Welcome to Inside the Epicenter with Joel Rosenberg and Lynn Rosenberg, brought to you by the Joshua Fund. What does it mean to lead a congregation on Israel’s war-torn northern border? In this episode of Inside the Epicenter, Joel and Lynn Rosenberg take us inside Kiryat Shmona, where Pastor Israel Iluz and his Messianic community serve as a light amid relentless missile attacks and evacuation. You'll hear Pastor Israel’s powerful story—from growing up in a devout Orthodox Jewish home to finding faith in Yeshua—and how his congregation is caring for soldiers, Holocaust survivors, and neighbors under fire. Discover what it looks like to persevere, serve, and reflect God’s love in the midst of crisis, as we spotlight The Joshua Fund’s enduring partnership with these courageous believers on the front lines.

(00:02) Living as a Pastor During War
(04:29) Life in Kiryat Shmona during war
(10:16) Praying for Kiryat Shmona community
(12:21) Hope and perseverance through faith
(17:31) Questioning Religious Hypocrisy
(21:19) Praying for Israel's guidance
(24:50) Episode closing and gratitude
(25:38) A greeting in Hebrew

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Stock Media provided by DimmySad / Pond5

Bible verse of the day:
Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Prayer Request:
Pray for Pastor Israel Eluz, his family, and the Messianic congregation in Kiryat Shmona. Ask the Lord to protect them as they continue living and ministering near Israel's northern border with Lebanon, and to give them courage, strength, and wisdom to faithfully shepherd and serve their community.
Pray for the people of northern Israel who've endured war, displacement, fear, and tremendous uncertainty. Pray that this congregation will be a bright light for Jesus in Kiryat Shmona.

Related Episodes:
Raising Up Israel's Next Generation: The Story of Netivah #382
Minister Amichai Chikli - Israel’s Fight Against Iran and Hezbollah#363
Pastor Illuz’s Journey Amid Hezbollah Rockets/ A Pastor’s Battle Against Fear #362
Henri Aoun - Insights from Lebanon's Evangelical Leader #231

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