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Sunday, March 15, 2026

Stranded or Planted - Jonathan Feldstein

Jonathan Feldstein

About Jonathan Feldstein

Jonathan Feldstein was born and educated in the U.S. and immigrated to Israel in 2004. He is married and the father of six. Throughout his life and career, he has been blessed by the calling to fellowship with Christian supporters of Israel and shares experiences of living as an Orthodox Jew in Israel. He writes a regular column for Standing With Israel at charismanews.com and other prominent web sites. He can be reached at firstpersonisrael@gmail.com.

Articles by Jonathan Feldstein

Stranded or Planted?

Jonathan FeldsteinMar 15, 2026

The opinions expressed by columnists are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Townhall.com.

This week, I had the privilege to host a powerful and very personal conversation for the “Inspiration from Zion" podcast and webinar series, which was so profound that I have to tell you about it. The program was entitled “Stranded: Christian Americans Stranded in Israel and Israeli Jews Stranded Overseas,” reflecting that, as I write, I am stranded in the United States, several thousand miles away from my home and family in Israel. Due to the war, presently, except for “rescue flights” being organized to bring Israelis home, there are no commercial flights available in or out of Israel, along with other Middle Eastern countries caught in the fire attacks from Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon. I have a ticket to return before the end of the month, but only God knows if it will actually happen. It’s interesting and perhaps the only example, ever, that in Israel, when we are at war – something that raises its ugly head too often – we are the only people who actively rush to get home, as compared to fleeing the fighting.

It was also entitled “Stranded” because my two good friends and panelists in the conversation, Pastor Jen Mallan and Rev. Dr. Tricia Miller, are stranded in Israel. Or so I thought. Early on in the conversation, Mallan corrected me that she was not stranded, but “planted.” That it was part of God’s plan to have her in Israel at this time. Miller agreed and added, based on her dissertation and book on antisemitism and the Book of Esther, they were specifically in Israel to celebrate Purim – the 2500-year-old salvation of the Jewish people in Persia. For such a time as this. This idea became one of several “bumper sticker” thoughts to come out of the conversation.

What ensued was a heartfelt, faith-centered discussion amid the escalating conflict involving Israel, the United States, and Iran’s Islamic regime. The conversation took place less than an hour after the panelists needed to take cover in a bomb shelter again, for the third time that day, due to missile threats from Iran. Through it, they expressed an unrelenting solidarity with Israel during these ongoing missile barrages from Iran and its proxies like Hezbollah.

Read all: https://townhall.com/columnists/jonathanfeldstein/2026/03/15/stranded-or-planted-n2672760

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Trump Marathon Speech Touts Record on Economy, Immigration, Stopping Wars; Democrats Target Family Economic Woes. CBN News

President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. (Jessica Koscielniak/Pool Photo via AP)

Trump Marathon Speech Touts Record on Economy, Immigration, Stopping Wars; Democrats Target Family Economic Woes

CBN NEWS

02-25-2026

More than 70 Democrats did not attend the address, and others shouted at the president from the House floor.

Trump was unafraid to highlight his controversial position on immigration, causing Democrats who were present to remain in their seats when he remarked, “If you agree with this statement, then stand up and show your support: The first duty of the government is to protect American citizens, NOT illegal aliens."

The president touted his record on the economy, saying inflation had dropped considerably since he took office.

He also defended his position on tariffs, which the Supreme Court rejected last week. With the justices in attendance, Trump was restrained in his criticism, calling the decision "very unfortunate." He indicated that he would attempt to use other laws on the books to impose the levies.

Watch CBN News Coverage of the 2026 State of the Union Address

With more talks scheduled between the U.S. and Iran, and a massive U.S. military armada on display in the region, the president said, "My preference is to solve this problem (Iran's attempt to produce nuclear weapons) through diplomacy. But I will not allow the world's number one source of terrorism to obtain nuclear weapons. We cannot let that happen."

He challenged the America First contingent within his own party, which argues that Iran is not an imminent threat to the U.S., by saying that Iran is building missiles that "will soon reach the United States of America."

