"For Such A Time As This"

As I listened to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's speech a second time, I realized how difficult it would be to summarize the speech in this format. However, let me share with you the most important points and the possible reactions. 

The Israeli Prime Minister started his speech by thanking the United States for its support of Israel that amounts to billions of dollars each year. He then went on to describe the proposed Nuclear Deal with Iran as a "Bad Deal" which could lead to a "Potential Nuclear Nightmare." Continuing, Netanyahu said the proposed agreement makes two major concessions: it does not require current nuclear facilities to be destroyed and any restrictions will automatically expire in a decade. 

Toward the end of his speech, Netanyahu said, "The proposed deal does not block Iran's path to the bomb, it paves Iran's path to the bomb." He also considers unacceptable any deal that does not entirely end Iran's nuclear program.

I entitled our message today "For Such A Time As This" which is a quote from Esther 4:14. It is very interesting to note the Prime Minister's message took place on the eve of the Jewish Feast Day Purim. Esther is a young Jewish girl living exiled in Persia, current day Iran, who suddenly becomes Queen of Persia. When Mordechai, Esther's guardian and cousin, refuses to pay homage to Persia's evil leaders, a plan is developed to destroy the Jews. King Xerxes did not know Esther was Jewish. Mordechai pleads with Esther to approach the king to plead for her people saying to her, "You have come to a royal position For Such A Time As This." Esther follows his advise and her people are saved.

All of this raises some very interesting and important questions. Did the Prime Minister schedule his message intentionally on the eve of Purim? We do not know! What we do know is his message was also delivered, "For Such A Time As This" and could lead to saving Israel and its people from destruction. Netanyahu knows the immediate danger to Israel of a nuclear Iran plus the danger to the United States. The other question raised is, "Will world leaders properly react to the speech by making the necessary changes to the nuclear deal with Iran?"

We thank our Lord God for Prime Minister Netanyahu's boldness to speak out and ask for special blessings for the Netanyahu family. Let us also pray for all leaders to do everything necessary to prevent a nuclear Iran.

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank