Article June 28, 1999 Issue

Prayers for harmony

Lessons from a trip to Israel

By Francesca Jordan Karpel

While my family was visiting Israel, a terrorist bomb exploded in a marketplace, killing several and injuring many more. This act of hatred rocked the country and, as intended, spawned many fearful, angry, and confused feelings. The airwaves, streets, and homes were rife with passionate discussions on how to stop terrorism and attain peace.

While I didn't claim to know the political solutions that would end this wanton murder and destruction, I did know that I couldn't contribute much to finding a solution by simply engaging in angry or despairing conversation. I needed to pray for God's guidance, to quiet my own thought, and to see the power and dominion of God rather than the angry assertions of evil.

I started by recognizing the power and presence of God, as well as denouncing evil. God is Love, and He loves all of His children. God doesn't have favorites; He doesn't love some more than others. God is simply and profoundly all-loving and omnipotent.

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