September 1993 Personal Letter

Shalom, Dear Friend,

I’ve been mistaken for many things …but a monk? It happened as we prepared to film the Mount Tabor segment of our new TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAINS fall series that will premier this month.

Mount Tabor is one of the most interesting and remarkable of the biblical mountains in Israel. Located in Galilee, six miles from Nazareth, it rises abruptly and symmetrically from the plain of Armageddon to a height of almost 2,000 feet — and stands isolated except where a narrow ridge connects it with the hills of Nazareth. The rocky slopes are steep but climbable.

The Old Testament tells us that Mount Tabor is where Deborah and Barak were called of God during an intense time of disobedience in the life of Israel (Judges 4:1–2). It also was at this location that two great victories occurred — Barak over the Canaanites and Gideon over the Midianites. Tradition has taught that Mount Tabor is the location of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ.

This is the reason for the historic monastery at its summit. Everyday, pilgrims from all over the world climb the serpentine path to the monastery, singing and celebrating.

We parked our van half-way up Mount Tabor and positioned our equipment for a good camera angle overlooking the valley — the plain where the bloody battle of Armageddon will be fought. I was dressed in one of the beautiful robes I wore during the teaching sessions. As I waited for filming to begin, a man broke away from the line of pilgrims walking up to the monastery. He came over to me speaking in German and gesturing. I immediately knew he thought I was a monk and was asking for a blessing. I told him in English,

“I’m not a monk. I’m a teacher and an actor filming a television program.” He didn’t understand and seemed puzzled at what I had said. After some additional moments of non-verbal communication, he left satisfied when I gave him a “blessing.”

This somewhat humorous yet unforgettable incident is really insignificant when compared to the human pain, loneliness, deceit, sorrow and disappointment in the world. Add to this the political and social power brokering, conflicts and battles — including the continued political struggle of the Middle East. It’s overwhelming.

Yet, this little incident reminded me of the spiritual need of people. Millions around the world are seeking to know God intimately. They need to hear and understand the good news of God’s grace and forgiveness. It’s absolute, irrevocable, unavoidable, all pervasive and never fails. Because of God’s grace our sins are “remembered no more” (Jer. 31:34, Heb. 8:12). There are many ways to share the Gospel. Our weekly television program, Zola Levitt Presents, is probably the most powerful communication you and I can have as a team with those seeking to know God. We creatively tell them the provision has already been made for their sin debt.

We’re ready to premier the fall television series, TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAINS! I believe it’s one of the most effective and powerful series we’ve ever done. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with some of the unique approaches to the teaching content. The series will begin airing in September.

#1 Mt. Moriah THE PROMISE: “To Thee and Thy Kind Forever”
#2 Mt. Sinai THE LAW: “I Am the Lord Thy God”
#3 Masada/Gamla HISTORY/WISDOM: “He Is My Refuge and My Fortress”
#4 Mt. Tabor PROPHECY: “Thus Saith the Lord”
#5 Mt. Beatitudes THE MESSIAH: “I Am the Way, the Truth, the Life”
#6 Golgotha GRACE: “I Will Remember Their Sin No More”
#7 Mt. Zion THE CHURCH: “The Bride of Christ”
#8 Mt. of Olives THE KINGDOM: “They Shall Reign with Him 1,000 Years”

It seems there’s always another surprise and challenge waiting for us. We’ve just taken quite a hit!

I’m so grateful to those who have helped pay for the production and post-production costs of TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAINS. Many have made a generous gift or gifts for the project. I wish I could say that everything has been paid for …but I can’t. If you have not yet had a financial part in this project, send an extra gift this month to help us to put it in the “completed” column.

The owners of The Family Channel, our largest satellite cable audience, have told us the cost of our program airtime will be increased $1,000.00 a week. That’s right, $1,000.00 a week more than we are currently paying. This additional $52,000 a year is not for something new — it’s just to continue doing what we’ve been doing! This is a sharp increase for us to absorb! Secular programs are waiting in line for our time slot. We either cancel or continue. You know we must continue and depend upon the Lord to provide!

This is a small ministry. The unexpected increase of four to five thousand dollars a month in this one area is not just a challenge. It’s a major, major concern for us. But God is our resource — and He uses His children to provide.

Pray that those who are being blessed by this ministry but have not yet participated with us financially will recognize the need and begin including us in their regular Christian stewardship. Then, consider what you may be currently doing. Perhaps, you could increase your regular monthly support. I ask that you return the enclosed card with your gift for September …and pray for the Holy Spirit to speak to others who should be financially involved with Zola Levitt Ministries.

Your Messenger,

PS: It’s about three weeks before we leave for Israel on our FALL FESTIVAL TOUR — September 20 to be exact. There are always last minute changes that free up space. If you find that you are able to go with us, call Karen immediately at 1-214-690-18761