I’m sure many of you know that Israel is holding elections today for its 19th Knesset (parliament).  I would like to encourage everyone to pray, not only for the outcome of today’s voting, but perhaps more importantly, for the coalition negotiations that will take place in the days and weeks to come.  It should be our prayer that the new government will not only care for the security and well-being of all its citizens (including Jesus’ followers), but will live out its calling to be a blessing to the nations, and in particular to its neighbors (Gen. 12).

In light of the current chaos in our region, it cannot be stressed enough just how essential your prayers are.  Though we may hold different opinions about the best political way forward in Israel (and at home!) we can all pray according to 1 Timothy 2:1-2:  “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority – that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”

shalom,

PS  POLAND?  Interestingly enough, Israel’s unruly political system with its numerous special interest parties was borrowed from Poland – the centre of Jewish life before WW II.  I’m often asked when I will be leading another tour to study European Jewish history and the Holocaust.  If there is enough interest I plan to take a small group to Poland this summer, July 17-26.