This is a delicious Levantine staple, commonly served with pita bread as an appetiser or meze ('starter'). Here, eggplant is the star, along with other fresh and simple ingredients that should be easy to find. The traditional preparation calls for the eggplant to be baked or broiled over an open flame before peeling, giving the pulp a soft and addictively smoky taste. Enjoy this on its own, or as a creamy, smoky addition to other Middle Eastern or Mediterranean entrees.

1 large eggplant
 ½ cup lemon juice
 2 garlic cloves, minced
 ½ cup tahini
Salt to taste
Parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Olive oil
Cayenne pepper

Roast eggplant in an oven heated to 200°C/390° under the grill until the skin is charred.

Take out of the oven and place in a  plastic bag for 20 minutes, until it’s cool enough to handle.

Peel the eggplant and place the flesh in a bowl. Mash a little with a fork.

Add lemon juice, garlic cloves, salt, and tahini, and mix well while mashing with a fork.

To serve, spread on a plate and garnish with parsley, olive oil, and cayenne pepper. Goes well with pita bread or crackers.

Are you willing to bless Israel, make a difference in the lives of people, and partner with God's plan for restoration of the land of Israel?

This is a delicious Levantine staple, commonly served with pita bread as an appetiser. Here, eggplant is the star, along with other fresh and simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Baba Ghanoush (Mediterranean Eggplant Spread)

But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly in my weaknesses, so that the power of Messiah may dwell in me.

Dear friends,

A few weeks ago, Aaron* and Shula* called us and gently asked if we had seen their request for help. Their son was about to celebrate his Bar Mitzvah. A representative from the venue where the Bar Mitzvah was going to be hosted had called Aaron and said that no food would be served at the event unless he arranged the down payment. They were so surprised to find out that the manager of the venue would be so harsh. So in his despair, Aaron called us to see if we would help him again as we had helped their other son a few years before. Aaron was very embarrassed that he had to contact us again, but he did not want to disappoint his son on his happy day. Sadly, the request had simply not reached us in time.

We know Aaron and his family well. They have 5 children. Aaron suffered a severe head injury in a terror attack and lives with PTSD and memory issues as a result. Because of this, he did not remember to follow up with us until very close to his son’s Bar Mitzvah. We knew how difficult it was for them to make it financially and their daily life was a struggle, as Vision for Israel had been supporting the family for the last 8 years. 

We were happy to fill the gap and provide the funds for the Bar Mitzvah food.

We have a long list of families, like Aaron’s, who struggle with similar situations. Families turn to VFI daily for support, and many of them have special requests like this one. They may be facing an unexpected expense when they are already in a dire financial situation or have suffered from an act of terror or violence.

We feel responsible for the well-being of these families, and we build lasting connections with them. We want them to know that no matter how hopeless or dark things may seem, we are here to assist if we can. No matter what they are going through, Vision for Israel is a place of love and light for them. There is no shame, no embarrassment, and no judgment when they ask us for help. We are here to provide relief and comfort, knowing that their circumstances do not define who they are.

Our Aid to the Poor Fund exists to help families in times of crisis or special circumstances. The money for these acts of kindness comes directly from our partners. Because of this funding, we can provide more complete support for the people of Israel. 

There are always unpredictable situations in our lives, we are called to be an example for good work. All we have belongs to the Lord and therefore our responsibility is to be wise and hear the needs around us. We strive to be an uplifting and reliable force in the lives of those we help. 

Aaron and Shula had a good time celebrating the Bar Mitzvah of their second son. Our team at VFI was thrilled to be able to help, all thanks to the special funds we set aside for this kind of situation.

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. — Galatians 6:9

When you donate, we know that you stand with us in our vision. Your gifts give us strength to give them hope, and together we help them through the crises and upheavals that they face. It is because of donors like you that these miracles can occur.

Your support means so much to us! Thank you for your consideration. You may donate here.

May the Lord bless and keep you, today and every day.

Your friends,
Barry & Batya Segal

He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.

Sometimes families come to us with unique needs and requests. We aim to help them all. Learn more about Aaron and Shula’s unique story, and how we helped.

The Power of God’s Work Through You | Blog | Vision for Israel

Our team at Vision for Israel is constantly working to help others. Even in times of rest or personal time, we are constantly thinking and praying for those who need our help. We always want God’s love to be felt by all.

Our hearts are always with the people of southern Israel, not only in times of trouble but throughout the year. Vision for Israel supports the victims of terrorism and violence in various ways, including monthly financial assistance, distribution of school bags to children, and holding events for them. These events allow them to get out of the house and relax mentally and physically in a safe space.

During the increasingly common "Code Red" alerts, the residents of the south are forced to leave everything and reach a protected area within a few seconds. Failure to reach a shelter can result in injury or, God forbid, death. This kind of pressure is hard on the nervous system, and the people living in this area are in a constant state of fight or flight. Many suffer mental illness because of the constant stress and fear that they won’t be able to find shelter in time.

Thanks to our loyal friends and donors, Vision for Israel recently placed 9 mobile shelters throughout the Gaza Envelope settlements, including Okafim, Tevitot, Kibbutz Nir Am, Giv’olim, Dorot, and Gevim. Overall, a total of 30 shelters have been placed thanks to the donors of Vision for Israel, and we are planning on donating another 30 shelters as soon as we are able. All shelters are located near public spaces, parks, schools, neighbourhoods, and shopping centres so that the maximum number of people have access in case of an emergency.

Even during quiet days, the presence of the shelters close by gives locals a sense of security and peace of mind, as much as is possible in a violent zone. Being allowed to go about normal life is a rare gift for the people in these areas, and many are very grateful.

We received words of thanks from the people of the south, and we were moved and touched by the gesture. We pray that days of peace and security will come soon and that they will never need shelters again.

WHEN FIRE RAINS FROM THE SKY | Vision for Israel

We have been working hard to provide mobile bomb shelters for people in southern Israel, who face violence and destruction every day. Our work is never done.

Shelters for the South of Israel | Blog | Vision for Israel

Dear friends,

Our purpose at Vision for Israel is vast. We aim to help our neighbours in many ways and ensure that our communities have what they need. Perhaps the most significant way that we help our communities is by acting as stewards between donors and recipients. This service is key to giving. Many people feel shame when they receive charity, while others feel proud and egotistical when they give. Our job is to facilitate a shame-free, modest exchange of aid. It is in this way that we best serve God.

This idea brought about a moving story I (Batya) once heard.

Yosef's father had a neighbourhood grocery store. He would make fresh yogurt to sell, and needed dozens of glass jars to put his yogurt in. Every day a man would come around selling jars, and Yosef's father would always buy from him, always making sure to pay a fair price.

One day, Yosef saw that the seller was walking up and down the street, collecting jars and putting them in his basket. This was the same basket of jars that he would bring to Yosef’s father to buy.

Yosef was so upset when he saw this, and said to his father, "I saw him pick up jars on the street and sell them to you." Yosef’s father silenced him and said, “Quiet, not now. Don’t speak". And Yosef went on to say, "But Abba (father) he is selling you something he found on the street."

When there were no people in the grocery store, Yosef’s father said to him, “My son, do not shame a man for his actions in public. He is doing what he can to survive, and this is how he makes his income. Everything is fine. I know where the jars come from, and I gladly give him the money. Never embarrass a person in front of others.”

