The Empty Chair at Shabbat

"No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you."Isaiah 54:17

The world is sharpening its weapons. Some are visible—like missiles, Molotov cocktails, and mobs with knives. Others are quieter—censorship, isolation, and lies. But the Word of God is not shaken.

Isaiah 54:17 is not just a promise for the peaceful—it’s a battle cry for the faithful.

Keith and Aviva Siegel know this firsthand. Recently freed from Hamas captivity, they emerged with unbroken faith and unshaken commitment to those still in bondage. Though they walked through terror, they chose not to tremble. They chose to advocate, to stand, to believe.

Among the 50 remaining hostages, one name echoes like a prayer in sanctuaries across Israel—Rom Braslavski. Taken hostage at the Nova music festival on October 7, he’s been held in Gaza ever since. This week, news emerged that Islamic Jihad has “lost contact” with his captors. His condition—and even his location—are unknown. In the synagogue of Rabbi Nick Kett, an empty chair is reserved for Rom every Shabbat. Not just a symbol. A statement. A declaration that we will not forget. That we will not look away. As Modern-Day Esthers, we are called to make space in our prayers, our pulpits, and our public witness for those who cannot speak for themselves. The chair is empty—but hope is not.

Meanwhile, in Greece, Israeli teens were hunted by an anti-Israel mob wielding knives. They were just kids—on vacation. Instead, they ran for their lives. “I’ve never been so afraid,” one said.

It’s not just in Gaza. Or Greece. It’s everywhere.

But God sees. And Isaiah’s promise still holds.

Weapons May Form—But They Will Not Win

Forbes recently highlighted something extraordinary: despite all odds, travelers to Israel feel safe. Why? Because Israel is more than a nation. It’s a testimony. A spiritual stronghold. A place where ancient promises still walk the streets in living color.

One journalist, Michael Goldstein, described the resilience of Israel’s people, the hospitality of its communities, and the strange but comforting normalcy of sirens, courage, and prayer. He didn’t just see the land. He saw the hand of God over it.

Modern-Day Esthers, It’s Time to Walk the Land

You’ve prayed. You’ve posted. You’ve spoken up.

Now maybe it’s time to walk where Jesus once walked.

Christian Women For Israel invites you to consider a new kind of pilgrimage—one that doesn’t just visit Israel but embraces her. Pastors Ken and Lisa Albin will be leading a tour in November 2025.

It’s not a vacation. It’s a commissioning.

Come experience the promise. See the people. Stand where the battle is already won.

Learn more about the Save the Nations tour here.

Because when God says no weapon will prosper, He’s not just talking about defense. He’s talking about destiny.

You are a Modern-Day Esther. And this is your time to stand, and visit the land of Israel.

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