Back To Jerusalem Lord - new blogspot

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A new logo and blog. Aug. 1, 2026

LOOK HERE: Www.BackToJerusalemLord.blogspot.com

Steve Martin

Fixing Our Eyes In Jesus

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Watchman’s Prayer Letter August 2026 - Jewish Year 5786

Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus “And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” (John 1:5 NKJV)   It has often been said, both of the suffering of the Jewish people, and of the need for Christians to remain strong in the face of adversity, that the darker the darkness becomes, the stronger the light will shine.  This is certainly true of our common situation today, as increasingly, Jews and Christians are joining together in support the world’s only Jewish state, even as some established churches turn against her.   As we go to press, the Jewish nation worldwide is entering its saddest day, a solemn fast, Tisha B’Av.  On this date in the Hebrew calendar, some of the worst events happened, such as the destruction of both temples, the first murderous crusade launching across Europe, and the expulsion of the Jews of England.   In England today, supposedly far more advanced and sophisticated than in 1290, just a few days prior to this solemn date, the established Church of England agreed to ‘hear’ a dangerously anti-Israel and anti-Zionist motion, Kairos II.  The majority in the house of bishops present voted in favour giving credence to a text which can only inflame tensions between communities, at a time when the UK Jewish community is already under attack.  A few bishops spoke against but then abstained.   Evoking some of the statements of the Early Roman Church in the 3rd/4th centuries AD, such as the need to separate from the Hebraic heritage of the faith, support for Kairos II puts the Church of England at odds with the Bible and the God of Israel.  The text condemns Christian Zionism (including the faith of the Puritan intercessors) as the launching pad of the restoration of the Jewish state.  It moves along a slippery slope towards deconstruction of anything mentioning Jews, Judea, Zion or Israel, within the Scriptural texts (which could ultimately lead to the erasure of the words of Jesus himself).   Some of the statements in Kairos II include inflammatory language such as the following:   “Israel is a colonial, settler, and exclusionary entity”; “Zionists do not want us to remain on our land. Their plan for us is displacement, death or submission. The genocidal war on Gaza is the continuation of the Zionist project to seize all of Palestine, emptied of its Palestinian people… This genocide has been carried out by Israel after decades of apartheid, settler colonialism, political repression and the deliberate policy of killing any possibility of a political solution”;

File:A Talit, Keffiyeh and Palestinian scraf.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

“We see creative resistance embodied in the popular Palestinian movements confronting occupation, settlement expansion, settler terrorism and apartheid…”; and, “In addressing ourselves, we say: ‘We are the sons and daughters of the first Church — descendants of the apostles and the saints of the first Christian centuries…’”.   Let us pray that the enemy has overstepped himself so severely that this will lead to exposure of this anti-biblical movement which, falsely wearing the cloak of true Christianity, is a politicised Palestinian-ism.   Last year, CFI Jerusalem published an article about Beit Lechem (Bethlehem).  From the ancient prophecy, “But you Bethlehem in the land of Judah are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, for out of you will come a ruler, who will be the shepherd of my people Israel” (Micah 5:2), through to its fulfilment with the Saviour’s birth, and right up until the present day, the ‘little town’ is a source of both great joy, and sadly great deception.   The Kairos movement began at Bethlehem Bible College (BBC).  While many well-meaning teachers and students have passed through its programmes, some are known to have had an historical grievance with Israel.  While certain individuals who have genuinely suffered loss may graciously speak lovingly and seek to progress on the path of forgiveness, others are unfortunately obsessed with dehumanising Israel.

File:BritLib Cotton Nero DiiFol183v Persecuted Jews (cropped).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Pray for truth to prevail… and act accordingly

•Thank the Lord that the land of Israel is his.  Praise him for his plans, promises and his unfailing word. (see Isaiah 40:8) [Book by the Church of England’s Faith and Order Commission available via CFI UK resources or pdf link below: https://www.cfi.org.uk/Gods-unfailing-word https://www.jcrelations.net/article/gods-unfailing-word.pdf   •Give thanks that there were those, including CFI UK’s Jacob Vince, who spoke against the Kairos II motion, with various amendments passing, and that a fair number voted against the final amended motion with others recording abstentions. (see Psalm 71:16)   •Pray that those contending in the Church of England know the right strategy going forward to encourage understanding of Israel and Jewish people in this key part of the wider and historic church.  For those favouring Israel standing in the upcoming elections for the General Synod governing body - where policy is decided upon. (see Genesis 24:40a)   •Pray for all theological deception, which in the 1930s and 40s, helped enable the Holocaust, to be fully exposed to the true God-seekers in both the Church of England and wider Anglican communion, and in Arab communities. (see Proverbs 6:16-19).   •Thank God for the strengthening of Jewish-Christian partnership in the UK and beyond.  May God turn this awful situation for the good of Israel and the nation where we reside. (see Genesis 50:20)   •Pray for the UK Jewish community as some consider making Aliyah, for all the support that they need. (see 2 Chronicles 36:23)   •Pray for provision, protection and courage for true Arab/Palestinian believers living under unjust and corrupt governance, that the Lord will reveal his word in truth, and deliver them from all evil. (see Philippians 4:19)

