Redemption: A Time of Peril and Opportunity
The return of the hostages from their horrific ordeal in Gaza offers a moment for reflection on the tumultuous events of the past 15 months. The conflicts involving Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other terrorist groups, along with the dark menacing shadow of Iran, have presented immense challenges. Yet, we have persevered, and for this, we offer our gratitude.
The Arrival of the Messianic Era
Many perceive these times as a prelude to a period of profound change, a transition towards the fulfillment of the messianic era. This perspective highlights the overt miracles we have witnessed and the persistent threats that remain to be overcome.
Open Miracles in Our Time
The establishment of the modern State of Israel in 1948, rising from the ashes of the Holocaust, stands as a testament to resilience and divine intervention. Its transformation into a thriving nation, a “Start-Up Nation,” absorbing Jewish immigrants from across the globe, is a modern-day miracle. The reunification of Jerusalem in 1967, including the Temple Mount, and the subsequent victories in the Six Day War and the Yom Kippur War further underscore this narrative. The remarkable capabilities of the IDF, Mossad, and Shin Bet, coupled with technological advancements like the Iron Dome, have provided crucial defense against relentless attacks from terror groups since the formation of the PLO, Hezbollah, and Hamas.
Perils Continue to Threaten Us
However, the challenges are far from over. A resurgence of antisemitism globally, often disguised as anti-Zionism, is deeply troubling, especially in the “progressive” 21st century. The United Nations is openly biased against Israel and frequently singles them out for condemnation. Terrorist groups surrounding Israel not only openly express, but act on their genocidal intentions. The threat from Iran, with its nuclear ambitions and calls for Israel’s destruction, remains a profoundly grave existential concern.
An Opportunity to Usher in the Redemption
While the ultimate redemption has not yet been fully realized—there is a significant portion of the Jewish population still remaining in the Diaspora and the Third Temple has not yet been rebuilt—there is reason for hope. For those who recognize the hand of divine providence in world events, there is comfort in the belief that a greater plan is unfolding.
Thus, even as the existence of world Jewry is still being threatened, everyone can do something to help. This is not a time for complacency. Now is the time to prepare for the impending redemption:
- Faith and Devotion: We must strengthen ourselves with faith and deepen our connection with the divine through prayer and righteous deeds. Every positive action contributes to a more just world.
- Military Preparedness: We must anticipate further conflict with our adversaries. While progress has been made in weakening terrorist organizations, their defeat is not yet complete.
- Pursuit of Peace: We must tirelessly pursue dialogue and peace with our Arab neighbors, building upon existing agreements and working towards normalization with nations like Saudi Arabia.
- Aliyah Preparation: We must prepare for a significant increase in Aliyah, particularly from Europe and America, where rising antisemitism poses a threat. Israel must be ready to provide housing, employment, and other essential services to those seeking refuge.
These are times of both immense peril and extraordinary opportunity. With faith, preparedness, determination, and a focus on service to the Almighty, self-improvement, tikkun olam, redemption, and the messianic vision, we can emerge stronger, a nation reborn, a beacon of peace, prosperity, and healing for the world.