We finally made it through the year, obviously we had some ups and downs. We learned a number of important lessons, especially concerning our friends from across the northern border and also concerning the controversy concerning the Israeli military leadership. Many believe that Prime Minister Olmart was a bit of a disappointment as well as the Defense Minister. We also thought that there would be some sort a progress concerning the Palestinians but since they're too busy killing themselves, I guess we'll just have to wait and see. It was ironic, in a sense, that the only ones the Palestinian Authority can turn to for help from the threat of hamas is Israel. And still, the cause of all the hostilities, on both the Hamas and Hezbollah front, are the three soldiers who are still in captivity. This has become a thorn in the side of all Israelis and especially those who have sons serving the military. Let's pray for a speedy release and that the soldiers return to their families safe and healthy.

Tourism has also taken a toll because of the summer war. Why? I dunno. Why would someone cancel a tour coming in the fall and winter when the war lasted only 22 days. Don't people understand that we fight only short wars? But never the less, even with a drop of 30%, the majority of tourists that did arrive were Christian and Messianic groups, their numbers may have been smaller but they made an important statement by showing up. Just their being here showed support for the Jewish nation. So once again israel had to make a stand in front of Islamic fanaticism and in many ways . . . . . alone. No matter what the Israelis do - they always seem to be at fault. The modern world still has not seen the signs coming from the Moslem world. But there are those who still believe in God and the prophesies. So i end this year's message with this passage from Isaiah 60 . . . . .

"Arise, shine: For the Light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For beyond, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and his glory will be seen upon you. Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising."

Happy New Year and God Bless,

Ronnie Cohen