Christmas Message from Nassar Family at Tent of Nations

We Refuse To Be Enemies - Tent of Nations

Dear Friends,

Greetings from Bethlehem.

Over two thousand years ago, at the time when Jesus was born, the people of Palestine lived under occupation. Today, our situation remains painfully similar. We continue to endure hopelessness, frustration, and fear-much like the shepherds before they encountered the LIGHT. The angel of the Lord said to them: "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people." They waited for the promise, for that transformative moment that changed their lives forever.

As the prophet Isaiah reminds us: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint."

When the light pierced their deep darkness, their strength was renewed. The angel's message freed them from their fears and filled them with purpose. They acted: they went, they saw, and they shared the message of hope and peace.

As this year draws to a close, we mark 34 years of relentless legal struggle to prevent the confiscation of our family farm. Through faith and perseverance, we continue to believe that justice will prevail. We have chosen the "fourth way"-a creative, non-violent, and constructive path of resistance. Even amidst pain and adversity, we remain steadfast in transforming hopelessness and frustration into meaningful action, striving to make a lasting difference.

The Christmas message is clearer now than ever: we must open our eyes and hearts to encounter the Light. Even with hearts burdened by pain, we can still celebrate the enduring message of hope and love that Jesus brought into the world. As Ezekiel 36:26 declares: "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh."

We pray that God will renew our strength and yours for the year ahead, empowering us to persevere and to work together for justice. May we continue to be witnesses of the Light for all people.

Our journey for peace and justice endures-anchored in faith, love, and hope. This is our Sumud (steadfastness).

Blessings and Salaam,

Daoud Nassar & Family
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Volunteer at Tent of Nations

Daoud & the Nassar family are very eager to welcome volunteers to Tent of Nations.

Find out more about volunteering at Tent of Nations: https://tentofnations.com/volunteer/

We are keen to support people to travel to Tent of Nations by answering questions / linking people up to travel together where possible. If you are interested in volunteering/visiting, or already have a plan to, please let us know. If helpful, we can arrange a chat with you and/or link you up with volunteers who have recently returned.

Contact: tonfriendsuk@gmail.com.