A Statement on the Israeli/Palestinian Crisis...
Islamic influence is surging in countries outside the Muslim world. Racial hate is being practiced openly in an era that claims tolerance and inclusivity. I grew up in Lebanon during our civil war. The trauma of those memories I carry to this present day. Palestinians killed the Lebanese and the Lebanese killed Palestinians. It was all futile. At the center of this war was mutual hatred. The same is true among those at war right now.
Below is our statement on the [state of the world] considering the Middle East war. It is not intended to be political in any way and does not say “everything” that could be and at some point, should be said. It is enough, however, to guide Christ followers to find our way in the face of an expanding war, without being completely derailed by human biases. May the Lord strengthen you as you read and digest this statement, that, together, we may represent the God we serve and the Savior who died for the whole world.
Statement on the Israeli/Palestinian War – November 2023
Consistent with the last 3,000 years, the Holy Land is again mired in turmoil and bloodshed.
The attacks of October 7, 2023, left a path of death and destruction upon a people for the sole reason of their Jewish ethnicity. The true purpose of Hamas, as outlined in their own charter, is to exterminate the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, rather than to live in peaceful co-existence with their neighbors- as most Palestinians desire. We do not believe that Hamas acts on behalf of all Palestinians, living in Gaza and the West Bank.
Time has shown that “eye for an eye” has never worked. As broken humanity, however, we seem to always be obliged to take sides.
Crescent Project is taking sides!
The side we choose is the way of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, and not of Jihad or war.
We choose the treating of others the way we wish to be treated.
We take the side of rejecting hate in all its forms.
We stand with the peacemakers rather than those shouting down opposition.
Hate begets hate.
Blame begets blame.
Violence begets violence.
Crescent Project believes that all people have the right to live peaceful lives. In light of this perpetual conflict, our resolve to share the hope of Christ has never been stronger.
Join us as we pray for peace over the hearts of sworn enemies. -And follow with us the way of Jesus, who said, “Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they will be called the Children of God.”
