Shavei Tzyon | Return to Zion Congregation
Haifa, Israel
Thank you for the continued prayers and support you provide to Shavei Tzion in these difficult times.
In recent weeks the words of the Apostle Paul often came to my mind. “Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us…” (2 Corinthians 1:9).
Paul writes about the danger of persecution for those who proclaim the name of Yeshua. During those days the spies of the Caesar Nero hunted and murdered any “sprouts” of faith. The persecution was so strong that the believers saw Nero as an Antichrist.
Yeshua’s disciples recalled the words of Yeshua Messiah: “If the sufferings of those days had not been reduced no flesh would have been able to bear them.”
Paul wrote about the “death sentence” that forced him to rely not on himself but on the Lord. Today his words to the Corinthians are still relevant. I know people who have appropriated them in critical situations. For example in the midst of fighting disease, they were strengthened in God! The doctors’ verdicts were unquestionable, but the Lord’s miracle triumphed.
Many in Israel are “on the edge.” Fear of danger is very real. When Islamic militants desire to kill a huge number of non-Muslims, even sober-minded people are filled with fear. But like Paul, we seek hope in the Lord. And God who has rescued us before, DOES SO AGAIN! And even though the threats of Iran and Hezbollah, terrorism inside the country, and many other depressing news have become our reality and sentence of death; yet we trust in Yeshua!
As for our congregation, we continue to function in our usual mode because it is important to encourage people and lift their spirits. Our youth had a very active time over the summer. The “Nesher” Project took IDF soldiers for a time of “rehabilitation” in Texas. Many thanks to all of you for your participation, support, and prayers. These veterans experienced rest, renewal, and the love of the believers hosting them. In September our Music School started operating again after the summer holiday.
So, life goes on!
We kindly ask you to keep praying for us to be God’s mouthpieces, to receive from Him support and ability, to empower and encourage other people, and to be His witnesses for our fellow Israelis.
With prayer for God’s protection over each of you and with love.
