The crisis in Israel is far from over. As the IDF gears up for a potential ground operation in Gaza following the tragic loss of numerous lives—including men, women, children, and the elderly—there’s an added threat with Hezbollah indicating possible involvement from the North.
Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and in your prayers.
Here are today’s Psalm to recite for the safety and security of Israel’s soldiers, civilians, hostages and wounded citizens.
Psalm 43
Psalm 43 opens with a plea for God to avenge the injustices and mistreatment that the psalmist has faced at the hand of his oppressors, whom he labels a “faithless people” (verse 1). This term can also be translated to mean “a nation devoid of kindness.” It is hard to find a more appropriate description of the ruthless enemy that Israel is now facing. This enemy has shown a stark absence of faith and a clear lack of kindness and compassion.
The psalmist grapples with a profound question: If God has stood by us in the past, why does it seem that He stands apart now? Though at times God’s protective embrace is evident, now it feels as though we are walking alone. Yet, there is hope: “Please, God, shine Your guiding light upon us!” According to the medieval commentator known as Rashi, the light of God is a reference to the Messiah. This divine light, coupled with His unwavering truth, will to lead us back to His presence and the sanctity of the Temple. Upon reaching this sacred ground, the author pledges to vocally celebrate God’s glory, complemented by harmonious harp melodies.
The psalmist introspectively questions the despair within, emphasizing the unwavering hope and faith we ought to have in God. The Psalm culminates in an uplifting sentiment: God, our steadfast protector, will come to our rescue, guiding us and manifesting His might before those who oppose us.
