After observing a day of mourning on Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day) in remembrance of Israel’s fallen soldiers, police and terror victims, the solemn atmosphere in Israel suddenly changed at sunset last evening to one of celebrating the nation’s Independence Day, known locally as Yom HaAtzma’ut. By pairing the two national holidays, Israel’s founding fathers wanted to focus the people’s attention first on the heavy price paid for securing and maintaining the nation’s freedom, and then go straight into rejoicing over God’s fulfilled promises to restore the Jewish people as a sovereign nation back in their ancient homeland!

As Christians, we can join with Israelis in celebrating Yom HaAtzma’ut, because of the way Israel’s modern rebirth clearly shows the faithfulness of God to His covenant promises. For those of us here in the Land, we truly enjoy the time off to spend with family and friends, usually out in nature, with picnics, hikes and so much more. We have the privilege of living in a nation that God has established, protected, and caused to flourish. This year is the 71st anniversary of Israel as a nation-state, and we give God praise and honor for what He has done in the land and people of Israel in our day!  Please join with us wherever you are to rejoice in this handiwork of the Lord, knowing that this is still an on-going miracle which will one day culminate with her redemption!