SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 125

Jerusalem, Israel

ISRAEL’S LATEST MUSIC SENSATION: FROM THE EAST – MIQEDEM!

A unique group of talented musicians, who play both in Israel and the nations, has hit the music scene with a new sound. The band is called Miqedem, which in biblical Hebrew means, “from the east.” 

Based in Tel Aviv Israel, and formed in 2015, Miqedem musicians started their band by writing, recording and performing their own original Middle Eastern music with lyrics taken from the Hebrew Tenach (Old Testament). 

In early 2016, they created their first album in a small basement recording studio that they rented in South Tel Aviv. They completed that first project without any outside funding, using their limited equipment, as well as other gear they borrowed from friends. 

In May 2016, that first album was released by Miqedem, independently, and now they are on-the-road playing in worship settings, and sharing their passion for rhythms and biblical lyrics that are part of their Israeli culture and the regions beyond.  

The group is playing the music they love, reaching hearts with the ancient sounds of Hebraic melodies. So far, they have shared their new music not only throughout Israel, but also in the Ukraine, France, Poland, Sweden, Germany, England and the United States. 

The response has been positive, as Miqedem band members inspire others by singing biblical texts, while incorporating Israeli rhythms based on regional cultures and traditions.

One method that helps them in creating new music and songs is that they take the original words of the scripture, memorize a certain passage, and meditate on it. They repeat it over and over again until it becomes second nature. Then, they start to feel the beat, the kind of rhythms that work, and the poetry of the vocals come. The structure begins to form, resulting in several verses of a song developing. 

Jamie Hilsden, leader of Miqedem, explains that the first verse comes easier than the rest of the verses. But eventually, the song is completed. He is often looking for parallels that exist in how Hebraic words are expressed biblically, that compare and contrast. He also digs for the deeper meanings in scripture. 

Hilsden spoke to this writer about a song he shared two years ago, “Kol Haneshama,” when he was involved in a special project. It had a unique drum rhythm to it. The music, itself was western, but the drum beat was eastern. It opened up different kinds of sounds for him, “sounds I was familiar with all my life, but we had just never used them before in the congregation.” Hilsden said it has a kind of freshness to it, especially with the various percussions used. 

Hilsden sings vocals and plays guitar. His partner, Yaron Cherniak, shares the vocals with him, and plays several authentic Middle Eastern instruments. 

While Hilsden writes the songs, Cherniak makes sure that the distinctive melodies Miqedem creates stay within the biblical traditions of the east. Cherniak has a degree in eastern music, and is working on his masters now. He understands that kind of ancient composition, while Jamie brings the pop music background, which helps westerners enjoy the blend that is uniquely, Miqedem.

Shai Sol is the only female singer in the group. She plays guitar, and percussion instruments. Other band members are Vadym Sokolyk on bass, and Gabriel Elbaz on drums.

The purpose of the band coming together has been simply to get their inspiration from the people and ethnic groups around them; then, make music and worship God; using the Hebraic scriptures in song. This has been particularly interesting for native-born Israelis who are able to enjoy the music experience as part of their own culture.  

It seems, however, that the under 18 group in Israel still identifies with Hilsden’s previous music style which was based more on rock. But, young adults in their 20’s and 30’s, both in Israel and abroad, are starting to appreciate the new harmonies that Miqedem brings.

According to Hilsden, “I like it all. And, when I go back and just want to enjoy music, my default is still western music. It is still where I come from. It’s my default form of music. But, as far as trying to create something new and fresh, we look to the east.”

After 2 years of composing new scripture based songs, the band is now planning to record a second album. Already, they have written songs and started the pre-production process for the new album. They hope to do the final recording by the end of 2017. 

Hilsden gives a further explanation to the vision of the band members. He explains that in the Torah, “the story of redemption is from the east. Abraham was called out from that same part of the world to go to a land prepared for him. The story of redemption is the story from the east… Miqedem.”

“Declaring the end from the beginning. And, from ancient times, things which have not been done, saying, 'My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure.’ Calling a bird of prey from the east, the man of My purpose from a far country. Truly I have spoken; truly I will bring it to pass. I have planned it, surely I will do it.”

ISAIAH 46:10-11

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 124

Jerusalem, Israel

NOVEMBER 2017 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Nations

·        Israel blew up a Hamas tunnel that had penetrated inside Israel on Monday, October 30, 2017. According to sources, the IDF conducted a controlled explosion meant to destroy the tunnel, but did not expect to also cause collateral damage. There were several terrorists inside the tunnel including senior leaders of Islamic Jihad that died. The terrorist group has said it is a “declaration of war” and have threatened to retaliate. They have an arsenal of GRAD missiles that can reach 42 kilometers into Israel. An Israeli spokesperson said it now brings the Israeli operation to a higher level and the IDF is on high alert. The Netanyahu government is not interested in an escalation, but the IDF has deployed Iron Dome troops and ground forces in the South to prepare for any possible response.

