As the
current peace process dead-ends once again with a refusal by Israel to halt
construction of illegal settlements, we pray for commitment among leaders to
continue to “pursue what makes for peace” (Romans 14:19). We are also reminded
that grassroots efforts for peace with justice are more necessary than ever and
pray for strength among everyone working to bring this about.
Prominent
Israeli rabbis last week signed a religious ruling to forbid Jews from renting
or selling homes to non-Jews, targeting the Arab citizens of the state of
Israel. We give thanks for the many Jewish voices condemning the ruling, but we
still express concern over the growing racism in Israeli society. We pray for
all those who face this discrimination on a daily basis and for neighbors of
all backgrounds who try to live together in harmony.
We pray
for the upcoming Sabeel Ecumenical Christmas Dinner at the Terra Sancta Center
in Beit Hanina, East Jerusalem, this Saturday. May it be a time of good
fellowship between people from the many churches in the region as we celebrate
the birth of the Prince of Peace together.
These
are very crucial times for our region as all hope for peace seems to be
withering away. We pray that our friends all over will continue to realize
the impact of our ministry and help financially support our work for justice
and peace, particularly the 8th
International Conference in February, Challenging Empire: God, Faithfulness
and Resistance. Together, all of us can rekindle hope in the hearts
of the people of all faiths in this Holy Land.
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