Part of this conversion process entails these Ethiopian Jewish men being re-circumcised (Hatafat dam brit). And, regardless of how long a couple’s been married (some with children and grandchildren) they must be remarried.
These Ethiopian Jews, living in the boonies, preserved the Word of God from generation to generation; little did they know that so much has changed. No longer “if your father’s a Jew - you’re a Jew”, the Rabbis changed that years ago. And, for all these years of studying and living by the Torah only to find out that it’s now been replaced by the Talmud.
Then they must learn and follow all the customs. They must live under the law. And they will be closely watched.
It’s so sad, I’d like to embrace the Ethiopian Jews living in Arad but they can’t be seen talking to a Christian/Messianic (another part of the conversion process I’m sure). Any contact with us would jeopardize the chances of them ever seeing a loved one awaiting entrance into the Promise Land.
But, the word is out! Everyone in Arad knows that Lura and I are Believers in Y’shua. I sometimes happen to walk by Ethiopian Jews while wearing a Jesus Love’s You t-shirt, and see their eyes light up. Also, everyone in Arad knows the Blue Van.
When the Blue Van pulls up in front of the Ethiopian Absorption Center in Arad, Ethiopian men, women, and children get all excited. They know they’re ready to be blessed in Jesus’ Name.
The authorities at the absorption center want me to hand everything over to them, so that they can make the distributions, but that’s not an option. God in Jesus’ name got to get the glory… not man! Every garment, blanket, black doll, toy car, etc … not from me and you but from Him who sent us.
Eddie