Dear CBC Family,

As we continue to pray for the nation of Israel, my heart and mind go to my many friends and brothers and sisters in Christ in Israel and Palestine, In the past few days our CBC leadership has been in contact with many of our ministry partners and friends in Israel. They are deeply thankful for the prayers, concern and support from our church. 

Continue to pray for the deliverance of those innocent people who have been kidnapped and held hostage to be released back to their families. Let's continue to pray for those who have lost family to this evil, senseless terrorist attack by Hamas. 

As for the retribution and retaliation by Israel toward the acts of terrorism by Hamas, many have asked how this is fair and just and whether this action should be supported. 

First, Hamas hides among innocent Palestinians in the Gaza region as a shield for their protection, causing a greater loss of human life. May we also pray for protection for the many Palestinians who stand against Hamas, many who are Christians.

Second, the retribution of Israel can be seen as a means to end the threat of future terrorism. It is essential to protect innocent lives and ensure the safety of a nation. However, as Christians, we must approach retribution with a heavy heart, understanding that it is a response born out of the necessity to protect rather than a desire for vengeance.

Third, Christians stand with God's promise to bless Israel. The Bible clearly states that God will bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse Israel (Genesis 12:3). Christians must stand with God's promise and support Israel. 

Lastly, Let's be clear: Jesus is Messiah, King, Lord of all, and every knee will bow willingly now or humbly at judgment and confess Jesus is Lord.  

Therefore, may we heed the words of Jesus in Matthew 24:4-8

[4] And Jesus answered them, "See that no one leads you astray. [5] For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and they will lead many astray. [6] And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. [7] For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. [8] All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.

Therefore, every day, we are one day closer to the return of Jesus, and may this day come ever so quickly. Meanwhile, may we be faithful to pray that in the darkness of this time in the world, the light of Jesus will shine the brightest.  

Let us pray for peace in the Holy Land, that those who seek evil will be stopped, and that all those who don't know Jesus will come to know our Savior and King. 

Pastor Ed