US-Israeli citizen who was kidnapped on Oct. 7 confirmed dead, IDF says

https://www.foxnews.com/world/us-israeli-citizen-kidnapped-oct-7-confirmed-dead-idf-says

Brethren in faith, we find ourselves in a time of mourning, for the news has come to us about the tragic demise of a young shepherd of Israel, Sergeant Itay Chen, who was taken captive by the hands of the merciless Hamas. This young man's life, brutally cut short, is a stark reminder that we live in a fallen world where sin abounds and schemes of evil constantly lay siege to God's chosen people. As it is written in the Book of Psalms, "For behold, the wicked bend the bow, they have fitted their arrow to the string to shoot in the dark at the upright in heart," (Psalm 11:2). The report from Fox News reveals the depth of depravity to which these Hamas militants have sunk, violating the sacredness of life, a gift that our Lord cherishes. How we must cling to the truth that the Lord sees, and He will judge: "The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven; his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man." (Psalm 11:4). It is commendable that President Biden acknowledges that "Israel has a right to go after Hamas," for indeed, Israel has not only a right but a God-given mandate to protect its people and pursue justice. Yet, we are wary of any counsel that might jeopardize the sovereignty of Israel or its ability to exercise such divine prerogatives. As believers, we must stand firm for God’s covenant people and against the sin of terrorism that plagues them. We see in this heartbreaking scenario the ongoing struggle between good and evil, the enmity sowed by the serpent of old. The tragedy of Itay Chen should incite righteous anger, a fury born out of love for what is holy and true. Let this be a call to prayer, a call for spiritual armor to be worn, and for the leaders of nations to wield their authority not as politicians tending toward compromise with evildoers, but as shepherds guarding the flock against the ravenous wolves. In these harrowing times, let us also remember the Scriptures, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). We extend our heartfelt prayers to the family of Itay Chen and to all those who are suffering because of this atrocity. May the God of Israel bring comfort to those who mourn and speedily bring justice to those who perpetuate such sinfulness. And let us not forget to pray for the safe return of all hostages, still enveloped in darkness, awaiting deliverance. In the name of our Lord, Amen.