Syria, Daraa, and Israel

On Friday, Syrian forces raised the flag over the town of Daraa near the Jordon boarder as a result of their victory over Syrian rebel forces.  In a twist of irony, Daraa was the epicenter of a conflict that eventually submerged Syria into its civil war that has lasted more than seven years.  In March, 2011, a group of teenage boys were arrested after graffiti had been found sprayed on a high school wall suggesting President Assad should step aside.  This happened as the Arab Spring was sweeping around the Mediterranean Sea in areas such as Tunisia and Egypt.  The boys were treated terribly which led to protests, which led to revolts that resulted in Syria using extreme force to quench the uprising.  After seven years, some analysts suggest the war is winding down.

This past week Israel fired Patriot missiles at two Syrian drones on two different occasions, one on Wednesday and the other on Friday.  Israel also struck three Syrian military positions on Wednesday night in response to the first of the Syrian drones that invaded 6.2 miles into Israeli space.  Israel has made it clear that it will not allow the Syrian war to spread into Israel.  If Syrian President Assad shows proper restraint and remains within his limits, things may calm down soon.  However, if the Assad regime moves beyond its authority, this would lead to a greater conflict in the region. 

Let us hope and pray that we may live peaceful and Godly lives, and lives of freedom.  May the nations be open to the Divine Spirit of God. 

Come Holy Spirit and enkindle within our hearts, minds, souls, and strength the fire of your light and love.  O God, send forth your Spirit and renew the face of the earth.  A Spirit of justice, judgment, and mercy.