This kind of alert is thankfully rare in Jerusalem, but the
last time this happened a year and a half ago, several roadblocks
were set up in the Pizgat Ze’ev neighborhood at the French Hill Junction. Why
is that especially important to me? It’s personal, our very best friends in
Israel live in French Hill.
Sharon and I were in their home several
times just two weeks ago. On one night we borrowed apple cider vinegar from
their upstairs neighbor so I could teach my friend how to make babba gnoush. I
was taught by my spiritual father, Cost Deir, who was raised in pre-World War
II palestine and who made great baba gnoush. His “baba” would find its way onto
the table that night. Aruchat Shabbat (Friday night dinner) is the main meal of the week in any
religious Jewish family. Candles, prayers, laughter, joy, wine, bread…and many
small and large dishes filled with a wonderful variety of delicacies. Three
delightful boys, a young couple, friendly neighbors and now “high alert.” Yes,
for me it is very personal.
This immediate crisis will pass, but the realities of life
among those dedicated to the destruction of the Jewish State and the Jewish
people will guarantee that more crises will come.
In Zechariah 8:4-7 it states: ”This is what the Lord
Almighty says: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the
streets of Jerusalem, each of them with cane in hand because of their age. The
city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” This
is what the Lord Almighty says: “It may seem marvelous to the remnant of this
people at that time, but will it seem marvelous to me?” declares the Lord
Almighty. This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I will save my people from the
countries of the east and the west. I will bring them back to live in
Jerusalem; they will be my people, and I will be faithful and righteous to them
as their God.”
God’s biblical declaration points the way for Jews and
Christians alike. We must support the well being of Jerusalem. For me, it has
become very personal. I hope for you as well.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
