Palestinian exiles make up 61% of all Palestinians. While Israel’s harshness toward them was not admirable, neighboring Arab lands were grudging and unhappy hosts. Palestinians in exile have mostly lived for generations in refugee camps (breeding grounds for extremism) and still face the specter of poverty and uncertainty. Their possible return to the Holy Land remains a hugely divisive issue, since sheer numbers would threaten to swamp Israel’s population. Pray for a solution that offers justice and righteousness to these unwanted people. Pray also for Christians to demonstrate love and concern for them in effective ways

Pray for God’s purposes to be fulfilled in these areas:

• A just settlement of the land issue, and the future of both the Jewish settlements in Palestine and the Palestinians in Israel itself. Both sides feel strong claims to the land. Both Israelis and Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their exclusive capital.
• Improved living conditions. Estimates suggest that 70% of Gaza live in deep poverty, and 80% depend on external aid. Only 28% of Gaza have regular access to clean water. Debate over the causes and the fault does not change the fact that there is much suffering.
• A legitimate and effective leadership to govern Palestine. Political groups Fatah and the PLO (Palestinian Liberation Organization) both have low approval ratings, but somehow retain power and influence. Together with the sometimes heavy-handed treatment by Israel, this leaves many open to recruitment by radical and violent Islamic groups. Pray for every Palestinian family to hear and see the gospel of Jesus Christ.
• Pray not only for the peace of Jerusalem, but also that both sides meet the Prince of Peace. It is through Him alone that any meaningful reconciliation will come.