Shalom! 2013 is the celebration year of the 65th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel. The celebration in Israel on 16 April went off peacefully; according to the western calendar 14 May is the date when 65 years ago the State of Israel was proclaimed. Israel’s possession of the land is under severe pressure. Israel feels the rest of the ‘eye of the storm’: in all surrounding countries there is great upheaval. Early in April Mr Kochari, head of Israel’s military intelligence, indicated, that “for the first time Israel is being confronted with terrorist activity on all four borders. Lebanon and Syria in the North, Sinai and Gaza in the South. In addition more and more international Islamic warriors are arriving in Syria and the Sinai. Either the deterioration of the security situation will make us decide to attack them, or they will attack us.” On the evening of Independence Day in Israel at the Western Wall in Jerusalem more that 10,000 people gathered for a time of prayer. The minister of religious affairs, rabbi Eliyahu Ben Dan, said to them: “Independence day is the day when Israel’s strength becomes visible.” Pray and thank for Israel on the basis of the following two Psalm fragments. “Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” (Psalm 27:3) “Your word, LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.” (Psalm 119:89). There is plenty of reason to continue to intercede for God’s people in their own land; to long together with them for the coming of the Messiah! May the Lord bless you in this. Pieter Bénard Prayer coordinator Christians for Israel
ALIYAH -‐ -‐
Thank God for the Jews from the tribe of Menashe, who are making Aliyah from northern India and are coming home to Israel. Their ancestors went into exile 2700 years ago. Also give thanks for the Jews of the tribe of Dan from Ethiopia, who are making Aliyah and are coming home.