The Times of Israel reported heavy fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces in Severodonetsk and nearby Lysychansk — the final remaining vestiges in the Luganks region still under Ukrainian control.

Profound. Mature. Thorough and challenging. Those words describe the faithful and diligent teaching of Gil Kaplan. Perhaps even more moving are the words used to recount the nature of this man of truth: Humble. Genuine. Encouraging.

Currently, the Lord is opening eyes throughout the body of Messiah about the importance and priority of reaching the Jewish people with the Good News of their Messiah, Yeshua (Jesus). This has always been the heart of our mission and vision at Jewish Voice.

Late last week, Col. Hassan Sayyad Khodayar was shot dead in his car outside his home in Tehran by two unknown assailants on motorcycles. Ironically, Khodayar was one of the senior commanders of Unit 840 of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a unit known for launching attempted assassinations.

As you receive this, our Medical Outreach to Gambela, Ethiopia, is winding down. We want to cover it in prayer as it ends and realize that, in some ways, things are only beginning. Please join us in praying for the important process of follow-up and discipleship. It is exciting to think about these newly planted “Gospel seeds” now having a chance to grow and multiply.

Late last week, Al Jazeera correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh was shot and killed while covering an Israeli counter-terror raid in Jenin. The Qatar-based news outlet attributed her killing to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

We are taking the Good News to a small city in Ethiopia. It will be our first Outreach there, although there are already 10 Messianic congregations in the region.

“The LORD gives strength to His people;
the LORD blesses His people with peace.” 
Psalm 29:11 (NIV)

Shalom, my friend & Happy Israel Independence Day!

Today, as we celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut with joy and festivities, my attention is turned towards the words of the Psalmist who acknowledges the reality of God strengthening His people – and blessing them with peace. 

With the war continuing in Ukraine, and the ongoing tragic loss of life – more than ever we need a supernatural measure of strength and peace.

This year, the month of May holds three important Israeli civil holidays: Yom HaZikaron – Israel’s Memorial Day, Yom HaAtzmaut – Israel’s Independence Day, and Yom Yerushalayim – Jerusalem Day

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Shalom, my friend.

God is in control . . . and thankfully we can cling to His promises and trust that He has a plan, though we may not see it or even understand it.

I pray you cling to this promise – as you navigate your own challenges and circumstances.