In times like these, even the simplest moments of gathering become deeply meaningful. This past Shabbat was one of those moments for our Beit Hallel family in Ashdod—a time when faith, unity, and God’s presence were felt in a very real way.
Because of the current situation in Israel, our congregation met at two locations simultaneously. One group gathered inside a neighborhood bomb shelter, while another met in our new community building, which itself includes two shelters. What might seem unusual has, in many ways, become part of our rhythm. We come together, we worship, we fellowship—and we remain ready to move when needed.
There was a special warmth in the atmosphere that evening. People arrived, greeted one another, and worship began to fill spaces that were originally built for protection. In Israel today, faith often looks like this—taking whatever space is available and turning it into a place where God is honored and people are strengthened.
This Shabbat also carried something unique. Our senior pastor, Pastor Israel Pochtar, is currently overseas and unable to return due to flight cancellations and closed airspace. Yet a shepherd’s heart is never far from his people. Through a live connection, he joined the service from abroad—speaking, praying, and leading as the congregation gathered here in Ashdod.
It was a simple but powerful reminder: distance does not separate a pastor from his community.
We began with a declaration from Psalm 118 — words that felt especially meaningful in this season:
“This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Save now, I pray, O Lord; O Lord, I pray, send now prosperity.”
In Hebrew, we say: Ana Adonai Hoshi-na—“Lord, please save.”
As these words were spoken together, there was a deep sense of unity. Outside, the reality of war continues. At any moment, a siren can interrupt the quiet. Yet in that gathering, hearts chose something different—gratitude, trust, and faith. To rejoice in the Lord in a time like this is not a small thing. It is a decision of the heart.
The evening continued with worship, prayer, and simple fellowship. In days when many nights are disrupted, these gatherings become a place where people can pause, breathe, and be strengthened together.
Then, in a moment that captured the reality we are living in, everything shifted.
As the service was drawing to a close, Pastor Israel said, “This is the last scripture for tonight.” And almost immediately, the sound we all recognize filled the air—the sirens.
Within seconds, people began moving toward the shelters.
And suddenly, the scripture he had just introduced was no longer just a closing verse. It became something immediate and personal:
“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Hebrews 4:16
Standing there, as people made their way into the shelter, those words carried a new weight. In moments like these—whether in quiet prayer or urgent movement—we are reminded that we can come to God freely and confidently. His mercy is near. His grace is present. His help is not distant.
This Shabbat reminded us again of something very simple and very strong: we are a family.
Whether we gather in a building, in a shelter, or through a screen connecting us across continents, God meets us where we are. His presence is not limited by place or circumstance.
Here in Israel, life can look different right now. Worship may happen underground. Leadership may come from thousands of miles away. And sometimes, the final moments of a service are interrupted by the sound of a siren.
But the truth remains unchanged:
“This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
And even in a time like this, Shabbat still brings peace to the heart.
Amen!
