This is in no way a full arrangement of my thoughts (those will be pieced together in later posts).This is primarily an introduction to how God’s been changing and molding me.
This summer I went on a school trip to Israel in order to finish the last credit hours needed to fulfill the requirements for my degree. And though I knew it would be a life changing adventure, I never fully realized just how powerful the trip would be.
We travelled all over the country and saw a large number of Biblical sites. These sites include Nazareth, Bethlehem, the Old City of Jerusalem, the Pools of Bethesda, Megiddo, and Masada. While learning about the different sites, we also spent time focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict that is currently going on….and this is where my heart was ultimately challenged.
For most people this conflict boils down to either supporting Israel, or supporting Palestine…with no possible way to support both. But it became clear after hearing stories from both sides that there are no innocent parties. Dehumanization is happening on both sides, but most Evangelical Christian groups refuse to see it for that, and view their stance (supporting Israel) as the only Biblical option.
And though that may be the more correct answer according to the Old Testament, many would argue that according to the New Testament that view couldn’t be farther from the truth.
“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26-28
Christians exist on both sides of the battle line….and yet the struggle for “control” continues to rage on. Since when are Christians allowed to pass judgment, let alone support the killing of other people, let alone OTHER CHRISTIANS? I’m not sure about yours, but my Bible tells me I should strive to love those around me no matter what…..that I should join together with other Christians and praise our Father together as one.
Lets put Gods commands, and decrees before our personal, and flawed ideals. As Christians we need to start focusing on being LESS pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian, and be MORE pro-peace, pro-love, pro-justice…for all.
God, continue to be present in our lives in such a way that we can’t even attempt to deny your work. Keep helping us see and understand your ways, and how you call us to treat our fellow man. Let us honor and praise you through those acts, and allow them to mold us into more of the people you want us to be. In your Son’s great and glorious name we come to you and pray. Amen.
The Awakening 