Dear [FIRSTNAME],

Last night I viewed "The Great Debate," between Bart Ehrman and Michael Brown, on the question, "Does the Bible provide an adequate answer to the problem of suffering?" http://www.thegreatdebate.me/ The debate illustrated the importance of learning, gaining biblical knowledge, to respond to the questions people have around us in the real world. Of course, learning also helps shape us as followers of Yeshua, so it's doubly appropriate that we continue to pray for renewal in learning as we count the days until Shavuot.

Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbi Russ Resnik

PS The answer to the debate is Yes!

1.      Recite the blessing,  

       Baruch atah Adonai Elohenu melech ha-olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-Omer.

Blessed are you O Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us by his commandments and commanded us concerning the count of the Omer.

2.    Recite the count of the Omer. “Today is day eighteen, which is two weeks and four days of the Omer” (Friday evening).  “Today is day nineteen, which is two weeks and five days of the Omer” (Saturday evening).  

3.      WALKit! Pray for the request of the week, Learning.

Are we learning the Scriptures and how to apply them? Are our congregations committed to spiritual growth through diligent, lifelong study? Pray for renewed love, study, and devotion to Scripture throughout the Messianic Jewish community.   

4.   After you pray, put aside one dollar – or more! – to present as your offering for Shavuot on the fiftieth night.

5.   Check the appropriate box on your prayer guide (downloadable at www.umjc.org/prayer).