Who better to guide our walk with the Lord than a godly man who has stayed the course for over eight decades? Don Finto may be in his senior years, but I have seen firsthand his vigor and passion for Jesus as he continues the race and finishes well. In his new book, PREPARE! Don s writing reflects his true heart for the body of Jesus. There are dark days ahead for some of us, but he teaches that we can maintain hope for a bright future. When we join with wisdom, prayer and integrity, we can respond correctly even in times of unjust suffering. I hope you study the deep truths in this honest look at what it means to walk uprightly, and fulfill the purposes of God for your own life. –Heidi G. Baker, PhD, Co-Founder and Director, Iris Global
Don Finto’s new book describes how to walk as a follower of Yeshua (Jesus) in these end times. As usual, Don’s writing is to the point, bringing complex topics down home, where anyone can relate to it in a personal way. Not only does the book help position you for a right understanding of the times before us, it provides you with inner encouragement and faith to stand victoriously. While some write about how to be successful, and others write about the difficulties, Don writes how to be successful in the midst of the difficulties. The book is real, practical, and simple which in itself is no simple task. Don shows you how to face a disastrous situation that looks like a tidal wave, and then shows you how to ride a surfboard of victorious faith, rising above the circumstances. –Asher Intrater, Jerusalem, Israel
Young leaders, let us soak up the words of this time-tested spiritual father and truly live prepared lives! –Andy Byrd, School of the Circuit Rider, Fire and Fragrance Ministries
Zechariah 14 clearly states that a time is coming in history when every nation of the world will turn against Jerusalem. We have thankfully not yet reached that place, though a discerning mind can see how this may shape up in the future. Having just returned from Israel I saw even more the facts in the present conflict between the forces of Hamas (by the way the Hebrew word for “violence” is “hamas”) and Israel and saw how the news media reports all this. It’s clear how they and the nations will ultimately turn against this host people who have brought us redemption through Jesus.
Israel is the most compassionate nation in history in the way they are fighting against Hamas. They know where all the rocket launchers are located. They possess some of the most precise technology and intelligence sources on the planet. They could have wiped out every rocket launcher in a matter of hours, but they know this would also take the lives of tens of thousands of innocent Gazans. The main reason being Hamas hides their rocket launchers and weapons among schools, hospitals, and private homes, knowing Israel is more reticent to destroy them because they will inevitably take the lives of innocent civilians.
Pastor Steve & Pastor Israel Pochtar in Ashdod
As Benjamin Netanyahu told the world some time ago, if Hamas will lay down their arms, there will be peace, but if Israel lays down their arms, there will be no Israel.
Pastor Steve Berger and I spent much of last week in Israel, visiting some of the leaders among Jesus followers, as well as military personnel and government leaders. We were shown actual footage of one of the smart bombs used to destroy some of the weapons caches and tunnels in Gaza. Before the bomb was detonated, Israel took every precaution possible to see that innocent civilians and children would be spared. They 1) sent down leaflets urging all to leave the area because Israel was about to destroy the house containing the weapons, 2) made phone calls and sent text messages to warn the civilians to leave the area, 3) sent out their drones to see if any civilians were detected in the area, 4) dropped a small explosive on the roof of the building to try to scare people out of the house, 5) then release the bomb – and yet even in the releasing, if civilians were seen, the use their precise laser directors to redirect the bomb to an open field, 6) send humanitarian aid to the civilians, and 7) provide a hospital clinic to minister to the wounded.
Sharing at Grace Chapel with Pastor Steve
The world media knows nothing of these precautions, nor do they care. They are more interested in accusing Israel of war crimes for the loss of civilian lives, but never take time or initiative to accuse Hamas of war crimes even though all their thousands of rockets sent into Israel are intended to kill as many Israelis as possible, including innocent children.
What is the message from all this? Do not rely on the media to give you truth. Read the Book!
Does this mean that we hate the Gazans or even the Hamas terrorists? No, there are many innocent people in Gaza. There are Gazan believers who need our help, and we must keep praying the Lord will reveal Himself both to Israel and to the Palestinians. Pray that even these Hamas terrorists will have visions of Messiah Yeshua/Jesus and will accept Him as their Redeemer. Many terrorists have been redeemed through the years, including the well-known “terrorist” named Saul, who was out to
kill all the believers, but had an encounter on the road to Damascus that changed his life and the lives of thousands of others who came to know Jesus as Lord.