The Jewish principle of Matan Baseter (giving in secret) fits this story perfectly. The Sephardic Jewish philosopher, Maimonides, is famous for articulating eight distinctive levels of charitable giving. Giving anonymously occupies a high position; the second level of giving is "where the donor doesn't know to whom he gives and the recipient doesn't know from whom he receives". 

The key to true, heartfelt giving is modesty. It’s important to be humble, and give of yourself without wanting praise or attention in return; we must do good for the sake of serving God and our communities. The second, and perhaps most important part of serving others, is ensuring that those you serve don’t feel embarrassed or subordinate.

Here at Vision for Israel, we facilitate Matan Baseter for our donors and communities. We act as the conduit for double-blind giving. You, our donors, are able to give freely and modestly, while our recipients don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed of their poverty.

God loves all his people equally. When you take the time to give modestly, you participate in Matan Baseter. The Bible says: 

The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the maker of them all.

Our status in life does not matter in the eyes of God. Remember this when you perform acts of service, and help those in need. As we say at Vision for Israel, all are equal, and all deserve dignity and respect. 

To give anonymously and participate in the Matan Baseter that we administrate, we have many opportunities to do so. You may find them here. 

May the Lord bless and keep you as you serve the needy.


Your friends,
Barry & Batya Segal

When performing acts of service, it’s important to make sure we do them for the right reasons. Our status in life does not matter in the eyes of God. 

Giving for the Right Reasons | Blog | Vision for Israel

Last month, our team at Vision for Israel hosted a Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebration for young adults who have suffered from terror attacks. By throwing a party, we allowed them to celebrate this major milestone when they otherwise wouldn’t have been able to. Though they all have touching and tragic stories, one of the Bar Mitzvah boys, Ya’ir, had a story that stood out to us. He gave a speech at the President's house during the celebration. We wanted to share his story with you.

Though he is now 13, Ya’ir was injured in Sderot when he was 9. That day he went to a protected park in Sderot withhis mother and sisters. Ya'ir played with his friends in one area of the park while his sisters played in another area, and his mother sat with the other mothers. All of a sudden, a Code Red alarm sounded and all the children started running in panic. Because he was so young, Ya'ir didn't know what to do. He searched for his mother and could not find her. He began to cry, running everywhere to try and find her. Because of this, he did not have time to get into the mobile shelter. As he looked skyward, he saw the interceptions and heard the terrifying booms of the attack.

Although Ya’ir didn't suffer any physical harm, he was mentally injured. Any loud noise, like a plane in the sky or a motorcycle passing by, causes a stress reaction. He can’t shower without the door open, and can’t stay home alone because of his condition. Doctors believe that this is likely a case of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

At first, Ya'ir's mother struggled to identify Ya’ir’s condition. However, after talking with her friends and hearing that their children suffered similar conditions after rocket attacks, she decided to get help for her son.

There were times before Ya'ir was injured that his mother went for a walk with the children where there wasn't a protected area. During these walks, if a Code Red siren sounded, Ya’ir’s mother would lay her children on the ground and lie down on top of them. Ya’ir will no longer go for these walks. His sisters are similarly hesitant, though they aren’t as traumatized as Ya’ir is. Not being able to find one’s mother in a time of crisis is truly traumatic.

Though Ya’ir’s story touched our hearts, it is unfortunately not the only such story we’ve heard. Thousands of children are terrorized every day by the violence and terror that surrounds Israel. Childhood wonder and freedom are being stripped away, as these children see how brutal and terrifying the world can be. Many of them are forced to grow up faster than they should.

Our mission at Vision for Israel is to protect as many of these children as possible. We have been providing mobile bomb shelters so that more people have access to protection. We offer food and financial support to families who have experienced terrorism. We even host Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebrations annually to ensure that these children have some happiness in their young lives.

All of the work that we do is made possible by you, our friends and sponsors. Without your regular donations and generous gifts, children like Ya’ir would define their lives only by violence, terrorism, and pain. Because of you, they can receive a bit of happiness and comfort despite what has happened to them.

As we enter 2022, please consider beginning or increasing your donation to Vision for Israel. It is because of our donors that we can support so many in need. If you wish to make a donation, you may do so here. We also accept Crypto, bank transfers, and many other alternative ways to donate.  

May we be able to continue our work into this new year, and may the Lord bless and keep you.


Your friends,
Barry & Batya Segal


Ya’ir has experienced incredible pain and suffering in his young life, but we were able to give him a Bar Mitzvah celebration. This is his story.

A Miraculous Milestone: Ya’ir’s Story | Blog | Vision for Israel

A Miraculous Milestone: Ya’ir’s Story

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.”

Israel and the world have entered into this new year of 2022 continuing to battle with the world pandemic of the Coronavirus and the new variant breakouts. And yet, we hear the Lord calling us to be like a tree, looking at our deep roots and recognizing our identity through Him. The healthy roots are supporting the tree and the branches are bearing good fruit. 

Beginning on the night of January 16th, Israel will celebrate Tu BiShvat, also called Rosh HaShanah La'Ilanot, which means the ‘New Year of the Trees'. Israelis commemorate this day by focusing on planting trees. In the late 1800s, Jewish pioneers who immigrated to Israel started to plant and build the land. Later in the early 1900s, the Halutzim (pioneers) began planting Eucalyptus trees in the Hula Valley to help stop Malaria. Today, there are tree-planting events every Tu BiShvat, where over a million Israelis participate in planting new trees in the land of Israel. 

The barren land of 2000 years is now a land of planted fruitful trees and flowers. Walking in the marketplaces and grocery stores, you will see lots of fresh and dried fruit with all kinds of natural nuts.  

In the diaspora, they couldn't buy fresh fruits in this season so they celebrated Tu Bishvat by eating dried fruits. This became the symbol of the holiday now even in Israel. 

Throughout the Scriptures, man is considered as a tree planted by streams of water that bears fruit. If in the Scriptures we are likened to a healthy tree, what fruit do we give? This means that we as humans have the choice to bear fruit. The role of a tree is to provide fruit and bring life. Therefore, if we are to be like a tree, then we are called to bear fruit in the spirit that brings life represented to us in the scriptures: The symbol of a good tree who is bearing good and healthy fruits is a symbol for us to be in good spiritual place in order to bear good spiritual fruits. 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against these things there is no law.”

Trees do not eat the fruits they produce, but instead, they produce fruit and vegetables to give to humans and to animals for their daily and physical existence. The seeds of the fruits are also reproduced and fertilized, which multiply and produce even more fruit. In fact, the root of the word fruit in Hebrew (P'ri) is also the word for being fruitful: "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth..." (Gen. 1:28a).

“But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.”(Luke 8:15)

Like trees, humans have also been blessed to give of themselves to others and cause constant reproduction.

“For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams.” (Isaiah 44:3-4)

During this time at Vision for Israel, we are helping others recognize their abilities to bear fruit and equipping them with the tools they need to recover through our various therapeutic workshops. As we provide tools for their recovery, they are able to continue to bear fruit and be like a tree planted by streams of water. We are thankful for friends like you, who give of your fruits, so we are able to produce even more fruits to continue blessing those around us!

“He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.” — Psalms 1:3

Now more than ever, God is inviting us to partner with him in planting His seeds of love into the hearts of His people. We pray that for such a time as this, God will plant you in the rivers of His living water to be like a mighty oak tree of His righteousness on display for HIS splendour!