The president lavished praise on the gold medal-winning U.S. Men's Hockey Team, whom he introduced during the speech.

In an emotional high point, Trump also, for the first time in any address, announced the awarding of two Congressional Medals of Honor on the same evening: Navy Chief Petty Officer Eric Slover, who was wounded as the pilot in the lead helicopter during the capture and arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro in early January, and Navy Fighter Pilot Royce Williams, now 100 years old, who conducted a secret mission in 1952 during the Korean War.

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After the presidential address, Democrats responded with a speech by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger.

She targeted Americans' struggle with family economy and the cost of living, asking, “Is the president working to make life more affordable for you and your family? Is the president working to keep Americans safe, both at home and abroad? Is the president working for you?”

She said of the Democrats who are preparing for the Mid-Term elections, “Those who are stepping up now to run will win in November, because Americans, you at home, know you can demand more and that we are working to lower costs."

She added, “We are working to keep our communities and our country safe, and we are working for you.”

Friday, February 20, 2026

"Pressing In" by Steve Martin

Pressing In

“Brothers and sisters, I do not regard myself as having taken hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Therefore, all who are mature, let’s have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that to you as well;” Philippians 3:13-15, NASB

In 2020, I published my 30th book, entitled Press On!, and wrote the following introduction,

I have written several messages that made their way into my books on the subjects of pressing on, being faithful, being strong in the Lord, and fighting the good fight.

These are the days when it will take more than giving verbal acknowledgment and just words from our mouths in our service to the King Jesus.

It will take blood, sweat, tears, heartache, and determination to press on even if others have stopped and built a home along the road, believing they are finished.

Those of us who have been called, anointed, and commissioned for the King’s service have one thing going for us – we are not alone.

The Holy Spirit, Ruach HaKodesh, has been promised by the Son Jesus Christ, Yeshua HaMashiach, to always be with us. He is our Comforter, our Director, the One Who will lead us on. He is with us along this entire journey of faith.

This book is meant to encourage you to continue seeking the Living God, the One Who left Jerusalem, Israel, and is soon to return to Jerusalem, Israel.

Be encouraged in your walk. Keep seeking the Lord above.

Let Him direct your steps always, as you hear and obey. We both will be happy we did.

So, press on, for eternity!

It is even more true today. As I receive prayer concerns from others, from family, friends, and friends-to-be, the need to maintain courage, faith, and pressing on into the plans and purposes of our Lord is ever increasing, as the day draws near. For His soon return.

Pressing on should be our norm by now. Facing each day is not meant to go it alone. Our Lord has given us His Holy Spirit, Ruach HaKodesh, to go with us, lead us, and embolden us for His eternal glory.

Today is another day to show His Hand strong on our behalf. Have courage and keep pressing in.

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin

Message #6, 2026, “Pressing In” Feb. 20, 2026, 7:00 am

For a complete catalog of my 40 books click on.

#pressing in #SteveMartin #presson #courage #Jesu #HolySpirit #RuachHaKodesh #Jerusalem #faith

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Very interesting. High school kids and teacher.

A 17-year-old tried to humiliate me yesterday. He did it in front of a full classroom of his peers.

We were in the middle of a seminar on The Grapes of Wrath, discussing the dignity of the working class and the gap between the haves and the have-nots. The energy in the room was great until a student in the front row—let’s call him Tyler—interrupted me.

"Ms. Holloway... that’s an interesting blazer," he said, his voice dripping with a performative curiosity. "What brand is that? Is it a high-end label?"

The room went dead silent. Thirty pairs of eyes moved from his designer sneakers to my vintage tweed jacket. I could see the smug look on his face; he knew exactly what he was doing.

I didn't blink. I just smiled. "Thank you for noticing, Tyler. Actually, I picked it up at the Salvation Army on Saturday. It cost me four dollars."

The silence shattered. A few students snickered. One girl in the second row made a face and whispered, "Used clothes? That’s kind of gross."

Tyler leaned back, looking satisfied. "Yeah, I don’t think I could ever do the 'hand-me-down' thing. I prefer my clothes new."

