ISRAEL UPDATE

December 23, 2007 – My lunch last week with my Israeli friend was in many ways like all of the others, it was a state of flux.  As we celebrated our friendship and common bonds their loomed the threats posed against Israel which include nineteen rockets descending on Gaza just hours after the abortive attempt at peace in Annapolis, al Qaeda moving into “occupied” areas not to mention the flood of Soviet weaponry pouring into Syria and Iran. 

These meetings are such a joy for me; but, as we enjoyed our meal I couldn’t help but think of the Israeli civilians and military personnel living under constant threat of war.  However, in the midst of the anxiety and apprehension there was one resounding tone that began to reverberate louder and louder.

The Israeli and the Christian soon found themselves planning and implementing to put into practice ways to raise awareness, increase morale and hopefully unify Jew and Christian alike.

I like the fact that Hanukkah and Christmas are so close together as the peace and goodwill of both religious observances should unify not divide especially in regards to Israel.  In a perfect world we can get everyone to rally and do what is right but David and I are on to something not new but something oh so vital.  During this holiday season please ask G-d to ignite passion in your heart for Israel and put into motion the passion to complete the job.

 

December 23, 2007 – The shepherds, the Magi and the angels were there that special night when the Prince of Peace was born into this world.  However, as so much of the world today the Roman Empire was not excited about the birth of the coming Messiah.

In fact, Herod so feared the coming ruler so much he did his best to eliminate the possibility of that baby growing up and assuming the throne.   It is safe to say that in Herod’s Israel and the rest of the Roman Empire it was politically incorrect to worship Jesus.   

Around the world this politically incorrect concept is not just unpopular as it is here in the States but in more than fifty nations of the world it is lethal to believe in Jesus.  The world finds itself in a dilemma they cannot explain or resolve, as they try to be sensitive and correct to everyone as so not to offend they are practicing reverse discrimination. 

One cannot help but look at the Roman Empire of old and compare it to the Gentile dominated world of today and see the repetition of the same pattern.

As bad as that is I still love this time of year and the rest of it as well, however I cannot wait for the day to lay my crowns at the feet of the Messiah and worship Him, at that point His rule will be uncontested and all will do it without hesitation or restriction. 

 

To be continued...