Dear [FIRSTNAME],

“Yatahey Shalom” is how one Navajo greeted me when I participated in the Navajo One New Man Conference here in New Mexico on December 12. “One New Man” refers to Jews and Gentiles (including Native Americans) uniting in Messiah, while honoring the distinctive traditions and callings of each. I thought “Yatahey Shalom” captured it pretty well.

I was deeply moved as I saw scores of Navajos lining up in the hotel lobby to register for this conference on a snowy Monday afternoon. The Navajo host pastor came up to me and said, “I’m excited! Are you excited?” I said, “I’m excited too. I don’t look excited, but I get excited.” He said, “You must have some Navajo blood,” and we both laughed. The Navajo are known for being steadfast and imperturbable, even amidst the rough terrain of their homeland, and the even rougher history that they’ve had to pass through.

In my message later that day, I expressed honor toward the Navajo people for this quality, and noted the similarities between their experience and the Jewish experience. Get the whole story at:  http://umjc.org/home-mainmenu-1/news-mainmenu-40/1-latest/729-navajo-nation-supports-israel

As the end of 2011 approaches, would you consider helping me spread the light as UMJC spokesman? Part of my work is bringing the Jewish perspective to gatherings like this and helping build support for Israel within the Christian community. Your gift will help me keep going: http://umjc.org/donate-mainmenu-39/spread-the-light

Thank you and Happy Hanukkah in Yeshua!

Rabbi Russ

Russ Resnik, Executive Director