In 2005, the year Israel turned Gaza over to Palestinian control, my wife Jana and I had the privilege of going into Gaza with one of our missionaries who served there. We were warmly welcomed into the homes of several Palestinian Christian families. As the wives served tea and the children played on the floor around us, I asked about their lives as believers in such a hostile environment.

They openly shared how isolated they felt – distrusted, even hated, by most Israelis because they were Palestinian. Yet, they were despised infidels and traitors to most Palestinians because they were Christians. My eyes were opened as they shared stories of atrocities they had suffered from both sides.

They explained that the Israeli “curfews” I had heard about meant for days they were not allowed to leave their homes – for any reason. The young daughter of a pastor had gotten sick, but they were not allowed to get medical care. She died in their home and they had to sneak into the backyard after dark to bury her. They told of peeking through the blinds when an Israeli tank blocked the entrance to their home. Ironically, painted on the side of the menacing tank was: “Donated by First Baptist Church of Xxxxx, Arkansas.”

As they shared story after story, I felt anger rising in me but, strangely, sensed no anger or animosity on their part. They were simply telling me about their lives because I had asked. Finally, I had to know: “How do you deal with the Bible’s commands to bless Israel when you suffer so much at the hands of the nation of Israel?”

“Oh,” my new friend responded, “The Jews are still God’s chosen people. We pray for blessing upon Israel. You should pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” Then he went on to prick my heart, “All we ask is, please, while you bless Israel, don’t forget us, your brothers and sisters in Christ. Please pray for us, too.”

Wow! I was stunned. I thought of the “Christian” tank. I thought of the helplessness of a pastor who must bury his young daughter. I was challenged by their courage, peace and love though caught in the middle of a firestorm and attacked from both sides.I was humbled.

Yes, I have family in Gaza, in Israel and in scores of other places filled with violence, conflict and evil in this imploding world of ours. Yes, you have family there, too. And, at such a desperate time, how can we deny a simple request to remember them, our brothers and sisters in Christ, as we pray.
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Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May those who love you be secure.
May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.”
For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you.”
For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity.
Psalm 122: 6-9

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Galatians 6:10