600 Days

It’s Monday, May 27, 2024, in Tel Aviv, Israel.

We’re heading out for a walk on the beach before meeting our team from Authentic Israel for the first time.

For me, I’ll admit — I’m feeling a little anxious. We’re here, like so many others, to listen, to love, and to volunteer. But honestly, I don’t always know what to say. I’m not the best at introductions or small talk.

Exactly one year ago today, we were here. And tomorrow marks 600 days since our beautiful Jewish brothers and sisters were taken captive — some murdered, raped, burned, or tortured.

I don’t have the answers. But I do know this: we should be talking about them and praying for them every single day.

I’m reminded that our Father in Heaven has a plan far beyond what we can understand. It’s not easy — the pain, the anger, the disappointment in humanity. But I trust in Him, more and more every day.

When I heard the horrific news on October 7, 2023, I decided that very day: I would sell my tractor and return to Israel to help in any way I could. The sale didn’t happen until spring 2024, but now I know this is precisely the time we were meant to be here. And I don’t want to mess it up. I can be overwhelming at times, maybe even an overachiever — or so I’ve been told.

Our journey with Authentic Israel has been absolutely incredible. There were many tough moments as we traveled across Israel, volunteering in different places and visiting the sites of devastating tragedies. We cried together. We laughed together. And somehow, it feels like we’re not just bonded — we’re helping to heal each other.

This isn’t over. It’s a long road ahead.

This must stay on our hearts and our lips every single day:
Pray for the hostages and their families.
Pray for peace in Jerusalem.
Tell someone about them — anyone.
Travel to Israel. Experience the beauty of the people and places while volunteering.

You will fall in love, just as we have.

-Michael