“They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendour.” — Isaiah 61:4

This Tu BiShvat let's take a deeper look into the Bible to discover what it means to be like a tree planted by streams of water that bears fruit.

Like A Tree Planted by the Waters – Tu BiShvat | Blog | Vision for Israel

Like A Tree Planted by the Waters – Tu BiShvat

“Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.” 

Dear Friends,

As we move into 2022, we enter a time of reflection. Many people use this time to plan changes in their lives. There is a lot to reflect on this year as terror, famine, and illness continue to sweep the globe. Many of us feel scared or hopeless as if we are too small and insignificant to overcome all the hardships we face.

Feeling helpless, worrying about this Goliath in our lives can pave the way for a retreat into a cycle of fear—the result of which is despair, stagnation, and inaction. As believers, we rely on God's promise to act in our lives. God is always present, giving us the strength and protection to keep going. When we feel hopeless, we must wrap ourselves in the coat of faith and ward off fear from our lives. Especially when we are in a sense of weakness and helplessness, it is time to give of ourselves to others. The strength of faith is the source of the courage we have to overcome every giant before us.

The fear of the LORD leads to life, and he who has it will abide in satisfaction; He will not be visited with evil.

The team at Vision for Israel understands the giants we face from time to time.  When we are tested, challenged, or short on funds, we press on with the hope and continue to serve the underprivileged in our communities. 

Moving forward has allowed us to grow through the most difficult of times. We are happy to say that our plan is to expand our giving in 2022. VFI plans a higher budget and our goal is to increase the assistance to help more people in the coming year, spreading more love and care.

As David faced Goliath, we face issues that are far bigger than we are. If we hope to prevail, we must depend on God to support us. Just as He gave David his courage to face the giant, your support gives us the ammunition to strike down poverty, sickness, and violence in our communities.

Be encouraged and join us in turning our fears into actions and consider becoming a monthly partner. This kind of reliable support allows us to plan for the future, and take down bigger and more pressing challenges in Israel. The more support we have, the more Goliaths we can fight—and the more action we take, the more we see God in our lives. His presence helps to eliminate our fears and gives us the push we need to keep doing our work.

Dear partners, let us stand together with greater commitment to support and strengthen Vision for Israel this year so we can accomplish much more than ever before. 

Our prayer for each of you is the same as our prayer for ourselves—that we continue to develop the courage to grow as people of great strength; fearless and bold in our faith.


May the Lord bless and keep you,
Barry & Batya Segal

This year brings new and old challenges. We depend on our faithful donors to help us carry out the work God has called us to do, with your fearless partnership.

Embracing Courage this New Year | Blog | Vision for Israel

Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits. 

Dear Friends,

As the new calendar year begins, it is natural to reflect on what has come to pass. Here at VFI, we like to take the time to look back on what we’ve done over the past 12 months, grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact by bringing relief to many more people. Our hearts are open to embracing more of those around us and expanding the work of our love and compassion. 

Our ears are tuned to this coming year with great expectations for a better year.

“...For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required...“ 

With blessings come great responsibility. As God blessed Abraham with so much wealth, He blessed him knowing Abraham was faithful to stay true and bring many to faith in God. Abraham's responsibility was to witness God’s faithfulness to him and his descendants. The same is with us. When God blesses each one of us, we in return are responsible to share what we have with those who are less fortunate. Bringing a better life to someone else does not diminish our joy, love, or wealth. The opportunity is ours to be a blessing and share it with someone who can appreciate and improve his life as a result.

It’s impossible to see the full impact you have made in other people's lives, but you can see glimpses of the distribution of love through some of the photos we are sharing here with you. It is truly a higher level of giving when one is sending love to someone he has never met or seen. Your giving is the greatest witness. Our team can share with you the amazing testimonies of so many thousands of people who are blessed by your generosity and your heart of giving.

This amazing work that you’ve facilitated, and the many lives you’ve changed and empowered, are beyond our ability to share with you in words. 

We pray you have a safe and blessed 2022.

With grateful hearts, your friends,

Batya and Barry with the VFI team 

COVID-Friendly Children’s Purim Blessing

The VFI Team Packing Food Baskets for Hungry Families

Organizing and Distributing Passover Aid for Families in Need

Laptop Donation to Bar-Mitzvah Boy Who Survived a Terror Attack

Distributing Financial Aid for Holocaust Survivors


Donations of ICU Beds for Soroka Hospital

New VFI-Funded MICU Ambulance Arrives in Israel

Giving Essential Supplies to Families in Jerusalem

Caring for Holocaust Survivors with Food, Blankets, Heaters, and Panic Buttons

Preparing for Our Annual School Bags Distribution

Providing Supplies and Support for Families

July 2021
Emergency Buttons for Holocaust Survivors and the Elderly

Distributing Thousands of Backpacks for Children in Need

Dedicating a Bloodmobile and MICU Ambulance to MDA

Financial Blessings for the High Holidays

OCTOBER  
Assembling and Donating Food Baskets for the Needy

Donation of 1,020 Pairs of Overalls from the Netherlands

Mobile Shelters to Protect the Citizens of the South from Rocket Attacks

Bar and Bat Mitzvah Celebration for Terror Survivor Children 

Dear Partners,

As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what we’ve done during 2021. Here at Vision for Israel, we appreciate this time to assess what we did this year and learn what we might do better in the coming 12 months.

We ask you, as our partners, to reflect on the past year with us and what your support for our organization has accomplished.

Three main things we did this year at Vision for Israel:


We increased assistance to families in distress and Holocaust survivors. Though we do this every year, we have expanded our support and reached more families than ever. This year, we supported families stuck in the crossfire of conflict, and families living in cities where poverty is heavy and employment rates are low. 

We responded to the emergency situation resulting from rocket fire in May of this year. Thousands of rockets rained down on the area, and we were there in the aftermath to provide support. Because of your generous donations, we provided protection for the residents of the south. Dozens of mobile shelters are now stationed on the lines of the rocket attacks in the southern region. The missiles from Gaza were aimed at innocent residents across the country and reached as far as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and thanks to you, innocent lives will be spared. We are continuing with this important project into 2022, and ongoing donations are welcome.

We continue to care for the vulnerable and elderly in the community, many of whom have been forgotten by family and government support systems. We are keeping them happy and giving them the support they need to live long, happy lives. 

These achievements are all thanks to you and your generous donations. Without your support, none of these tasks would be possible. As we continue into 2022, we want you to know that you have had an incredible impact on thousands of lives around Israel. We send our deepest gratitude, and blessings of God’s love and protection for you and your families.

May 2022 be a blessed year for all.


Your friends,

Barry, Batya, and the VFI Staff

We like to take the time to look back on what we’ve done, grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact by bringing relief to many more people. 

A Year of Incredible Blessings: Looking Back on 2021 | Blog | Vision for Israel

A Year of Incredible Blessings: Looking Back on 2021 

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”

As the year comes to a close, it’s important to remember that our job isn’t finished. There is still time to help Vision for Israel make a difference in the community.

We believe in the transformative power of Yeshua’s love, and continue to work for the good of all into 2022.

This work has no end. Some of our friends and patrons have passed on to Yeshua’s arms this year. Even though their heart of flesh is no longer beating, their actions of making an impact in the lives of others will be remembered for many years. You can have the same lasting, timeless impact.

