Israel is commemorating Yom HaZikaron, the Day of Remembrance for the fallen soldiers of Israel and the victims of terrorism. This year, the day is observed from sundown tonight (20 April) until sundown tomorrow (21 April).
Since its rebirth in 1948, Israel has had to fight for its very survival. Brave men and women have paid the ultimate price so that the nation might live. Their sacrifice is not forgotten.
The defenders of Israel — the courageous men and women of the Israel Defense Forces — stand in the breach to ensure that that day never comes. Sadly, too many have paid the ultimate sacrifice, but it was not in vain; it ensured that the Jewish people live on. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
The enemies of Israel have long sought to erase the Jewish state from history. Thousands of years ago, the enemies of Israel said: “Come, let us destroy them as a nation, so that Israel’s name is remembered no more” (Psalm 83:4). Today, the enemies of Israel continue this futile pursuit.
October 7th was a tragic wake-up call to this reality, and the resulting wars with Hamas, the Houthis, Hezbollah, and the Iranian regime are all reminders that Israel is in a fight for its very survival.
This day also honours the victims of terror. From Hamas’s brutal onslaught to Hezbollah and Iranian rockets and drones, there have been too many innocent victims. All of Israel has come under threat in this war of terror. Despite this, Israeli families have shown their strength and resilience.
Israel often stands alone. That is why it is so important for Christians around the world to rally to her side. We must stand with Israel, and with the God of Israel, who is the ultimate secret weapon of the Jewish state, ensuring they will never be defeated.
May God bless Israel on this solemn day as they remember those they have lost. May He strengthen Israel’s defenders. As Scripture declares: “He trains my hands for battle; my fingers for war” (Psalm 144:1).
May the Lord go before the IDF into battle, and may God always shield His people, Israel.
