Holding On to God’s Promises – A Reflection from Pastor Israel
As this new time of war has unfolded here in Israel, it began just days before Purim—a season when we remember the story told in the book of Esther. It is the story of a very real threat against the Jewish people, and of a God who was quietly, faithfully at work behind the scenes. What was meant for destruction became a testimony of deliverance. What looked like darkness closing in became a revelation of divine protection.
Standing in this moment, that story feels deeply personal.
We are holding tightly to the promise of Psalms 121:4: “Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.” While sirens echo through cities and families move quickly toward shelters, the Lord remains awake. He does not miss a single detail. He does not grow tired. He is present in every home, every shelter, every anxious prayer whispered in the night. We are praying for protection over innocent lives, for peace in this region, for wisdom for leaders, and for courage and calm in the hearts of families. This is a serious and historic time—but it is not a time without God.
What These Days Look Like Here in Israel
Life here has shifted quickly and quietly. Schools are closed in many areas. Parents are home with their children. Work schedules are interrupted or adjusted. Phones remain constantly nearby. When sirens sound, families move—sometimes within seconds—into bomb shelters or reinforced rooms.
Shelters have become temporary living spaces. Children carry small toys or cling to their parents. Elderly neighbors are carefully guided downstairs. Conversations stop mid-sentence. People sit close together, waiting for the all-clear. Sleep is lighter than usual. There is tension—but there is also a remarkable steadiness in the people of this land.
And in the middle of this, we are witnessing something beautiful.
We see protection as many incoming missiles are intercepted. We see neighbors knocking on doors to make sure everyone made it to safety. We hear more people asking for prayer. Spiritual conversations are opening naturally and sincerely. When life feels fragile, hearts often become softer. Faith becomes less abstract and more urgent.
Even now, God is moving.
How We’re Serving Right Now
In times like this, our calling becomes very clear: remain present, remain compassionate, remain faithful.
Our bomb shelter is being used regularly—not only by members of our congregation, but also by neighbors who need a safe place when sirens sound. It has become more than reinforced walls. It has become a space of quiet prayer, whispered encouragement, children being comforted, and faith being strengthened in the midst of uncertainty.
We will also shortly begin distributing food and essential supplies to elderly residents and families who are spending extended hours in shelters. Many are exhausted—emotionally and physically. Some cannot easily leave their buildings. Some are alone. We are making pastoral phone calls, checking in on families under stress, and reminding people that they are not forgotten.
One young mother, Irina, shared how overwhelming it feels each time the sirens sound and she must quickly gather her children and run. A simple food bag delivered to her door and a prayer spoken over the phone brought her to tears. In moments like these, practical love speaks louder than many words.
Stand With Us
If you feel led to stand with us during this time, your partnership truly helps carry this work forward.
Our bomb shelter must remain fully operational and ready at any hour. The annual rent and utilities for 2026 total $35,000, ensuring that this safe place remains available whenever families need to run for cover. This is not simply a facility—it is a refuge. A place where fear meets faith. A place where protection and prayer meet.
If you would like to help, your gift directly supports keeping the shelter open and allowing us to continue serving families during this time of war in Israel. Some may feel led to give toward a portion of that annual need. Others may choose to help sponsor food bags for families under strain. Every act of generosity becomes part of something deeply meaningful.
We are not speaking politically. We are standing biblically.
We pray for peace.
We pray for protection over innocent lives.
We pray for wisdom for leaders.
And we trust the Lord who watches over Israel.
Thank you for loving this Land.
Thank you for praying faithfully.
Thank you for standing with us—not from a distance, but from the heart.
In times of uncertainty, steady faith and practical mercy shine brightly. And together, we continue to believe that even now, God is writing a story of protection and hope.
Thanks and blessings,
Pastor Israel Pochtar