We are so grateful for the contributions you have made this year. Would you consider making another donation to Vision for Israel before the year is over? 

Your donations contribute to:


Backpacks and school supplies for children

Medi-cycles and ambulances for underserved areas

You have the immense power to make a difference in the lives of many people. Let us all have a heart of flesh as we reach out to bless others who have less.


“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”

Bring your heart of flesh into the new year, and contribute to Vision for Israel. 


Happy New Year!

The VFI Team


As the year draws to an end, there’s still time to donate to Vision for Israel and make a difference in the lives of so many people. Will you answer God’s call?

 Start the New Year with a Heart of Flesh | Blog | Vision for Israel

Don't miss this special 'It's Supernatural' episode where Sid Roth hosts Barry and Batya!


They'll be talking about the glory God is pouring out on Israel, Batya's family origins in the land, and the constant attacks coming from the nations.


The episode airs the week of the 20th of December on different networks:

Click here for stations and airing times!

Barry and Batya are interviewed by Sid Roth in the Israel Update

Barry & Batya with Sid Roth Teaser

Don't miss this special 'It's Supernatural' episode where Sid Roth hosts Barry and Batya talking about testimonies and mobile shelters.

Barry & Batya Testimonies & Shelters | Blog | Vision for Israel

Barry & Batya Talk about Shelters with Sid Roth

Join us for this week’s reading of Parashat Vayechi as we take a deeper look into the last verses in the book of Genesis (47:28-50:26). The other passages included in this week’s reading are 1 Kings 2:1-2:12, Hebrews 11:21-22, and 1 Peter 1:3-9.

Throughout the book of Genesis, we learn about our fathers, their interesting lives, their wives and children, and their process of passing on blessings from generation to generation. We also learn that our ancestors are mere mortals, and yet they were chosen by God to be eternal legacies that impact future generations. Our ancestors have paved the way for faith in God and in showing us how to walk in step with Him. 



The Father’s Blessings and Instructions

In these last few chapters of the book of Genesis, we will discover more about the end of Jacob's life in the land of Egypt and the way he blessed each of his children and grandchildren. Here are the instructions and blessings he gave:


First, he instructed Joseph not to bury him in Egypt, but in the place where his fathers were buried (Gen. 47:29-31). 

Second, he blessed Joseph's sons, Manasseh and Ephraim (Gen. 48). 

Third, he blessed all twelve of his sons, each with a special blessing (Gen. 49:1-25). 

And his last instruction was for his sons to bury him in the cave of Machpelah (Gen. 49:29-32).

Jacob’s Request & The Blessing of Joseph’s Sons

The first instruction that Jacob gave to Joseph was: “When the time drew near for Israel to die, he called for his son Joseph and said to him, ‘If I have found favour in your eyes, put your hand under my thigh and promise that you will show me kindness and faithfulness. Do not bury me in Egypt, but when I rest with my fathers, carry me out of Egypt and bury me where they are buried.” (Gen. 47:29-30). At this point, Jacob was 147 years old, and together with his sons and their families, they were living in Egypt with Joseph for 17 years. Joseph was the second-most powerful man in the Egyptian kingdom, and yet he agreed to his father’s request and brought his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, to see their grandfather before he died.



“Now Israel’s eyes were failing because of old age, and he could hardly see. So Joseph brought his sons close to him, and his father kissed them and embraced them. Israel said to Joseph, ‘I never expected to see your face again, and now God has allowed me to see your children too.’” —Genesis 48:10-11

Jacob Blesses His Sons & Gives His Last Instruction (Genesis 49)

Picture Jacob lying in his bed about to die with all twelve of his sons by his bedside. Each of the sons was probably eager to hear what blessing they would receive from their father. Jacob blesses all twelve of his sons and then gives one last instruction for him to be buried in the cave in the field of Machpelah where Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah were buried.



When Jacob had finished giving instructions to his sons, he drew his feet up into the bed, breathed his last and was gathered to his people.” —Genesis 49:33

As soon as Jacob breathes his last breath, Joseph throws himself on his father weeping over him and kissing him. He has his father embalmed and then asks Pharaoh for permission to bury his father in Canaan. With the blessing of Pharaoh, Joseph went to Canaan to bury his father, accompanied by Pharaoh’s officials and Joseph’s family. Joseph and his brothers fulfilled their promise to their father by burying him in the cave in the field of Machpelah. 

As Joseph and the whole company return to Egypt, Joseph’s brothers are filled with fear that Joseph will try to pay them back for all the wrongs they did to him. Therefore, they lie to him and tell him that their father left one last instruction for Joseph to forgive his brothers. As Joseph sees his brothers, he graciously explains to them, “‘Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.’ And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.” (Gen. 19-21)

Joseph died at the age of one hundred and ten years, embalmed and placed in a coffin kept in Egypt.



Can you see a similarity between the life of Joseph and the life of Yeshua? They were both hated by their brothers, sold, suffered greatly, and yet became powerful men who saved many lives. Joseph provided food for the hungry and saved many lives. Yeshua fed millions, not only physical food but also spiritual food. Yeshua gave up his life to save all who would believe in him. Joseph was hidden from his brothers and they did not recognize him when they came to Egypt. Yet, Joseph knew his brothers right away, had compassion and love towards them, and even chose to forgive them for betraying him. Yeshua is hidden from the eyes of his people and betrayed by many, and yet he knows his people, loves them, forgives them, and gave up his life for them. 




As we reflect on Joseph’s life, we see the long-suffering he had to endure. He stood up before his family and expressed his interpretation of his dreams, and because of this his brothers hated him, were jealous of him, and even collaborated against him. All the hate was simply because he stood up and told them the simple truth, which may have caused them to feel that Joseph was being arrogant. How would one feel if we were in his position?  Lonely, angry, upset, ashamed, embarrassed, or maybe blaming himself? His brothers threw him into a pit to let him die, then sold him to the Egyptians. Later, he was put in prison for 12 years. Joseph was the only one who was able to interpret the dream that Pharaoh had, and because of this his life was saved and he was promoted to the second most powerful position in Egypt.

When Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt in need of food, Joseph could have taken advantage of the situation for revenge and return to them a portion of what they had done to him. But instead, Joseph was only interested in one thing… to find out about his father and if he was still alive. Then in this parashah, we learn how he was longing to get the blessings from his father. He knew that this blessing was the most important element he needed in his life, in order to pass it on to his children.

As we reflect on the lives of our ancestors, we pray that we gain a deeper understanding of the blessings and instructions our Heavenly Father is personally speaking over each one of us. God, please help us bless the way Jacob blessed his sons and grandsons, forgive the way Joseph forgave his brothers, and love the way Yeshua loves and cares for His people.


From Parashat Vayechi we learn about the way Jacob blessed his children and grandchildren before dying in Egypt, and also about the legacy of Joseph’s life.

Parashat Vayechi—Teaching Blog | Blog | Vision for Israel

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Over the last three months, our efforts have been focused on providing basic essentials and prepaid gift cards to families in need throughout the land of Israel. Here are some highlights from our recent activities.

This has been an amazing summer. We have been hard at work helping anyone and everyone that we can and spreading God’s light throughout our community. Though we know that this work has amazing effects, sometimes it really strikes us how much of an impact we can make through God and our donors and friends.

