I received this message in my inbox yesterday. They did not disclose their name, so I don’t know who it was, but I am thankful to this mystery man as I hear a sincere heart who seems to be concerned for me.
Here is the letter:
Today I passed by something that made me think of you - so I decided to do a wee Google on you. I have fond memories of our friendship. It is great to see you are continuing strong on your search for Truth and its understanding. There were a few things on your recent posts which made me want to share something with you. I wanted to point out Solomon to you: A man full of wisdom, he sought understanding diligently and deeply. Ecclesiastes 1:16,17. I believe the search for understanding is a great mission all should have, and wisdom and truth can be found in all things; however, I believe there are places to find truth, and better places to find the same truth. You have a Jewish heart, and I respect this. You will likely therefore understand that a Jewish (or old testament) understanding of knowledge was an experiential one. We know what happened when Adam knew his wife, and so when Solomon says he applied himself to know madness and folly, it means he screwed up in his search for understanding; he searched in places he had no business going. In the end, it did not go well for him, and God took the kingdom from him and split it - because of his choices. While you are on your godly quest, please be careful to keep limits on yourself and where you will look out how deep you will go - restraints, to keep you on the "narrow" path. Remember, Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." You have no need to look elsewhere to find your treasure. Colossians 2:3 "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and understanding." You can find truth everywhere, so that no one is without excuse, but there is one place to find ALL the treasures. Please, don't be like Solomon and search off the narrow path. May God guide your eyes always and enlighten your heart. With much love, A brother
To my mystery man, here is my reply:
Not sure if you will receive this, but thank you. I do see your sincere concern. Nothing will take me away from my love. I love the way you put it though, but Israel (the 12 tribes) are still lost as we all are trying to find this promised land. I have faith that God is bringing us back together as one. All of us. Both Jews and non-Jews -- I recognize my love in both of us. There is no one right religion. There is only one narrow road that sees both good and bad but recognizes God in all. Shannie
As it is written:
“None is righteous, no, not one;
no one understands;
no one seeks for God.
All have turned aside; together they have become worthless;
no one does good,
not even one.”
Romans 3:10-12
See also Psalm 14:1-3 and Psalm 53:1-3
Shannie Alvarez — A Gentile with a Jewish Heart
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Shannie Alvarez 