While in Israel, we witnessed an incredibly sad day in Israel’s history: the return of the Bibas children (Ariel and Kfir), along with their mother (Shiri) in caskets. The three, as well as Yarden, Shiri’s husband and father to the little redheads, were taken captive by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Only Yarden came back alive. Ariel and Kfir became international icons of the absolute evil perpetrated by Hamas on that day.

Matthew 2:18 sums up the grief of Israelis:

“A voice was heard in Ramah,
Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning,
Rachel weeping for her children,
Refusing to be comforted,
Because they are no more.”

Israel is a grieving, heartbroken nation, yet they press on. Scripturally speaking, the greatest breakthroughs in life come during the deepest depths of hardship. Throughout history, tragedy and trauma have struck Israel in the cruelest ways. Yet we can rest assured God has never forgotten, nor ever will forget, His people. Tragedy and heartache will lead to salvation if only they will see.

The people who walked in darkness
Have seen a great light;
Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death,
Upon them a light has shined.
~Isaiah 9:2

It is a dark time in Israel, yet the Light of the World is shining upon them, awaiting eyes to be open to see Him! Is a breakthrough coming? Are Israelis more willing than before to see the Light?

Our great God is able to turn darkness into light, and He is the Light shining in darkness, longing for our Jewish friends to respond to Him. Our job as believers is multi-faceted. First, we are to pray for them. We are also to support them and speak up for their good. Romans 11 says we are to “provoke them to jealousy.” Believing friends, we have their Messiah! Will you endeavor with me to pray they seek Him and find Him, and that, as He reveals Himself in the midst of darkness, they will see the Light?

Only God is able to turn darkness into light. Pray for it!