Imagine all the 275,000 children who were the recipients of VFI’s school bags over the years coming together to shout “thank you!” The sound would be tremendous. It is this reality that keeps us going.

It warms our hearts when we interact with these children and their parents. Their joy and laughter at our events bring out the children in us too, something that is rare and cherished as the years pass. Through the eyes of these children and their smiles, we can relive our own childhoods. Our ability to help them attend school and gain education is nothing but a blessing. 

In August, we donated two more vehicles to MDA (Magen David Adom): a bloodmobile, and a mobile intensive care unit ambulance (MICU). The dedication event was heartfelt and meaningful, full of sincere speeches and gratitude. So far, over 30,000 emergency responses have occurred with all the vehicles that we have donated. Saving lives and saving people is what it is all about!

“This is a day we dreamed of seeing since Vision for Israel was founded and began 27 years ago. Not only being able to save lives when needed, but to serve the community around us and all Israel. It gives us the privilege to serve, providing hope and strength in any time of need for emergency services provided by Magen David Adom. We do not just believe in miracles and visions but in their coming to fulfilment." 

Every year, the weeks before the Jewish High Holidays are especially busy for us at Vision for Israel. One of VFI’s main activities is the distribution of magnetic gift cards to low-income families, the elderly, Holocaust survivors, new immigrants, terror survivors, and lone soldiers.

Many times, a gift card means the world to them, especially in preparation for the holidays. This time of year means more expenses and more preparation for family meals and celebrations. Our magnetic gift cards help to ease financial stress and help families to celebrate the High Holidays properly. 

We held a ceremony at the Millennium Centre for 52 terror survivor students and their families. The students received scholarships to help them with their higher education. There was a moving speech and beautiful music. The latter was performed by a musician who lost both his parents in an act of terrorism.

Giving scholarships brought intense joy to many of these students, and allowed us to help to ease some of the pain and hardship that they carry. 

Protection is Here!  Mobile Bomb Shelters 

When the rockets were falling on us, we found ourselves praying for God's intervention. Our prayers—and our appeals to you, our faithful partners—have been answered. Thanks to your generous participation and faith in our work and in God, we have now ordered enough shelters and locking systems for the first stage of our goal.

We are so incredibly grateful to have received a donation of 1,020 new pairs of denim overalls from the Netherlands.

Our team at Vision for Israel donates the clothing we receive to needy families. We also give to children’s homes and at-risk children, as well as young people with unique emotional and cognitive needs. Our donors in this arena have always been so generous, and we are continually grateful. 

Hunger does not only exist during the holiday season, so we work with food donations all year long. Our wonderful volunteers have helped us pack hundreds of baskets during every donation event. We then distribute the baskets along with magnetic cards for purchasing food at the major food chains. Dozens of families come to various centres across the country to receive the assistance. We work in collaboration with the welfare departments to locate the people who need help the most. This month, our team distributed food baskets in Neve Yaakov in Jerusalem and Rishon Lezion. We see these baskets making a huge difference for some families, and all of them are so grateful to our donors for making our work possible.

It's always good when our partnerships with organizations and non-profits expand. Recently we sorted and packed lots of items to donate to charities. Among the objects were clothing and shoes, medical equipment, tools, housewares, undergarments, bedding, school bags, and more. The organizations that receive the donations address important issues in Israeli society, such as helping minorities, rescue and disaster relief, combating domestic violence, and helping school dropouts.

With the help of our partner organizations, we can reach out to more and more people in need.

As we do every year, this winter we will hold a festive event for dozens of bar and bat mitzvah boys and girls from families affected by terrorist attacks. We do this together with other organizations that represent the victims of hostilities and terrorism.

The work begins months in advance, as we plan and improve our methods. All of us are very excited and hope to hold a moving, significant, and memorable event this year for these dear children, who have endured more in the past few years than many of us have in our whole lives.

We are so grateful to our partners, donors, and friends who make all of the above possible. There are truly no words to express the great impact you can have on these communities and families. If you have not already, you can take part in all these exciting life-changing experiences by pledging monthly donations to Vision for Israel. Our work is never-ending, and every donation helps us to spread God’s love and word across Israel.

Over the past quarter, we have succeeded in helping hundreds of families and individuals in different ways. Thanks to our donors, we can continue to spread God’s love. 

Impact Report—November 2021 | Blog | Vision for Israel

We hate war.  We do not rejoice in victories.  We rejoice when a new kind of cotton is grown, and when strawberries bloom in Israel.

Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Hebrew calendar, is a day of fasting and reflection. We all have fond memories of breaking the fast with family at the end of the Day of Atonement and looking forward to celebrating Sukkot. This day is so revered that it is never postponed, even when it lands on the Shabbat. It is central to the Jewish faith.

Though the holiday has been honoured and celebrated for centuries, Yom Kippur of 1973 stands out as a painful and tragic date. This day will be talked about for decades, via stories that hold immense pain, courage, and heroism. On Shabbat, October 6, 1973, the Yom Kippur War erupted, bringing a dark memory to this otherwise blessed day. 

The war began as Egyptian and Syrian soldiers advanced to reclaim land that they had lost during the famous Six-Day war of 1967. Israel was attacked simultaneously on the northern and southern borders. The attack was ordered by the president of Egypt at the time, Anwar el-Sadat. Though he wanted to make peace with Israel, he knew that his country’s poor economy and lost land would create unfavourable peacetime conditions for the Egyptians. He decided instead to attack Israel on the holiest of days.

Because most Israeli soldiers were observing Yom Kippur with their families, there were fewer ready to fight the incoming armies. What happened next is destruction and desolation like we have never known. 

Batya shares her memories from this war: “I lived two houses from the Prime Minister's residence. Like every Yom Kippur, the streets were deserted, and there was not a single vehicle on the roads. There were no means of communication, as all the channels were off. Only the worshipers who come and go to the synagogue were seen on the streets from time to time. Everyone was weak and tired from the fast.

At noon I heard vehicles driving on the road at breakneck speed. They just kept coming. I went out on the porch to see who dared to drive on Yom Kippur and found that the drivers were personnel and government ministers who had arrived at the home of Prime Minister Golda Meir.

We knew something was wrong, so we turned on the radio to find out what was happening.“

An IDF spokesman on the radio said: "As of 2:00 PM, Egyptian and Syrian forces are attacking Sinai and the Golan Heights in the air and on land. After a series of airstrikes on our outposts and force camps, the infantry launched a ground attack. Egyptian forces crossed the Suez Canal in several places, and Syrian forces launched an armoured and infantry attack along the line in the Golan Heights. IDF forces are working against the attackers, and in both sectors there are battles in the air and on land."

The rest is history. Though its enemies tried to destroy Israel through this surprise attack, Israel gained territories that it had never intended to capture. Egypt had lost the Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza Strip, Jordan lost the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) and East Jerusalem, and Syria lost the Golan Heights. Israel’s victory came at the cost of heavy casualties, and Israelis criticized the government’s lack of preparedness. That time is now described as "a war heavy with days, and heavy with blood.”

Testimony of an Israeli pilot:

"I was on a flight over the Suez Canal. We were on a mission to stop the Egyptian forces that tried in the masses of tanks and soldiers to enter the borders of Israel. I saw from the cockpit the incomparable balance of power, hundreds of enemy army tanks and thousands of Egyptian soldiers approaching and fighting. On the Israeli side, there were very few military forces to provide protection for the borders. From above it seemed shocking. It could end in a Holocaust and the destruction of an entire state, the State of Israel. I did not believe what I saw, and I said to myself, it can not be. Where is the balance of power?

