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The Story of Hostage Negotiations and a Fallen Hero

Imagine the unbearable pain of not knowing where your loved one is—or if they are even alive. That’s the reality for the families of more than 100 hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. Yet, amidst this anguish, there is a glimmer of hope. Negotiations have resumed, with leaders from Israel, Hamas, and other key players working toward an agreement. Alongside these efforts, we also reflect on the story of Omer Neutra, a courageous soldier whose legacy reminds us of the price of freedom.

Talks are underway in Cairo, with Hamas proposing the release of elderly, sick, and several U.S. hostages as part of a two-month truce. Israeli officials, while cautious, have expressed optimism about reaching a deal within weeks. A senior Israeli official said, “This could be the breakthrough we’ve been working toward.”

These discussions are complex, involving multiple nations like the U.S., Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The stakes are high—not just for the hostages...

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A Glorious Future:  Prophetic Move

In this edition of A Glorious Future, we explore the dramatic collapse of the Assad regime and its implications for Israel’s security and Biblical prophecy. From Prime Minister Netanyahu’s declaration of a “historic day” at the Syrian border to insights into Israel’s military gains and Iran’s setbacks, discover how these pivotal events shape Israel’s destiny. Plus, join us in reflecting on how your faith can bring light and hope to Bethlehem this Christmas. Don’t miss these powerful stories and opportunities to stand boldly with Israel!
 

 


Middle East Shifts: What Israel’s Future Holds

How has the Hamas conflict reshaped the Middle East? Ben Cohen's in-depth analysis highlights Israel’s military gains, Iran’s strategic losses, and the complex roles of Turkey and Qatar. Explore the shifting alliances, challenges, and opportunities that will define Israel’s future in this pivotal moment for the region.

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Winners and losers in the Middle East: The story so far

Written by Ben Cohen

For Turkey and Qatar, net gains. For Iran, and its Palestinian and Lebanese proxies, net losses. For Israel, the jury is out.

 

After more than a year of bloody conflict in the Middle East sparked by the Hamas pogrom in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, it’s becoming clearer as to which of the multiple parties involved have registered net gains and which net losses.

Let’s start with the Palestinians. The enduring achievement of the Hamas rapists and murderers has been to thrust the Palestinian question back into the heart of the world’s consciousness. For at least 10 years prior, the civil war in Syria, the war against ISIS, the failure of the “Arab Spring” to introduce stable and lasting democracy in the region, and the normalization treaties between Israel and a cluster of highly conservative Arab monarchies displaced the Palestinians from their jealously guarded position as the region’s overarching, unresolved question.

Oct. 7...

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Prophecy and the Modern Middle East: What Does the Fall of Assad Mean for Israel?

Modern-Day Esthers, have you ever wondered how current events in the Middle East might align with Biblical prophecy? As we witness the dramatic collapse of the Assad regime in Syria—a nation historically tied to hostility against Israel—it’s hard not to ask: Could this be part of God’s unfolding plan? Let’s dive into the questions that curious hearts might ask about prophecy and what it means for Israel today.

Is the Fall of Assad Prophesied in the Bible?

One passage that immediately comes to mind is Isaiah 17:1, which says:
"A prophecy against Damascus: 'See, Damascus will no longer be a city but will become a heap of ruins.'"

Damascus, the capital of Syria, is one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. Yet, this verse predicts its eventual destruction. Could the instability in Syria, symbolized by the Assad regime's fall, be connected to this ancient prophecy? Some believe it might signal a divine judgment against powers aligned...

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A Glorious Future:  Historic 

In this edition of A Glorious Future, we explore Israel’s response to the collapse of the Assad regime—a seismic shift Prime Minister Netanyahu hails as a “historic day.” We also delve into Bethlehem’s enduring legacy of hope, examine why the fall of Assad is a strategic win for Israel despite risks, and highlight Zionism 2.0’s vision for the future. Plus, find out how you can double your impact this Christmas and bring light to Bethlehem’s struggling Christian families. Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed and inspired! 


 ‘Historic day,’ says Netanyahu at Syrian border

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu, visiting the Syrian border on Sunday, hailed the collapse of the Assad regime, “a central link in Iran’s axis of evil,” describing it as a “historic day in the history of the Middle East.”

The Assad regime's collapse was the direct result of blows Israel inflicted on Iran and...

