"We Refuse to be Enemies." This is what we saw as a strong reality as we got to know the people in this family.
We spent 5 days at this piece of land in Palestine with the Nassar family- an Arab family who has been on this land since 1916 when their grand-father bought the land. They lived in caves for many years until recently...What an inspiring family - dedicated to peace in the middle of a crisis that is very real to them.
Settlements have been built up all around their land and have grown over the last 20 years. The picture above shows the village of Nahalin to the left of the blanket and everything to the right is the settlement. Israelis have tried to build roads through their property which they stopped from happening (since it is illegal). In reaction to this, the settlers uprooted 250 of the Nassar's olive trees. Their response was to replant more than were uprooted, not to react in bitterness or violence.
In spite of many challenges, and being in court for 20 years to keep their land, they continue to persevere: When their water was cut off they began digging cisterns. When they were refused permits to build, they built underground. They have installed solar panels for electricity and this is also how they heat water. They have welcomed internationals from all over the world to receive hospitality and volunteer on their land.
Daoud shared their story with us and his heart for peace and reconciliation. While we were there, they hosted 40 religious Jews and showed them around the property. This is Daoud's brother Daher who has been working on the farm full time since he as 18. Daher has a HUGE heart for peace and knowing the his neighbors on the 'other side of the wall'.
There are olive trees, grapes, figs, wheat and other vegetables to take care of in all seasons. We helped with the wheat harvest, digging a cistern and cultivating land to plant tomatoes. It was up to 95 degrees which was HOT for us, but we drank lots of water and made it through. Here's Joey loading wheat onto the tractor...
All of us slept in this tent in beds and valiantly fought off mice, lizards and large spiders. The joys of desert camping! It was a rewarding week - relationally- meeting brothers and sisters who are a living example of Christ's love for all, spiritually learning more of forgiveness and compassion and physically working hard on the land.
Please keep this family in your prayers - www.tentofnations.org
Thanks for taking the time -
Love,
Joey and Christy
1 comment:
Great example of loving your neighbor as yourself.
I understand how one would feel if something was taken from them.
It is best to work with ones neighbor.
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