Attempts to generate peaceful coexistence on the part of ancient Israel were met with obstinate refusal to cooperate. Squatters from neighboring lands were committed to hostility and any hope for peaceful resolution was blocked by their premeditated, continuous and unrelenting aggression. Today, it seems nothing’s changed.
For the citizens of the rebirthed nation not yet two decades old, the liberation from occupation to the reunification of the Eternal City of Jerusalem was more than a military triumph—the Six-Day War altered the course of history.
It is my prayer that you’ll take time to consider what the indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit means to you, to the success of your local church and your mandate to impact the world with the Good News. Begin now to make preparations to celebrate Pentecost Sunday—it’s the birthday of the church!
Shavuot as described in the New Testament book of Acts marks the birthday of the church. Without the historical background, however, you may be surprised to learn that the festival was inaugurated by Moses and is still joyfully celebrated in Israel some 3,500 years later.
Two decades and three administrations have passed since Public Law 104–45—Nov. 8, 1995 was approved by Congress. Every six months, presidents have routinely postponed the U.S. Embassy move via waiver for fear of antagonizing Israel’s enemies—a strategy that failed to achieve the objective.
