It’s time to say, “Happy 63nd Birthday!” to our special and revered friend Israel, which is still one of the youngest nations of the world and exhibits the strength and action of youth in many, many ways. As America’s most valued friend and ally in the Middle East, we must not forget that while the reborn nation of Israel may be young, at the same time Israel is also one of the oldest nations on earth. After God made a covenant with Abraham some 4,000 years ago ― in which He told the patriarch that he would be the father of a great nation ― the seed of Abraham actually became a nation during the era of Moses and Joshua. Many rabbis assert that the ancient nation of Israel began at the time of the Passover, when the Jewish people were delivered from 400 years of bondage in Egypt. Then two million Jews headed toward the Promised Land, which they entered and conquered and renamed Israel. Israel’s ancient and modern existence is nothing less than a miracle; and we who celebrate Israel’s birthday know that miracles are divine acts of the Almighty God ― the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. We should remember that the God of Israel worked several miracles on behalf of the Jewish people leading up to, and following, the rebirth of the nation, and every one of these divine miracles were foretold by the prophets in the Tenach: First, the dispersion of the Jewish people among the nations of the world (Deuteronomy 13:14-17). Although this was a negative experience, it was still something God did that had never happened before. Second, the survival of the Jewish people (Ezekiel 34:11-12). During almost 2,000 years of hardship and persecution, they miraculously maintained their Jewish identity and their hope of returning someday to their homeland. Third, the regathering of the Jewish people (Zechariah 8:7-8). The Zionist movement miraculously brought several million scattered Jews back to live in their ancient homeland. Fourth, the restoration of the Nation (Ezekiel 37:21-22). In 1948, the Jewish people declared their independence, and the nation of Israel was miraculously reborn in its ancient homeland.Fifth, the preservation of the Jewish state (Amos 9:14-15). God has helped the Jewish people to be miraculously victorious in five wars against supposedly superior armies intent on Israel’s destruction. Sixth, the prosperity of the people and nation (Isaiah 35:1.6). Not only has the desert miraculously blossomed agriculturally, but industry and technology have made Israel one of the most prosperous nations of the world. Seventh, the redemption of the Jewish people (Zechariah 14:1,4,9). While still in the future, the Messiah will come, defeat the armies of Israel’s enemies, and then reign and rule over a worldwide kingdom with its capital in Jerusalem. We give the God of Israel all the praise and glory for all the miracles He has wrought. And, again, happy birthday, Israel!
