Despite the month of AV being a low point in Jewish history, the name AV literally means “father.” It is customary to add the name “Menachem,” before Av which means “comforter” or “consoler”—so Menachem AV. So even though it is a month of sadness, there is hope this month. Why? Because despite our struggles, our disappointments and sorrows, God is a good Father who is always there to comfort and console us.

The month of AV clearly displays God’s beautiful story of redemption. In the year 1492, when the Jews were being expelled from Spain, the Spanish harbours were filled with ships carrying Jews fleeing for their lives. But there were 3 ships waiting to sail from the harbours of Spain for a different purpose? The discovery of America by Christopher Columbus! So in the midst of all the calamity befalling the Jews in Spain, God was working through those same events for redemption. When the enemy plans your destruction, God is actually preparing your promotion. These 3 ships would sail to discover the land of America, a land which would become the greatest refuge the Jewish people would ever know outside Israel. Sons and daughters, this is the same promise from God you carry over your life-He will turn every sorrow into joy and work every calamity into redemption. Even in your lowest point in life, God is preparing you for your victory.

His promise in Psalms 30:11 will continue to pursue you in your lowest moments, in your weakest times & in the most heartbreaking situations:

Then he broke through and transformed all my wailing into a whirling dance of ecstatic praise! He has torn the veil and lifted from me the sad heaviness of mourning. He wrapped me in the glory garments of gladness. (Psalms 30:11-TPT)

This Sunday get ready to experience the greatest story of redemption – when the Father redeemed us by sending His Son instead to die on the Cross for our sins-what an invitation He extended to us, written with the blood of His One and Only beloved Son-Jesus Christ!

Rejoice, for you are much loved by the Father.