Air Force planes continued with continuous shelling and I saw the thousands of Egyptian soldiers advancing with almost no interruption and few forces of soldiers and tanks on the Israeli side.

Then I sat in the cockpit and prayed for a miracle. I am a kibbutznik, and I was educated in a non-religious kibbutz. But suddenly I see an amazing spectacle. Masses of Egyptian soldiers returning towards Egypt, tanks retreating. Some of the enemy fighters raise a white flag and surrender, and I do not understand what is happening. I'm stunned and ask myself, what's going on down there?

This scene has not been erased from my memory and I remember that later when the war was forgotten in the warriors' discourse, I heard what had happened from the testimony of the Egyptian prisoners.

Here is the story from the Egyptian side: As the Egyptians advanced toward Israel, they suddenly saw masses of Israeli soldiers. They were sure they were falling into a trap from which they wouldn’t come out alive. They did not understand where all these soldiers came from. Out of fear and anxiety they decided to surrender.

I am the pilot. I saw from above the balance of power. I knew that there is a God in heaven, that he guards us with all his angels. Thanks to his defence and intervention we were able to win the difficult and bloody war."

The formerly unbelieving pilot who gave the testimony became an observant and God-fearing believer after the miracle he saw that day.

Do not keep silent, O God!  Do not hold Your peace, And do not be still, O God!  For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; And those who hate You have lifted up their head. They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, And consulted together against Your sheltered ones. They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, That the name of Israel may be remembered no more.”  For they have consulted together with one consent; They form a confederacy against You“

Israel is surrounded by enemies. Our existence is a testimony for God’s wonders and miracles since the creation, an everlasting covenant He made with Abraham and our forefathers. Let the Lord continue to fight for us.

May we always remember times of tragedy, so that we may honor those who died and ensure that the evil of war does not repeat itself.

In 1973, Egypt and Syria made a surprise attack on Israel on Yom Kippur, the holiest of days. May we always remember this day and honor those who were lost.

A Reflection on The Yom Kippur War of 1973 | Blog | Vision for Israel

A Reflection on The Yom Kippur War of 1973

As you know, our team is constantly serving our community. Whether we are giving backpacks to children or funding medical vehicles, God’s work through you is ongoing.

The delivery of aid to families this week was particularly interesting. We took supplies and food baskets to about 50 families in downtown Jerusalem. The baskets were heavy, and there were no safe spaces to park and unload. In the end, we had to recruit willing passers-by to distribute the baskets to the waiting families. Though it was no small job, these people responded to our plea and helped us carry the baskets to the distribution point.

Families gathered their baskets, thanked us, and went home to cook their meals. However, while we were distributing we received a call from a woman. She was on our list to receive a food basket, but she had a special request. She could not take any dry food, only fresh and ready-to-eat items. This is because she was recently evicted from her home, and had taken to living in a nearby park. She had no stove to cook on, no kitchen to prepare anything in, and no hope of returning to her home. Her financial situation would prevent her from moving back in. We were able to bless her with a gift card so she could purchase food items that fit her situation.

God works in mysterious ways. This woman became a reminder from Him that every person we meet is facing a unique and personal struggle. Though we are all human, we all have different problems and issues to overcome. While we can’t pretend to understand this woman’s experience with homelessness, our heart goes out to her and her family.

This work can be difficult, but we are constantly encouraged by the fact that our service and our gifts truly mean something. Your help allowed this woman to eat and gave her a basic necessity that she had otherwise been denied. Anything we can do, any kindness we can extend, makes a difference. When we walk in God’s light and do good in His name, we make the world a better place.


We delivered food baskets to families this week and we realized the impact of acts of kindness. We must find ways to bring God’s love into everything we do.

Food Baskets for the Needy | Blog | Vision for Israel

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Dear Friends,

In today’s world, arguments and divisions are seen everywhere. They exist between believers of the same faith, people who work together, pray in the same synagogue or the same church, serve in the same army unit, attend the same school—even family members living in the same house.

Peace can be difficult to see sometimes. Though we trust in God to bring us peace, it is easy to get distracted by the pain and suffering that surrounds us. Often we lose sight of peace and instead find ourselves stuck in a place of distress.

The Lord knows our minds and hearts. He understands that to be human means that we will wander from His peace, and head into times of worry. Matt. 6:25 “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life”. Yeshua knows that His words can bring us back to His peace.

We are called to replace anxiety with prayer and thankfulness:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Messiah Yeshua.” 

“Through Him we also have gained access by faith into this grace in which we stand and boast in the hope of God’s glory. And not only that, but we also boast in suffering—knowing that suffering produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts.”

Here we see God’s promise—that our suffering has a purpose. The pain and anguish we face bring us perseverance and that same perseverance is required to have true faith in God. Our perseverance in all things will set us free, and bring us closer to Him.

While this perseverance is righteous, it sometimes feels at odds with our understanding of God’s peace. Therefore we must consider: “What does peace look like in a time of uncertainty, distrust, and insecurity; where will we find God’s peace in these dark times; and how does perseverance create peace here on earth?”

We must take an active role in our faith. We must persevere to create His peace here on earth, even when the world around us is anything but peaceful.

In Hebrew, the word for peace is “shalom,” and shalem (which has the same root letters as “shalom”) means “whole.” We are made whole when we have peace, and we have peace through faith in God, and our cooperation with His will here on earth.

For 27 years Vision for Israel worked with her partners to bring peace and wholeness to the disadvantaged and downtrodden in Israel. Those who have suffered from violence, hatred, abuse, and abject poverty.

The ongoing work also brings peace and protection from rocket attacks in highly populated areas. As we pray for spiritual peace, we are also building physical protections with mobile shelters around areas of high conflict. Each mobile concrete shelter costs $12,000. As we continue to bring comfort to many who are struggling in other areas and walks of life here in Israel, our hope is for our friends and partners to participate in whatever way they can to restore the peace that passes all understanding. 

In times like the present, when we are all being greatly tested, we must persevere against darkness and create peace in our hearts. We must bring peace to our families, friends, and community. Today, as ever, we ask that you continue your partnership with us, as we persevere toward a more just and peaceful Israel—and bring Shalom to the world.


Serving with His Shalom,

Batya & Barry

Finding peace and faith is not always easy—we must try to bring our petitions to Him. Perseverance is the key to creating peace when we only see despair.

Our Search for Peace | Blog | Vision for Israel

So beginning with the fifteenth day of the seventh month, after you have gathered the crops of the land, celebrate the festival to the Lord for seven days; 

Did you know that God commanded the Israelites to rejoice before him for seven days every single year? Today, the Jewish people still celebrate this holiday called Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or the Feast of Booths, by gathering together with family and friends to rejoice before the Lord!

This year Sukkot begins sundown on 20 September and ends sundown on 27 September. Let’s discover more about this unique and God-commanded festival by diving into the word of God! 

