9/12/10 - English

We pray for all those affected by the forest fire that raged near Haifa for four days last weekend, especially for the family and friends of those who died, for those who lost homes, and for the rejuvenation of the 12,500 acres of destroyed land. We give thanks for those who worked hard to keep the fire at bay and for the many countries, near and far, who responded to Israel’s call for help to subdue the blaze, and pray that Israel will see from this quick international aid that there is no need to live in fear.

We praise you Lord, for Brazil and Argentina’s recognition of a Palestinian State along the 1967 armistice lines. We pray that after this recognition by the world’s fifth largest country and an emerging economic power that other countries will be encouraged to follow suit in what may be a new development towards a just and peaceful resolution.

On Friday, December 10, the world observes Human Rights Day. Established sixty years ago, it marks the anniversary of the UN General Assembly's Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted in 1948. This declaration states that respect for human rights and human dignity "is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.” We pray that all countries of the world, including the state of Israel, will respect and act on the values in this universal declaration.

We hold in prayer Sabeel’s programs this Friday, December 10: Sabeel Nazareth is holding a concert for Christmas and in Jerusalem Sabeel is hosting an Advent discussion by Patriarch Michel Sabbah about the Vatican Synod of Middle East Bishops held in October. May everyone be blessed in heart, soul and mind by these seasonal gatherings.