaders started to oppose him. Now, Yeshua is confronting them again. 

This time, the scribes did not let it pass. “What gives you the right to do these things? Who gave you this authority?  

Yeshua replied, “I want to ask you a question; who gave John the Baptist the right to baptize? Was it the Lord in Heaven or just a mere man?” 

The religious leaders hesitated, knowing that acknowledging John’s divine authority would confirm Yeshua’s claim as Messiah. But denying it risked angering the crowd who revered John as a prophet. 

When the scribes said, “We don’t know,” Yeshua saw no obligation to respond. I knew that this was only a minor skirmish in their battle. 

Shortly thereafter, the Pharisees devised another plot. If Yeshua spoke out against paying taxes, he could be reported, and the Roman government would seek his arrest. Let the Roman government handle this headache. With that in mind, the Pharisees sent some men pretending to be followers of Yeshua. They came forward with the question, “Tell us, should we pay taxes to the emperor or not?” 

Yeshua recognized their cunning scheme. “Show me a coin. Who’s picture and name is on it?”  

“The emperors,” they answered. 

“Give the emperor what belongs to him. Give Yahweh what belongs to Yahweh.” The men asking the question left defeated. 

Before we returned to Bethany, Yeshua wanted to spend a few minutes relaxing. As we sat, we watched person after person come and give their offering for the support of the Temple’s work. We could tell that many foreigners were contributing large gifts. Then Yeshua said, “Watch her.” 

I expected a wealthy individual. Instead, she wore a frayed, thin outer cloak, a black veil, and sandals starting to fall apart. We watched as she donated two small coins. With a genuine tenderness in his voice, Yeshua replied, “I tell you this poor woman has put in more than all the others. Everyone else gave what they did not need. But she is extremely poor and gave everything she had.” 

As we left, I pondered my own circumstances. Was Yeshua worth all that I had? Was there more I could recklessly commit to the cause? That was a question I wrestled with all night. 

Matthew 23:37-39    Luke 13:34-35    Matthew 21:1-12    Mark 11:1-11    Luke 19:28-44     

John 12:12-19    Matthew 21-23-27    Mark 11:27-33    Luke 20:1-8    Matthew 22:15-22 

Mark 12:13-17    Luke 20:20-26    Mark 12:41-44    Luke 22:1-4 

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Land of Historic Isreal

March 18, 2026

 

Chapter 5 

LAND OF ISRAEL, 1AD
 
INTRODUCTION 
Never forget, you are someone’s gift. God has searched for a person like you to be His eyes and ears. God is counting on you. Be the someone another needs. Set an example. Don’t let the ways of the world cloud your vision. 
 
Instead of singular individuals, God wanted a homerun. The Israelites were His homerun; His representatives to the world. 
 
Called by God, Moses led the Hebrew people to “a land flowing with milk and honey.” In Palestine (Greek for Israel) the land produced rich crops, livestock happily grazed, and fishing filled many tummies. 
 
Yet Yahweh also had a futuristic reason for choosing this land: travel. Major trading routes from throughout the world conversed through Palestine. Trade brought people to interact with the Israelites. If the nation stayed faithful to Yahweh, Yahweh’s message of hope and liberty could be carried by travelers back to their home bases. This tiny land area, about 10, 000 square miles (about the size of Massachusetts) had all the qualities Yahweh needed to evangelize the world. Unfortunately, with the continual forsaking of Yahweh’s best, the spread of the gospel did not take place until after the resurrection of Christ. 
 
ISRAEL’S DIVERSE LAND 
In the first century, the land of Israel was around 160 miles from north to south and around 85 miles from east to west at the widest portion and averaged around 50 miles wide. The main regions of Israel in the first century were Galilee to the north, Samaria in the middle, and Judea to the south. In addition, the Gentile areas of Decapolis and Perea were east of the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River. 
 
For the Israelites, Galilee and Judea were their homebases. Although united in worship practices, significant differences existed between living in northern Galilee and southern Judea. Those living in Judea considered the Galileans as the unlearned, and the religious opportunities inferior: the Temple was in Judea; the academies for higher religious studies were in Judea; the great theologians lived in Judea. The unimportant lived in Galilee. “What good can come from Galilee?” (John 1:46). 
 
