Israel and Hamas (Part 1)
We all saw the news about violence in Israel and Gaza this past week. Reading stories and seeing images of the fighting between Hamas and Israel is deeply painful. Thousands of innocent people have been killed and wounded through this conflict. A war has begun and it appears the cycle of violence is not stopping any time soon.
In 2020 on a visit to the Holy Land, I remember crossing the border between Israel and Palestine to get from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. The border wall was a towering reminder of a conflict that has festered for decades. The graffiti on the border wall spoke to resentments of the people the wall keeps apart. As someone who has met with faithful Palestinian Christians and faithful Israeli Jews I can’t help but ask the question, what does God have to say about this conflict?
Violence is not the way of God. We as people of faith condemn violence in all of its forms. The prophet Isaiah speaks of a future time when there will be no more war. When swords will be turned to plowshares and spears to pruning hooks, when the instruments of war will be used to produce food that brings people together. Proverbs 22:8a says, “Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster...” I suspect that both Israelis and Palestinians would accuse each other of sowing the seeds of injustice. Yet, what can be done to stop the cycle of violence rather than escalate it? Our former Bishop Ken Carter said, “There are layers upon layers of history, trauma, and retaliation. Were I in this place today, I would appeal to God for a new generation of leaders who would prioritize peace, equity, non-violence, and deep listening to the other’s story.” For people of faith in America it is almost impossible to understand the emotions, experiences, and legacy of Jews in Israel as well as the people of Palestine.
I invite you to join me in praying for all the people who have found themselves caught up in this conflict. Maybe this letter from the United Methodist Council of Bishops will inspire your prayers. I will offer my own prayer as well.
Let us pray, Lord Jesus by the power of your Holy Spirit bring an end to the violence in Israel and Gaza. Support those who are injured, grieving, and traumatized by recent events. Bring wholeness to lives that have been shattered in ways that only you can. Prince of Peace, use faithful people to build a future of shalom in the middle east, one person at a time.
Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer.
