Pray for the peace of Jerusalem

For anyone who has followed the conflict in the Middle East between Israel and the Palestinians, a prayer for the peace of Jerusalem must seem like asking for the moon! But sooner or later, in God’s timing, it will happen. I know this for two reasons. The first, is that this has to be in His sovereign will, or He would not ask us to pray it (Psalm 122:6). This does not mean that there will not be an Armageddon type war before it happens. The second reason for my confidence, is that He has already fulfilled many aspects of His stated plan and purpose for Israel.

Few believed 100 years ago, that the Jews would ever again dwell in their ancient ancestral homeland. It was however prophesied (Isaiah 11:12). In addition He asks and answers in the affirmative “Can a nation be born in a day” (Isaiah 66:8)? It happened in 1948. For me, these things constitute some of the greatest evidences for the divine inspiration of the Scriptures.

Talking recently with a friend, he asked why we can’t we share Jerusalem (Judaism, Christianity and Islam). Well for one thing, it’s not an easy thing because the two sons of Abraham (Isaac and Ishmael) have been fighting on and off for over 3,000 years. The current plight of the Palestinian people is truly horrendous, but certainly there are grave provocations and injustices on both sides! However after many failed attempts at peace, the thing that stands out to me is the question: “How can you make peace with someone who continues to be committed to your extinction?” It’s not as if it hasn’t been tried!

Father, You have promised to bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Israel (Numbers 24:9). I don’t pretend to understand this, and it’s scary Lord, as increasingly the whole world is being drawn into this ancient conflict. But I want to affirm this morning that I know that You are in control, and You will have your way. So I continue to pray this prayer for peace, if only because You ask me to. Thank You also for your promise to bless those who bless Israel, and though Israel like Canada is far from perfect, I do ask you to bless her (and Canada) this morning. Only You can bring peace Lord, in Jesus Name Amen