‘So beginning with the fifteenth day of the seventh month, after you have gathered the crops of the land, celebrate the festival to the Lord for seven days; the first day is a day of Sabbath rest, and the eighth day also is a day of Sabbath rest. On the first day you are to take branches from luxuriant trees—from palms, willows and other leafy trees—and rejoice before the Lord your God for seven days.’ (Leviticus 23:39-40)

In Leviticus, we discover that Sukkot is a time to rest and rejoice in our Heavenly Father, as we remember his faithfulness of delivering the Jewish people out of Egypt, sustaining them for 40 years in the wilderness, and bringing them into their Promised Land! Sukkot starts and ends with a Sabbath, which means no work is allowed on the first and eighth day of the Feast. On the days in between, people are free to work. However, many Israelis take these days as a holiday so they can rest and enjoy time with their family and friends.

Sukkot is also viewed from an agricultural perspective and is referred to as the Festival of Ingathering. This holiday signifies the end of the harvest season in the Land of Israel and therefore is a time to rejoice and feast on the crops gathered.

…Celebrate the Festival of Ingathering at the end of the year, when you gather in your crops from the field. (Exodus 23:16)

The word Sukkot is actually the plural form of “sukkah”, which is a booth, tabernacle, or temporary shelter covered with plants. Therefore, the name of the holiday, Sukkot, indicates that this festival has to do with building temporary shelters. It is also believed that farmers dwelt in temporary shelters during the harvest season. 

In the book of Nehemiah, we see that the Lord commanded the Israelites to build temporary shelters to live in during Sukkot.


‘They found written in the Law, which the Lord had commanded through Moses, that the Israelites were to live in temporary shelters during the festival of the seventh month and that they should proclaim this word and spread it throughout their towns and in Jerusalem: “Go out into the hill country and bring back branches from olive and wild olive trees, and from myrtles, palms and shade trees, to make temporary shelters”—as it is written. (Nehemiah 8:14-15)

Today, as you walk through the streets of Jerusalem during Sukkot, you will see a temporary dwelling called a sukkah, set up on people’s balconies, outside apartment buildings, and outside of restaurants. Many Jewish people build sukkahs to gather for meals and daily activities for the entire seven-day feast.

In the weeks leading up to Sukkot, Jewish people purchase the four species: willow branches, myrtles, etrogs, and lulav, in the market. The Jewish tradition is to wave the four species each day of the Feast.  When constructing the sukkah, it is important to leave holes or space between the branches on the roof so that the sky and the stars are still visible. This is done so the Jewish people can better understand what it felt like for their ancestors who slept under the stars in the wilderness for 40 years. There are still some that actually sleep in their sukkah for an even richer experience. 


“Live in temporary shelters for seven days: All native-born Israelites are to live in such shelters so your descendants will know that I had the Israelites live in temporary shelters when I brought them out of Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” (Leviticus 23:42-43)

This scripture in Leviticus helps us see that God invites us to remember what He did for the Jewish people. Let us take time this Sukkot to remember God’s faithfulness of delivering the Jewish people out of Egypt, sustaining them for 40 years in the wilderness, and bringing them into their Promised Land!

For us who believe that Yeshua is the Messiah, Sukkot is not only a holiday to remember the past or celebrate the present, but it is also a prophetic feast that fixes our gaze forward to our glorious future. Sukkot is a picture of the day that we will finally get to dwell and tabernacle with the God of Israel! 


“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.” (Revelation 21:3)

As you prepare to celebrate this joyous Feast of our Heavenly Father, we pray that you will take time to remember God’s faithfulness, rejoice in God’s goodness, and ready your heart for the incredible future and hope that awaits us in Yeshua! 



A Fun Adventure: This Sukkot holiday, try something new! Gather materials with family and friends to build a sukkah together. And then enjoy spending time inside the sukkah with some good food, star gazing, worship, and fun!


Sukkot is a seven-day celebration of rejoicing in the Lord! Seven days delighting in the God of Israel! Sukkot is also known as the Feast of Tabernacles.

Celebrating Sukkot With Joy! | Blog | Vision for Israel

But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 

Dear Friends,

It’s hard to believe, but we have once again arrived at Rosh Hashanah. And as you probably already know, it’s a very special time—a holy time set aside to reflect on the year past and to ground ourselves in preparation for Yom Kippur. It’s a time of renewal, and of deep reflection as we look at our relationship with God and with the people in our lives over the past year. 

Especially during the High Holidays, God is asking us to remember the poorest among us and lift them up in any way that we can.

“For there will never cease to be poor people in the land. Therefore I am commanding you, saying, ‘You must surely open your hand to your brother—to your needy and poor in your land.’”

This has never been more necessary, as our world is constantly plagued with violence, disease, and loss of faith. The poor among us have suffered more than we can know—not only undergoing a pandemic as we have—but living in poverty and with food and housing insecurity. 

When considering the poor, we must make sure that we are humble, and that we put ourselves in a place of service. In order to truly care for the poor, we must acknowledge that we are no better than they are. We are equal in the eyes of God, so we must understand that the poor are our brethren and our peers. 

Remember, Yeshua walked the earth with humility. He aligned Himself with the lowly, the poor, and the sinner. In like manner, God’s grace is found in all walks of life. 

During this time of reflection, we should also consider why we give alms. When performing acts of mercy, we remember that we do so because our Lord has been generous and merciful to us. We did nothing to earn His love and reward, yet He gives it to us unconditionally. So we also must turn to our brothers and sisters in need, and help them with mercy and generosity. No human being needs to earn the Lord’s love, and neither should they have to earn grace from their earthly peers. 

By caring for the weakest and the least fortunate among us, we infuse our communities with strength, prosperity, and hope for the future. During Rosh Hashanah, this hope and prosperity are especially fitting. We must begin this new year looking toward the future and refocusing on our walk with God. 

As you break challah and enjoy apples dipped in honey with your family this Rosh Hashanah, take time to reflect upon how you can better serve the poor and needy in your community. How can you take Yeshua’s words, and put them to work in your daily life? How can you help bring the sweetness of Rosh Hashanah to the poor? 

We invite you to give generously, as the Lord of this blessed season moves you.

Shana Tova u'Metuka,

Barry & Batya Segal

As you know, Rosh Hashanah is a very special time—a holy time set aside to reflect on the year past and to ground ourselves in preparation for Yom Kippur.

Exclaiming Joy—and Appreciation | Blog | Vision for Israel

"A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge."

During July and August, when the children were resting and recharging their batteries in preparation for the new school year, we at Vision for Israel were hard at work. Amid the summer months, we are known to distribute high-quality school bags and stationery sets to children from families in need.

And this year, we were able to reach a variety of places in the country. Among them were the southern cities that suffered from rocket attacks during Operation Guardian of the Walls —areas devastated by terrorism, and refugee centers.

The parents that we helped expressed endless gratitude, and the children were very excited about their new supplies. We were so thrilled to be with them and glad we could help.

We received a touching letter from one of the families, which we would like to share with you. The family said:


“We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping our daughter who is going into first grade with a backpack, as well as our daughter who is going into fifth grade. This is a big help for us and great kindness. May you be blessed and may God give you strength, health, and joy to continue your blessed work.”

Vision for Israel is committed to distributing high-quality school bags and stationery to kids in need. This prepares them for a successful school year.

Pack to School 2021 | Blog | Vision for Israel

And he commanded them, saying, “Thus you shall act in the fear of the LORD, faithfully and with a loyal heart. 

Dear Friends,

At this time, with all the uncertainty and instability, it is easy to feel disheartened about the separation and divisiveness we see every day. It’s so easy to fall into patterns of judgment, hostility, and anger when we see how much pain occurs in our world.

