Lord Help Us

Before we even attempt to update about the day concerning the Temple Mount, we must try to explain what has a happened a few hours ago.  How to put this into words when the shock and numbness and grief in the pit of our stomachs cannot even fathom this?

Tonight, as a family of ten (including children) were enjoying their evening Sabbath meal together, a Palestinian broke into their home and stabbed 3 people to death - during their dinner - in front of the children - who were then hid in a room by one of the women.  We will not post the pictures, it's more than one can bear.  The terrorist was shot by a neighbor - a soldier home on a short leave.  Earlier today, the terrorist posted on Facebook that the al aqsa mosque (on the Temple Mount) needed to be defended.  Hamas (a terror organization) has said the attack was heroic.  This is the kind of people Israel is dealing with.

It is past midnight, so this update will be short, but you can click on the links to read more and to keep up to date with local news.  We don't think it will get much better any time soon, as the Muslim world is in an uproar.  Apparently "1.7 billion Muslims say no to the metal detectors".....and some are calling for a third intifada.

Overall, we must say that this afternoon wasn't quite as bad as anticipated - so thank you for your prayers.  Yes - there were violent protests around the Muslim area of the Old City. But Israel's security did an excellent job at blocking off most protestors from even making it into Jerusalem.  They were turning back busloads of protestors before they could reach the city.  They also  had checkpoints set up leading to the Old City.

Thousands of Muslims from Jerusalem did protest and refused to go through the metal detectors - praying in the streets instead, and many choosing violent protests, but the Israeli security used "crowd control" methods to disperse much of the rioting.  There were 3 Palestinian deaths today, however,  during the violent protests.  Several Muslim religious leaders were detained today as they were inciting violence.  Another complicated issue was the Arab MKs (members of Knesset - Israel's governing body) showed up to encourage and stir up the protestors and to participate in the protests.

Here are a few pictures from today's protests and riots.

And a video.

Here are the links to two Israel online newspapers if you wish to find out more or keep up to date with the events happening here:

http://www.timesofisrael.com

http://www.jpost.com

Again, please continue to pray.  We need our leaders to stay strong and have courage.  We need wise and Godly decisions.  How do you deal with terror?  Do you give in to their demands when they riot and kill?  These are not easy decisions.  Lord help us.