“For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet, till her vindication shines out like the dawn, her salvation like a blazing torch. The nations will see your vindication, and all kings your glory…”
Isaiah 62:1-2
ICEJ Australia begins this new year continuing to trust God to guide and empower us in our calling. Modern Israel, after 75 years of Statehood is a success story in so many areas and blesses the world with her expertise. However, terror and war are still ever-present threats, and worldwide Jewry including in Australia, faces rising antisemitism with alarming levels in Europe, Britain and the U S. With few brave exceptions, the Christian community last century remained silent as anti-Jewish sentiment grew until the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust were implemented. Today, ICEJ is part of a movement of God that has seen millions of Christians discover the debt of gratitude owed the Jewish people for their faithfulness as God’s channel of Redemption. We must be ready to raise our voices on their behalf.
The Torah (first five books of the Bible) portions followed each week in the Jewish world, begin this week in the Book of Exodus, the ‘Book of Redemption’ as it is called by the Jewish sages. Immediately, in chapter 1:8-10, a typical pattern of antisemitism emerges. There is fear of the differentness of ‘the Jew’ and jealousness of their prosperity. Measures are ordered to place them in subjugation. Later harsher measures are instigated, the beginning of genocide. This genocide was mainly prevented by brave midwives who defied the Pharaoh’s orders to kill baby boys in order to uphold the higher law of God. May we recognise this dangerous pattern of antisemitism today and be careful we stand on the side of God and His people.
“You crown the year with Your goodness, and Your paths drip with abundance.”
Psalm 65:11
May you walk with confidence into the new year that God is already preparing for us, with all we will need for protection and provision in the days ahead. I encourage you to remain open to the Lord’s leading concerning what matters to be praying about and humble ourselves with a repentant heart and ask the Lord to guide us in our supplications to Him.
Shabbat Shalom!
Sarah Way
ICEJ Australia National Director
