Abba Lazarus here

Greetings!

On our way to Germany this week we couldn't help but pick up the current

Newsweek with the title "Apocalypse Now." Recent weeks of intense, earth-shattering and game-changing upheavals in the Middle East and around the globe have everybody on edge asking, "What the heck is next?"

I wish I knew. What I do know is that this is certainly a time to take a closer look at some of our priorities. I put together a few blogs this week and I'd love to get your comments trying to make sense of what in the world is going on. There's one on Middle Eastern Headaches, another on accepting your "Lot" in life and the third a reflection on the tragedy in Japan.

Thanks to everyone who ordered Netanyahu's book last week. I look forward to getting your own thoughts on "A Place Amongst the Nations."

Our time in Germany was extraordinary and I hope to give a report soon. Next week we are in Hong Kong and Mainland China teaching on the Messiah in the Passover.

Until then may you all enjoy the retelling of our redemption from Egypt (never too soon) and experience the joy of the truth that set us free.

Middle East Headaches

For the past few days Israelis have been following the story of Shirley Marder.

Middle East Headaches

After taking a normal dose of Nurofen, a common painkiller, Marder sustained severe liver damage. The Israeli media are giving us minute by minute updates on the details of Ms. Marder's liver toxin levels.

I want this young women to make it through just as much as the next guy, but I can't help wondering, "Why is this story taking over all the national media headlines?" Read more...

Is there something wrong with me?

Do you sometimes wonder "God, why did you make me the way I am?" Maybe you wish you looked differently, or were able to do things you see others doing? Do your circumstances sometimes seem, well, just more difficult for you than for others? Is it hard for you to accept your "Lot" in life? Read more...

Comfort My People Japan

Since the beginning of the tragic events in Japan, I have been receiving a number of letters from people saying that God allowed this tragedy because of a negative statement made by the Japanese government last year about Israeli settlers in Judea and Samaria. And it really bothers me. It reminds me of some rabbis in Israel when they claim that there was another terror attack because not enough people kept the Sabbath, or that Israeli soldiers are killed in battle because they didn't eat kosher food. Read more...