From the heights of Jerusalem, where ancient stones still bear witness to the story of God’s faithfulness, we are reminded that Scripture is not merely a record of the past. It is alive, active, and still speaking into our lives today. As believers around the world mark Pentecost, and here in Israel we prepare to celebrate Shavuot—the Feast of Weeks—we are invited once again to reflect on God’s enduring promises and His desire to dwell among His people.
Shavuot is one of the appointed feasts established by the Lord in Scripture. In biblical times, it was a joyful season of harvest, when the people of Israel brought their first fruits before God with gratitude and worship. Families traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate His provision, to offer thanksgiving, and to remember His faithfulness. Yet Shavuot was always about more than agriculture or religious tradition. It pointed toward something far deeper—an encounter with God Himself. At Mount Sinai, during this sacred season, the Lord gave His people the Torah. Then, generations later, during that same feast in Jerusalem, the Holy Spirit was poured out as recorded in Acts chapter 2. What began with fire descending upon a mountain was fulfilled when fire rested upon God’s people. The Lord was no longer writing only upon stone tablets, but upon willing hearts.
And that reality remains just as meaningful for us now.
Pentecost is not simply a commemorative moment on the Christian calendar. It is a powerful reminder that God longs for nearness with His people. His Spirit is still moving, still strengthening, still comforting, and still drawing hearts back to Himself. In a world filled with uncertainty, division, fear, and endless distraction, Pentecost reminds us that heaven has not grown quiet. God is still speaking. He is still restoring lives. He is still pouring out His Spirit upon those who seek Him.
As we stand overlooking Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, it is impossible not to remember Yeshua’s deep love for this city. He prayed here. He taught here. He wept over Jerusalem. And from this very place, He spoke of the promises still to come. Scripture tells us that a day will come when the Jewish people will declare, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.” Today, as Jewish believers serving here in Israel, we join with brothers and sisters around the world in proclaiming those same words: Baruch Haba B’Shem Adonai. What a beautiful testimony of redemption—that people from every nation, language, and background are united through the Spirit of God and connected to the unfolding promises of His Word.
For many believers in America, Pentecost can sometimes feel like an important biblical event that belongs mostly to history rather than everyday life. But dear friends, this story belongs to you as well. The same Holy Spirit who filled the upper room in Jerusalem is the same Spirit who strengthens tired hearts today. The same God who fulfilled His promises then continues to fulfill them now. And the same joy that filled those first disciples is still able to fill our churches, our homes, and our families.
Shavuot is also a harvest celebration, and perhaps this truth speaks more clearly now than ever before. God is still bringing harvest through prayer, endurance, faithfulness, and surrendered hearts. Even in difficult seasons. Even when the world feels unsettled. Even when the road ahead feels uncertain. The Lord continues to work in ways we cannot always immediately see—awakening hearts, restoring lives, and drawing people to Himself. That is why this season remains one of joy—not because circumstances are perfect, but because God is faithful. Not because the world is calm, but because the Prince of Peace reigns. Not because we see every answer, but because we trust the One who does.
As we celebrate Shavuot here in Israel, we want you to know that you are part of this story.
When you pray for Jerusalem, stand with Israel, and worship the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, you are connecting with the living promises of Scripture. And through your faithful partnership, you are also helping us continue bringing the hope of the Gospel from this land to those who desperately need it.
And from Jerusalem, we bless you. May this Pentecost season renew your joy, refresh your spirit, and deepen your hunger for God’s presence. May your home be filled with peace, your family strengthened with hope, and your faith anchored once again in the unchanging faithfulness of the Lord. The same God who moved powerfully in Jerusalem thousands of years ago is still moving today—and He is still calling His people closer.
Blessings,
Pastor Israel Pochtar