GALILEE 
Galilee also differed from Judea in many aspects of daily life. The rich soil of Galilee made agriculture an important staple of their lives. Olive and fruit trees were plentiful. Wheat, barley, and vegetable plants produced rich crops. The harvesting of grapes for wine consumption was a money crop. Because of their ability to supply much of their food needs, the cost of living was less than that of the Judeans. 
 
Galilee also had many job opportunities. Beside day laborers for the fields, Galilee also manufactured pottery, had dyeworks, and produced glassware. Fishing was a profitable business. Since a major trade route traversed through Galilee, small businesses catering to the travelers were found along the route. Galilean men were also workers for the Roman expansion of the Roman city of Sephora. (source: Edersheim, Jesus the Messiah). 
 
Galilee had two major cities: Tiberius and Sephora, both housing tens of thousands of residents. A few towns, such as Capernaum, had a thousand residents, but most of the hundreds of small villages were a few hundred people in size. 
 
While Galilee had families of wealth with more substantial homes, smaller, two-three room homes were more common. An average home was built stone upon stone with plastered walls. Small windows were covered with lattice. The typical home had a front room and a back room for sleeping. The roof was paved with a hard substance and had an outer railing and an outside staircase for safety. The roof was used for sleeping in pleasant weather and drying food throughout the year. The roof, or upper room, sometimes had a covered section that could house a guest. Homes also shared an inner courtyard that had a cooking area, a well, and a spit for grinding corn. 
 
SAMARIA 
At the time of Christ, Galilee and Judea were separated by the region of Samaria. After the Assyrian invasion of northern Isreal, (2nd Kings), Assyria moved large groups of non-Israelites into the region. The few Hebrews left after the invasion, melded with the Assyrian captives into a religious mixture of beliefs and practices that aligned poorly with Hebrew teachings. Even 700 years later, in the first century, animosity was so strong that Israelites walked an additional 2-3 days to avoid Samaritan land when traveling from Galilee to Judea. 
 
JUDEA 
To the south of Samaria and east of the Jordan River, was Judea, the religious capital of Israel. Jerusalem served as the nation’s political capital and home of the Temple. Many medium size cities surrounded Jerusalem and were important in Biblical events. Among them were Bethsaida, Bethany, Bethlehem, and Jericho. The Dead Sea was on the western border of Judea. 
 
If you were wealthy and made a bucket list of places to visit, you might list the pyramids of Egypt, the spectacular city of Rome, or a vacation on the Adriatic seashore. For Jewish adherents, their only wonder of the world was Jerusalem, the majestic Temple, and its services. 
 
The city of Jerusalem, occupying over three hundred acres, was home to over 200,000 residents. The influential occupied the upper city. The High-Priest’s palace was in this area along with the palace of the Maccabees, which now housed members of the Roman ruling class. In the upper section of the city were the Xystos, an open gymnasium, and a large garden area. The center of Hebrew world, the Temple, had grown to over 35 acres in size. Around it, life developed. 
 
Also, part of the nation of Judah in Biblical days, was the Negev Desert. An extremely large southern portion that served as a barrier between Judah proper and Egypt. This area was sparsely populated. In an area averaging less than 8 inches of rain per year, wild animals were still able to survive. “Wandering the desert are gazelles, ibexes, oryxes, hyenas, wolves, jackals, and even hedgehogs. In antiquity, the region was also home to a large number of Arabian and Asiatic animals, including ostriches, lions, and cheetahs. Until only a few years ago, leopards could still be found in the region.” (Source: biblicalarchaeology.org) 
 
GENTILE REGIONS INFLUENCED BY JESUS 
Finally, both Decapolis and Perea, west of Galilee and Judah, were regions controlled by Herod the Great’s son, Philip. These two were primary areas where Jesus ministered to the worldly Romans. Famous events such as the healing of the demon possessed man, feeding of the 4000, along with healing of the deaf and mute occurred. 
 
CONCLUSION 
Israel, in Biblical days, shared similar characteristics to today’s world. Political unrest occupied everyday life. The distrust of their leaders was evident. The religious elites were centered on protecting their domain. 
 
Yet the everyday men and women were active community members, valuing relationships with family and friends above all else. The simplicity, and struggles, of meeting their own needs overrided other obligations. They understood that life was best lived enjoying everyday adventures. 

