Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

I’ve been thinking about Ata and Adam Manasra, friends from Palestine, who visited us here in July. I’m heartsick about the violence and retaliation in the Holy Land, and I’m praying for all innocent people, especially children. When the Bosnia War started – and stories of ethnic cleansing were in the news – I asked my pastor what we could do about it. “Don’t let it happen in your neighborhood” was her puzzling and unsatisfying answer.

I realize now that it’s easier to solve world problems rather than our own. It’s easier to judge and condemn the sin and greed of others than to acknowledge and repent of our own. Discord and divisions can start small… tiny mustard seeds planted of discontent and drama… that grow into great big trees providing shade and comfort for our worst and smallest thoughts and actions.

Please join me in praying for the peoples of Palestine and Israel. Stay informed. And please… don’t let it happen in your neighborhood.

In faith, Marylee

“The Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem have issued a statement. “We unequivocally condemn any acts that target civilians, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, or faith. Such actions go against the fundamental principles of humanity and the teachings of Christ, who implored us to ‘love your neighbor as yourself.'”