Thursday, January 8, 2009

8/1/09 - English



We remember the people of Gaza in our prayers. With the new Israeli ground offensives and sustained aerial, naval, and artillery bombardments, the number of casualties has reached nearly 3,700, including 763 dead. We pray for healing for the injured and solace for the families of the dead. Additionally, we pray for strength and comfort for the 1.5 million Gazans suffering from limited water, food, electricity, fuel, sanitation, and medical supplies.

We pray that the United Nations and other global leaders will not simply stop with words of condemnation of the situation in Gaza, but that they will also take action to relieve suffering and bring about peace. We are sorrowful that the United States blocked a Security Council statement calling for an immediate ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. But we thank God that the UN has called an emergency general session to discuss Gaza.

We pray for the Christian community in Gaza. This community of 2000 has experienced significant losses in the past 12 days and church buildings have also sustained damage. We ask for God’s hand of protection on this small group and pray that they might live in harmony with their Muslim neighbors.

We pray that Palestinians can put aside their differences and be united in their rejection of Israel’s actions in Gaza. We pray that Palestinians and friends of Palestinians will raise a powerful voice here and around the world in nonviolent opposition to the ongoing catastrophe. 

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