12 lasagna leaves
 2-3 tbsps. olive oil
 2 zucchinis, sliced thin
 2 cups spinach, lightly sautéed
 2 cups grated carrots
 1 cup green or red pepper, cut into squares
 2 onions, chopped and lightly sautéed
 4 garlic cloves, minced
 5 tomatoes, sliced and roasted in the oven
 1 can crushed tomatoes
 2 tbsps. agave syrup
 Oregano
 Thyme
 Black pepper
 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced
 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
 3/4 cup any hard cheese, grated

Directions:
 1. Cook crushed tomatoes with agave syrup, herbs, and black pepper.
 2. In a baking dish, layer lasagna sheets, vegetables, tomato sauce and cheese. Repeat, ending with a layer of lasagna sheets topped with tomato sauce and cheese.
 3. Cover with foil and bake 1 hour at 180°C/ 350°F. Remove foil and bake an additional hour at 150°C/300°F.

Now you can experience the authentic flavors of Israel and the surrounding region with Batya Segal's personal favorite recipes. A long-time lover of fresh, delicious, and easy-to-execute meals, Batya's recipes will bring the aromas of Israel into your kitchen for the whole family to enjoy. Yours free as a thank you for supoorting our life changing work in Israel.

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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 hearty vegetable lasagna is packed full of flavor from zucchini, spinach, peppers, and carrots and it is easy to make and is the perfect comfort food. 

Vegetable Lasagna | Blog | Vision for Israel

If only you would listen to God’s voice this day, and not become hard-hearted like the people at Merivah, like that time at Massah – in the desert, when your ancestors tried Me; and tested Me, though they had seen what I wrought.

Sh’lach-Lecha (“Send away”) is the 37th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading and covers Numbers 13:1-15:41. The title is taken from the first word of the imperative that appears at the beginning of the parashah in verse 2 when God says to Moses: “Sh’lach-lecha” / Send away.”

“And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the children of Israel; from each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a leader among them.” — Numbers 13:1-2

Every so often, the content from the weekly Torah portion, as well as the liturgical contents of the synagogue service, not to mention the teachings of the New Testament intersect. Every Friday evening before sunset, synagogues conduct a special liturgical service to welcome the Sabbath called Kabbalat Shabbat, lit. the Welcoming of the Sabbath. The service is joyful and musical in nature, as the congregants progress through melodic renditions of Psalms 92-100 which begin with the introduction, “mizmor shir l’yom ha’Shabbat – A psalm, a song; for the Sabbath day” (Ps. 92:1).

The service actually begins with Psalm 95 before making its way back around to chapter 92 by the end of the service. Psalms 95:1 encapsulates the grandeur of the evening: “Come, let us sing joyously to the LORD, raise a shout for the rock of our salvation!” The prayer continues, and although it is sung with adulation, it concludes with a warning and reminder of the suffering that ensued for Israel in the wilderness:

For forty years I was troubled by that generation, and I said, “These are a people whose hearts have gone astray, they do not know My way,” so, in anger, I swore that they would not enter My rest. (Ps. 95:8-11)

The context of verses 10-11 is established in this week’s Torah portion, Parshat Sh’lach-Lecha. Numbers chapters 13-14 recount the story of the twelve spies who were sent by Moses to reconnoiter the Promised Land on behalf of the Israelites. According to the narrative, twelve of the truly great leaders of the nation, one from each tribe, went to survey the Land – and came back with a report that demoralized the people and caused them to lose faith in their ability to occupy their God-given inheritance. As a result, the entire generation was condemned to death in the Wilderness and Israel’s entry into the Land was delayed for almost forty years.

In synagogues around the world, as Jews gather to hear this story read publicly in the ceremonial reading of the Torah on Shabbat morning, they are also reminded of the harrowing consequences the incident of the Twelve Spies has played throughout Jewish history. According to Rabbinic tradition, the Israelite’s refusal to enter the Promised Land occurred on Tisha b’Av, a day on the biblical calendar that would later become the anniversary of the destruction of both the First and Second Temple, as well as later tragedies that would befall the Jewish community until the present day.

