In the scorched earth of the October 7th war and against the black shroud of inconceivable inhumanity, death,  and mourning, I unexpectedly discovered a riot of living and colorful resilience, hope,  and even joy among Israelis during our recent trip to the Mid East. I had not imagined this response, and it captured my attention and respect. 

Yes, there is fatigue and anger and frustration with the government; still, the atmosphere of overcoming resilience is ascendant.

One Messianic believer said the horrors of the war have chipped off the rough edges of how the general Jewish population has viewed Messianic believers in the past. Previously, there existed a flat intolerance,  resistance, and disdain, but now the very name of Jesus–Yeshua has been de-stigmatized. Messianics are free to speak of Him and His goodness. There is a warm receptivity to connect on rebuilding projects and in bringing healing to the land. This is unprecedented and awesome. The opportunities are exponentially exciting.

I have been coming and going regularly to Israel since the mid-1970’s, and I have never seen such a start-up of awakening and desire for connection–such a seeking for truth. 

Wayne and I traveled north, south, east, and west and met a myriad of Israelis, both old and new friends. We wept in hearing their stories and offered prayers. We asked questions and offered assistance in the practical and spiritual landscape and aftermath of war. We found more than casual connection in every story shared. Personally, I felt that every precious tear that filled our eyes together brought us closer to the revelation and revival for which we have dreamed and interceded.

Continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray that Yeshua Himself would walk the streets of Israel and Gaza, revealing His power to save, rescue, and heal the rift between two ancient brothers. 

The proof of the change here  was revealed again and again during our stay. I loved what happened yesterday. Wayne and I had left the hotel to find restaurant in the German Colony. An older Jewish man stopped us and began a conversation as he saw us reading an historical placard. We chatted for ten minutes, and randomly, he suggested that we visit a graveyard nearby that has beautiful artwork. He said it was Messianic.

Wayne asked,

“Do you mean Messianic in the sense of believing in Yeshua?” 

He answered unequivocally, 

“Yes, yes, that.” 

Wayne continued, “You’re ok with that?” 

“Yes! Yes!” 

We left him so incredibly amazed and stunned in our hearts that we had imagined that he might have been an angel. Maybe he had had a spiritual face-to-face encounter with the Redeemer of Israel at some point in the war. His face glowed with hope,  although he expressed sadness and fatigue concerning the war. 

All I know is that there is reason to rejoice, along with reason to mourn. Jesus is walking the land, pleading with His brothers, 

“I am Yeshua.” 

“I am Jesus, the one you have waited for.”

He is near.