A thought on violence in the Middle East

The actions we have seen from Hamas are evil.
They are antisemitic and have no legitimate agenda.
Hamas is not the same as Palestinian.
The history of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians has included human rights abuses.
The state of Israel is not the same as Judaism.
Surely this can all be said without muddying the waters, or maybe the waters were already muddy.

So many proclaim, “I stand with Israel.” But what does that mean?
Do we mean their right to defend themselves against terrorist attacks?
Do we stand with them as they deprive the people of Gaza of water, power, and food?
Do we stand with them when they too kill civilians and call it collateral damage?
How far does standing with Israel go?

Humanity ripped apart.
Imago Dei denied.
Hatred and fear fuel violence and evil.

Nations born in violence send military support.
More people die.

Who will break the cycle of violence?
If your enemy is hungry, feed him.
If your enemy is thirsty, give her something to drink.
This will be the same as piling burning coals on their heads.

Given the choice I will fight my enemy with love.
I will feed her.
I will provide him with water.
I will seek to overcome evil with good.

Call me naive, if you must.
Say I’m not living in reality.
That could be the case.
But
I’ve seen love conquer through the weakness of the cross.
Jesus commands me to love my enemies.
All people bear the image of God.
Christ died for all people.

My heart breaks for the orphans.
My heart breaks for the parents whose children are dead.
My heart breaks for those who can’t find love and live by hate.
My heart breaks for the oppressed.

My heart breaks for those who think more violence is the solution.
Call me naive.
That’s fine with me.
Love does no harm to its neighbour.
I choose the way of love.