Thank you for joining with us in prayer to our Father in heaven, who hears and answers as we bring our petitions before him in Jesus’ name, Ruth Richmond - CFI Jerusalem   Christian Friends of Israel – Jerusalem

prayer@cfijerusalem.org

PO Box 1813 Jerusalem 9101701 Israel Phone: 02 623 3778

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

Christian Friends of Israel supporting IDF bases

Christian Friends of Israel supporting the IDF bases

There is something incredibly special about returning to visit friends. On this visit to an IDF base in the Judea/Samaria region, we had the privilege of bringing practical supplies and treats to encourage the soldiers who work tirelessly to protect the people of Israel. 

We delivered Tanach Bibles, chocolates, snacks and much-needed plates and cutlery for the kitchen, where meals are prepared for around 400 soldiers — three times every day.

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Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast - Michelle Bachman

Michelle Bachman speaks at the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast in Jerusalem.

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The Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast in Jerusalem is a Knesset initiative created to reach the Christian world on behalf of the State of Israel. Every year hundreds of influential Christians connected to Israel gather in Jerusalem for three days of prayer, worship and friendship. The event brings together government leaders, business leaders and faith leaders to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and strengthen their connection with Israel.

Beyond Jerusalem the JPB has grown into a worldwide movement.

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

BACK TO JERUSALEM - official press release

BACK TO JERUSALEM -  OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE FOR:

BACK TO JERUSALEM: FIRST THE MANY. THEN THE ONE. CHRONICLES A JOURNEY OF

FAITH, SERVICE, AND HOPE IN ISRAEL

Steve Martin shares firsthand experiences from Israel, offering a faith-centered account that highlights

compassion, biblical prophecy, and enduring hope during a pivotal moment in history.

Norm Leo, BrightKey, New York

BACK TO JERUSALEM: FIRST THE MANY. THEN THE ONE. CHRONICLES A JOURNEY OF FAITH, SERVICE, AND HOPE IN ISRAEL

Steve Martin shares firsthand experiences from Israel, offering a faith centered account that highlights compassion, biblical prophecy, and enduring hope during a pivotal moment in history.

New York, NY, July 7, 2026 — Steve Martin announces the release of Back To Jerusalem: First the many. Then the One., a Christian inspirational memoir that recounts his experiences serving alongside fellow believers in Israel during a significant period of recovery and reflection. Written during his thirtieth visit to Israel and his fortieth published book, Martin offers readers a deeply personal account of faith, service, and the enduring connection between biblical history and present day events.

In Back To Jerusalem: First the many. Then the One., Martin reflects on his time in Jerusalem with his wife, Laurie, while serving alongside Christian Friends of Israel Jerusalem. Through personal stories, vivid observations, and more than 150 photographs, the book documents encounters with people rebuilding after the devastating events that followed October 7, 2023. Blending travel memoir with biblical reflection, the narrative explores themes of compassion, restoration, and the importance of standing with those experiencing hardship.

The inspiration for the book arose from Martin's desire to document both the challenges and the hope he witnessed while ministering to individuals affected by conflict. By writing many chapters as events unfolded, he preserves the immediacy of his experiences while sharing his conviction that acts of kindness, encouragement, and faith can provide comfort during times of uncertainty. His goal is to invite readers into a journey that is both deeply personal and spiritually meaningful.

Beyond recounting his travels, the book explores the broader significance of Israel within biblical prophecy and Christian faith. Martin reflects on themes of peace, reconciliation, and God's enduring promises while encouraging readers to consider the role of compassion and service in their own lives. His observations invite thoughtful reflection on faith, history, and the shared hope for a future marked by peace and restoration.

The book is intended for Christian readers, Bible study groups, ministry leaders, and individuals interested in Israel, biblical history, and faith based travel narratives. Readers seeking a personal perspective on contemporary events through the lens of Scripture will find an engaging combination of testimony, historical reflection, and spiritual encouragement.

Steve Martin is a Christian author and the founder of Love For His People, a ministry dedicated to encouraging believers and supporting the people of Israel through faith, prayer, and service. With Back To Jerusalem: First the many. Then the One., he shares the experiences of his thirtieth journey to Israel, offering readers a heartfelt testimony of hope, compassion, and steadfast faith.

