A Call to Ephraim and Judah

In the early part of this year, 2003, YHVH began putting together a tour. Not just any ordinary tour, but one that would open the eyes and hearts of those who participated and bring esteem and honor to Yahshua who gave His life for His people.

Two of the main goals of this tour were to look into Ephraim’s return to the land and to meet with brother Judah.

Before Ephraim can return, there is a lot of work to be done by tearing down the “wall of partition” that keeps the two houses divided: namely, pride and prejudice. We need to build communication lines. This includes coming alongside our brother Judah and working on areas that we have in common, such as loves for the Land, Torah, and the Elohim of Israel.

Our brother Judah is very special and Ephraim longs to build a friendship based on unity and trust. Our actions will speak louder than words. For the past two thousand years there have been suspicion and misunderstanding between brothers. Eventually Judah will see that YHVH has shown favor to Ephraim also. As we humble ourselves through repentance, walking in belief rather than doubt, we can be brought together again, and restored in the land, a goodly land that YHVH has given us to possess in tribal community.

Our group met with many people who, with tears in their eyes, listened as we explained our love for Judah and our desire as Ephraim to come home. Some were so amazed that all they could say was “wow!” Some even called us heroes because in their quiet desperation to hold onto their land and not be cut off from the rest of the world, we took the time to come over and care for them. In Israel the country is war-torn and many hearts are shattered in grief. Many die in their prime as the enemy attacks daily. With our arrival a renewed sense of hope adorned their weary smiles, especially in the settlements outside of Jerusalem.

Meanwhile, in Jerusalem, at times the atmosphere is not so benevolent. Many in the orthodox community have a difficult time accepting Ephraim for who we are and what we believe in: the Renewed Covenant and Yahshua as our Messiah. Instead, their own belief system expects Ephraim to convert to Judaism and deny Yahshua who saves us, even though they are aware that when the two houses reunite, the Messiah will come and usher in the Messianic Age. These are their terms, right now, for accepting us back in the Land. Praise be to YHVH that the regathering of His people will happen under nobody’s terms but those of YHVH Himself. We must not forget that it is YHVH Yahshua and He alone who leads us.

So, why should we return to the Land that YHVH gave to us and our forefathers? Why should we as Ephraim stand beside our brother Judah? It is our inheritance! It is there that YHVH has placed His Name and made His Covenant with Israel. Judah needs us to stand with him against our enemies. YHVH wants a people humble and set-apart before Him. Let us be ready and willing vessels for His use. Do you hear the call?

Cherith Bothum