Pastor Steve and I shared the message at Grace Chapel in Franklin, TN on Sunday. The whole message can be seen by going to www.gracechapel.net and scrolling down to “Latest Message” and “Part 6 – Trip to Israel.”
Stay strong! Keep looking at Jesus! Let fear and anxiety turn to prayer and to praise to a God who redeems!
We have been receiving all kinds of inquiries about our people in Israel. As many of you know, our 14 students and two interns, plus Steve Allen, his son, Isaiah, and Blaine Kimball are all there for the month and arrived during great upheaval, but our team and fellow believers in the Land are doing excellent and are safe. When they arrived they joined in the intercession for Israel and the nations at Sukkat Hallel 24/7 prayer center, prayed at the Western Wall and toured the City of David, as well as went through Hezekiah’s Tunnel.
Before heading south to serve at Kadesh Barnea, a very peaceful place in the southern desert where the original twelve spies went into the land inJoshua’s day, they helped usher at the Elav youth conference in Haifa. There 300 Arab youth from Israel, the territories, and Jordan gathered with 500 Israeli youth who are Jewish believers, and 100 others from the nations to worship, pray, and praise the Lord Jesus who reigns as King, even in the midst of turmoil. Heidi Baker spoke on the power of the Holy Spirit and other speakers also encouraged the participants. We rejoice in the tremendous unity between the Arab and Jewish believers that took place at Elav.
The school first arrived during great upheaval after the murder of three young Israelis by Hamas agents, followed several days later with the revenge murder of a young Arab by an outlawed far right group of Jews. Three have been arrested and confessed to the murder of the Arab youth. The whole nation of Israel has been in shock and mourning. There has now been an escalation of rocket fire from Gaza, and as a result more Israeli Defense Forces being called up, so we are prayerful and exercising godly caution, while at the same time standing in His peace, guidance and counsel in the Land.
Thank you for continuing to pray with us for God’s Word to be spread through Israel and the nations, and that our teams and our covenant believing partners in Israel will be used of God powerfully in this time.
Our visit to Pemba, Mozambique, working alongside Heidi Baker, still may be the most strategic visit to a nation I (Don) have ever experienced other than to Israel.
Iris Ministries now has 10,000 churches in their network, with thousands of orphans and widows under their care.
While in Mozambique, we visited one of the villages in the “bush.” The Queen of the village has accepted Jesus and given land for the construction of a church building. In fact, the village is constructing part of the building themselves. I believe we will see a transformation in that village because this highest governing office in the village has invited Jesus to be Lord in her village. We only have to provide part of the building costs in order to complete the building.
We also visited with one of the Iris Mozambique leaders who told us of a church building that needs to be built in another of the Iris works.
Together the total cost for both of these buildings is $2100. That’s right! $2100! When Tod and I heard about this, we said, “That’s ours!” Not because we have the money, but we knew that enough of you would want to participate together. If each of us gives only a small gift, those two buildings will be built.
Last year when Tod was in Mozambique, Heidi and Rolland began to believe that Iris and Caleb were to enter into a covenant. At the time I knew that I, too, was to go. We believe we are to teach in their Harvest School each year. They depend on our bringing the message about what I call “the Israel key that unlocks world revival.” Some of these “bush leaders” have begun to understand that when they bless the world’s host nation and people, that their own ministry will walk under greater anointing and blessing.
Please pray about whether you are to be a part of building those two buildings, so that we can send them a check in the next few days.
We love and bless you!
Don Finto (and Tod McDowell)
If you would like to make a contribution, you may send by mail:
I’ve smuggled Bibles into China, taught in a Kenyan seminary and in YWAM schools in Kiev, Ukraine and various places, been on prayer journeys and ministry teams in several dozen nations, but there was something about our recent trip to Mozambique that makes me think it may have been the most strategic time among the nations I’ve ever had, other than the connection in and among Israel and the Jewish people.
Why? Because we experienced more of an open heaven, a purity of life and heart, more miracles than I’ve ever seen in such a short period of time, been among the poorest of the poor, and yet some of the happiest on the planet because of Jesus. Heidi Baker knows how to honor and be honored without being elevated above the one. Her “stop for the one” and “go low and slow” will, I trust, always be with me.
This was Tod’s fourth time to be in Pemba, my first. Iris and Caleb entered into covenant together last year, and I knew I needed to go, but because Martha was having some health issues I crossed the trip off my list. But I think the Lord never did take it off His screen. He kept bringing it back up and I kept thinking it was not Him – until the impression came so strong that I brought it up at home and with our team and got a strong affirmation. So, ten days before the trip I booked the ticket.