The book is now available — secure your copy here: https://a.co/d/0d99RrOc

For review copies, interview requests, or additional information, please contact:

Steve Martin

Email: loveforhispeople@gmail.com

#BacktoJerusalem #pressrelease #SteveMartin #Israel #Jerusalem

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

Jesus Christ, Yeshua HaMashiach, will return to Jerusalem.

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Enjoy that which is to come. Jesus Christ, Yeshua HaMashiach, will return to Jerusalem.

"A Closed Door? Wait for the Open One" - message by Steve Martin

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I was actually surprised at my deep reaction when the finality of it hit me.

My 14 years with an uptown Charlotte company, where I started as a “temp” in 2012, then became full time, and then repeated (4 in fact) returns to cover as they tried finding good help…was over.

When my wonderful wife Laurie and I spent three months as volunteers with Christian Friends of Israel in Jerusalem Oct. 16, 2015 - Jan. 12, 2026, I had told Charlotte Center City Partners that this was it with them. I cleaned my desk and left.

But to my surprise they called me back two weeks after my return home to Charlotte, and said they needed my help. In fact, the new CFO had saved and put back my photos on my former desk walls. Surprised indeed!

But all good things come to an end, so we are told, and the door has finally closed. They seem to have finally found good help.

Coupled with the closing this month of another place I had done accounting with for five years as a contractor, doors certainly have closed.

But as my good friend Mordecai had prophesied to me a month ago in home group, “Doors will be closing. But new ones will be opening.” (I call him the “Open Door” prophet.)

When, not if, you experience your closing of doors, know that our Faithful Lord has your back.

And be faithful where you are at until then. He wants to promote you.

“His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter the joy of your master.’ Matthew 25:31, NASB

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin

#ClosedDoor #wait #Opendoor #messagebySteveMartin #faith #Jesus #courage #ChristianFriendsofIsrael #Jerusalem #CCCP #CharlotteCenterCityPartners #Mordecai,\ #faithfulOne #faithfulservant

Worship playlist - Antioch Infernational Church in Fort Mill, South Carolina; Steve Martin from Jerusalem, Israel

Worship playlist - Antioch Infernational Church in Fort Mill, South Carolina

Steve Martin from Jerusalem, Israel

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Antioch International Church worship team over the years. Playlist.

Steve Martin worship songs playlist

Videos recorded by Steve Martin, Love For His People in Charlotte, North Carolina

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

#Worshipplaylist #AntiochInternationalChurch #FortMill #SouthCarolina #SteveMartin #Jerusalem #Israel

Christian Friends of Israel - Jerusalem. Short videos on the ground, happening now.

Christian Friends of Israel - Jerusalem. 

Short videos on the ground, happening now.

#ChristianFriendsofIsrael #Jerusalem #Shortvideos, #ontheground #happeningnow #loveforhispeople

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

Jerusalem's holiest sites remain closed in run-up to Easter - Donna Birrell, Premier Christian News

Government of Israel, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

March 23, 2026

Jerusalem’s holiest sites could remain closed for Holy Week and Easter due to security concerns over the Iran war.

The 4th-century Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Christ is believed to have been buried and risen from the dead, is closed indefinitely after shrapnel fell onto its roof. It is unclear whether it will reopen for Holy Week and Easter.

Other sacred places for Christians, Jews, and Muslims—including the Western Wall, Temple Mount, and the Garden Tomb, which some Christians also believe to be the site of the resurrection—are also closed.

Christian journalist Paul Calvert, who lives in Bethlehem, told Premier Christian News: “The Garden Tomb really relies on tourism, and it's looking like they won't have any Easter celebrations. Even during the Gaza war they have had Easter celebrations there, but it's looking like they're not going to be having any there this year. So it’s a very, very sad and difficult time for the Christian community.”

The closure of these holy sites ahead of Holy Week and Easter is significant, and many Christians fear they will be unable to attend traditional services.

Paul Calvert said a Holy Saturday service marking Orthodox Easter at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is always a highlight of the year:

“We have the traditional Easter that the West usually celebrates, then a week later we have the Orthodox Easter, and that is where you have the Holy Fire celebration. Thousands and thousands of Christians go in there with their candles, get their candles lit and they come out with the holy fire. They celebrate and rejoice and then that light is passed throughout the Orthodox world. It then comes to Bethlehem, to the Church of the Nativity. It’s a very moving experience.”

READ MORE: Jerusalem's holiest sites

#Jerusalem #holiestsites #remainclosed #Easter #DonnaBirrell #PremierChristianNews

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

Back again soon in the Land

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The week of March 9, 2026 - flying back to Israel to make more videos! Stay tuned.

