Reflection on Simchat Torah’s Anniversary
It’s been two years since that fateful morning of Simchat Torah, a day meant for joy and celebration. But rather than the customary sounds of worship, the air was pierced by sirens, and instead of laughter, fear and tears filled the synagogue as Israel faced an attack.
In the south, smoke rose where it shouldn’t have, while the sounds of gunfire replaced the music at a youth festival. Nature’s peace was shattered, and the cries of mothers carrying their children away echoed painfully.
On this second anniversary, a strong message resonates: God’s call is unmistakable.
For many who cherish Israel, the silence has been overwhelming since that day on October 7th, 2023. It feels all too recent, a wound that hasn’t fully healed.
On that day, and ever since, God has been present—whether in bomb shelters where prayers merge with anxiety, or in hospital corridors filled with both prayers and cries of pain. From synagogues to houses and classrooms around the globe, His presence is felt in every prayer offered up.
In these past two years filled with prayers for comfort, war, and peace, God’s love has been undeniable.
As the president and CEO of the International Christian and Jewish Fellowship, I’ve witnessed this love firsthand. Walking through the narrow streets of Israel and traveling across the U.S., I hear the stories of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. People understand that to bless Israel is to love God’s people and adhere to His teachings.
Two years later, our fellowship alongside millions of supporters continues its mission to bless His people.
We are building shelters to protect children from rockets, creating trauma centers to heal both physical and emotional wounds, and offering refuge to those fleeing persecution simply for their beliefs. We are fostering bonds of faith and friendship between Christians and Jews.
One of these symbols of unity is decorated with flags. The Fellowship flag, representing a global movement in blue and white, can be seen in churches, synagogues, and on campuses. Each tiny, weathered hand has planted Israeli flags on the ground to honor the 1,200 lives lost two years ago, each flag a testament to unwavering love.
In a world that often burns flags out of anger, these flags stand as beacons of hope.
The generosity behind these flags flows like a river. Over the last two years, we have provided over $4 billion in vital assistance. We’ve fortified hospitals to withstand attacks, delivered food and medicine to the vulnerable, and provided shelters for the weary.
These acts are a declaration of love for Israel and its people.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone—pastors, grandmothers, students, and devoted pray-ers—who love Israel so deeply: Todah Rabah. Your love serves as a lifeline; it saves lives and transforms ours. It reminds us here in Israel that we are not alone.
On this anniversary, although we reflect on hatred, despair, and violence, God’s message remains clear: Respond to hatred with love, to despair with hope, to violence with healing, and to darkness with light.
