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We first met Dr. John White, a Canadian psychiatrist and author, at a conference overseas, when he surprised us by joining us at our table for lunch one day. After the initial introductory chit-chat, he wanted to know in detail what was happening at our mission’s location.

At the time, my wife was having regular unexplainable nightmares, and we were at a loss how to deal with them. In his usual quiet demeanor Dr. White finished chewing his food and remained in thoughtful silence for a minute. Then he explained that in his opinion it would not be unusual to discover that in most animistic-based societies, probably a blood sacrifice was made when our new wooden stilt home was constructed.

He suggested that when we got back on location, we ought to pray over our home, and especially its foundational corners. As instructed, the Psalms were used to frame our prayers over the various aspects of the house. The horrific dreams never recurred for the rest of our term of service. ***** Throughout history, although Israel as a nation has a special place in God’s economy, Scripture informs us that she is not absolved from His judgments when she chooses to ignore Yahweh’s pronouncements and laws despite His love, grace and mercy towards her.

It is pertinent to remember that God has red lines for His created order, and He will discipline anyone, including nations, when they cross them. In fact, on several occasions, He used the prevalent world powers in the ancient world to punish Israel and Judah, and subsequently destroyed those very empires for their excessive cruelties in their conquests.

These historical pronouncements and their subsequent realisations can be found throughout the Old Testament's historical and prophetical books. We are all accountable for our thoughts, words and actions, whether they be expressed publicly or held privately.

And just interminably sitting on our hands on issues which directly impact us will not exonerate us of personal culpability in God’s eyes. In early July, as I was looking at an online photograph of Hamas’ political chief and principal negotiator, Ismail Haniyeh, a thought dropped into my mind that he would soon be assassinated.

But why Haniyeh? And why pray for him when it has been determined that he would lose his life? Immediately, the answer shot back: “He touched My eye! But he will be survived by his wife, remaining children and siblings.” (c.f., Zec 2:8). In its charter, Hamas denied Israel’s right to exist.

About Coram Deo

Coram Deo — before the face of God. This blog reflects on Scripture, world events, science, music, psychology, and the human mind — always through the lens of Christian faith. All of life is lived before the face of God.