When we talk about a “VISIONARY”, we most likely envision someone such as Ezekiel or John (the disciple of Yeshua). Ezekiel painted a prophetic image of “merkavot” (heavenly chariots) and heavenly creatures, and he prophesied about the future. John also saw images and the glory of the Son of God, Yeshua, and prophesied about the future. But this is not exactly what I mean when I use the word “visionary.” Rather, I’m talking more about being “pioneers”, which has become our calling today.
Visiting different countries and seeing different Christian denominations, organizations and structures, you can say “Great job! You are already on your way, you have already advanced, and much of what is called ‘The Kingdom’ exists. You have programs and institutions, you assist the elderly and the poor, and you work with young people and children.” Honestly, sometimes you envy this structure in a good way. Vice versa, when you return to Israel, on the one hand you know that the Lord renews and restores, but on the other hand you see niches—places not yet filled with the Kingdom. You are simply overwhelmed by the desire to fill these niches, and whether you are called a “visionary” or a “pioneer” doesn’t really matter very much.
Who is interested in titles today? In Israel we have difficulty calling ourselves “pastors”, because to the Jewish ear the term “Jewish pastor” doesn’t sound right. For this reason, we call ourselves “leaders of messianic congregations”, but I think initiatives are much more important than titles. Even more important is the ability to turn initiatives into realities. For example, we want to see the Kingdom of Yeshua gradually, consistently, despite difficulties and great opposition, fill unfilled niches—even in Israel!
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Having a home for elderly believers is progress, but it is important to have more of them, not just one. We praise the Lord for programs — for soldiers, youth and children — but from my point of view, we need more of them. We have music schools and art schools, but it is important that we have more and better ones.
The prophet Zechariah (12:5) says:
Then the leaders of Judah will say in their heart, “The inhabitants of Jerusalem are my strength through Adonai-Tzva’ot (Lord of Hosts) their God.” (TLV)
It seems to me that this is about our times. On the one hand, when I think about “princes or leaders of Jerusalem”, in my mind I see our government officials — people who own information.
The leaders and the government have objective tools to see who is doing what, and how. So, for them it is not hidden that Messianic believers today — as they receive the needed strength through their faith—are responsible and loyal citizens of the State of Israel. And when I read about “the inhabitants of Jerusalem in the Lord,” I see people who have already recognized the Messiah and follow Him, for it is about them that we can boldly say, “They are dedicated to Lord Tzva’ot (Lord of Hosts).” We can also say that their deeds are revealed, their deeds are shown, and even the EXCELLENCE in their actions is visible.
What are messianic believers doing today? I guess I’ll repeat myself regarding those small music schools, art schools and places to care for the elderly. At these places, helping our neighbors has a high priority, and we do it with great desire and motivation. But let this be just the beginning and may the “leaders of Judah” know about it. The main thing is that God knows about it, and He knows our hearts and motives.
Praise the Lord that this is not due only to our credits. These are your prayers, your gifts and your vision, and this is our work and our efforts. And as Paul says:
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. (1 Corinthians 12, 4-6)
And it is happening here, when THE VISIONARY joins with the visionary. When the great “Merkavot” (heavenly chariots) in the future unite with real things, we will see “words become flesh” and live among us, full of grace and truth, and cause the divine touch today in our days in Israel. And this is all due to every believer being faithful to his calling “to bless Abraham” and to serve the RESTORATION of Israel today.
Please pray for our team here at “Return to Zion.” Our people are visionaries, although with a small letter “v.” We are implementing the great Vision, about which Yeshua said, “Pray that God’s will would become on earth the same reality as in heaven.”
Please pray for:
The Music and Art School: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyyVuOv1ECI&feature=youtu.be
The humanitarian projects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSVRhByHrLg&feature=share
The project with the soldiers: https://youtu.be/j05-lqMBlE8
And please show your faith in practical steps:
DONATE NOW
Blessings to you and a joyful upcoming summer for you and your families!
Leon and Nina Mazin
Return to Zion Ministry
Haifa, Israel
shaveitzion.org