I realized then that the lesson on Steinbeck was over, and a much more important lesson had begun. I set my notes aside and leaned against my desk.

"You know," I said, looking directly at him, "it doesn’t matter if a coat comes from a luxury department store or a dusty rack at a charity shop. Once it’s in the laundry, it meets the same soap and the same water. It serves the same purpose."

I let that sink in before continuing. "The 'status' you’re all chasing? Most of those expensive labels are stitched onto fabric made in the same factories as the generic brands. You aren't paying for better quality; you’re paying for the right to feel superior to people you think are beneath you."

I told them about the treasures I’ve found while thrifting—pure silk scarves, leather boots that outlast anything in the mall, and books with histories of their own.

As I spoke, I scanned the room. I saw the kids in their $150 hoodies looking a bit uncomfortable.

But I also saw Elena in the back, who I know carefully mends the same three sweaters she wears all winter. I saw Marcus, who never buys lunch and wears shoes that are clearly a size too small because his family is struggling to keep the lights on.

They were the ones leaning in. They were the ones who finally felt like they could breathe.

Before the bell rang, I addressed the room one last time.

"Listen to me," I said, my voice quiet but firm. "Never let me hear you mock someone for having less than you. There is zero shame in being broke. There is zero shame in wearing thrifted clothes or walking because you can't afford the bus."

I made eye contact with every single one of them.

"The only real shame in this world is believing you are a better human being simply because your parents can afford a certain logo."

I know what it’s like to be on that side of the line. I’ve lived through the months of checking my bank balance before buying a gallon of milk. I’ve known the anxiety of a "Check Engine" light when there was no money to fix it.

Those years didn't ruin me; they built me. They taught me what actually matters. They gave me a sense of gratitude that a spoiled life never could.

Your worth isn't found in a price tag. It’s found in your integrity. It’s found in how you treat people who can do absolutely nothing for you.

To the parents and mentors out there: please, teach your kids about empathy. Teach them that wealth is fleeting and character is permanent.

Life is unpredictable. Things change in an instant. And one day, that secondhand jacket might be the very thing that keeps them warm—and keeps them humble.

Facebook post: “Very Interesting”

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

"Clean Heart" - message by Steve Martin, Love For His People

Tristan and Galya Hall family, Steve & Laurie Martin

Israel January 2026

"Clean Heart" - message by Steve Martin, Love For His People

Israel Photo of the Week: The camel likes me. (Steve Martin in the photo at Sea Level near the Dead Sea, Israel. November 2025)

Top photo: The Tristan and Galya Hall family, Steve and Laurie Martin (Elvis American Restaurant near Jerusalem, Israel, January 10, 2026)

Feb 3, 2026

Charlotte, North Carolina

Greetings from cold-bound and snow-bound Carolina.

With a record-setting 11"of snowfall or more during the weekend, followed by temperatures that bring out the long underwear, it tends to shut things down in this area. We are not like those up North. Or out West. Or the New England area. We are southerners.

When I sought the Lord for a word, He actually gave me two. Literally.

Feel free to seek them out, and you will be rewarded. Below please.

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin

Love For His People in Charlotte, North Carolina

P.S. My new book (click here: BACK TO JERUSALEM) is free this week for ebook download. Until midnight Feb. 5, 2026. And... you don't need a Kindle to get it. Any computer works.

Clean Heart

“Create in me a clean heart, God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10, NASB

While trying to listen to the Word of the Holy Spirit as to what to write, I heard a few words. Not being sure as to which one to focus on, I thought, “Well, let’s make this a 'mishmash' message, or 'mixed bag' as another way to put it. And so, I shall.

The first word I want to consider is contentious. Have you ever spoken something, only to have another respond and say the opposite, or negatively, as if that were their mission in life: to be contentious?

If you observe and listen to some, they seem to carry in their spirit this counteraction to anything positive, to make sure one sees the “other side”. But is that always necessary? Do we always have to point out what the “what ifs” will be, and just go with a faith response, such as, “I hope that comes true”, or “Lord, Your will be done. Show me the good in this.”

Have we become so ingrained in negativity that we can’t see the Lord’s hand in everything?