In Psalm 95, the psalmist describes the people’s failure to enter the land metaphorically as their refusal to enter God’s “rest.” This description presents many questions, among them: What was Israel’s true destination in the Wilderness? And from where did the psalmist derive his parallel association of the Holy Land and rest?

In Numbers 10:33, we read that at the start of their departure from Mount Sinai, the Ark of the LORD went before the people on a three-day journey to “seek for them a resting place.” When we read this passage in context, we find that perhaps the most incredible aspect of the wilderness journey was that God was already traveling ahead of the people seeking menucha (a resting place). The word menucha, “rest” more accurately means comfort. In fact, in Jewish tradition one of the names of the Messiah to come is Menachem, which means ‘comforter’ – ‘the provider of rest.’

Psalm 95 describes the pinnacle of the journey from God’s perspective in the first person, “menuchati – My rest.” When we consider the narrative of the Twelve Spies in light of the journey’s beginning in Numbers 10, we begin to understand the people’s folly. The Hebrew word for searching is latur (to search/tour). Ironically, both the description of God going before the nation to find rest and the spies’ reconnaissance of the Promised Land are classified by the same word (Num. 10:33 to Num. 13:17). In essence, God was already “touring” ahead of the people to find the resting place so that He could gather and comfort His people quickly. Ultimately, the grievous sin in Parshat Shelach stems from a lack of faith i.e., trust in God. The people did not trust in the work that God had already done for them, and in determining to ‘latur’ for themselves, they became overwhelmed by what they saw with their own eyes (Num. 13:33).

At the beginning of Numbers 14, we read that the people lamented all that night over the spies’ report and plotted ways to subvert Moses and return to Egypt. Sadly, the next day when the people realized that they had made a mistake, they wanted to reenter the Promised Land and fight the Amalekites and the Canaanites. But it was too late. God did not go with them. And many Israelite men fell at the sword. Hence, in the parallel account of Psalm 95, the psalmist urges his audience, “hayom, im b’kolo tishma'u – Today, if you hear God’s voice...”.

The dichotomy between these two parallel accounts is emphasized in the words ‘day’ and ‘night’. Just as the Torah says that the people cried all that night, they did so because they refused to hear the voice of God when He was present in the day. The details of this subtle contrast are not to be overlooked. In Jewish thought, day and night are prophetic illustrations of redemption and exile. Night represents the darkness Israel suffers in severance from God while day represents the light enjoyed by being in proximity to God’s countenance. When the story of the Twelve Spies is taken as the catalyst of Jewish exile – the forerunner of the many disasters that befell Israel on Tisha b’Av, the poetic contrast makes sense: The ultimate redemption that finally sees Israel and humanity reconciled to God can be described altogether as Day!

In the New Testament, the writer of Hebrews makes an object lesson of this parallel and quotes the passage in Psalm 95 to expound on the lessons found in Parashat Shelach. In his rich midrashic interpretation, the apostle manages to tie all these elements together to illustrate the idea of God’s redemptive work through the theme of Shabbat:

God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted:

For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day.

There remains [then] a Sabbath rest for God’s people; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. (Hebrews 4:7-11)

For the sake of brevity, we have only included these verses to illustrate the topic. But please take the time to investigate the entirety of Hebrews chapters 3-4 for the full effect. For example, in Hebrews 3:12-19, the author admonishes his audience to avoid the sin of an unbelieving heart, referring to the generation that perished in the wilderness. Furthermore, he frequently quotes Psalm 95 directly as the source text for his argument and makes use of the psalm’s imagery in saying, “So long as it is called Today [hayom], encourage one another every day so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness (v. 13).” The apostle’s argument is masterful and brilliant and enunciates the fact that Shabbat is not merely a weekly occurrence, but a foretaste of something much greater.

