January 20, 2009

Dear Friends,

The soldiers and tanks from Israel have disappeared from Gaza as quickly as they appeared. Sometimes this seems like “business as usual” in the Middle East. We pray for the “peace of Jerusalem” that will be lasting.

Unfortunately the destruction to the infrastructure and buildings of Gaza will take years to rebuild. It seems like such a waste; not just in this war, but in most wars.

One of my friends, Dr. Dee Richmond, recently flew to Jerusalem on a 10 day AIEF mission sponsored by Israel. She had written to me and asked my advice about leaving on January 7, right when the Gaza problems started. Here is what she said upon her return.

“This was an extraordinary time to visit Israel with the elections going on, not to mention the conflict in Gaza. I received a unique perspective on the realities of living in Israel. The discussions were fascinating and the people of Israel were so eager to share their hearts and opinions about the challenges that they are currently facing. I fully understand why the United States and Israel’s relationship is so important. I also enjoyed the tours immensely (baptized in the River Jordan, floated in the Dead Sea, walked the shore of Galilee, knelt where they laid our Lord, and so much more,) and I know that this trip has been life changing for me.”

Blossoming Rose has two groups leaving for Israel soon: one on February 15 and the other on February 16. Dr. Tommy Watson will lead delegations from Florida and Louisiana and then Chris Josephson and I will lead delegations from Kansas and Michigan. We will tour together in Israel and be at Tamar for several days, one of those days working at Tamar in archaeology.

The archaeology class at Tamar will take place the last week of February and the first week of March and the students will learn how to restore ancient city walls.  They will graduate on March 5 in a formal ceremony.  This is the third year that Blossoming Rose has sponsored this class. This is not only a time of learning and an experience of a life time, but we will also be having fun at Tamar for several days.

There is still room for you to join one of our group departures for Israel or fly over and meet us at the Regency Hotel, in Jerusalem. The food is some of the finest in Jerusalem and the food and fellowship at Tamar is the best!

We are still encouraging everyone who can, to support our Israel work through prayer, gifts, and going. You can contribute electronically by going to our website and following the menu: www.blossomingrose.org. Just use your credit card or our address: Box X, Cedar Springs, and MI. 49319  My personal cell phone is 616-901-4153.

Dr. DeWayne A. Coxon