Have you ever felt overwhelmed seeing the suffering of others? Whose pain truly moves your heart?
Faces of the Hostages
We see their faces, their eyes reflecting unspeakable suffering—the innocent hostages held captive by Hamas, their bodies thin, their spirits weary. Our hearts break specifically for hostages like Evyatar David, whose brother Ilay David described him as being used in a cruel "live hunger experiment" by Hamas. We ache for Rom Braslavski, whose father, Ofer Braslavski, could barely recognize his son, describing him as "hungry for bread, thirsty for water, physically broken and mentally shattered." (Read more about their stories here).
Hidden Suffering in Gaza
Yet, beyond these specific faces, suffering persists broadly in Gaza. We see families caught between hunger and the harsh grip of Hamas leaders who exploit their misery for propaganda. We know some images are fake, yet we also recognize genuine suffering—real hunger and lack of medical care among those who refuse to bow to Hamas or can't afford their exploitative prices.
Do these images stir your heart as deeply as they surely stir God's?
Our Sacred Calling
As Modern-Day Esthers, we live by a sacred calling: to carry each other's burdens, as Christ has carried ours (Galatians 6:2). Proverbs 31:8-9 urges us, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” This calling doesn't permit conditions or caveats—no matter how complicated the political realities, our compassion must extend broadly, reaching even those caught in the consequences of their leaders' wicked decisions.
Yet, compassion must be wise. Hamas has repeatedly proven that aid meant for suffering Gazans often ends up fueling their war machine. How do we ensure our help actually reaches those in desperate need? Recent reports suggest a new hope: Israel and the U.S. are now united in calling for a comprehensive agreement—not piecemeal deals, but the release of all hostages and the total disarmament of Hamas. Could a demilitarized Gaza change the Middle East forever? Can you imagine the peace, stability, and hope that could flourish if this vision became reality?
Tragedy Close to Home
While our hearts are heavy with international suffering, our hearts break with tragedy closer to home. A devastating mass shooting recently occurred in Manhattan, claiming the lives of four people—including cherished Jewish leader and Blackstone employee, Wesley LePatner and Didarul Islam, a Muslim NYPD officer moonlighting as security to support his family (his expectant wife, two children, and father, pictured above). Wesley's love for Israel and vibrant Jewish advocacy in her community leave an enduring legacy. We grieve also with the New York Police department and the family of Detective Islam who had served with the New York City Police Department for three and a half years and was assigned to the 47th precinct. He is described as a great man of faith.
Their story reminds us that victims of tragedy span all faiths, highlighting one undeniable truth: life is precious, uncertain, and fragile. Does this not fuel our urgency as believers to boldly share Jesus, whose Gospel brings eternal hope and lasting peace?
Our Connection to Israel
Reflecting further, consider how many of us, as Modern-Day Esthers, feel deeply connected to our biblical homeland of Israel. We recognize something almost inexplicable: the timeless stone walls, the way sunlight bathes the fields, the unapologetic authenticity of Israelis themselves. And our heart breaks with the pain inflicted by the world's distortions and hatred of Israel. Yet, our hearts remain passionately committed to truth, understanding, and we applaud the resilience of our Jewish brothers and sisters.
How courageously do we advocate for Israel amid the world's harsh narratives?
Amplifying Voices of the Silent
And what about the hostages still suffering in silence? Are we amplifying their voices with prayer, advocacy, and compassion? Every innocent life matters profoundly to God—does it matter profoundly enough to us to act, to speak out, and to pray?
Let us come before God, earnestly seeking His heart and guidance:
“Lord, let our hearts break for what breaks Yours. Grant us wisdom to discern truth from lies, compassion strong enough to move us to meaningful action, and courage to boldly advocate for justice. Soften hearts hardened by hate, disrupt the plans of the wicked, and protect those who are innocent and suffering. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.”
Modern-Day Esthers, let us respond not only with hearts that break, but with hands and voices ready to heal and help. In doing so, we embody the compassionate, powerful love of Christ in a hurting and hopeful world.