With this in mind, it’s helpful to remember that faith in God brings stability. As we begin to prepare for the coming high holidays, we see countless scriptural reminders that God always prevails. Though the world has been through uncertainty before—and certainly will go through it again—God has always walked with His people, and given reassurance through scripture.

In times like this, it can be helpful to bring the word of God to our communities, and to those in need. We all need to lean on each other, strengthen one another, and know that where one is weak the other is strong. When we learn to rely on each other and have faith in God together, we can begin to see something good on the horizon.

At Vision for Israel, we have been providing humanitarian aid and economic support for the needy, the sick, the downtrodden, and victims of terrible brutality for over 27 years. And it is this community—this service we give to one another—and our faith in God that has gotten us all through the worst of times. 

One of the great mitzvahs is, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” Banding together with others to walk in God’s word, and cyclical activity in our organization has saved us from despair on many occasions. From seasonal projects to actions to donations, we create patterns of faith that lift us up on our darkest days. We encourage you to join us on this journey.

Though it may feel as though the world is full of instability, mistrust, confusion, and division—remember that every month and every season has meaning in our lives. We may feel confused, and even scared at times, but God has a plan for all of us. As we turn to God, He creates the stability, clarity, and trust that we so desperately seek. By manifesting these traits in our lives, we are making changes in the world around us. 

Holidays are times of community and care. If you are feeling lost or helpless, we encourage you to turn to the scripture. Reflect on how you can bring God’s word to action in your life, and create stable and faith-based cycles for your days. When we focus on God’s messages of life and love, we can begin to see a brighter tomorrow. 

We call on all of you; our partners, donors, and friends to stand with us in doing so regularly and consistently. Your loyal heart through ongoing prayer and financial support makes a huge difference in the lives of so many people here in Israel.


At this time, with all the uncertainty and instability, it is easy to feel disheartened about the separation and divisiveness we see every day. 

A Loyal Heart Amid Turmoil | Blog | Vision for Israel

In March of 1988, there was a terror attack known as the Mothers' Bus Attack. Terrorists infiltrated the Egyptian border and managed to take over a bus that was transporting workers to work.

That day, Alon’s* father rode that bus as he did every day. But this time, his usual bus ride took a tragic turn. He was held hostage and was eventually murdered by the terrorists.

Alon’s father was his only parent when he died. His mother had died shortly before, after a long battle with cancer.

It seems symbolic that his father, who acted as both father and mother to his family, was killed on the Mothers’ Bus.

The hostages that did not perish said that Alon’s father was a hero, and sacrificed his life rescuing the women that were on the bus as the driver opened the doors and fled. His father was left alone to deal with the horror, and he acted nobly.

Alon’s father was far from being ready to die. He was just 39, towards the end of his doctorate studies in laser welding. Many of his co-workers said that he would be the next CEO of the company.

This and many other things didn’t happen. Alon and his brothers didn’t get to see their father advance in his career or see his children and grandchildren grow. Alon and his two brothers were very small at the time, and they lost the only remaining parent they had. They were left with no one and were put into foster care. 

The difficulties Alon faced after experiencing loss at such a young age, are exactly the same as the orphans included in the 2012 Compensation Law for Animosity Orphans. Yet he has not seen compensation through this law. 

The government was supposed to help and support the victims' orphans rather than create additional hardships. However, Alon was denied essential assistance from the state. In response, he turned to the court to seek protection under The Compensation Law for Animosity Orphans.

The state has failed to pay any sort of compensation to Alon.

Since the day of the terror attack, Alon has been living in a state of survival. The pain of losing his parents has only grown over the past 33 years. Losing both parents within six months of each other at such a young age is unbearable.

The crises that followed the attack were only made worse by the absence of his parents and lack of support. 8 years ago Alon lost the family he was building to a difficult divorce. The economic hardships that followed affect him to this day. He has suffered through layoffs, both due to Covid-19 and otherwise. 

No matter how old a person is, parental support (mental and financial) is necessary. Even when happy moments occurred in his life, he had no parents to share his joy with. He celebrated his bar mitzvah alone and has lived alone in the world since he came of age.

After filing an appeal to the authorities  7 years ago and being denied assistance, Alon had to take out loans over the years just to survive. With the Covid-19 pandemic, Alon is out of work and behind on loan payments. He cannot see his children regularly.  He has no car, and he has no ability to pay spousal support. 

We at VFI know that God would not leave his children in this situation, and we will not either. We are stepping in to help support Alon during this very difficult time. 

Alon’s battle will not bring his parents back. His tragedy of the past can become a victory of the present and the future. 

We want to be part of his victory story. Giving him the power and strength to become an overcomer.

Will you join our efforts to bring healing to a broken-hearted person?

Your monthly support will go a long way in helping people like Alon. 
Your contribution is greatly appreciated and needed.

*Name has been changed

Because of the Mothers' Bus Attack, Alon has suffered incredible tragedy and hardship in his life. Read his story here, and consider offering support.

Ongoing Tragedy for a Child of God | Blog | Vision for Israel

One who is full loathes honeycomb,
but to one who is hungry every bitter thing is sweet.

Dear Friends,

This verse really hits home as we prepare for the blessed time of Rosh Hashanah. As we begin the new year, we are challenged to reflect on the recent past, and refocus our minds and hearts on Yeshua for the year to come.

These divine words are about hunger in more ways than one. These words are about how we walk through life—about worldliness and knowing and walking with God.

They remind us of a simple fact: the truly famished man has not eaten all day long, and as a result, he is ready to eat anything. Even something which others might consider bitter is sweet to him. He will eat it, grateful for anything to help him with his hunger.

During the upcoming celebration of Rosh Hashanah, we bless each other to have a sweet year. On our tables, we have honey, dates, apples, pomegranates, and other elements to bless the coming of the New Year. All of these are symbols of the fruitfulness, sweetness, and blessings of the Lord in our lives.

Despite the challenges we are all facing in the world right now, and the worries and heavy hearts that can come with them, Rosh Hashanah reminds us to focus on sweetness, in our faith, and in our lives. 

There are many, of course, who are famished in the literal sense. With the post-Covid economic recovery interrupted by conflict, the threat of terrorism, and a welfare system that has been stretched beyond its limits—we must see this time as an opportunity to address both meanings of hunger for the hurting people of Israel.

We know God cares for the poor. In fact, the word “poor” is mentioned 198 times in the Bible, and the word “needy,” 39 times. There is a great promise for all of us who care for the impoverished. 

That’s why we’re raising money to provide gift cards to the needy people of Israel—so that they can fill their plates and stomachs—as well as their hearts, during this important season. Our goal is to assist 750 families who are falling below the poverty line. Each gift is $100. You can help by donating here: [link to donate page]. Please give as you are led to—every donation makes a difference.

Every day we remember those who are in need of encouragement, and we strive to be good ambassadors for the Lord’s faithfulness—especially during the High Holidays season. 

Blessed is he who considers the poor;
 The Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.

Through God and through prayer, we can turn life’s bitterness into sweetness. We pray that we may all remain famished for God’s love, and never stop hungering for Him.


Under His Wings,


During the blessed time of Rosh Hashanah, we are challenged to reflect on the recent past and refocus our minds and hearts on Yeshua for the year to come.

Time to Turn Bitterness to Sweet | Blog | Vision for Israel

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