Our team consisted of Tod, his ten year old son, Moses, Jake Burton, Jack Beach, who flew in from Rwanda, and Candy Christmas who has been having the Nashville “church under the bridge” for the homeless every Tuesday night for the past nine years, and her grown children: Joshua, Jazmine, and Nicholas.
When I got home, I was communicating with Dr. David Vanderpool, who with his wife, Laurie, and family, gave up their very successful medical practice, their fine home and cars, and then moved to Haiti. They’ve been there six weeks now. I asked how things were going and he wrote, “It’s just like Brentwood, except that we have no running water, no electricity, no indoor plumbing, no air conditioning and no Chili’s!” Thank you, Lord, for those who understand proper values in this life!
For a few hours in Mozambique we experienced the way much of the world lives. But God is working powerfully in this amazing ministry. I believe all of Mozambique, even Africa, and yes, even the world, will be impacted by this place of faith and love. I expect to go back.
In the meantime, may the Holy Spirit press in on all of us to be radically sold-out, fully surrendered disciples of the Man from Galilee who left all the comforts and the power center of the universe to become one of us so He could bring us all back to God. May His Name – Jesus/Yeshua be forever praised and exalted!
My interest in Israeli politics has greatly increased since our last trip to Israel. We arrived during the recent time when rockets were being fired daily into the area near Gaza. We called one of the young congregational leaders in the south and found that he was coming to Jerusalem later in the day, so we planned to meet for coffee.
The total cost advertised includes airfare from BNA (Nashville) to TLV (Tel Aviv) and back.
What is included in the cost advertised?
Roundtrip airfare BNA > TLV (including tax and fuel surcharges)
Hotel accommodations (2 sharing a room)
Breakfast and dinner daily at hotels
Meeting and assistance at the airport in Israel upon arrival
Transfer between airports and hotels in Israel
English-speaking guide throughout the whole trip
Baggage handling and hotel taxes and service charges
Tips to driver, guide, and hotels
Do I need to purchase travel insurance?
You are not required to, but it is highly recommended – available at www.yoshertours.com. Click on travel tips.
Do I need to bring extra money to purchase gifts and other personal expenses?
Yes, there will be multiple opportunities to purchase souvenirs and gifts throughout the tour. While snacks are available from vendors, the group does not always have time to stop for food between meals. Packing personal snacks is encouraged. Water bottles are available on the tour bus for $1/each daily.
Do I need to exchange my money into the local currency before arriving?
You are not required to, as many gift shops and food vendors will take credit/debit cards and/or USD. However, not all gift shops and vendors will take cards or USD. Currency exchange vendors can be found at the airport and in various locations during your stay.
If I want a room by myself, do I have to pay more?
Can I make calls back to the U.S. during the tour?
Yes. Calls can be made internationally by establishing an international calling plan with your phone carrier prior to leaving the U.S. or through Yosher Tours.
Yosher Tours: To arrange unlimited calls to the U.S., Canada, and within Israel for $5/day, contact info@yoshertours.com.
Note: If purchasing an international SIM card, be sure your phone is unlocked for receiving international SIM cards. Contact your carrier to verify.
How safe is it to tour in Israel?
Caleb Global in partnership with Yosher Tours always ensures the best and safest experience for our tour participants. Caleb Global connects with local contacts each day to ensure safe travels throughout our time. Caleb Global leadership and Yosher Tour certified guides have traveled throughout Israel an exorbitant amount over the years and are considered highly qualified to lead groups of all ages.
How much walking is required in Israel?
Our heart is for everyone to take part in our tours. We have had many people of all ages travel with us and have wonderful experiences.
If you are in good physical shape for active walking, then you should be fine on our tour. For example, in the Old City of Jerusalem, we do not take buses or cars. This means our participants will get to walk and enjoy the beautiful culture and scenery where ancient blends with modern.
If I register for the tour and cannot go at the last minute, can I get my money back?
Yosher Tours has strict cancellation policies (see below):
Initial deposits are non-refundable.
Up to 4 months prior to the departure date, participants may receive up to a 50% refund.
Up to 6 weeks prior to the departure date, participants may receive up to a 25% refund.
Within 6 weeks prior to the departure date, participants may no longer receive a refund.
Students will participate in a variety of activities all-day from Monday through Friday. Some weekends are utilized for outreach, team building activities, and other key ministry events.