In Hebrews chapter 3, The writer compares entering the Promised land to entering faith in Messiah. We could say that both Messiah and the entrance into the land came as the culmination of the covenant promises. Both Messiah and the entrance into the Promised Land require faith and obedience. Thus, the writer begins his discourse by pointing out that the first and most obvious lesson in Parshat Shelach is that falling short of God’s rest is the result of unbelief (Hebrews 3:19). Furthermore, the rest to which Hebrews refers to is the same rest described in Numbers 10 and Psalm 95. With that in mind, the author presents a profound observation of God’s work at creation:
Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has declared, “So I declared on oath in my anger, ‘They shall never enter my rest.'”And yet his works have been finished since the creation of the world! (Hebrews 4:3)


Just as Numbers 10 describes the Ark of God going before the nation to find a resting place, the writer of Hebrews describes God’s work as having been finished since the creation. This can be a puzzling statement if little thought is given, but it comes to life when we consider the source text forming the crux of his argument.


When the psalmist alludes to God’s rest, there is only one ‘rest’ belonging to God mentioned in Scripture – His rest at Creation. Thus, the apostle recounts the Creation narrative and points out that according to the simple meaning of the text - the rest that the people were supposed to enter - really began on the first Sabbath after the six days of God creating the Universe; and since God did not resume creating after His rest on the eighth day, His eternal Shabbat is still waiting for all those who choose to listen to His voice, so long as it is called ‘today.’


In a similar vein, the Prophet Isaiah says: 

“Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon". (Isa. 55:6-7)

This Friday evening, as our people sing the words of Psalm 95 in synagogues around the world, let us also join them in considering the lessons of this week’s Torah portion, determining to remove the barriers in our own hearts that prevent us from truly and fully entering God’s comfort.

Shabbat Shalom

Parashat Shelach is not just a story of fear and its dire consequences to the people of Israel but of how choosing to trust brings about God's promises.

Parashat Sh׳lach Lecha | Blog | Vision for Israel

Parashat Sh׳lach Lecha: Choosing the Good Report

Woman's day is the perfect opportunity to shine the limelight on the world's brave, strong, and loving women. 

Unfortunately, many people, living normal lives find themselves stricken by a sudden and unexpected terror that forever changes their lives.

The journey to recovery is long and arduous, and many times the victims are left without defense or support.

We at Vision for Israel have not forgotten such women.

In honor of Women's Day, we were privileged to sponsor 200 women, members of the Organization of Victims of Hostilities, for an empowering day of pampering dedicated solely to them.

Upon arrival, the women enjoyed a wide variety of light refreshments, and then, without further ado, the pampering began!

The women sat back and relaxed as professional make-up artists, hair stylists, and pedicurists made them feel brand new. Then they allowed their bodies some much-needed rest as we spoiled them some more with a relaxing shiatsu session and reflexology treatments.

For many, it takes months to make the time for one hair appointment, let alone all the pampering treatments Vision for Israel was honored to provide. 

After being greeted by Barry and representatives from the Organization of Victims of Hostilities, Shira Isakov took center stage as she shared her heroic story of survival.

Shira's ex-husband violently attacked her in an attempt to murder her right in front of their young son.  Although Shira was severely injured, she miraculously survived to tell her story.

Understandably, many women affected by domestic violence never share their stories of survival, but Shira mustered up the courage and publicized her case. Since then, she has become a strong symbol and inspiring role model in the fight to prevent violence against women.

As a public figure, she uses her influence to work with women affected by violence and continues to encourage many to leave abusive situations and seek help.

The women then enjoyed a rich meal together, and to top it off, all laughed to their heart's content as they watched a live comedy show by the talented comedian Tzipi Shavit. The memories that often plague survivors of terror can leave them weary, afraid and lonely, but the comedy show provided pockets of joy and liberation from the burdens they carry.

At the end of the self-care day, each woman received a special surprise from us -- a gift basket packed with skin care creams.

Following the self-care day, the Organization of Victims of Hostilities received heartwarming responses from the women.

