IT'S PERSONAL

Breaking news from the Jerusalem Post: “JERUSALEM PLACED ON HIGH ALERT AMID TERROR THREAT.” “Police, firefighters, paramedics in state of increased preparedness as result of intelligence reports of terror threat to capital.”

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.