 An Israeli soldier stands guard in the Western Wall Plaza as the area is secured for the Memorial Day ceremony later that night. |
So many, many things in my head that I want to share. I have stacks of images that I want to post. But the mundane — like foolishly going to the grocery store the day before the biggest barbecue day of the year — takes up time. Do I stay home to write and work photos or do I go out and take MORE photos? I’ve been persuaded to go take more photos. The last time I was in Israel for Independence Day I did not document the party in the city.
But I just wanted to comment on Israel’s understanding of the cost of freedom. Their Memorial Day is purposely scheduled to be the day before Independence Day. From the solemnity of stopping even driving at the sound of the bomb siren to a national dance party the next, the juxtaposition of the two holidays reminds quite firmly that there is hope in sorrow and there is a deep price to joyous freedom.
We know that the rebirth of a sovereign nation named Israel is the fulfillment of Bible prophecy. Israel has always been God’s firstborn (Exodus 4:22), and hurting the nation is still poking God in the eye (Zech. 2:8).
You can read more about the two holidays at Maoz Israel.
Comments
7 responses to “From mourning to dancing: Israel reborn turns 64”
We will never forget. Thanks for this post. I am so glad you are there at this time. The atmosphere tonight and tomorrow is going to be amazing. Abba go with you as you go and enjoy the celebrations. We stand with Israel. Happy Birthday, (re-born)Israel!
[imported from RoamingChile.com]
Necia Rogers said:
We will never forget. Thanks for this post. I am so glad you are there at this time. The atmosphere tonight and tomorrow is going to be amazing. Abba go with you as you go and enjoy the celebrations. We stand with Israel. Happy Birthday, (re-born)Israel!
[imported from RoamingChile.com]
Necia Rogers said:
We will never forget. Thanks for this post. I am so glad you are there at this time. The atmosphere tonight and tomorrow is going to be amazing. Abba go with you as you go and enjoy the celebrations. We stand with Israel. Happy Birthday, (re-born)Israel!
Wow I would love to experience the juxtaposition of those 2 holidays. Great post!
[imported from RoamingChile.com]
Shaun Frankland said:
Wow I would love to experience the juxtaposition of those 2 holidays. Great post!
[imported from RoamingChile.com]
Shaun Frankland said:
Wow I would love to experience the juxtaposition of those 2 holidays. Great post!
[…] As the sun set in Jerusalem, the mood went from mourning to dancing. Israel has their Memorial Day the day before Independence Day to remember the cost of freedom. (You can see video from previous years here and here.) […]