As we enter 2014, it is exciting to see increased levels of Jewish salvations and interest among our brethren. As I was preparing for a recent sermon, the words of Isaiah that were quoted by Yeshua himself pierced my heart.

Come, all you who are thirsty,
    come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
    come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
    without money and without cost.

I was reminded again that the message of Salvation is a message that can be received by ANYONE who calls upon his name. However, just as Messiah himself paid a costly price on the tree, we ourselves as the body of Messiah are required to pay a great price in proclaiming, sharing, and exhibiting the Good News at great cost so that others will be able to enter in. 2013 brought a great round of violence, slander and attacks by the enemies of the Good News, but because of the intense persecution, the door has been opened to offer the message of salvation to the world around us. What about us today as the body of Messiah? Are we willing to be persecuted for His name? Yeshua suggested that there is great blessing in this persecution when he stated:

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, or theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

May this be a fruitful and blessed year for all, even through increased persecution for the precious name of Yeshua.