Good afternoon -

I watch the events in the Middle East with a great deal of interest. The turmoil there is unprecedented, but has there ever been a time when peace and stability characterized the region?

For reasons that God alone knows, He looks upon the tiny Jewish nation and its people with favor. God's sentiments are well expressed through Jeremiah:

"Thus says the LORD of hosts, "The sons of Israel are oppressed, And the sons of Judah as well; And all who took them captive have held them fast, They have refused to let them go. Their Redeemer is strong, the LORD of hosts is His name; He will vigorously plead their case So that He may bring rest to the earth" (Jeremiah 50:33-34)

The Kingdom of God will come when God has finished all of His work with Israel. When all is done He will ultimately "bring rest to the earth" (put an end to war and conflict through the leadership of His Son, Jesus).

Now, lest we feel that God is unfairly impartial to the Jews, we need to be aware of the fact that every human being has an opportunity to be an "adopted Jew". Nowhere is that possibility better described than in Galatians 3:29: "if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendants, heirs according to promise." As an adopted member into this special family, you can lay claim to God's promise through Jeremiah: "Their Redeemer is strong, the LORD of hosts is His name; He will vigorously plead their case So that He may bring rest to the earth"

Perhaps you've felt unfairly treated by family, friends, co-workers, or employers. Maybe life hasn't seemed fair and you're wondering if anyone notices and will ever care enough to plead you case. Your Redeemer, the Lord of hosts, will vigorously plead you case and work on your behalf until the earth ultimately finds rest at the coming of the Kingdom. You have the strongest legal defense team of all!

As members of the family of God we often find ourselves oppressed and even captivated by evil times and circumstances. Yet our Advocate is strong and vigorous in His work on our behalf. He is actively working through our lives and circumstances as His plan moves forward to establish His Kingdom on earth. Our lives are intricately tied to His plan for His kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.

An incredible plan is underway in the world, and we share in that plan. Discover all that you can of it, and join in the great adventure. All is not as it seems from the viewpoint of the world.

Rejoicing in the unfolding plan,

Pastor Steve