Once again, Israel is at a turning point. The election results have shown the natural desire of Israelis for security within their own borders but they have produced a stalemate because no single party has a majority in parliament. The politicians now have choices to make. Not just the horse trading between them to decide who becomes Prime Minister but how they are going to respond to the electorate’s call for greater security.
Will they be brave enough to try love instead of hatred? ‘Turning the other cheek’ is seen by many as a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it takes a great deal of courage and determination but in the final analysis it is the only sensible approach. Israel has become the pariah of the free world, something I am sure they do not enjoy. This could be changed overnight. How? By taking the brave step to search for a non-violent solution to their problems and showing they are determined not to be deflected from this course.
Now is the time for each of us to pray for Israel. To pray that their politicians be given the wisdom, strength and determination to “take the road less travelled”. To pray that all Israelis and Palestinians be surrounded with the pure light of the spirit so that thoughts of revenge and domination are replaced with those of love, compassion and recognition that all people are spiritual brothers irrespective of race or creed. Only thus, will politicians be able to persuade their people to accept the ‘love option’.
The United States and its new President have a key role to play and Mr Obama needs our prayers too. May he be granted the wisdom to use the influence his country has over Israel with determination and guile. Maybe the beginning of a new Presidential term is a good time to ignore the ‘Jewish vote’ for once. By adopting radical, love based policies and persuading Israel they will be followed through, despite opposition at home, the USA can open Israeli eyes long closed by hatred and conflict.
Please ask all your friends to join you in this prayer.
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