We’ve all heard the news.
On October 7th, Hamas terrorists burst through into Israel’s territory, butchering innocent adults and children alike and taking hostage men and women, old and young. The world was shocked by the horror of the attack.
As Israel responds, there are terrifying images of destruction. Some thousands of civilians, adults and children alike, are being injured or killed by the bombing.
Israel has the unequivocal right to defend itself and go after Hamas if it is the only way to stop their constant rocket attacks or further murderous incursions.
But what of the horrific humanitarian scenes being played out before our eyes in Gaza several times each day?
It feels as though we are being forced to choose sides. The pressure is on. How should we respond?
That’s a false agenda. Making such a preference changes nothing today, and the emergency is occurring now.
Let’s break it down and make it simple.
As followers of Jesus Christ, our first call is to PRAYER!
But what should we pray?
Here are some straightforward suggestions to help us stay focused.
- For Humanitarian aid to get through to those who need it most.
- For the hostages and their families.
- For the voice of wise counsellors to be listened to by political leaders.
- For Joe Biden, the current US president and the only Western leader who genuinely has influence in the Middle East.
- For an international-led peace movement leading to a just and fair solution for Israel and Palestinians equally.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, I cry out to you in Jesus' name regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict taking place right now.
Father, my heart is moved by the terrible scenes of destruction and death in the Gaza Strip, and I know that your heart must be moved as well. Would you cause the release of humanitarian aid into Gaza and protect it so that it reaches those who need it most. Hear the cries of the poor, the homeless, the injured, those mourning, the hungry and the thirsty.
I pray for the safety and health of the hostages. Would you be with them, and in their extreme situation, would you meet with them and bring a revelation of Jesus. I cry out for their families that you may comfort those in such distress and be their helper and sustainer.
Father, would you raise wise counsellors who will be listened to by political leaders on both sides.
Father, I lift to you Joe Biden, the current US President. Would you strengthen him; give him clear, godly councillors who will advise and support him and enable his voice to be heard right now.
Father, I cry out to you for the future. Will you enable an international peace movement to arise, which will lead to a just and fair acceptable solution for Israel and Palestinians equally.
Father, everyone speaks of the intractable problem of Israel and Palestine. Yet, no intractable problem is intractable for you. Let your kingly power and government sweep into that region, dethroning every other spiritual power and authority. May your kingdom come. Your will be done. The Christmas angels sang of peace on earth and goodwill towards men…
Amen. So Be It. For Israeli and Palestinian.
Lord, hear my prayer.