The sun is shining today. All is quiet and the hills are alive with birds singing and roosters crowing. The scene stands in stark contrast to our reality here in Israel. We hear, as it were, the drums of war day and night.

But what is reality in a world gone mad?–where wokeness, global warming, and defense of terrorism sways the scepter? I look at the news on my phone and get depressed. The world is upside down with every crazy imaginable idea. But as I look out my window towards the calm of Lake Kinneret, it seems that the message is that we must embrace the moment, especially when we can do nothing about the crazy world outside. Is this realistic? Perhaps not, but is it a better way to live? At times like this, can anyone be damaged by too much optimism? Maybe, maybe not. Realism? Where should we focus our energies at this time? Are we tuned into the sounds of war or something else?

I see birds flying as usual, chickens running around, street cats lolling in the sun, unafraid except for when our big shepherd dog gets too close. And I realize that my life is only promised for today—that when I cannot change things, it is better to embrace the good that still exists–Turn away from the dark hand that threatens to destroy.

The Bible tells an interesting story of the prophet Elisha when the Syrians came to capture him. They surrounded the town where he lived. His servant was trembling in fear because of the vast number of the enemy which surrounded the city.

“And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, a host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 16And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. 17And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.” 2 Kings 6:15-17

I ask myself if the prophet actually saw the horses and chariots or if his faith took hold of his Elohim (G-d) and trusted, clinging to that reality.Maybe he asked for this miracle for his servant whose faith (Emunah) was lacking? I think so. It is not normal for anyone to see the armies of Heaven coming to fight for us, but if we have enough faith, it is as if we can see them. And now when we hear jet engines flying low over us, the rumble of tanks and the fire of artillery, do we see the Armies of Hashem at the battle front? Do we then decide to trust and cling to our Creator, or does this send us running for the bomb shelter, or packing up to leave for another country?

So, face those nagging doubts that arise and tell yourself: “Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them!”

–Ariella