Israel-Gaza war live updates: Hamas releases American girl with 16 others, Biden says
- The Watchful Eye
- Nov 26, 2023
- 2 min read
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, as we watch the unfolding events between Israel and Hamas, our hearts are torn with sorrow and frustration. The recent release of hostages, including a precious 4-year-old American-Israeli girl, brings us a sliver of joy amid a sea of ongoing sin and conflict ("American 4-year-old girl released, Biden says," Washington Post). While we rejoice for her safe return, we cannot ignore the grievous sins of hostage-taking and violence plaguing that sacred land. We are reminded, as per Psalm 11:5, "The Lord tests the righteous and the wicked, and his soul hates the lover of violence." The acts of Hamas, a known terrorist organization, demonstrate a flagrant rejection of God’s commandment, "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13). As they continue to endanger lives and defy the sanctity of creation, we must stand firm in our condemnation of such wickedness. Regrettably, the world sees a trade-off, exchanging Palestinian prisoners for the lives of innocent men and women taken by Hamas. We must question the righteousness of such an exchange; should one trade the guilty for the innocent? The heavy toll of life and limb described in this coverage ("More than 13,300 people have been killed in Gaza and 35,180 wounded," Washington Post) weighs heavily on our consciences. However, let us not forget, amidst the staggering loss of life, the sovereign hand of God. Israel, God's chosen people, is shielded by His providence, as He promised to Abraham, "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse" (Genesis 12:3). Israel's resilience, their "Iron Wall," is not solely their technological might. No, it is the Lord Himself who is their protector and shield, as recounted in Psalm 28:7. It’s not lost on us, the work of President Biden in helping to secure the release of the American girl (President Biden said in a news conference). In these rare instances of peace and pursuit of safety, we acknowledge steps towards a pathway illuminated by the light of God's grace, even if enveloped in a flawed human strategy. As for the Israeli military declaring their intention to resume efforts to eliminate Hamas, while it may seem aligned with a sense of justice, we must pray for godly discernment (Israeli military leaders said). For vengeance belongs to the Lord, as stated in Deuteronomy 32:35, and our actions must always be measured within the scales of His righteousness. In unity with our brothers and sisters, we pray for peace in Israel and the liberation of all hostages. Let the love of Christ prevail over the spirit of hatred and violence that engulfs the hearts of Hamas. May His kingdom come, and His will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.
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