Given a yearning to be in Israel, despite the chaos happening there, I often look back at past trips with a mindset of “Where was I on this date?” Yesterday, a former tour guest reminded me of a very special day spent in northern Israel in November 2019. As you know, that area is the tip of the spear these days in attacks on (and from) Hezbollah.

Thus, let’s take a look back on that brilliant day in 2019! Of note: The views beyond the fence are considerably different today, as the IDF discovered and destroyed all kinds of weaponry, and the houses used to store them. We were told of those weapon storage facilities 5 years ago and the troops we talked to knew that one day they would have to go “take care of business.”

That day came and our friends in that unit are serving their country valiantly and victoriously! Enjoy the lookback on a quieter, more peaceful time.

By the way, if you’re itching (like I am) to go to Israel, there is a fantastic opportunity for a handful! We won’t be going to warzones such as Misgav Am and the Golan Heights, but I’m hoping to take a few people who wish to roll up their sleeves and serve the displaced and hurting people of Israel. Many have been out of their homes for over a year. Some have physical needs (such as clothing and food), some are suffering mental and emotional anguish and need encouragement. All need the love of Jesus!

This trip will not be a site-seeing tour, though we may get glimpses as we travel safe places in Israel to help meet the needs of people. We are well-connected with ministries doing absolutely incredible work in caring for needs, as well as sharing the love of Jesus, and they need partners like us to join them in that work of the Kingdom.

There will not be a set itinerary, but the time frame will fall between February 15-28, 2025. With a small group, we will likely share an Airbnb or two and rent a van to get us from place to place. If interested, you may come for all or part of the solidarity trip and costs will include airfare (varies according to where you fly from), your portion of lodging and transportation, and whatever food you desire. (We will have the ability to prepare simple meals and share costs there as well.)

If you or someone you know is interested in joining us for this truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, please email us at Looking4theBlessedHope@gmail.com. This will be a limited group and I will oversee the arrangements. Come be the hands and feet of Jesus in the safe parts of Israel!