#Jerusalem #Israel #travel #busride #Ridewithme #SteveMartin #LoveForHisPeople

"God Will Make A Way" - message by Steve Martin, Love For His People

God Will Make A Way

 “He who makes a way through the sea and a path through the mighty waters, Who brings out the chariot and the horse… “Do not call to mind the former things or consider things of the past. Behold, I am going to do something new; now it will spring up; will you not be aware of it?” Isaiah 43: 16-19 (part), NASB

We all have had times when we stood up against the “Red Sea” and wondered how in high heaven we would make it across. Would we ever see a way out, a financial burden removed, a relationship restored? I have. You have. God will do it because God can and does do it.

The Lord did it for Moses. He will do it for us.

I clearly remember the time, actually just a few months ago in September 2025, when the Lord had cleared the way for Laurie and me to spend three months with a great organization in Jerusalem, Christian Friends of Israel. The bank account was literally almost empty.

I had bought our plane tickets two months before, to make sure we didn’t back out, but now there were other expenses that had to be covered before takeoff. I wrote a full chapter of this in my book, Back To Jerusalem, and published it in January 2026, upon our return.

God made a way when there seemed to be no way. Ministries contributed. Families contributed. An accounting job provided funds, along with the sale of our second car.

In the March 3 devotional by Charles H. Spurgeon, Faith’s Checkbook, it is written, “the star of hope is still in the sky when the night is blackest. The Lord will not forget us and hand us over to the enemy.” (2009 Christian Arts Gifts, Inc., IL, USA)

Calling on the Name of the Lord has taught me over the years that we depend on Him for all things. He has wisdom. He has provisions. He has the way to make the way when there seems to be no way.

Ongoing miracles of Israel’s protection prove His faithfulness in the daily news. Those who know Him will also know of His love and grace revealed in their life.

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13, NASB

 This promise is not just for our initial salvation. It is ongoing.

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin, Love For His People in Charlotte, North Carolina

Message #9, 2026, “God Will Make A Way”, March 3, 2026, 3:15 pm

#GodWillMakeAWay #DonMoen #messagebySteveMartin #LoveForHisPeople #Jesus #Yeshua #Jerusalem #CharlesHSpurgeon #faith #Lord 

"Abraham Lincoln and the Holy Land" - message by Steve Martin

 

Abraham Lincoln and the Holy Land

 

“For the enemy has persecuted my soul; He has crushed my life to the ground; He has made me dwell in dark places, like those who have long been dead.”  Psalm 143:3, NASB

Well, that’s not a Bible verse anyone will put on their refrigerator!

And yet we go through those seasons when we feel exactly that – crushed, forsaken, “Where are You, Lord” times in our lives. So, then what?

Abraham Lincoln, our beloved 16^th American president, was known to have had “melancholy”—or simply depression. We can certainly understand why, amid the Civil War, his young son’s death, and his wife Martha’s health issues.

I have several books on my bookcase and have read most of them. They are not just for show.

Though he was not known as a churchgoer, he did call upon the Name of the Lord Jesus for guidance, courage, and fortitude to stand for righteousness in many political and life situations. Battered, hated, and later assassinated, he did seek the Lord in his times of depression and melancholy.

On his deathbed, it has been written that Lincoln spoke these words to his wife, Martha, as she drew near with her ear.

“A strong case can be made, based on the “Personal Reminiscences of Abraham Lincoln” (kept at the Illinois State Historical Library), a manuscript Noyes W. Miner, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Springfield, Illinois, who wrote of his conversations with Mary Todd Lincoln in 1882, and several other references, that these were Abraham Lincoln’s last words:

“We will visit the Holy Land and see those places hallowed by the footsteps of the Savior. There is no city on earth I so much desire to see as Jerusalem.”

 

These are the words that follow in the manuscript: "and with that word half spoken on his tongue, the bullet from the pistol of the assassin’s entered his brain, and the soul of the great and good President was carried by the Angels to the New Jerusalem & above.” (see here: Abraham Lincoln's Last Words)

There are at least ten fascinating facts about Lincoln and the Jews. Look here for more: Lincoln and the Jews. But that is for another day, another message.

We can all admire President Abraham Lincoln for the life he led and the courage he displayed, even as he fought spiritual and natural battles most of his life. And while I am on the subject, we can also give thanks to the Lord for the great President Donald J. Trump, who is to our country, and his ongoing support for Israel and our Jewish friends in their Land.

Lord, give us courage to also stand against the enemies that seek to destroy them, our friends, the Jews in Israel.

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin, Love For His People in Charlotte, North Carolina

Message #8, 2026, “Abraham Lincoln and the Holy Land”, Feb. 26, 2026, 11:30 am

Steve Martin's bookcase - Abraham Lincoln set

#AbrahamLincoln #HolyLand #message #SteveMartin #melancholy #depression #courage #Jerusalem #Israel, #Jesus