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Importance of Roman Empire

March 3, 2026

POWER SHIFTS 

THE LEAD UP 

Political futures have not changed much in the last 2000 years. There is always a world power that is striving to maintain its position and even gain more authority. About 150 years before the birth of Christ, the Ptolemy reign was the superpower, but the Seleucid empire fought to be the dominant force. The battle for power began after Alexander the Great’s death. The Ptolemy empire was given control of Egypt and Palestine; the Seleucid family controlled the land mass around Palestine. The Seleucid’s regime’s only goal was more power, more land.  

After generations of small skirmishes against the Ptolemy empire, Antiochus III became ruler of the Seleucid empire. Within a few years, he attacked both Egypt and Palestine. While he could not conquer Egypt, he added Palestine to his empire. With him in control, there were a few years of peace and then despair flooded the nation because of his son. 

Antiochus IV was a despot out for power regardless of the consequences. Although he ruled for only nine years, the impact of his decrees affected every aspect of Jewish life. Antiochus IV or sometimes called Antiochus, Epiphones, sought the complete Hellenization of Palestine. In his brief period ruling Palestine, he outlawed major Jewish practices and traditions. Possession of the Pentateuch, observance of the Sabbath, or the circumcision of a Jewish male resulted in death. 

HANUKKAH 

Antiochus’s opposition to Jewish religious practices sparked a guerrilla movement in Palestine. Within three years, the Maccabees seized Jerusalem and rededicated the Temple, an event commemorated annually as Hanukkah. After two more decades of sporadic conflict, the Seleucids signed a peace treaty with Jewish leaders, granting them autonomy over Judah. The Hasmoneans (formerly the Maccabees) continued to contend with the Seleucids for dominance until internal decline within the Seleucid empire allowed Israel to ally with the rising Roman power. 

NEW RULER—SAME DOMINATION 

Believing the Roman ruler Pompey would allow greater religious freedom, the nation sought their military help. Instead in 63BC, Pompey invaded Jerusalem and took personal control of Judah. Pompey ruled with a heavy hand over Palestine until he lost power to Caesar. Caesar appointed Herod the Great as the ruler of Palestine. 

Herod the Great believed in only one set of rules—that which kept him in power. Rebellions arose against Roman rule but were quickly put down. Anti-Roman hatred filled Israel, but Herod prevailed. In his sick mind, any perceived threat led to death.  

Trying to appease the Jewish population, Herod invested tax money in the renovation of the Temple and the Temple Mount, the acreage surrounding the Temple. Because of his family’s gifts, the religious area grew from a small temple to over thirty-five acres and could hold over one million people for its yearly festivals. 

While Herod financially supported the Temple’s construction, he also defied Jewish authorities by building heathen pagan temples and building a large amphitheater that housed games honoring the Roman rulers. Shortly before Herod the Great’s death, he used the military to kill every Jewish male under the age of two in the vicinity of Bethlehem after the visiting Magi spoke about the birth of a Jewish king. (Matthew chapter 2).  

In the final year of his life, in defiance of all that the Jewish nation believed in, he placed a golden eagle at the gate of the Temple to honor the Roman ruler, Augustus. Herod’s life ended in excruciating pain. The historian Josephus recorded that the pain was so unbearable that Herod tried unsuccessfully to commit suicide. His punishment and death shortly after trying to kill the baby Jesus in Bethlehem was a fitting end to this despotic rule. After the death of Herod, the Great, his children took control of Palestine.   

Herod’s son, Archelaus, ruled Judea for nine years. Archelaus continued Herod the Great’s cruelty. In revenge for the religious leaders’ defiance of Rome, Archelaus had a large group of Jews arrested and burned to death as a sacrifice to Caesar. 

The Jewish hatred of Roman rule only grew. Archelaus tried to make amends by lowering the taxes and freeing the remaining political prisoners, but the Jewish faithful were not to be appeased. When the Jewish leaders demanded those responsible for the burnings be punished, Archelaus refused. The Jewish nation revolted. In fury, Archelaus killed over three thousand more Jews.  

His cruelty led to him being deposed. After nine years of Herod Archelaus’ reign of terror, Rome took direct control of Judea and appointed Pontius Pilate as governor. Rome only required that peace in Judea be maintained.  

