In the past few days, the world has been watching the Middle East very carefully. The United States and Israel have launched coordinated military strikes against targets inside Iran, dramatically escalating tensions in a region that has already been under tremendous strain for many years. News reports continue to unfold, and many people are asking the same question: What happens next? Whenever events like this occur, it is important for believers to step back from the noise of headlines and consider what is happening through the lens of Scripture. An Interesting Moment on the Biblical Calendar One of the things that immediately came to mind when these events began unfolding is the timing. The Jewish festival of Purim is just around the corner. Purim remembers the events recorded in the book of Esther, when the Jewish people were living under Persian rule and faced a plot to destroy them. In that story, a powerful official named Haman attempted to orchestrate the destruction of the Jewish people. Yet through the courage of Queen Esther and the unseen providence of God, the plan was overturned and the Jewish people were preserved. Purim is ultimately a celebration of something deeper than a historical victory. It is a reminder that God is sovereign over history. Even when events appear chaotic or threatening, God is working behind the scenes in ways that human beings cannot always see. A Long and Difficult History The tensions involving Iran did not suddenly appear this week. For more than four decades, the Iranian regime has been involved in actions that have destabilized the Middle East and threatened both Israel and Western nations. Since the revolution in 1979, conflicts, proxy wars, and terrorist activity connected to Iranian influence have affected countries throughout the region. The military operation now unfolding is aimed at weakening the missile systems, nuclear capabilities, and military infrastructure that leaders believe could pose serious threats to Israel, American interests, and other allies in the region. Reports from the early stages of the operation indicate that a number of significant targets inside Iran have already been struck, and the situation continues to develop. As always in moments like this, the future remains uncertain. How Should Believers Respond? When world events feel unstable, it is easy for people to react with fear, anger, or speculation. But Scripture calls believers to respond in a different way. First, we are called to pray . Pray for those who are in harm’s way throughout the Middle East. Pray for innocent civilians whose lives are affected by decisions made by governments and military leaders. Pray for wisdom for those who are making difficult decisions during these tense days. But we also pray for something deeper. We pray for spiritual awakening. In recent years, there have been increasing reports that many people inside Iran are searching for spiritual truth and turning to Christ in surprising numbers. Even in the midst of political oppression and cultural pressure, the Gospel continues to spread quietly among people who are hungry for hope. Moments of upheaval sometimes become moments when people begin asking deeper questions about life, faith, and the future. And that is something believers can pray for with great hope.  Remember Who Holds History Throughout Scripture, God’s people lived in a world shaped by empires, wars, and shifting political alliances. Yet again and again, the Bible reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: God is still in control. Kings rise and fall. Nations change course. World events move quickly and sometimes unexpectedly. But none of it happens outside the knowledge and sovereignty of God. That is why believers can face uncertain times with both seriousness and hope. We pray for peace. We pray for protection. And we pray that many people—throughout the Middle East and around the world—will come to know the One who alone can bring lasting peace. Scripture reminds us that one day the Prince of Peace will reign. Until that day, we watch carefully, we pray faithfully, and we trust that God is still at work in the unfolding story of history.

After a full day in Jerusalem, I stepped outside from my hotel room to look at the Old City—this time under the lights of night. It was nearly eight o’clock, and the city had taken on a completely different atmosphere. The massive walls of Jerusalem, built in the sixteenth century during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, were beautifully illuminated. The stone glowed softly in the evening light, wrapping around the Old City just as it has for centuries. From where I stood near Jaffa Gate, you could follow the path of the walls as they circled the city. Moving northward you would come to the New Gate, then Damascus Gate, and further along to Herod’s Gate. Continuing around the eastern side stands St. Stephen’s Gate, often called the Lion’s Gate. And then there is one gate that remains closed—the Golden Gate, also known as the Eastern Gate. Jewish tradition says that when the Messiah comes, he will enter Jerusalem through that gate. Scripture does not specifically say that, but the tradition has been strong for centuries. In fact, long ago a cemetery was built in front of the gate, an attempt by some to prevent such an entrance from ever taking place. But of course, when God accomplishes his purposes, no earthly obstacle will stand in the way. Standing there in the evening air, looking at those ancient walls, I was reminded once again how many generations have walked this land and how deeply history is woven into every corner of Jerusalem.