by Kimberly Troup
Dear Friends of Israel,
As we enter December, my heart turns once again to the story that anchors my faith—the birth of my Savior. Scripture tells us in Matthew 2:1, “Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem.”
Bethlehem of Judea. A real place, in a real land, at a real moment in history. A place chosen by God to bring hope into a world burdened by fear, conflict, and uncertainty. It was true then, and it is still true now.
Jesus was born not in a time of peace, but under Roman occupation, tension, and threats. Herod’s jealousy and violence cast a shadow over the manger. And yet—that is where the miracle occurred. That is where light broke through.
So, my challenge for you this month, is to continue praying for and standing with Israel during these uncertain days, but with an unshaken hope. We remember that God’s promises are not fragile. Headlines do not break His covenant. His eternal covenant promised the Land of Israel to the Jewish people as an everlasting inheritance.
This December, we must stand as people of prayer and action. Let us lift up the land where our Savior first walked and stand with those brave Jews who are living on the frontlines in the war against terror, hatred, and evil.
I am inviting you to put your prayers and faith into ACTION. You can do that by joining me for an incredible 13-day journey through the Land of Israel this coming March. Time is short, but the right time is now!
May the Lord guard your heart and mind and remind us that redemption is not just a story we celebrate in December, but a reality we see every day. We are witnessing the Miracle of Redemption in the Land of Israel every day. What exciting times we are living in, and you are an active participant in this REDEMPTION! Come and see for yourself all that God is doing in the Land of Israel today.
Wishing you a Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and a blessed and prosperous New Year.
Shalom,
Kimberly Troup
Director, US Office
Christian Friends of Israeli Communities