Into this world, the Messiah was born. The same Pontius Pilate would thirty years later order the crucifixion of Jesus, the Christ. 

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From Tragedy to Redemption the Israelites and the Messiah

February 27, 2026

Chapter 1   The Beginning 

   

One will never know why Yahweh—God—chose Abraham, then his son Isaac, then his grandson Jacob, and then his great-grandson Joseph as the bearers of Yahweh’s promises. If Yahweh was looking for a sinless individual, He missed the mark. From the start, sin followed. (Read the book of Genesis.) It is a perplexing question how Yahweh could trust a sinful race of people to revitalize the world. Yet He thankfully did.  

Skip ahead four hundred years, and the sin filled lives of his chosen people continued. Moses and then Joshua tried to lead the Israelite people but idol worship and listening to foreigners—particularly women—led to Yahweh’s displeasure and rebuke time after time. Throughout the time of the prophets and then the kings, there were moments of complete trust in following Yahweh, but sin eventually led to more wickedness. Any attempts at spiritual change were short lived. 

 Eventually, the sins of the nation led to their annihilation. First the Assyrians conquered the northern part of Israel. Because of Assyrian cruelty, the history of these captives was lost. (Lost tribes of Israel.) 

 Less than one hundred fifty years later, the Babylonian empire conquered Judah, the southern part of Israel. (Biblical books of Judges through 2nd Chronicles.) The Babylonian rulers, however, treated the Jewish people favorably, and the Israelite population quickly grew. While in captivity, lessons were learned, and for some, a desire for a spiritual change occurred. 

Restoring Their Jewish Heritage 

Then the promises spoken by Yahweh years earlier for a fresh restart came about after the Persian nation overthrew the Babylonians. The Persian King Cyrus issued a decree that allowed the Hebrew people to return to their former land of Israel. “Cyrus allowed Zerubbabel (also known as Sheshbazzar), a descendant of David, to lead the first group of Jews, numbering 42,360, back to Judah somewhere between 538 and 520 BC.” (source: Hebrewnations.com).   

For those who chose to move back to Israel, life was difficult. The small Jewish community was heavily influenced by their non-Israelites neighbors, and the people fell away from following the Sabbath and began to intermarry. Their identity to God was once again fading.  

Yet Yahweh did not give up. Seventy-five years after the first group had returned, Ezra was allowed by the Persian King Artaxerxes to travel with a second group back to Palestine (Israel). Shortly thereafter, Nehemiah also returned. While Ezra led in a spiritual renewal of the people, Nehemiah was instrumental in rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple. Between the two, a strong Jewish culture was being rebuilt. 

Millions of other Jewish adherents chose not to make the change. While living in Persia, most Israelites had settled into a comfortable life under their rulers. The Hebrew people had become well accepted in the community and were actively involved in trades and commerce. Moving back to Palestine, was not worth the risk.  

Even more important, the Jewish adherents enjoyed great freedom to travel. They formed their own separate communities in other areas of the known world, and those areas quickly grew. Recorded records show that around the time of Christ over 1 million Jews lived in Alexandria (Egypt). Large populations of Jewish exiles were also found in Rome, Samaria, Ethiopia, Cyrene (now part of Libya), Antioch (Syria), the Italian peninsula, and Turkey. The Greek geographer Strabo said, “You could not go anywhere in the civilized world without encountering a Jew.” (Source: Edersheim, The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah).  

While their homeland was comprised of less than a million residents at the time of Christ, millions of Jewish followers lived in other parts of the world. In each of these Jewish communities, there was a common bond that held the Jewish society together: a common creed, a common way of life, a common center of worship, and a common hope for the future. The Jewish population, wherever they settled, observed laws related to food, followed Sabbath rules, and celebrated the Jewish holy holidays. Through it all, though, was their love for Jerusalem, and the hope of eventually returning to their homeland under the rule of the Messiah. 

The Messianic hope though only came about because of that small group that chose to reestablish the nation of Israel. These courageous followers made many sacrifices. Homes needed to be rebuilt, fortifications against enemies established, and it was necessary to relearn how to plant, grow, and harvest crops. 

 Although change was not easy, those in Palestine persisted. It was into this world that our Messiah would be born, live, and die—all for our benefit. 

All believers should be grateful for these Hebrew change agents. Because of them, the coming of the Messiah was one step closer.  

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