This past week, after more than two years of heartbreaking captivity, 20 Israeli hostages were released from Gaza through an international agreement. In return, 1,718 Palestinian prisoners were freed, with additional negotiations continuing for the remains of those who did not survive. These moments remind us of the fragile nature of peace in our world—and the desperate need for intercession.
Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). True peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but the presence of God’s kingdom breaking into our broken world. As followers of Jesus, we are called to pray and act in ways that reflect His peace.
Scripture tells us that the prayers of the saints rise before God like incense (Revelation 5:8). Our prayers are not wasted breath—they move the heart of God and can change the course of nations. Right now, Israel and Palestine need our prayers. Families are grieving, political leaders are navigating fragile agreements, and communities on both sides are searching for hope. A recent survey noted that over 80% of Israelis believe prayer and solidarity from Christians worldwide brings them comfort in times of crisis. Christians are about 0.8% of the population in the Palestinian territories—around 42,600 people. Likewise, we should also pray for those we consider our enemy in the region- Matthew 5:44.
At Rally Point Church, we believe God has given us a mission not only to bring the gospel into our neighborhoods, schools, and courts, but also to lift our voices in prayer for the nations. When we pray for Israel, we’re not only praying for political solutions—we’re praying for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6), for families torn apart by violence, our enemies, our president, and for the kingdom of God to break in where evil has reigned. We are praying that the Gospel of Jesus will reach every person in the region and they will know freedom from sin and eternal life with Jesus.