Finally, after more than two dismal years, the last group of remaining 20 living Israeli hostages was released by Hamas. Relatives stood with trembling hands and filled hearts as loved ones came home. Some cried with tears of gratitude, others were silent, too overcome to speak. In Tel Aviv, people gathered in Hostages Square, watching the reunion on live screens and embracing one another. It was an era of deep feeling, as happiness and grief merged. Parents held children they believed they would never see again. Friends were reunited after assuming the worst had happened. While the nation celebrated this long-awaited return home, there was also muted grief for soldiers who did not return alive. The happiness was real, as was the grief. Most continue to await the return of their lost beloveds. The citizens of Israel now hold on to hope that peace will grow from the moment and that no family ever has to endure such pain again.

Praise GOD for the release and reunification of the Israeli hostages with their families and friends after two years of captivity. Pray for the LORD to heal them physically and psychologically from the trauma that they endured (The Holy Bible, Isaiah 57:18).

Pray for the authorities of both Israel and Hamas to adhere to the ceasefire agreements continually. Pray for the peaceful end of the war. Pray that the deceased Israeli hostages’ bodies are brought home soon (The Holy Bible, Psalm 46:9).

News Source: BBC, The Guardian

Image Source: Canva