Since assuming my role at Prayer For Israel in January, I’ve delved deeper than ever into the ongoing events in Israel. In this brief period, these efforts have enriched my understanding of the situation on the ground in ways that have truly surprised me. The impact extends far beyond the confines of this article, but I’ve singled out a few insights that I hope will resonate with you, challenging and encouraging you in equal measure.
One of the most striking observations I’ve made is the unwavering support that Christians provide to their communities in Israel. Whether it’s offering a listening ear over the phone to discuss the sanctity of life, extending vital assistance to the elderly and disabled, instilling hope in those battling addiction, or standing alongside soldiers on the front lines in the current conflict. Wherever there’s a need, the believers we support in Israel are answering the call, and, more significantly, they’re answering in the name of Yeshua. These congregations are putting into action what we, as believers, sometimes overcomplicate. They hear the call and they demonstrate love for their neighbours. “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!'” (Isaiah 6:8). These past months have brought a newfound awareness of the limited care I’ve shown for those outside my immediate circle and the startling reality of how easily we can rely on the comfort of our own homes by ignoring the difficult situations that are around us. My prayer is that as the Lord asks “Whom shall I send?” we all have ears to hear him and glorify His name to our neighbours.
My journey as a Christian has always stirred within me a deep concern for Israel and her people, and I’m grateful that the Lord has revealed His purposes for them to me. This revelation, sadly, seems to be growing increasingly rare in today’s church environment which is a matter for another article. Nonetheless, with such a burden comes inevitable intercession. This brings me to the prayer gatherings we host at Prayer For Israel. Initially, my focus was on enhancing these gatherings for your benefit—ensuring we had accurate information, improving technical aspects, and so on. However, the outcome has left me astonished, for it’s I who have been abundantly blessed. Witnessing prayer partners who have faithfully interceded for Israel for over forty years, still fervently praying over every detail, exemplifies a steadfast spirit that is immeasurably uplifting. My hope is that as I engage with the next generation of believers, helping them grasp the significance of God’s purposes for Israel and the vital role of prayer, they will also draw inspiration from the example you have set. Therefore, I urge all of you to continue the good work you are doing, it truly matters.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit.
Psalms 51:10-12 (NKJV)
