Published by: ICEJ
Israel At 77: A Celebrations Of The Nations Anniversary
Last week marked Israel’s Independence Day (Yom Ha’atzmaut). Our National Director was privileged to be in Jerusalem at this special time. On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first Prime Minister, read the Israeli Declaration of Independence, formally establishing the modern State of Israel. A nation was born in a day (as prophesied in Isaiah 66:8). This marked the end of nearly 2,000 years of exile for the Jewish people.
After their expulsion by the Romans, the Jewish people longed to return to their ancient homeland, praying “Next year in Jerusalem” each Passover. Though a Jewish presence remained throughout history, large-scale returns gained momentum with the rise of the modern Zionist movement. This movement was famously led by Theodor Herzl, an Austrian-Jewish journalist, who advocated for the reestablishment of Israel as a solution to growing antisemitism.
The Israeli Declaration of Independence, which realized Herzl’s dream, coincided with the end of British rule over the Palestine Mandate. In his declaration, Ben-Gurion called for peace and equality for all inhabitants and extended a hand to neighbouring states. Yet, the very next day, Israel was invaded by several Arab nations, initiating Israel’s War of Independence. Despite overwhelming odds, the fledgling Israeli state prevailed – a victory nothing short of miraculous, showing that God’s hand was at work. ly serving survivors at the Haifa Home for Holocaust Survivors.
Israel’s modern rebirth stands as a profound testament to God’s faithfulness to the Jewish people. Despite repeated exiles throughout history, God had promised to restore His people to their land – their rightful inheritance (Ezek. 37; Jer. 30:1-3; Deut. 30:1–10). Israel’s reconstitution is a significant step in the unfolding of biblical prophecy, anticipating the day when Israel will be fully restored in the coming Messianic Kingdom.
No other nation in history has endured such persistent targeting as the Jewish people – most tragically through the Holocaust – yet they not only survived but rose again, fulfilling Ezekiel’s vision of dry bones coming to life.
At Yad Vashem – Israel’s Holocaust memorial – visitors walk through the harrowing history of the Shoah. At the exhibition’s end, a balcony opens to a breathtaking view of Jerusalem, which reminds us of the miraculous rebirth of the Jewish nation after such an unfathomable tragedy. This stands as a powerful symbol: even when all hope seems lost, God remains faithful, and the people of Israel will always endure in their ancestral homeland.
Israel’s National Day of Remembrance
The day before Israel’s Independence Day marks Israel’s National Day of Remembrance (Yom HaZikaron). It is dedicated to commemorating the soldiers who gave their lives defending Israel, as well as civilians who have fallen victim to terrorism. We pause to remember and honour the sacrifices of those who have fought for this precious nation – from the War of Independence to the present day. May their memory be a blessing.
Our National Director (ND) was also honoured to be standing with Israel during these two significant events, along with a delegation of 50 ICEJ representatives from many nations.
Our National Director and Chairman of the Board, ICEJ Australia, in Jerusalem for Israel’s National Day of Remembrance & Independence Day celebrations. ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Celebrating with Israelis 77 years of Independence with a traditional BBQ in the park. But in the air was a stark reminder that independence cannot be fully celebrated while hostages remain in captivity.
Who Are The Beta Israel?
For centuries, the Beta Israel maintained their Jewish identity and their own unique traditions in isolation from the broader Jewish world. The dramatic airlifts of Operation Moses in 1984-1985 and Operation Solomon in 1991 brought the majority of Ethiopian Jews to Israel. But as we now know, not all of them have made the journey yet.
Who are the Falash Murah?
The Falash Mura are a subgroup within the Beta Israel community whose Jewish identity has been a subject of debate, since some converted to Christianity under duress during the 19th and 20th centuries. However, with the outbreak of war in Israel, the Aliyah of the Falash Mura has been suspended, leaving many families separated and in limbo.
Read more about the Ethiopian Aliyah and ICEJ’s involvement. (Beta Israel come home)
Feast Of Tabernacles
Arise Summer Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Israel on the ICEJ Arise Summer Tour for ages 18-30!
We believe that every Christian should walk the land of the Bible and connect with the people of Israel. This is even more important for young Christians today as they learn to navigate an ever-changing world of conflicting information.
STAY INFORMED
Be sure to this current affairs discussion, hosted by
ICEJ Senior Vice President and Spokesman David Parsons, featuring Yigal Carmon, Founder & President, MEMRI.
How October 7 Changed the Middle East
JOIN US IN PRAYER
With the constant threat of attack, the rising witness of Antisemitism globally and the devastation left behind in the lives of so many across Israel – now is the time to gather in prayer and uplift the nation of Israel.
If you would like to be part of ICEJ’s global 24/7 prayer,
click below to join the Australian prayer watch each
Tuesday 3pm-4pm or Wednesday 6am-7am (AEDT).
Blessings,
Sarah Way
ICEJ Australia National Director
