by The Two Afflictions That Get God's Attention | The Messianic Torah Observer

Messianic Torah Observer Podcast Episode: The Two Afflictions That Get God’s Attention

Host: Rod Thomas

Date: April 3, 2025

Episode Summary: In this episode, Rod Thomas shares his thoughts ahead of the spring feast and discusses the significance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Rod reflects on his experience delivering a teaching to orphaned students and Sabbath-keeping brethren in Kenya last year. Despite technical difficulties with the recording, he has optimized it to the best of his ability and hopes it will bless listeners as much as it blessed him in preparing and delivering it.

Key Points:

  • Introduction: Rod welcomes listeners and expresses his hope that this episode finds them well and blessed. He mentions the upcoming spring feast of YHVH and invites listeners to visit the Messianic Torah Observer website for more information on the dates of the spring feast.
  • Teaching on Yom Kippur: Rod explains the significance of Yom Kippur, one of the fall feasts of Yah, and shares his experience delivering a teaching on this topic in Kenya. He discusses the concept of afflicting the soul and the importance of fasting and self-denial to get God’s attention.
  • Biblical References: Rod references the story of Esther and Isaiah 58 to illustrate the true meaning of affliction and fasting. He emphasizes that God wants more from us than just not eating for a day; He wants us to stand against wickedness, seek deliverance from bondage, and care for the oppressed.
  • Dying to Self: Rod explains the concept of dying to self and the importance of denying oneself of things that do not please God. He encourages listeners to examine their hearts and seek to please God over their own desires.
  • Conclusion: Rod concludes the episode by reminding listeners that true affliction of the soul goes beyond discomfort and involves a deep commitment to God’s will. He encourages listeners to afflict their souls in a way that gets God’s attention in a good way and prepares them for the Kingdom of God.

Call to Action: Rod invites listeners to support the Kumran Family Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of widows and orphans in Kenya. He encourages listeners to visit the foundation’s website and consider making a donation to help with ongoing projects, including building a school to teach widows basic job skills.

Closing Remarks: Rod thanks listeners for their time and fellowship and bids them a happy and blessed Rosh Hashanah and Month of Aviv. He looks forward to the next installment of the Messianic Torah Observer podcast.