Shalom dear friends,
There are moments in ministry that quietly show you what God is doing beneath the surface—things you cannot plan, only receive with gratitude. One of those moments is the relationship we have been building in Migdal HaEmek.
Over time, what began as cooperation has become something much deeper. Today, when we meet with Rabbi Yosef, it no longer feels like a formal partnership. It feels like family. We meet again and again, we serve together, we speak openly, and there is a genuine care and respect that has grown between us.
Recently, we had the opportunity to stand together once more as we prepared support for around 50 families in Migdal HaEmek ahead of Passover. Through your partnership, we were able to provide food boxes, mattresses for shelters, diapers, shoes, and socks—practical things that families truly need in this season.
But what made this moment special was not only the aid.
As we stood together, Rabbi Yosef blessed us with the Aaronic blessing—the same blessing that has been spoken over the people of Israel for generations: “The Lord bless you and keep you…” To hear these words spoken over us, together—Jewish and Arab, standing side by side—was something simple, but also deeply meaningful.
It is not something we take for granted.
In a time when there is so much tension and division around us, to stand together, to serve together, and even to bless one another—it is a picture of something God is doing quietly, but powerfully. Not through big statements, but through relationships, trust, and shared care for people.
Rabbi Yosef also shared a heartfelt message to all of you who are standing with us. He spoke about the joy of giving, about God’s blessing over those who help others with an open heart, and he prayed for you—that the Lord would be with you, strengthen you, and prosper all that you do. He blessed you with health, joy, and long life. It was sincere, and it came from a place of real connection.
This is what your partnership is making possible.
Not only that families are receiving help—but that bridges are being built. That trust is growing. That in a very natural and respectful way, Jewish and Arab Israelis are standing together, serving side by side, and reflecting something of God’s heart in this land.
As we approach Passover, we are reminded again of the story of freedom—how the people of Israel came out of Egypt and stepped into something new. And in the same way, we hold onto the hope that this difficult season will pass, and that what God is doing now will continue to grow stronger in the days ahead.
Thank you for being part of this. Thank you for standing with us—not only in what we do, but in what God is building through these relationships.
We are grateful for you and continue to pray for you.
With love and blessings,
Pastor Saleem and the Home of Jesus the King Church Team