404-19 - Israelites considered themselves in partnership with God — they worked the field, and God provided the rain and sunshine. When we follow the process from harvesting and threshing to making the bread, we appreciate the significance of agriculture as used in the Lord’s parables and Apostle Paul’s example of grafting olive trees.

403-19 - The first-century family was knit together by and depended on … olives! From picking to pressing to their use as lamp fuel, olives served as an integral part of Jewish family life. Zola presents the spiritual significance of oil, using the Lord’s parables.

402-19 - In the Galilee region in the first century, fishing was the main source of livelihood. See how Peter, James and John went about it and learn about the disciples: twelve imperfect, ordinary Jewish tradesmen chosen to witness firsthand the beginning of the redemption of all mankind.

401-19 - By today’s standards the first century house was small, dark and, in the winter, very cold. But in this meeting place for the family, the meals were prepared and they sat down to break bread and partake of such meaningful feasts as Passover.

400-19 - In first century Israel, a newborn was cleansed, rubbed with salt and olive oil, then wrapped in swaddling clothes (linen bandages). This birth brought with it the fullness of the covenant and redemption.

1117-18 - David wanted to build a temple in Jerusalem because he knew the Lord had chosen it. Zion became His abiding place and remains His to this very day, despite replacement theology. In this fractious world, dwelling together in unity is a blessing.

1116-18 - At the Western Wall, Jeff speaks of God’s ears that are open to our cries for help. Always there, He faithfully pours out His forgiveness and redemption. The God of Israel provides contentment to our souls like a mother comforts her child. Eitan Shishkoff reminds us of our need to pray for an awakening among His People.

1115-18 - At the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, Jeff considers the Psalms’ clear teaching that fear of the Lord and honoring His ways bring blessings to individuals and families. Israel as a nation has seen much affliction, but the Lord’s support is unwavering.

1114-18 - Out of captivity and sorrow, the Lord brings joy through deliverance. The Israelites have returned to the Promised Land. From the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount, Jeff reminds us that human efforts to build are in vain without the Lord’s protection.

1113-18 - Even though Israel’s opponents have been many and fearsome, the Lord has sustained Israel these many centuries. King David saw divine protection and likened it to the mountains that surround Jerusalem.