The Tragic War in Israel : Hopes and Realities in our Country
In the context of recent war in Israel and around the globe, even such as Putin’s ambitions regarding Ukraine and the conflict in Israel, it’s important to understand that initial expectations and promises made by leaders often don’t align with reality. Putin’s belief that he could swiftly take over Ukraine in three days proved to be incorrect, as the war has now endured for over two years. Similarly, after the tragic attack in Israel on October 7th, there was hope that hostages could be quickly rescued and the conflict resolved, but this hasn’t been the case. Despite efforts, more than 600 Israeli soldiers are dead, and the war persists.
These examples highlight the complexities and uncertainties of political and military conflicts. They serve as reminders that outcomes are often unpredictable, and initial plans and promises may not materialize as anticipated. It underscores the importance of critical thinking, awareness of the fluid nature of global affairs, and the need for continued efforts towards peace and resolution, even in the face of setbacks and unmet expectations.
*Image above does not belong to OMEA, One Middle East Agency. We do not take ownership of this photo sourced from free images online form the war in Israel.
Resuming Normalcy Amidst Conflict: Insights from Reservists
In the aftermath of this war in Israel, it’s been a common things to see life resume for many people, even as others continue to grapple with the effects of war. For reservists returning home, the experience can be somewhat surreal. They may have left their homes to serve their country, fully immersed in the intensity of the conflict, only to return to find that life has carried on relatively unchanged for many. You can see for yourself, as recently I had a chance to speak to one of my son-in-laws, Yair. Who just recently in the past three months, returned from active duty in Gaza back into normal society and adjusting to his “new normal” after serving in the war in Israel. As well as another one of my dear son-in-laws, who by Gods grace, survived Hamas tunnels, to come back home to his pregnant wife (my daughter). Life for them both changed drastically over-night and when our country called, they answered. Even now they are settled back into “normal life” and I can only imagine the real feelings they are enduring. Especially since life hasn’t been the same here in Israel, post October 7th. As well as many other brave male and female reservists returning home only for another soldier to take their place.
And by the way, you can watch my interview with my son-in-law Yair, below. I would highly encourage you to listen to his experience as he navigated the war in Israel, being a husband, father and serving in full-time ministry.
Life Goes On Even During the War in Israel
Indeed, while the war in Israel may dominate headlines and impact certain areas, but the daily routines and rhythms of life often persist for the majority of the population. Businesses continue to operate, schools remain open, and people go about their daily activities as best they can. It’s a testament to the resilience of communities and the human capacity to adapt and carry on, even in the face of adversity. And one that the Jewish people have been carrying and dealing with for thousands of years. Yes, we have been at war since God gave over this land to our for-father Abraham. You can see the similarities that I am speaking of. Life and time always continue on despite the issues that haven been thrown at the Jewish people, even despite the circumstances that ave tried to take us down. Really it is only the hand of the lord and His grace that have kept our people and our country.
The Varied Experiences of Displaced Families
However, it’s important to recognize that not everyone’s experience in this war is the same. Displaced families who have been forced to flee their homes due to the dangers of war may face even more significant challenges and upheaval in their lives and in the lives of their families. Their lives are deeply affected by the war in Israel, and they often require support and assistance to rebuild and recover. And even to this day, there are still over 135,000 displaced Israeli families from the south near Eilat, to the north in the mountains near Kyrat Shmona and the Lebanon border. Its saddening to our hearts that even in the middle of a new technological age and day where you can go to the grocery store for food, people are going to bed at night during this time without a home and without a proper meal. And some now even going to bed without their loved ones next to them.
The Complex Realities for Reservists
Overall, the return of reservists coming home from war, underscores the complex and multifaceted nature of life during and after times of conflict. While some aspects of life may seem unaffected, others are truly deeply impacted by the war in Israel, and it’s essential to acknowledge and address the needs of those who continue to bear the brunt of the war’s consequences. We would ask that you keep our dear soldiers in your prayers. Who were just normal mothers and fathers before October 7th, working jobs and taking care of their babies and kids. Only to be called into a war, that no Israeli wants. If you ever had an opportunity to speak with an Israeli right now, they would tell you that we only want peace with all of our neighbors and we didn’t want to be dragged into this fight, but we will fight if we need too. Truly, the hearts of all Israelis both Jewish and Arab, are longing for peace in their country, peace on their own streets and peace in their homes and with their neighbors.
Empathy and Support in Challenging Times: A Call to Action
As we conclude, it’s also crucial to emphasize that our objective isn’t to become indifferent to the suffering of others. Instead, we should strive to empathize and support those who are experiencing hardship from this war in Israel, that seems to have taken grief and hardship to another level. It’s essential to recognize that people cope with grief and trauma in various ways, and our role is to stand by them and assist them through this challenging season. Its one of the many things that drives us here at One Middle East Agency and also one of the many reasons my wife and I decided we needed to take action, and have an organization that can step in and step up to the plate and actually help people. I would encourage you to take a look deeper at the impact that we have been allowed to have, and how God has been using us during these past, hard six months of war in Israel. I would also ask that you listen to our experience, that OMEA had during the beginning of the war. Our great team put together a well done video highlighting our work and the great people of Israel that we served.
Extending Compassion: Listening and Sharing in Emotions
God really equips us with valuable tools for helping to provide support, foremost among them being the ability to listen attentively. Sometimes, what individuals need most is a compassionate ear and a non-judgmental presence. Rather than offering quick-fix solutions or one-size-fits-all answers, we can demonstrate empathy by actively listening to their concerns and offering our sincere support.
Additionally, we can express our solidarity by sharing in their emotions. If they’re crying, we can cry alongside them. If they need a hug, we can offer comfort through physical affection. And if they simply need someone to talk to, we can provide a comforting presence by being there for them, even in silence.
In essence, our approach should be one of genuine empathy and understanding, characterized by a willingness to meet people where they are and accompany them through their struggles. By extending love, compassion, and support to those in need, we can play a meaningful role in helping them navigate difficult times and find solace and healing along the way. I want to encourage you as well my beloved reader. You can also help be a part of this positive change that Israel needs. We at OMEA, need all of the love and support we can get in order to better help our country, its families and our community. Â You can help bring hope and healing to the victims of this brutal war in Israel. Click this link to help OMEA if it’s on your heart.
Prayers for Peace as We Navigate This War in Israel
My hope is that when you think of Israel, the war and all of the people suffering. That you take into consideration my thoughts and genuinely pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for wisdom for our leaders, as well as most importantly pray that every Jew and Arab will come to know Yeshua (Jesus) and give their life to Him. So that one day, we truly can have eternal peace amongst men in Israel and with our neighbors.
Thank you for reading, and Shalom from Israel.
