The Word On The Street

"The WORD on the street" is a way for those living in the United States to be connected with those living in the Land. The day's events, politics, pop-culture, family life, maybe even what’s on the dinner menu—all of this and more is likely to be found here. Visit regularly to hear the WORD on the street from our MAs and friends in Israel.

Christmas is Confusing in Israel!

23 December, 2009

Christmas is confusing in Israel!

The Jewish believers, eager to present a Jewish Jesus to their brethren, largely shun the celebration to avoid being associated with the Santa celebrating Catholics. Unbelieving Israelis, on the other hand, travel to Prague just to see the decorations and feel the festivities. Many say they love Christmas more than any other time of year. The confusion will probably continue, even while the carols bring their message sweet and clear.

Another dilemma in Israel is the ongoing struggle to return our captive soldier, Gilad Shalit. Hamas are asking for 1,000 prisoners in exchange for Gilad, among them many terrorists. "Don’t lay all the problems of the Middle East upon the narrow shoulders of our son!" was the cry of Gilad's parents today as they met once again with the Prime Minister. Most of Israel knows someone who was killed or wounded in a terrorist attack and we are all torn in two by the decision that has to be made by our leaders.

To build or not to build, that is the question. When our present government came to power they agreed to remove illegal settlements, but insisted Israel would continue natural expansion in the West Bank. Worn down by external pressure they have consented to a 10 month building freeze, while the people whose future homes must stand abandoned are becoming more violent in their protests. Those who are being forcibly removed from illegal settlements by soldiers are crying out, "Our army is to fight our enemies, not our own people!"

Israel's confusion is not only over Christmas.

Hebrew Christian Fellowship