Ceasefire and Hostages
Just a week into a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the two sides exchanged fire in what each called violations of the ceasefire by the other party. Like many ceasefires before, the confidence in the region that this one will hold is low.
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump weighed in about the hostages still being held by Hamas, and promised swift action if they are not released before his inauguration. Approximately 250 hostages were originally taken by Hamas, and approximately 100 are believed to remain in captivity (more than 30 of which are believed to be deceased).
Analysis and eternal perspective: It sounds like a broken record, but a lasting peace in the region will never be achieved by a simple ceasefire. Reprieves are welcome, and should often still be pursued, but we as The Equipped should be clear-eyed about the reality that these wars and conflicts are rooted in a millennia-old hatred for God’s covenant people. That is not to say the human government of the Jewish State of Israel is beyond reproach—no government of men can accurately make such a claim. But as we seek and work for peace (Ps. 34:14), we should be plainly aware that temporary ceasefires within the context of ongoing hatred are just that—temporary.
As for the hostages, it is long past time for them to be home. As we grieve with the families of those who have lost loved ones or continue to long for reunification with those who remain held, let us continue to pray all of Psalm 126 over them. Further, let us anticipate proclaiming verses 1-3 over them upon their release:
“When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’ The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”
The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.