ISRAEL UPDATE

November 25, 2007 – We are at the most special time of the year when we as a nation celebrate one of the major holidays that bring families and friends together.

During the gathering for these special events we all need to be thankful for the bounty of abundance that our nation has enjoyed for so long.  We also need to not just be mindful of those less fortunate but do what we can to help those in need.  However, as I reflect on G-d’s goodness and blessing He has showered on our nation I have great concern in my heart.  

While most of us are shopping and preparing to celebrate once again the Israelis and Palestinians will be meeting to negotiate yet another concession of land for peace.  Four of the last six major natural disasters that have inflicted severe damage on our nation has come during previous such meetings. 

I love my country and I pray for our leaders to do the right thing, however, with the batting average during past negotiations one cannot help but wonder how long the land for peace plan will continue before our leaders realize G-d blesses those that bless Israel and the exact opposite will be true for those that don’t.

 

November 25, 2007 – David’s sin with Bathsheba sent out a shockwave of negative incidents that altered his family, friends and his kingdom forever.

Amnon rapes his sister Tamar then is murdered by his brother Absalom seen in II Sam 13:29.  Ahithophel, Bathsheba’s grandfather, gives advice to Absalom to destroy David but was rejected so he set his (earthly) house in order then went home and took his own life, II Sam 17:23.

Absalom after usurping the throne and building a monument to himself died hanging in a tree, his body pierced by darts and spears and had no legacy of children to carry on, II Sam 18:14-18. 

Sheba caused every man to desert David and while cowering in a city had his head cut off and thrown to the pursuing army that the city might be saved, II Sam 20:21-22 

Each man had a legitimate grievance with David on paper but in principle their hearts were wrong and they met judgment, yet David prospered.

As I write, several major ministries are now under investigation for indiscretions and no one knows for sure if the allegations are accurate or just outright persecution.  Whatever the outcome please do not be like David’s friends and family but rather pray that G-d be glorified.   The world does not need to see Christians attacking other Christians even if they are wrong in what they have done.  Let G-d do what needs to be done, let Him be in charge, we just need to serve.

 

To be continued…