The Troubles We’ve Seen
The reality check of “the troubles we’ve seen” since the beginning of last year, plus “the troubles we’re seeing” in Israel and the Middle East certainly gives cause for concern for what tomorrow may hold. I read Dr. Jim Denison’s remarks yesterday morning about the raging war in the Middle East:
“Hamas fired large fusillades of rockets at Tel Aviv and other civilian areas in Israel yesterday as the conflict in the Holy Land continues to escalate. More than 1,800 rockets and mortar shells have been launched toward Israel this week; the large number is intended to overwhelm Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system. Armed drones were sent into southern Israel as well. Ben Gurion International Airport was closed to incoming passenger flights. The Israeli military responded this morning with a combined air and artillery barrage intended to destroy Hamas’ tunnel system.” – Dr. Jim Denison
It’s so far away that maybe we aren’t touched by the loss of life and the fear that must be embedded in the hearts of the people as they listen for warning sirens and having to run for shelter. But, what if that paragraph was about the U.S. and read: “Hamas fired fusillades of rockets at the U.S.’s busiest Atlanta International Airport and more than 1,800 rockets and mortar shells have been launched toward the United States and armed drones were sent to Texas this week.” Israel seems so far away that we shut our eyes and hearts to the fear, the pain and the suffering of the children, the elderly, and all those so frightened and dismayed.
Yesterday my blog included the discussion about drones for weddings to capture the most beautiful moments of two lives coming together. And here we read that “armed” drones (unmanned, except from ground controllers) are used for surveillance AND for air strikes. Quite the difference in mindset from beauty for one and potential devastation for the other.
Back to Dr. Jim Denison’s blog. He asks: “How can Christians intercede biblically in these tragic days?”
“One: Pray for Jewish, Palestinian, and world leaders (1 Timothy 2:1–2). Ask God to give them wisdom and practical guidance.
Two: Pray for God’s shalom, the Hebrew word for peace (Psalm 122:6). It is far more than the cessation of violence—it is true and lasting peace with God, others, and ourselves.
Three: Pray for Jews and Muslims to turn to Jesus as their Messiah and Savior. He is the only path to the peace all people seek (John 16:33).
Four: Pray for ways to love the Jews and Arabs you know (John 13:34–35). Anti-Semitism is rising in America and around the world; many Arabs face oppression and discrimination in America and the West as well. Look for opportunities to demonstrate God’s love in your compassion by building relationships centered in grace.” –
Dr. Jim Denison
I am reminded that fear gripped the hearts of Christ’s disciples when the storms, the winds, and the waves came to them on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus saw them from afar and walked on the water to save them. (Matthew 14:22-33). Though this happened over 2,000 years ago, it is still relevant to us today, and particularly to those who need to be rescued.
Just maybe, the wars that are raging, are those right within the borders of your home. You are one of those paralyzed by fear that grips your heart about what tomorrow holds. That same fear may also be gripping those who are about to give up because matters have gotten worse, and they fear for the loss of their marriage or their job or from a debilitating habit or illness or relationship breakdown.
The good news is God sees and Jesus still saves. Jesus – the same – yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8) wants to come walking on the water into all of our lives. His grace. His love. His mercy. He’s reaching out even now to RESCUE you and me from whatever fear or situation we are facing today. We’re crying out for help, Lord Jesus, but not just in our lives — but those around the world. As You are reaching out to us with your arms of love, we are reaching out to You. Jesus saves. AMEN!