They wrote to us, saying: “The event was successful and impressive. The women of the organization waited through the COVID period for such an event. Especially these days, when a wave of terror strikes us again, such an event is extremely vital. We received a lot of positive and encouraging responses.“

We honor the brave women who, despite terrible crimes of violence, rise up to live another day with dignity. 

Vision for Israel stands in support of all women who are victims of hostilities and pray we can remind them how worthy they are through our words and actions.

In honor of Women's Day, VFI sponsored 200 women, of the Organization of Victims of Hostilities, for an empowering day of pampering dedicated solely to them.

A Pampering and Empowering Women’s Day Event for Victims of Hostilities | Blog | Vision for Israel

A Pampering and Empowering Women’s Day Event for Victims of Hostilities

If there is anything that we at Vision for Israel love to do, it's to use our gift of hospitality to welcome people from all walks of life to enjoy special events at the Millenium Center.

We believe that part of our calling is to open our doors to the public and ensure that all who enter through them receive the best VIP treatment one could imagine.

As we reflect on our many visitors, we can't think of many more worthy of serving than the Holocaust survivors of Israel.

Recently, we had the honor of hosting an exciting event for 50 Hebrew and Russian-speaking Holocaust survivors who are members of the Cafe Europa social club from the city of Arad.

We wanted our time with them to be as full of joy as possible - so we decided that the group would enjoy a fun and relaxing musical morning.

We opened the morning with public singing and dancing, hosted by three talented musicians who combined musical instruments and gypsy music. They even switched it up and entertained everyone as they sang in five different languages -- Greek, English, Hebrew, Spanish, and Yiddish.

As all enjoyed the musical melodies with smiles spread wide across their faces, they snacked on savory pastries, and dips, and enjoyed hot and cold drinks. 

Barry and Batya were privileged to meet the Holocaust survivors face to face and greet them; they also had the opportunity to share with the group a little bit about themselves and how Vision for Israel will continue to support the thousands of Holocaust survivors still living in Israel today.

It's always important for us to connect with the people we are serving, as oftentimes, they find themselves on the sidelines of society -- invisible and ignored. Shaking their hands and looking into their eyes as they greet us are moments that will stay with them (and us) long after they leave.

The group was then seated around tables for a delicious and filling lunch of stuffed vegetables, meat skewers, chicken and salmon, green salad, green beans, beet carpaccio, and individual desserts.

After that, one of the Holocaust survivors came up to sing, which encouraged the rest of the group to join in the singing as well. They even got up to dance as the room filled with laughter and joy!

It is no surprise that everyone enjoyed the musical morning as much as they did, as part of the group are members of the Desert Sounds ensemble, a famous and popular musical group that performs around Israel.

Later, we discovered through the coordinator of the south branch that this was the first event the survivors attended since the Covid pandemic started and that they were very excited and happy to be there.

Knowing we provided them with their first outing after a long and challenging period warmed our hearts to the core. We will always make it a priority to bless the remaining Holocaust survivors in Israel and remind them, through events such as this, just how grateful we are for their bravery and courage. 

Since the pandemic began, many Holocaust survivors haven’t socialized. We hosted 50 survivors to enjoy a musical morning full of joy, dancing and laughter.

Musical Breakfast & Lunch for Holocaust Survivors From Arad | Blog | Vision for Israel

Musical Breakfast & Lunch for Holocaust Survivors From Arad

“But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet.”  

Dear friends,

Terror and violence are happening in Israel right now. So many innocent people are being terrorized and killed for things that are not their fault. Many of us feel helpless in the face of such tragedy, but it’s important for us to try to help anyway. What are we doing if we do not defend the souls of innocent people? 

Terrorist attempts take place in Israel almost every day. Even though most of them fail, it is not published in the news and most of us live in a constant state of fear. We are at war for our very existence and survival as a people. Because of this, what happened in Elad recently was not a surprise, though we are devastated at what occurred.

In a ruthless, bloody terrorist attack in Elad, Yonatan, the father of five children, Oren, father of six children, and Boaz father of five children died. Sixteen children became orphans that night. None of them deserve to go through this life without parents, but it’s a reality that they must face now.

