As I write these words to you, I’m standing on the peaceful shores of the Sea of Galilee — one of the most sacred and meaningful places in all of Israel. It’s a place that always stirs my spirit, because it was right here that Yeshua walked on the water, called His disciples, and performed so many of His miracles. Every time I come to this place, I can almost hear the echo of His words carried by the wind across the water: “Peace, be still.”
This week, I had the special joy of being here with my dear friend and brother in the Lord, Pastor Arnie McCall, who came all the way from the United States. Pastor Arnie and I have known each other for many years, and our friendship is a beautiful testimony of the unity that exists in the Body of Messiah — between believers in Israel and those all around the world who love and support what God is doing here.
We stood together overlooking the Sea of Galilee, and our hearts were full. Just a year ago, this same scene looked so very different. If you had stood here then, you would have seen rockets flying through the air from Lebanon and Syria. The night sky glowed with explosions. The sounds of war echoed across these hills. Many were afraid to travel or even to leave their homes.
But today, it is calm.
The sky is blue, the water is still, and there is laughter again along the shores. Families are walking, children are playing, and life has returned to this region that has seen both deep pain and great miracles.
As we looked out across the Galilee, Pastor Arnie turned to me and said, “It’s hard to believe this is the same place that was under attack not long ago. It doesn’t even feel like a country that’s been at war. It feels alive again.” Those words — alive again — have stayed with me. Because that is what Yeshua does. He brings life where death tried to take hold. He restores peace where fear once ruled. He turns ashes into beauty, sorrow into joy, and chaos into calm.
When I look at the still waters of the Galilee today, I can’t help but think of that powerful moment in the Gospels when Yeshua’s disciples were caught in a terrible storm. The waves were crashing over the boat, the wind was howling, and they feared for their lives. But where was Yeshua? He was asleep — completely at peace.
And when they woke Him, crying out for help, He simply stood and spoke:
“Peace, be still.” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
Mark 4:39
Friends, this is not just a story from long ago. It’s the reality of who Yeshua still is today. He is the One who brings peace in the middle of chaos — the peace that doesn’t depend on circumstances, but on His presence.
Maybe you’ve been walking through a storm in your own life lately. Perhaps it’s a season of uncertainty, loss, or spiritual battle. Whatever your situation, remember this: when Yeshua is in your boat, no storm can sink you. He may not always calm the waves right away, but He will always calm your heart first.
That’s the peace — the shalom — that He gives.
It’s more than quietness; it’s wholeness. It’s the deep assurance that God is near, that He’s in control, and that His promises will never fail.
As I stand here on the Galilee, I feel that peace so strongly. The same waters that once carried the storm now reflect the sunlight. The same hills that echoed with fear now echo with praise. And I’m reminded that the God who restored peace to this land can also restore peace to every heart that trusts in Him.
So as you enter into this Shabbat, I want to bless you from this place — from the Land where Yeshua walked, from the shores where He revealed His power and love. May His shalom fill your heart and your home. May His presence surround you like calm waters. And may you feel His hand lifting you above every wave.
You have friends here in Israel who love you, pray for you, and thank God for your partnership. Together, we are part of His great plan — to bring light, hope, and peace to this world through the love of Yeshua.
Shabbat Shalom from Israel — from the Land where His peace still reigns.
With love and prayers,
Pastor Israel Pochtar
