Perspectives on the Wall From Bethlehem
From my journal (December 28th, 2019) “I’ve been muttering to myself these days, deep in thought as I prepare to preach tomorrow in Jerusalem. Again I’m deeply humbled by the invitation and also a little gobsmacked…like what in the world can I share to encourage the faithful saints who live underContinue Reading
Bethlehem & The Space Between Us and Them
Bethlehem is on my heart a lot these days. We have the special privilege of being there for Christmas real soon and plans are coming together to visit friends–Christian friends, Muslim friends, Jewish friends, Palestinian Muslims and Christians, Internationals. There’s a lot more to this demographic map of peoples weContinue Reading
Light Shines in the Darkness
When things seem dark I remember the truth of John 1:5 (“Light shines in the darkness and the darkness has NOT overcome it.”) from scripture which is an advent theme really. It’s a foundation for my thinking and way of approaching life and all our efforts in peacemaking. It’s aboutContinue Reading
Why Is There a Conflict?
These are More Questions Related to our Study Guide and Movies on Peacemaking, focusing on “Why is There a Conflict.” Refer to study guide video #2 for exploring the questions below. Huda Giddens lived through the initial conflicts that led to the birth of the State of Israel. But asContinue Reading
Tips for Leading Difficult Conversations in the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict
There are few topics like “peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” (or more broadly the Middle East) which elicit stronger opinions and deeply felt emotions. When you add the layers of religion, or even try to touch politics, it’s as if you’ve invited potential conflict from the outset. Yet, it isContinue Reading