Watchman’s Prayer Letter - June, 2026 CFI-Jerusalem

​

Watchman’s Prayer Letter June 2026 - Jewish Year 5786   When experiencing anything that runs smoothly — whether it’s a music concert, a lovely restaurant meal, or walking into a clean venue after a huge wedding party — I always wonder, “Who was responsible for this?” In Israel, there are a lot of people working behind the scenes, often to get things ready, or more often these days, to help with clean-up operations after missile impacts.   This month, I’d love to take you “behind the scenes” to meet some of the volunteers in Israel — and they’re not necessarily who you’d expect to see…

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me… to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified. They shall build up the ancient ruins; they shall raise up the former devastations; they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations. Strangers shall stand and tend your flocks; foreigners shall be your plowmen and vinedressers.” Isaiah 61:1-5 ESV

Living in Israel gives you the privilege of seeing the Scriptures come to life, even in everyday moments. Recently, this passage about comforting those who mourn in Zion has become more and more tangible. Not only because the war with Iran has allowed us to enter homes damaged and destroyed by missiles, but also because it has given us opportunities to work alongside local communities.   Even with travel becoming more difficult — whether because of cancelled flights or fear keeping people away — there is still a handful from the nations here in Israel: a remnant of believers who choose to stay. So when the opportunity to serve knocks on our door, we don’t simply open the door and invite it in. In times of devastation, there is more to be done. When you hear that knock, you leave the comfort of your own home and step into spaces where homes are no longer liveable, because you know God’s heart is for people to find a home in the Father’s house.

But the rebuilding — and the “foreigners being your plowmen” — is not what this month’s prayer letter is about. I’d love to introduce you to some of the volunteers we’ve had the pleasure of serving alongside: joyful young people who have just finished school and are preparing to join the army. Many have only heard of Christians before — and not always in a positive light — but now they are working alongside believers from many nations: “You are from so many different countries! Thank you for coming and for standing with us.”   One of the volunteer organizations we’ve had the privilege of serving alongside is the “One Heart Civilian Volunteer Organization.” It was founded by graduates of the Ein Prat Leadership Academy, one of Israel’s pre-army preparatory programs. At Ein Prat, they “aspire to help repair the world (‘Tikkun Olam’). Since its founding in 2005, One Heart has mobilized over 100,000 volunteers for emergency relief efforts across Israel and around the world. Throughout the Swords of Iron war, the organisation has played a key role in providing civilian emergency services nationwide.” Most of these young people are between 18 and 19 years old.

As you look at these faces, pray with us for:   The young people preparing to defend their country. May they know: “The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.” Psalm 46:7   Fathers and sons serving together. May they grow in relationship with one another as they serve together, just as the Father and Jesus do: “The Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner.” John 5:19   The variety of young people serving. May they, through these volunteer programs and through studying the Torah together, pursue His righteousness: “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10   The soldiers, often away from their wives and children for long stretches of time. May they know that God is with them and with their families: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Deut 31:6   The nations who come and serve. May we be sensitive to the Holy Spirit as we listen to and care for the people of Israel.

Thank You, LORD, that even in times of devastation, You call us to love because You loved us first (1 John 4:19), and to be an encouragement “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Cor 1:3-4   Blessings, Linel

Ps. To learn more about the volunteer program visit: https://ein-prat.com/programs/lev-ehad/?lang=en

prayer@cfijerusalem.org

PO Box 1813 Jerusalem 9101701 Israel Phone: 02 623 3778 CFI Jerusalem Website: Home

Love For His People Ministry was founded in 2010 by Steve & Laurie Martin. Charlotte, NC USA