The Bible says that God blesses those who bless Israel and curses those who curse Israel. In a world of cursing Israel, be the blessing. In a world of rising antisemitism, be the channel of comfort and peace; in a world of hatred towards Israel, be the voice of truth and moral clarity.
“Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more,” penned the Psalmist, describing Israel’s enemies (Psalm 83:4). Is this also not the stated intent of Israel’s enemies today? Is this also not the goal of those who set fire to synagogues in London, ram cars onto pavements towards children entering a Jewish school, and stab Jews walking in the street in broad daylight? The intimidation and the incitement are wrapped in hatred towards the Jewish nation and the Jewish people. Reject the lame excuse that Jews are being targeted because of “Israel’s actions” (whatever that is supposed to mean); Jews are being targeted simply because of Israel’s existence. “Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, and do no be still, O God!” the Psalmist cried (Psalm 83:1). As we echo this prayer, neither should we be silent.
As we pray for Israel and the Jewish people, we should ask, “What can I do to be a blessing in a world of cursing? And what can my church do?” It might be answered by reaching out in love to the Jewish community in your area; making a connection; showing you care. In the past week, CUFI made visits to the Jewish community in London to express solidarity on behalf of you and thousands of other supporters of CUFI. It is vital and meaningful that as Christians we show our support.
Being a blessing might also include attending a rally against antisemitism to show solidarity with British Jews, such as the one taking place in London this Sunday. It could involve including prayer points within your church’s weekly prayers or holding a regular prayer meeting for Israel. It can include calling out antisemitism and challenging it online, or in whatever sphere of influence you might have. It may involve participating in CUFI’s campaigns, writing to MPs, signing petitions, or inviting CUFI to hold a ‘Why Israel’ event at your church. Pray that the Lord will lead YOU to be a blessing.
On Saturday 16th May, pro-Palestinian protesters will march in London to mark ‘Nakba Day’, the day after Israel declared independence in 1948. Their narrative is loaded with slurs against Israel, accusing Israel of kicking “Palestinian Arabs” out of their “homeland”, when in fact Arabs were displaced because of the invasion of Arab armies that tried to wipe out the newly formed State of Israel. Many were forced to leave by Arab authorities for that very purpose.
Seventy-eight years later, the demonising of Israel continues, accusing the Jewish state of “genocide” and all manner of lies. We will likely hear chants of “globalise the intifada”; and worryingly there are a growing number of individuals in this country prepared to act upon it. This cursing Israel cannot be allowed to continue. As we pray, we pray against every “power and principality” that has set itself against Israel, the Jewish people, and the Judeo-Christian values that are part of the fabric of this nation. We say NO to cursing and YES to blessing.
As the Lord told Moses to instruct Aaron:
“‘This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel. Say to them:
“The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.”
“So they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.”
Bless Israel, Bless Israel, Bless Israel.