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Why the fall of Assad is a net gain for Israel despite risks

Iran’s vision of turning Syria into a part of its "ring of fire" around Israel has shattered.

Yaakov Lappin

The collapse of Syrian President Bashar Assad’s regime creates new uncertainties, yet from an Israeli security perspective represents a net strategic gain. 

Iran invested tens of billions of dollars and over a decade of effort into smuggling advanced weaponry and deploying tens of thousands of Shi’ite militia operatives in Syria. Those efforts have now been wasted.  

After losing its influence in Gaza and Lebanon due to Israel’s military achievements against Hamas and Hezbollah, Assad’s collapse in Syria has delivered another major defeat to Iran’s regional aspirations. 

The Assad regime was one of the central pillars of Iran’s plan to achieve regional hegemony, and for positioning its axis in a manner intended to lead to Israel’s collapse. 

The bridge Iran constructed to link...

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‘Historic day,’ says Netanyahu at Syrian border

The Assad regime's collapse was the direct result of blows Israel inflicted on Iran and Hezbollah, the prime minister said.

David Isaac

Israel Prime Minister Netanyahu, visiting the Syrian border on Sunday, hailed the collapse of the Assad regime, “a central link in Iran’s axis of evil,” describing it as a “historic day in the history of the Middle East.”

Netanyahu said the fall of Syrian President Bashar Assad, who fled the country after a coalition of rebel groups stormed Damascus on Sunday, was the direct result of blows Israel inflicted on Iran and Hezbollah, “the main supporters of the Assad regime.”

 U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed to reporters on Saturday that Assad had been largely abandoned by his key allies.

A rebel spokesman declared, in a statement carried on state television: “Damascus has been liberated, and the tyrant Bashar Assad has been overthrown,” adding that...

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Ancient Jewish Culture and Christmas: A Hidden Story Lost in Time

Attending a sing-along of Handel’s magnificent Messiah is one of my favorite traditions during Christmas. Singing carols in our church choir is also a fresh reminder of the past and a hope for the future. Our decorated tree and our simple, gently used manger scene are displayed. On Christmas Eve we will open my 80-year-old family Bible and read about Messiah’s birth in Luke, Chapter 2.

I choose to keep those traditions. However, exploring Genesis 35:21 and Micah 4:8—and doing research about the Tower of the Flock and the professional role of Bethlehem shepherds—add the richness of the Jewish context.

Recognizing the Jewishness of the Bible is more necessary than ever due to Israel’s defense of its ancestral homeland and the resulting tsunami of accusations against it. Christmas 2024 is an excellent opportunity to quietly emphasize Messiah’s birthplace in Bethlehem, Israel, and His Jewish background through Mary. God chose the young Jewish virgin,...
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Devotional Study: "O Come, All Ye Faithful"

"O Come, All Ye Faithful"

The hymn O Come, All Ye Faithful has inspired believers for centuries, calling us to approach the manger with awe and worship. Each line is a powerful reminder of the truths of our faith, filled with adoration, hope, and the promise of salvation. Let’s journey through this timeless carol line by line, reflecting on its deep meaning and the scripture that underpins its message.

1. "O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant"
This opening line is an invitation to all believers to come before Christ with hearts full of joy and triumph. The faithfulness mentioned here reminds us of the shepherds and wise men who came to adore Jesus.

Scripture: “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” (Luke 2:15)

Reflection: How can we approach Christ with joy, even in challenging times? What does triumph in faith look like in your life today?

2. "O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem"
This line reminds us...

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Your Gift Matched—Double the Hope This Christmas!

Your Gift Matched—Bring Hope to Two Families This Christmas!

In Bethlehem, the birthplace of our Savior, Christians are holding fast to their faith despite dwindling numbers, economic instability, and daily hardships.

These families live in the shadow of the Church of the Nativity, clinging to the light of Christ.

This Christmas, your generosity can go even further. A generous donor has pledged to match every gift, meaning your $50 donation will help provide food baskets for two struggling families instead of one.

Each box is a tangible reminder of God’s provision and the solidarity of the global Christian community. "These baskets remind us that God provides through His people. We may live in hardship, but our hope is in the Lord."

Will you help us bring hope to 225 Christian Families in Bethlehem this Christmas?

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