WHAT VISA DO I NEED IF TRAVELING FROM OVERSEAS?
Please speak to the school leader about this as each person traveling from other countries will have different requirements to enter into the country. As for Israel*, Israeli visas will be acquired at the airport in Tel Aviv.
*Applies only to students completing the Nashville + Outreach track.
WHAT DO I PACK?
Packing lists will be provided upon acceptance to the training program.
HOW DO I WRITE A SUPPORT LETTER?
You will be lead by a team leader on how and what to do regarding support raising.
CAN I BRING MY CAR?
Yes!
DO WE HAVE WEEKENDS TO OURSELVES?
Most weekends in Nashville will be free to explore the local area. However, there may be the occasional outreach, ministry event, or team building activity that will take up time on weekends.
DO YOU CATER TO PEOPLE WITH GLUTEN FREE OR OTHER DIETARY NEEDS?
Our aim is to provide food that everyone can enjoy. However, in extreme cases of dietary restrictions, students may be asked to bring their own food and/or snacks at their own expense.
ARE THERE ANY FLIGHTS THAT I WOULD PAY FOR OUTSIDE OF THE TUITION FEE?
Tuition cost covers a roundtrip flight from BNA to TLV. Any additional transportation to and from your residence is not included.
WHAT DOES THE TUITION FEE INCLUDE?
Tuition fees include food, transport (including flights to Israel*), team building exercises, accommodation, car rentals, etc.
*Cost subject to change depending on flight costs at the time of purchase.
DO I NEED TO BRING EXTRA MONEY FOR SPENDING?
It would be recommended that you bring spending money for souvenirs and snack food.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes! All alumni of YWAM, Iris, and Gateways schools are eligible to receive $300 off their tuition.
Have any questions that are not listed here? Sent us a note!
Inquiry: School of Revival - Nashville Only
2020 Tour Itinerary
2020 Israel Tour Itinerary
Day 1- Sunday, April 19: Depart Nashville to Tel Aviv, Israel.
Day 2- Monday, April 20: Arrive in the afternoon/evening and overnight in Netanya, go by Jaffa port if time, meet with friends at the hotel for the welcoming/introduction.
Day 3- Tuesday, April 21: Go to Caesarea, Mount Carmel, and Nazareth village on the way to overnight in the Galilee.
Day 4- Wednesday, April 22: Boat on the Galilee, Capernaum, Mt. Beatitudes, Caesarea Philippi, Dan river reserve.
Day 5- Thursday, April 23: Beautiful land Initiative, Mt. Bental, wine tasting in Golan.
Day 6- Friday, April 24: Baptisms at Qasr al Yahud, Genesis Land lunch, Upper Room, Shabbat at the hotel.
Day 7- Saturday, April 25: Mt. Olives, Gethsemane, St. Anne’s Church- Pools of Bethesda, Holy Sepulcher, Garden Tomb, overnight Jerusalem.
Day 8- Sunday, April 26 Temple Mount, Southern steps, Rabbi’s tunnel, Western Wall, shopping in the Old City.
Day 9- Monday, April 27: Revive Israel prayer time, Valley of Elah, Holocaust Survivors in Ashdod, Sound and Light movie – David’s Citadel.
Day 10- Tuesday, April 28: the City of David, Hezekiah’s tunnel, En Gedi
Day 11- Wednesday, April 29: the Dead Sea, Masada overnight, Dead Sea/ or go to the airport late if not going to Petra.
Day 12- Thursday, April 30: Arrive home.
*Itinerary is subject to change
Optional Petra Extension:
Day 11: Wednesday, April 29: Day Touring with the group. Return to Dead Sea hotel.
Day 12: Thursday, April 30: Fountain of tears, Abraham’s well. Transfer to Arava. Overnight in Petra.
Day 13: Friday, May 1: Tour the Rose-Red city of Petra. Overnight in Petra.
Day 14: Saturday, May 2: Cross into Israel at Arava. Visit the underwater observatory in Eilat. Flight home at 12:20AM.
Day 15: Tuesday, May 3: Arrive home
*Itinerary is subject to change
Spring Tour FAQ
How much walking is on the tour?
Our heart is for everyone to take part in our tours. We have had many people of all ages travel with us and have wonderful experiences.
If you are in good physical shape for active walking. then you should be fine on our tour. For example, in the Old City of Jerusalem, we do not take buses or cars but encourage our participants to walk and enjoy the beautiful culture and scenery where ancient blends with modern.
