As a
new year begins, we take time to remember the events of the past year. The
difficulties, the tragedies, and the hardships are fresh in our minds, especially
as we think of Syria, Iraq, Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem. Lord, please remind us of your daily mercies,
your grace, and your promise of peace. Lord
in your mercy…
The 2014
year marked the United Nations “international year of solidarity with the
Palestinian people”; however, it ended with the UN Security Council failing to
pass a resolution to end Israel’s military occupation of Palestinian land
within two years. Israel has now
withheld millions of dollars in revenue owed to the Palestinian Authority (PA).
This is collective punishment by Israel for Palestine recently taking the non-violent,
legitimate step of joining the International Criminal Court (ICC). Merciful
God, we pray that the international community will truly be in solidarity with
the Palestinian people by having political will, speaking truth to power, and standing
up for justice and peace. Lord in your mercy…
The
weather in Palestine and Israel is expected to reach very cold temperatures
this week, with predictions of snow.
During this time we think of our brothers and sisters in Bedouin
communities who are being displaced and are unprotected from the weather elements
and those in Gaza who are displaced, homeless, and living in inadequate housing
after Israel’s massive military offensive this past summer. Lord, give them your strength and warmth to
endure the storms. Lord in your mercy…
Lord, we pray for your
blessing upon the celebrations of the Orthodox Christmas this week. We also ask for your guidance in the New Year
as our Sabeel programs begin anew. We
pray for inspiration and creativity in our activism and ministries. Lord in your mercy…
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