A while back, I participated in a mission aimed at bringing music, delicious food, and messages of love and friendship to Holocaust survivors in Israel. We traveled to Jerusalem and northern Israel.
I witnessed firsthand some of what they have endured since October 7th.
It's challenging for us to fully grasp what they have experienced, confronting danger with, at most, fifteen seconds of warning each time and never knowing where a rocket might strike.
Israel's experiences are a continuation of a broader historical narrative, dating back to Purim and the Book of Esther, where the malevolent intent was to kill, destroy, and exterminate every Jew.
This was the initial incitement to genocide, attempting to strip the Jewish people of their right to exist.
Antisemitism has numerous definitions, but one of the most notable originates from Haman, the world's first antisemite:
“There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the peoples in all the provinces of your kingdom; their laws are different from those of every other people, and they do not keep the king's laws.” (Esther 3:8)
Jews have faced hatred due to their distinctiveness.
Historically, they have opted to preserve their unique identity, resisting assimilation into the prevailing culture or conversion to the predominant religion.
Purim is a festive holiday.
This is quite surprising when we consider the story's context!
Imagine being part of a community that once faced the dire command: “to destroy, kill, and annihilate all the Jews—young and old, women and children—on a single day” (Est. 3:13).
Those of us who have met Holocaust survivors, heard their stories, and seen the photographs, documentaries, and memorials understand the weight of this history.
On Purim, the Final Solution was averted, but the threat was still very real.
Instead of joy, one might expect to feel relief.
The joy of Purim is distinct from the usual happiness we feel from positive events; it is a healing joy.
Joy triumphs over fear.
I learned this from a Holocaust survivor who said, “They tried to destroy us. We survived. Let’s eat.”
When we visit these incredible individuals, we bring them love, friendship, and joy.
If we have the chance, we speak to them about their Messiah.
Our time to convey this message may be short, they do not have much time, but as long as we can, we will keep doing so.
The story of Purim imparts an important lesson.
Mordechai's refusal to kneel or bow down demonstrated immense faith.
This serves as a crucial reminder for all of us, especially in these uncertain times.
Jesus says, “I AM; be not afraid.”
Purim is an opportune time for believers in Messiah Yeshua to express gratitude and praise to the One who watches over Israel and never slumbers.
Purim also reminds us that our kingdom is not of this world, as our Lord Jesus stated (John 15:18-20). We will encounter persecution and hatred for our beliefs. This festival not only commemorates our deliverance but also inspires us to remain steadfast in our faith despite challenges and adversity.
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