Dear Friends in Christ,
A few days ago, we shared with you the heart-wrenching message from Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s parents, who stood at the border of Gaza calling out to their son. Their words were a testament to a deep, unwavering faith: “It’s Mama. Hersh, it’s day 328. We are all here. All the families of the remaining 107 hostages… May God bless you and keep you. May God shine His face upon you and be gracious to you. May you feel God’s Presence within you always, and may you find peace” (Numbers 6:24-26, NKJV).
Today, it is with a heavy heart that we must share tragic news. Overnight, six Israeli hostages were discovered by the IDF in a Hamas tunnel in Rafah, southern Gaza, having been brutally murdered by their captors not long before they were found. Among them was Hersh Goldberg-Polin, 23, whose parents’ faith and hope touched so many of us. The other victims were Eden Yerushalmi, Ori Danino, Alex Lubnov, Carmel Gat, and Almog Sarusi.
As we reflect on this sorrowful event, let us be reminded of the depth of evil that exists in our world, yet also of the profound power of God’s Word to sustain us through the darkest times. When we prayed for Hersh and the other hostages, we were placing them in the hands of a God who sees all, knows all, and ultimately holds all things in His control.
As we process this devastating news, let us continue to stand firm in prayer
Let us take solace in the promises of God, trusting that His light will ultimately dispel the darkness. May we continue to lift these families up, asking God to bring them comfort, peace, and the strength to endure. And as we pray, let us also ask for the safety and return of those who are still in captivity, believing in the power of Jesus to deliver them.
In His service,
PFI Team