10/10/2023
Dear Friends,
We were all shocked to wake up Saturday morning to the news of the Hamas (an Islamic fundamentalist militant terrorist organization) having launched an unprovoked attack against Israel. The assault from land, sea and air targeted civilians, not military. As I write, the number of casualties is staggering. More than 800 Israelis have been murdered and more than 2,400 wounded. Additionally, more than 100 women, children and elderly folks have been taken captive into Gaza. Others are being viciously tortured, r***d or beheaded. As of today, Hamas has rained nearly 5,000 rockets over Israel.
As you follow the events in Israel right now, you might be wondering what you can do to help. Here are some practical ways you can become involved.
Of first importance, we need to pray. Pray that God would grant the Israel Defense Forces success in destroying this evil, terrorist organization. Pray for the safe return of the hostages and courage for Israeli citizens in the midst of war. Pray for the safety and protection of the Israel Defense Forces and for all innocent civilians. The only way Israel can have true peace is when they defeat Hamas and provide security for its citizens.
Another practical way to become involved is, if you have the financial means, to consider donating to organizations in Israel right now serving on the front lines. Here are some organizations/ministries that do excellent work:
1. American Friends of Magen David Adom (“Red Star of David”/Israel’s version of the Red Cross): Magen David Adom has ambulances, emergency equipment, and teams of doctors, nurses and medical volunteers to treat the wounded. You can give online at: https://afmda.org.
2. Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF): This organization provides humanitarian aid (not military aid) to the soldiers fighting for Israel’s defense. You can give online at https://FIDF.org
3. Chosen People Ministries, the Messianic Jewish Alliance of America, and Life in Messiah are Messianic Jewish outreach/discipleship ministries. They have staff serving in Israel and are helping Israelis with spiritual, emotional, and physical needs during this dangerous time of war. You can give to their war relief efforts in Israel at https://www.chosenpeople.com or https://www.mjaa.org or https://lifeinmessiah.org
Thank you for standing with Israel whom the LORD loves with an everlasting love (Jer 31:3)