Is Peace Possible between Jew and Arab?
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
By: Jo Kaplan

Messianic Soup Kitchen Serves More Than Soup

Brian, the manager of one of MJAA Israel Relief's aid centers in the heart of Tel Aviv, shared a powerful story about Muhsin*, a new volunteer at the aid center. Muhsin only recently became a Christian; he is an ex-Muslim, now on fire for the Lord—he loves Israel and has a heart to serve.

The soup kitchen at the aid center has a reputation for serving five-star quality, five-course meals. Many times, when Brian opens the doors the hungry people can push, shove, and do whatever they can to get inside to get a precious seat. It can be a little overwhelming to volunteers and workers.

Recently, Muhsin volunteered to gently try to bring some order to the chaos. One of the needy Israeli Jewish men screamed out at Muhsin, "You dirty Arab!" and accompanied this with a few other choice words that were not so pleasant.

Muhsin, after telling Brian what happened, excused himself and had a cup of coffee to calm his nerves. Here he had only tried to help and serve the Jewish people and was met with hostility.

When Brian happened upon Muhsin, he noted with concern that Muhsin’s veins had bulged around his neck. Brian knew how easily this fragile new faith could be squashed.

Brian asked Muhsin to show him this rude man. Brian approached the man with firmness and asked, “How can you say such things to this Arab volunteer, who has come to not only bless, but to serve the Jewish people and refugees?”

Remorse came over this Jewish man; he pled for forgiveness and said he was sick.

At the moment of the Jewish man’s repentance, Muhsin appeared. He extended his hand to grasp the repentant man’s hand and said, "I forgive you".

Brian was speechless. This was a miracle and testimony to all the other people standing around of the power and love of God living in us to forgive.

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Messiah forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32)

Later, Brian told Muhsin how proud he was of him. Muhsin is one of the most faithful and dedicated volunteers—his integrity unquestionable. He has five young children; his wife is still Muslim. He is not employable because of terrible health problems that cause constant pain, with pins and needles going up and down his back. However, he is always willing to work and serve with all of his heart.

Brian often pays him out of his own pocket for transportation and provides him with food and clothes for his family.

What an amazing miracle to see Muhsin, an Arab believer in Yeshua, and the Jewish man forgiving each other. At times like this, MJAA Israel Relief staff are encouraged. It is good to work for the restoration of Israel (ROI) and to see physical evidence that true shalom (peace) in the Middle East will come with the Prince of Shalom (Peace)--Yeshua.

PRAYER NEEDS: Please remember MJAA Israel Relief aid centers, Brian, his staff, volunteers, and the homeless and needy they serve. Please pray that the love of the Messiah will draw those hungry for more than food to Him. Please most especially remember Muhsin and his family—for healing and for the salvation of his family.

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*Not his real name.