The timing of this pre-emptive strike by Israel is being criticized, but the IDF has a policy to strike as soon as they can after a threat to the homeland. This tunnel had infiltrated Israel’s border and was a danger to Israeli citizens living in the Kissufim community, only 2 kilometers from where the tunnel ended.

PRAYER POINT:

Pray for Israel at this vulnerable time, according to Psalm 121, claiming: “Indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” He is the shade of your right hand. “The Lord will keep you from all harm— He will watch over your life. The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” We declare this over the Israeli citizens living so close to the Gaza border, especially during this critical time.

·          One reason that Israel’s timing of this operation has been criticized is that on-going meetings are continuing between Israel and the Palestinian government in the West Bank (Judea and Gaza), including the presence of U.S. special representative, Jason Greenblatt. Therefore, there are political sensitivities to consider. 

Israel has been furious about a recent Fatah-Hamas reconciliation, because Hamas refuses to give up its arms and continues to call for Israel’s destruction. On the other hand, Israel needs to talk to the Palestinian Authority representatives of the Abbas government about security issues, and wants to provide some incentives (economically) in order to gain leverage in negotiations to bring home Israel’s soldiers and civilians (including bodies of soldiers) that Hamas is currently holding.

PRAYER POINT:

Pray for wisdom for Israeli negotiators in talks with the Palestinian government. Pray that Israel does not fail in its efforts to get the release of soldiers that Hamas is holding. Intercede for Israel not to enter into a dangerous prisoner exchange, as they have several times in the past, where they release Palestinian terrorists with blood on their hands. Pray that the negotiations stay in Israel’s favor.  Declare over Israeli leaders from Psalm 4:5-6:  “Get wisdom, get understanding. Do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.” 

·        Israel is celebrating 100 years since the ANZAC battle, led by Australian forces that defeated the Ottoman Empire. This resulted in the eventual signing of the Balfour Declaration. Thousands of people, including high level government officials from Australia and New Zealand are currently in Israel for the ceremonies and re-enactments of the battles that were fought. This time period is crucial in developing closer partnerships between Israel and these international governments, which is happening on the sidelines of these historical events. 

PRAYER POINT:

Thank the Lord for this opportunity for Israel to shine as a beacon to other nations. This is part of Israel’s calling and destiny, according to Isaiah 49:6:  “…I will also make you a light for the Gentiles (the nations), that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.” Also, Isaiah 42:6:  “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness. I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light to the Gentiles (the nations)…” 

Pray that Israeli citizens will repent of their sins so they can come into that place of a people called into righteousness; a people who can bring the good news of Yeshua to the rest of the world!

·        Hezbollah, the militant terrorist army operating out of Lebanon and Syria has been caught patrolling and filming Israel’s border, which they have done on several occasions, in violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The UN Council will be meeting in early November to discuss the violation. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has been releasing images on social media, threatening Israelis in Hebrew, as a psychological-warfare tactic. Pictures of Israeli settlements along Israel’s northern border have been featured, along with military posts and IDF officers patrolling the border. Hezbollah has done this kind of fear campaign before, releasing aerial photos and other pictures of Israel far from the border. It’s to prove that Hezbollah has the power to infiltrate Israeli territory. Sometimes they use Lebanese shepherds grazing in the fields to document Israel’s presence in the area. 

PRAYER POINT:

Pray that when the UN meets, they will put a stop to Hezbollah’s spying on Israel. Pray that Israeli citizens will not be afraid of the taunts of Hezbollah. Intercede according to 1 Samuel 17:45, and 17:47:  “Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted.….and that all this assembly may know that the LORD does not deliver by sword or by spear; for the battle is the LORD'S and He will give you into our hands!’ ”

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 123

Jerusalem, Israel

OCTOBER 15, 2017 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Nations

***There has been quiet among Israeli government and military leaders about a recent conflagration with Syria. Israeli jet planes were flying a routine mission over Lebanon when the Syrians (for unknown reasons) were provoked. They launched a missile towards the Israeli Air Force, and Israel retaliated. Israel dropped four bombs on the Syrian anti-aircraft battery that had launched the missiles, destroying it. This was a strong message sent to the Syrian government. Apparently, a similar incident happened this past March.

ISIS also claims they launched a Grad rocket from the Sinai that hit Israeli territory this week. There were no injuries.  Israel retaliated by carrying out a drone strike which killed one person in the Sinai area of Rafah.

PRAYER POINTS:

Psalm 3:7-8: "Arise, O Lord; save me, O my God! For You have smitten all my enemies on the cheek; You have shattered the teeth of the wicked. Salvation belongs to the Lord; Your blessing be upon Your people! Selah..."

Israelis have been revived during a month of celebrations of the biblical feasts, including a time of repentance and refreshing. This is when the new cycle of Torah readings has begun and Israelis are experiencing a new year of blessings. The rains came during Succot. The land is filled with His Presence… with the living waters from heaven. Pray for the watchmen on the walls to intercede for the borders of Israel at this time, especially for an extra measure of protection over the land in the north and the south. 

