Atlantic District Publications

Letters from the President - “And the Glory of Thy People Israel”

January 5, 2009 at 1:11 PM

Having just bid a not-so-fond farewell to 2008, we awake to the sounds of invasion, as the Middle Eastern tinderbox threatens to go up in smoke with the Gaza strip, Hamas, and global demonstrations all over all the channels of our media-crazed world.

Two thousand years back, an old man named Simeon understood prophecy and fulfillment, waiting it out for a real Answer when the oppressive forces of Roman occupation stated clearly that they had all the answers.  When the Answer appeared, he took the Child in his arms and blessed Him, calling him “Salvation,” “Light” and “Glory.”  And said, “You know what?  I’ve seen enough.  I can go now.  In peace.”

Where in the world will Glory be found in 2009?  Where peace?  Where prosperity?

When our congregants gathered in Brooklyn on New Year’s Eve, the question was asked, “How do you feel about 2009?”  And the answer was that of Simeon.  “Hopeful.  Very hopeful.”

Because we live in prosperous times?  Not any more.  Because peace is at hand?  Not yet. 

Because our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.  Because we have an Answer in Christ, Who does not claim to take us out of this world or away from this world but Who blesses us as we engage this world with Good News even and especially in tough times.

Glory for Israel and the tortured Middle East is available.  Englightening Light shines inward, to the heart of hearts, to the foundations of the human spirit.  And our Light is Christ. 

As we pray for world leaders, as we pray mightily for our President-elect about to be historically inaugurated, as we pray for our own family and financial security, let’s begin and end those prayers in thanks and praise.   Simeon held the Lord in his arms.  You and I and all of us in the Atlantic District ARE HELD in the arms of the same Lord.   He has come with Light and Life and Love, which we have received.  Thanking and praising Him, let us resolve to bring His Light and Glory to our world in 2009.