This is the fifth in a week long series.
by Elli Atchison
One only has to look at the final days of His ministry to see how He suffered. Jealous Jewish leaders conspired with one of Jesus’ own disciples tJesus was no stranger to persecution and pain.o have Him arrested. Though He was unjustly accused and tried in court, “Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge” (Matt. 27:12). He faced an angry mob who chanted for His death, even though the ruling governor found Him to be innocent. He was handed over to Roman soldiers who brutally flogged His flesh, beat His body, and mocked His holy name. Finally, Jesus endured the shame and the pain of a criminal’s death by hanging on a cross. (Matt. 27:12-44)
Throughout this evil tribulation He never once defended Himself. He could have called on His Father to send more than twelve legions of angels to defend Him (Matt. 26:53). But He did not. He did not raise His hand or even His voice in self defense. His meekness was the truest sign of strength that the world will ever know. Read more
This is part two of a week long series.
by Elli Atchison
Jesus was no stranger to obedience and humble service. The King of Kings came quietly at his Father’s request. He lived among His broken and desperate people. He loved them and served them, literally to His death… upon on a Roman cross. But through His resurrection, He left us with hope and faith to carry on, in this troubled world. Believers know that evil will never have the final say. Ultimately His goodness will conquer all.
Jesus desires obedience in the lives of His people. “If you love me you will obey my commands.” (John:14:15). And His commands can be summed up in two straightforward steps: “Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. And then, love your neighbor as yourself. (Mark:12:29)
In Jesus’ day the Roman soldiers were everywhere in the land as He traveled. Their presence was meant to intimidate as much as it was to keep order among the people. These armed soldiers had the authority to carry out their tasks with as much force as the situation required, or their hearts’ desired. Similarly today, as one travels on the borders of the green line and throughout the West Bank, it is difficult to ignore the significant power and presence of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Read more
by Elli Atchison, World Vision
Happy New Year! I love the fresh start of a new calendar. It holds 365 opportunities to pursue self-improvement and life’s ambitions. There are many things I want to accomplish in 2015. Like many of you, my resolutions include goals for organization and a healthier lifestyle. I want to travel to new places and make some amazing memories with my family. However, my list has one item that might not be on yours. I plan to eat an elephant called peace.
Before you get the wrong idea, please give me the chance to explain. I happen to adore elephants. I have observed them on safari Zimbabwe, and marveled at the truly amazing creation of God that they are. I am not promoting poaching them in the wild. I am speaking of the old adage “The only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.” Of course this wisdom is not in the Bible and did not come from Solomon or Jesus. But, I think we can still apply it to the Holy Land in 2015. Read more
by Craig Swandby, World Vision
Though many Israelis, Palestinians, and United States stakeholders have watched U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry’s shuttle diplomacy with suspicion, I can’t help but acknowledge that his relentless efforts are laudable, and also appropriate. The status quo of violence, instability, and injustice cannot continue. It must end.
In the coming weeks, Kerry will publicly reveal his plan—the framework agreement. Cynicism and skepticism persist, and communities are preparing to defend their interests should the Kerry plan fall short of their expectations.
The stakes are high, and we must go before the Lord in prayer. We pray for lasting peace and justice for our neighbors and fellow Christians and all others in the Holy Land. Read more
