As I listen to news and opinions about this conflict, I see three layers unfolding. The deepest layer is the long-standing problem of how Palestinians have been treated in Gaza. The population has been oppressed; the system of Jewish settlement in occupied lands has been increasingly harsh and violent in recent years under the current Israeli prime minister. The people have suffered ongoing hardship. The second layer of this conflict is the horrific, barbaric, and deadly attack by Hamas that arose from the oppression of Palestinians. Hamas escalated the conflict by invading Israeli land, killing Israeli civilians, and taking hostages. They launched rockets against military and civilian targets. Thirdly, the layer of the conflict we are seeing now, is the Israeli military escalating again: missile strikes against neighborhoods in Gaza; cutting off electricity, fuel, water, and escape to residents of Gaza.
There are no winners in this war. There are families broken, homes destroyed, loved ones lost. There are new seeds here for revenge and retaliation for whoever survives this conflict, seeds that may grow into the next terrorist attack in the next generation. The history of this region and the conflict between these peoples suggest that this is likely.
When we set aside the historical analysis; the military actions; the political statements of leaders in the region and around the world, what are we left with? Deep mourning and searching for hope. We must denounce the inhumane treatment of any people anywhere in the world – such as the treatment of the Palestinians prior to this war by the Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu. We must denounce any act of terrorism and violence. We must denounce any escalation of violence, even in response to a terrorist attack. And we must remember the human cost of these conflicts. We must hold on to hope that children can be safe and happy, well-fed and loved. We must hold on to the hope that people can forgive, that individuals and governments can find compromise and mercy. We must work to end war and to support harmony among peoples everywhere.
PRAYER
God of Jews and of Muslims, Life Spirit that knows no boundary and is within each one of us, send your love and light to Israel and to Palestine.
May there be an end to this conflict. May there be mercy and decency shown to the civilians in the region. May there be an end to rocket attacks on homes and neighborhoods.
May compassion come to the leaders of the world – leaders of Hamas and of Israel and of every nation and party – may the leaders see that peace is possible; that forgiveness is necessary; that compromise helps everyone.
May we all find hope to work for a better and more peaceful tomorrow.
Blessed be.
Rev. Drew Frantz
October 11, 2023