***Allegations against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were near an indictment level this past summer. Also, there were rumors that his wife, Sara was going to be indicted. But, things quieted down, and there was no announcement of wrong-doing during the month of the high holy days. The on-going investigation is now in high-gear again, with criticism being launched against the Prime Minister and the Police. 

PRAYER POINTS:

Ecclesiastes 9:1: "For I have taken all this to my heart and explain it, that righteous men, wise men, and their deeds are in the hand of God. Man does not know whether it will be love or hatred; anything awaits him. It is the same for all. There is one fate for the righteous and for the wicked; for the good, for the clean and for the unclean; for the man who offers a sacrifice and for the one who does not sacrifice. As the good man is, so is the sinner; as the swearer is, so is the one who is afraid to swear.…"

Pray for what is needed so the Israeli government can function normally…. a final end to the constant bickering about whether the prime minister is guilty or not; whether his wife is guilty or not. Let the truth be known once and for all; let anything illegal be exposed; let the case be solved and finished. Let justice prevail!

***There has been a partial agreement between Fatah (the Palestinian Authority that oversees Palestinian operations in the West Bank), and Hamas (the terrorist government that oversees Palestinian operations in Gaza). This agreement, which basically calls for all decisions regarding peace or war to be coordinated between the two groups, is dangerous for Israel.  Hamas has not agreed to give up its weapons against Israel, which includes some 25,000 armed troops in Gaza. It is expected that there will be increased international pressure for Netanyahu to resume negotiations with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in the near future. 

PRAYER POINTS:

Declare over Israel:  Isaiah 54:14-15: "In righteousness you will be established; You will be far from oppression, for you will not fear; And, from terror, for it will not come near you. If anyone fiercely assails you it will not be from Me. Whoever assails you will fall because of you.”

***Recently, there was a meeting between Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin. They signed tentative agreements on security, energy, communications, and trade cooperation. The Saudis are planning to buy the S-400 anti-missile system from Russia, the same system that is, reportedly, in Syria; and, was given, in parts, to Iran. 

Russia has become a big player in the Middle East, mostly because of the continued lack of action by the United States… starting with the retreat from world leadership of former U.S. President Barack Obama, and continuing with an unclear foreign policy directive from current U.S. President Donald Trump. While Trump has been decisive on decertifying the Iran treaty, he has been less forthcoming about sustainable relationships with Arab countries. In fact, plans for an Arab coalition against Iranian aggression, which was expected to be developed by the Trump Administration after his May 2016 trip to the region, never really took place. 

Now, Russia is not only a diplomatic power to contend with, but it has increasingly becoming strong, militarily, in the Middle East. Russia has solidified its military presence in Syria in exchange for assuring the survival of Syrian President Bashar Assad’s regime. Moscow now has an operational naval and air force base in Syria, giving it a more permanent foothold in the region. It has used those bases to launch missiles against Syrian opposition forces. Putin has also used Iranian bases for Russia’s air force to take off and land from bombing missions in Syria.

Furthermore, Russia has become a cover for Iran to extend its regional powers. In Syria, Russia has helped Iran’s Shia militias that cooperate with Assad’s army. In helping Syria and Iran, Russia has paved the way for a strengthening of Hezbollah’s terrorist militias, which operate in Syria, and which have taken over the control of the Lebanese army. Hezbollah is Israel’s main enemy on its border with Lebanon and Syria. 

Russia has also increased its political, economic and military cooperation with Egypt.

The Middle East is still unstable. Not only with the civil war still raging in Syria, despite attempts at a Russian-U.S. cease fire, but also with the expectations of Kurdish independence. War is likely to be launched against the Kurds, if Turkey intervenes to try and stop Kurdistan from becoming an independent state in the region. This further instability provides another avenue for Russian expansion, especially if America continues to take a more passive role in the region. 

PRAYER POINTS:

Russia is becoming known as the slumbering bear that has woken up. Not only has Russia gained ground in the Middle East, European nations that are dependent on Russian gas, are less likely to confront Russian aggression over the Baltic States.

At present, Russia and Israel are continually having to make sure there is no conflict of forces over Syria, with clear channels of communications open between Israeli and Russian military leaders.

Please pray that this channel remains effective and that no mistakes are made about the intentions of both Israeli and Russian operatives.

Biblically, Russia could be part of the alliance of ungodly powers described in the eventual war mentioned in Ezekiel Chapters 38 and 39. 

Pray that Israeli military and government leaders, at all times, will have open eyes to Russia’s intentions in the Middle East, and develop Godly strategies of how to overcome continued Russian aggression in the region. 

Declare, before God, that America will find its renewed and rightful place as a superpower in the world, especially when it comes to securing advantageous Middle East alliances. Pray that the Trump Administration will focus on a clear and thorough U.S. foreign policy that will raise the level of its involvement in diplomatic and military issues of strategic importance to Israel and its allies in the region. 

Pray for God’s supernatural peace to come over the Middle East… the peace that passes all understanding in Messiah Yeshua (Jesus). He is the rock of Israel’s salvation, and the salvation of every nation on the earth!  

Psalm 18:2-3: "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my rock in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation; my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, And, I am saved from my enemies.”