ISRAEL UPDATEJune 8, 2003- On June 7, 1967, paratroopers of the 55th Parachute Brigade stood before the Western Wall, or Wailing Wall, as it is commonly known.
These were survivors of a brutal 48-hour battle that included trench warfare, house-to-house fighting, and many battles for strategic military positions.
But now they stood before the most revered site in Judaism – even nonreligious soldiers understood that no Jew had enjoyed this privilege for 1900 years.
The reunification of Jerusalem cost dearly in lives, but still Jews around the world rejoiced about the prospect of praying at Hakotel (Western Wall) without reservation.
Sad to say, as this article is written, the Holy City is poised once again to be carved up in the name of accommodation. But rather than the machine guns, mortar shells, and artillery rounds of the Jordanian Legionnaires, it is now the cries of religious equity and universalism.
History however, bears witness that the Jews have never used Jerusalem as a political toy to gain an upper hand. Unfortunately, others who have ruled have had other desires and intentions.
The paratroopers, not only weeping for their lost comrades, but also for the joy of victory, shows us not just the contrast of Jerusalem, but that current events tell us another battle will come for control of the Holy City.
June 8, 2003 - When events transpire that bring havoc and destruction, G-d is usually the first one to be blamed – or at least questioned.
Yet the reality of truth is that G-d always provides warnings to people – so that they might escape the coming calamity - the problem is that people do not heed the warnings and then respond appropriately.
Jeremiah warned of an impending Babylonian invasion that would involve dispersion, but the people chose to listen to Hananiah the false prophet, who died after being rebuked. Jeremiah 28:10-17
This is why with events like 9-11, along with the constant threat of terror against America, one cannot help but think of how many warnings we have had. Not only in G-d's word, but through patterns of aggression from men such as Osama bin Laden.
We are living in a self-indulgent age of Christianity… we hear entirely too much about our feelings, our self-esteem, and what we are entitled to. Remember, it is not about us – it is about Him…
The great majority of Christianity is consumed with self-help and betterment, seeking prosperity and personal blessings. They don't want to hear about Hell, sin, or the possibility of persecution.
As a nation and the Church as a whole, we have received many warnings - and when… not if… enough calamities fall on us again, it won't be because G-d was sleeping or didn't care, but rather because we did not have an ear to hear what the Spirit is saying to the Church.
To be continued…