Israel-Gaza war updates: Israel steps up strikes in central Gaza; dozens killed in refugee camp
- The Watchful Eye
- Dec 25, 2023
- 2 min read
Brothers and sisters in Christ, we must open our eyes and see the world as it is, marred by sin and torn asunder by the works of the enemy. The tragic events in Gaza, where Israel has intensified its military strikes, speak volumes about the broken state of our world. It's a sore reminder of the constant battle between good and evil, and we must not shy away from supporting Israel, our ally and a beacon of democracy in the Middle East, as it defends itself against the attacks of Hamas, a terrorist organization (Exodus 15:3, Psalm 122:6-8). It saddens the heart to see Bethlehem, the birthplace of our Lord Jesus Christ, shrouded in somberness with canceled Christmas celebrations (Luke 2:4-7). Yet, in the midst of this adversity, let us heed the call to search for the light that never dims nor flickers—the light of our Savior (John 1:4-5). As for the comment about the stability of global trade through Maersk resuming shipping after U.S.-led coalition secured the Red Sea, let's not forget that our ultimate security and prosperity come not from human coalitions but from God Almighty (Psalm 127:1). We see the world relying on might and power, but as Christians, we're called to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and not lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6). The staggering numbers of casualties—over 20,000 in Gaza and the loss of Israeli soldiers—remind us of the devastating consequences of sin and man’s inhumanity towards one another (Romans 3:23, James 4:1-2). In these times of conflict, we must pray for peace, for God’s kingdom to come and for His will to be done on Earth as in Heaven (Matthew 6:10). The United States' abstention on a U.N. Security Council resolution regarding Gaza might appear as a diplomatic move, but let us remember that there should be no neutrality when it comes to defending the innocent and standing against terror. The time is now for nations to uphold justice, not just through international law but through the righteousness of God (Psalm 89:14). Let us raise our voices in fervent prayer for the protection of Israel, for the innocent suffering in Gaza, and for the soldiers on both sides caught in this age-long conflict that only our Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, can ultimately resolve (Isaiah 9:6). And let us walk in faith, knowing that though we may walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will fear no evil, for God is with us (Psalm 23:4). Keep firm, hold fast to our calling, and remember, as it is written in 2 Chronicles 7:14, if God's people humble themselves and pray, He will heal our land. Amen.
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