June 20th, 2024
Two weeks ago, Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, added Israel to its so called “blacklist of shame” for the countries that have committed abuses against children in armed conflict. This decision was made after at least 15,571 Palestinian children have been killed, and thousands more injured, according to local reports. Furthermore, Israel’s restriction of food, water, and critical supplies, has created a humanitarian crisis, causing severe famine, and several cases of children dying from starvation.
● God of the oppressed, we remember your words that you, “have come in order that they may have life — life in all its fullness” (John 10:10). Lord, where is your message of life amidst the death of your precious children in Gaza? Why do you seem distant and silent? We believe that no one is a stranger to you, and no one is ever far from your loving care. Lord, save the children of Gaza and manifest yourself.
Despite international pressure and limited sanctions, Israeli settlers continue their violence against Palestinians in the West Bank daily. These attacks often occur under the protection of the Israeli military and have increased since the 7th of October. The Israeli army consistently raids Palestinian refugee camps, killing dozens on a weekly basis and detaining many with no charge.
● All powerful God, whilst the people of Gaza are in our hearts and minds, let us not forget the Palestinians in the West Bank. Lord, illuminate to us that the Palestinian suffering in both Gaza and the West Bank are rooted in the same system of injustice. We remember your words that we should “not be afraid”, not because our wellbeing is guaranteed, but because your reign is forever.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
Our friends at the Near East Council of Churches (NECC) and the Department of Service for Palestinian Refugees (DSPR) report that their medical teams and aid staff in Gaza are working under fire. Day and night, their staff continue working and at times have been forced to flee with their families under the constant Israeli airstrikes and artillery shells. Nevertheless, they continue working with unwavering dedication to those who are most marginalized.
● God of love, we are grateful for your spirit which works through all medical and aid teams. We pray that you protect the many Gazans who are committed to aiding those who suffer, against all odds. Lord, help us follow their example and work for your kingdom by bringing justice to the oppressed, orphan, widow, and the poor.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
One of the Sabeel-Kairos UK members, Allan Gordon, successfully urged the Church of Scotland towards several actions supporting the Palestinian people at the church’s General Assembly in May. The actions included calling on the Church of Scotland to urge the UK Government to demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, stop granting export licenses for the sale of armaments to Israel, and reinstate the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) funding immediately to provide humanitarian aid.
● Liberating Savior, we thank you for the efforts of our friends globally who are carrying out the mission of Sabeel. Lord, help our friends at Sabeel-Kairos UK to spread our message and hold the Church in the UK accountable for its shortcomings. Lord, we come to you in these dark times in need of wisdom, courage, and strength supplemented by your Holy Spirit.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
Last week, the Tent of Nations had a court case regarding their lands which they rightfully own but are under threat from eviction by Israel. During their court case, unknown people broke into the farm and stole several animals belonging to the farm. Meanwhile, the settlements around the farm are slowly expanding, further isolating the farm, and increasing its vulnerability.
● Lord of all nations, you have given us the gift of creation to steward, not to dominate and impose our corrupted will. Lord, we thank you for the Sumud the Nassar family have exhibited, resembling that of the olive tree in Palestine. Lord, protect them and their farm as they struggle for justice and truth.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
On Saturday, June 8th, our beloved longtime friend, Marc Ellis, passed away at the age of 71. Throughout his life, Marc committed himself to the principles of justice, peace, and mutual flourishment. Marc is known to be the father of Jewish Liberation Theology, which was grounded in his belief that there is no Jewish liberation without Palestinian liberation. Sabeel had the honour of spending many years of friendship with Marc and he will be sorely missed.
● Merciful creator, as Marc departs from our sight and joins yours, we are grateful for the many years of his friendship, wisdom, and prophetic imagination. Lord, be with Marc’s family as they mourn and celebrate his life. We are grateful for the many students who Marc mentored who continue articulating a vision of liberation, justice, and peace in Palestine-Israel. Lord, help us to continuously learn from Marc’s life and writings so that we may be agents of love in a reality of hate.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
● We join with the World Council of Churches in their prayer for the countries of Malawi and Zambia.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayers