Violence seems to be all around us, whether it’s in Winder, Ukraine, or the West Bank. Occupied by Israel since the 1967 war, the West Bank has become a flashpoint due to so-called settlers who are increasingly bold in taking over land belonging to Palestinians who have lived there since the second millennium BCE.
In some sense, Israeli settler occupation can be compared to our own Westward expansion when we displaced the native populations across our own continent, and herded them into reservations. The problem with history is that rather than just explaining the past, it becomes a tool of ideology.
Yesterday, an American woman Aysenur Eysi, a volunteer with a group opposed to Israeli land takeovers, was deliberately killed by an Israeli soldier. We protested, but like so many others, similarly murdered, nothing will be done. And we will just go on with a few words, still trapped by our policies toward Israel. Violence only breeds violence.
Prayer for the Day
Looking for visible symbols of your love, we come to you, O God,
For we want simple answers to our complex world,
Not acknowledging our own complicity, we only see our own frailty,
Not the strength that comes from you, O Lord.
Move us beyond our fears so we able to confront injustice,
And create a more just world where all can live together.
In the name of the One who calls us to justice,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
We were clearly visible to the army; there was nothing happening where we were standing. We were internationals. We were just standing there.
Mariam, ISASM volunteer
There was no reason for taking that shot. The only reason we are hearing about it now is because it’s happening to an American. It’s devastating.
Jonathan Pollak, ISM volunteer
They set a net for my steps; my soul was bowed down.
They dug a pit in my path, but they have fallen into it themselves.
My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast.
I will sing and make melody. Awake my soul!
Psalm 57: 6-8