This is No Vacation

This is No Vacation

For Israelis, staying in a hotel is anything but enjoyable right now. We often associate getting to stay at a hotel with vacation. For some, it may be for work or travel. While not as fun as vacation, we generally have a positive connotation with staying at a hotel. It’s a home away from home; a temporary place to stay. However for over 100,000 Israelis it has turned into a long-term arrangement for many out of necessity, not pleasure.
With Israel being a country as small as Wales or about the size of New Jersey, those that are displaced have moved to another area of a very small country. Whether at the Gaza border in the south or with Hezbollah targeting the northern communities in Israel, so many have found themselves in hotels or bomb shelters – both meant to be temporary living arrangements.
Furthermore, these families with children have been uprooted from their daily routines, schooling and employment and have no end in sight on when they might be able to return to any semblance of normalcy. They had to flee with no notice and may have only been able to grab a small bag of clothes.

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you.” Isaiah 41:10

Our VOJI/Beit Hallel teams in Israel have recently visited those in hotels, providing them with necessities and this message of hope: 

“There are Christians who love you, Christians who pray for you,” said Pastor Israel Pochtar. “Everything will be ok. You will go home again because, God has promised to protect Israel, to fight for Israel.”

Our teams are truly blessed to minister with these families and their children. We have heard their stories and testimonies, listening to the pain as they share. We were able to encourage them that they are not alone. God promised to fight for Israel and protect His people. And He has made YOU a part of that! We couldn’t do it without you, to equip us. Keep up the good work, good and faithful servants of the Lord!