At one time, we used to hear the saying, “So heavenly-minded that they are no earthly good.” I want to offer – maybe that is not so bad after all? To imagine the way the Lord would see things from His vantage point, certainly having a higher vision which is so much more vast than ours. And then try to imitate Him.

Think about it, and yes, try it sometime. When someone offers a point of view, try to respond positively or encouragingly, and avoid negativity. Maybe your needed attitude adjustment will get adjusted. I pray it be so.

And then that word which rises up in me sometimes. Jealousy.

As I read the Scriptures about the prodigal son in Luke 15 again, I still have to agree with the older son and ask, “Why not me?” (Just being honest here.)

We read of the elder son’s response, “But he answered and said to his father, ‘Look! For so many years I have been serving you, and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you never gave me a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends; but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.” Luke 15:29-30, NASB

Of course, the father was right when he wanted to rejoice and give a party for the prodigal, repentant younger one, but I tend to agree with the elder. Or is it jealousy on my part? Would you have reacted the same way? Be honest.

I am still praying about my attitude regarding this story.

So, these are two words the Lord is working in my heart. I want to be more like Him and have a clean heart.

“Be gracious to me, God, according to Your faithfulness; according to the greatness of Your compassion, wipe out my wrongdoings. Wash me thoroughly from my guilt and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my wrongdoings, and my sin is constantly before me.” Psalm 51:1-3, NASB

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin

Message #3, 2026, “Clean Heart” Feb. 2, 2026

My latest book, #1 on an Amazon bestseller list for a period of time, was published on Jan. 22, 2026.

Back To Jerusalem Steve Martin (224 pages, 153 photos/images). Available now on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook.

In the fall of 2025, my good wife Laurie (48 years and counting) and I had the most incredible time in Jerusalem and many parts of Israel. We had come to be with Christian Friends of Israel Jerusalem, as needed.

As I sit on the back veranda of the apartment they provided for us, I watch the sun rise over the southeast as another of His glorious days begins. My heart is full of the love of Yeshua (Jesus) for this, His chosen city, His chosen Land, and His chosen people, the Jews.

We came to bring comfort to His people coming out from a heartbreaking war on the eight fronts the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were fighting, after the horrendous, murderous, home destruction day of October 7, 2023. The Israelis had been fighting for their lives, their families, their land promised to them by the Living God of Israel. We hoped to bring His love to them as Christians, standing on His Word.

God the Father did not fail them. In so many miraculous ways, He protected them, united them, and caused them to cry out to Him for His salvation.

Over 1200 Jewish civilians were lost that day. Over 1000 young men, women, and reserves have since been lost, destroyed by the enemy who seems never to go away.

“We just want peace,” is the cry of our friends’ hearts here in Jerusalem and the surrounding hills.

But, when the Messiah Yeshua returns to this very city, Jerusalem, they will know Him as their Peace King, their Shalom Most High.

As that time of His return quickly approaches, we joined with several hundred Christians, coming from the nations, to comfort, stand in support, and let the love of the Father work through us for them.

In this, my 40th book, written during my 30th trip to Israel since the late 1990s, I share some of my stories. Some of the 28 chapters are in the “present tense” because I wrote them as they occurred. You will also see over 150 photos of Israel.

Many Jews are returning to their Land now, as prophesied centuries ago by Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Yeshua Himself. Christians are going to Israel to comfort and support them in their return.

And then Jesus (Yeshua) will return as the King of kings and Lord of lords.

I desire that the Lord Himself will touch your heart, and you, too, will join Him in this glorious work, to see His salvation come to the Jews and Arabs of Israel.

Ahava and shalom,

Steve Martin, Love For His People

Jerusalem, Israel, Jan. 7, 2026

Buy now on Amazon. Hardcover $15.95, Paperback $12.95, Kindle $2.99, Audio Book $ 3.99. We are indeed grateful for your support, which we will continue to use for Steve's next trip back to Jerusalem. Contributions are welcome online by clicking here: DONATE HERE ON OUR WEBSITE.

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Contents List

Sunday, March 15, 2026