Story number 1 for 9 Oct 2000

We begin today with a look at the Middle East, where tensions are still at explosive levels. Israel sealed off the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and barred Palestinians from entering Israel through the end of today, Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement. Christian Broadcasting Network’s Michael Patrick says while terrorism is a concern, there is much more at stake. “I think that terrorism has its own timetable, and I think that the Lord is guarding his people; as we pray, ministry goes on despite the conflict. What happens in the streets tends to disrupt things for a while, but the work of the Lord continues.” Patrick says that this is the time for active intercession. “Israel works as God’s prophetic time-clock. There are promises to the church, there are promises to Israel. If we watch those promises to Israel, those that have not yet been fulfilled, we can see what God is doing in the land as He prepares for His return. We need to pray for the peace in Jerusalem.”