This war is not the children’s fight. It is happening because of extreme Islamic groups such as Hamas. Hamas leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, called for attacks with firearms or an ax, saying, "Our people in the Negev, the Triangle, the Galilee, Haifa, Jaffa, Acre, Jaffa, and Lod - everyone will make their own rifle. And whoever does not have a rifle - will make a knife or an ax. This is a religious war.” We are once again fighting for the freedom to serve God and live our lives safely and openly.

These last few months, Israel has been preparing to defend herself from enemies in the north and south. Thousands of rockets are ready to be launched by hostile countries. Their only goal is to hit as many civilians in Israel as possible.

For many of us, our instinct is to pray like never before, and we should. However, we should react practically as well. Vision for Israel is uniquely positioned to do that. We plan to prepare for emergencies for the citizens of Israel, without distinction of religion. To date, close to 100 mobile shelters have been installed throughout the southern region. These will provide protection for innocent civilians living in conflict zones and allow them to reach a protected place on short notice.

We all have the responsibility to do whatever we can to help save the lives of people in case of war, terror, and devastation. Please help us save the lives of innocent children and civilians by donating here. Time is of the essence; people are dying every day from this violence.

We will continue to do God’s work, even when evil surrounds us.


May the Lord bless and keep you during this time,

Barry, Batya, and the VFI team

“Violence shall no longer be heard in your land, neither wasting nor destruction within your borders; But you shall call your walls Salvation, And your gates Praise.” 

Violence has been constant in Israel, and we are working hard to protect civilians and innocent children. We need your help to provide shelters.

Israel is Under Attack | Blog | Vision for Israel

We care a lot for Holocaust survivors. As the 'invisible' people of society, we know how important it is to go the extra mile and show them how appreciative we are of them -- not just in words, but in actions!

On a beautiful spring morning, in the midst of two national holidays (Jerusalem Day and Shavuot), 45 Holocaust survivors traveled from Be'er Sheva to the Millennium Center in Modi'in for a day of fun and appreciation.

As they came off the bus and entered the Millennium Center, we made sure to give them a grand entrance for royalty!

The tunes of happy and upbeat rhythmic Hebrew songs, led by Shalom Har-Even, played in the background, as they were met with a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.

The tables were filled with delicious refreshments: fresh bread, savory dips, healthy vegetables, crispy and sweet pastries, soft drinks, and hot drinks. As they enjoyed these treats, they socialized together as many of them, being elderly, are often alone and without company.

As the party went on, Shalom, the host, sang and played Hebrew songs on the accordion and even dedicated a special song in honor of Jerusalem Day.

With such great joy in the atmosphere, the survivors got up from their tables and broke out in a youthful dance session. They even formed a conga line and danced all around the lobby, with Barry and Batya sharing in this precious moment.

Our hearts swelled at the sight of the joy, smiles, and laughter in the eyes of the survivors, who still suffer from poverty as they do not receive the financial aid that allow them to live in dignity in their remaining years. For them, every opportunity to join a social gathering outside of their house is like a breath of life to a difficult and harsh reality.

At Vision for Israel, we make sure we do not neglect the elderly, especially those who sacrifice so much to make Israel the great country that it is today. It was Barry and Batya's privilege to greet each one individually and spend time singing and dancing with them.

After all the dancing around, they sat down and shared a wonderful lunch till their bellies (and hearts) were full and content.

Before the day was over, we gathered together for one last bit of fun -- a flower weaving workshop.

Each one made a round bouquet of flowers in a mug, led by the florist Yael Elbaum-Shane, who accompanied them and patiently explained the process step by step.

As we didn't want to let them go home empty-handed, each one got to keep their colorful bouquet and mug to remind them of their time with Vision for Israel.

We hope that every time they see their bouquet or drink from their mug, they will feel the love, acceptance, and care that we have for them and know in their hearts that they are cherished. 

Holocaust survivors are 'invisible' people of society. That's why we should show them how appreciative we are of them -- not just in words, but in actions.

A Fun Day for Holocaust Survivors From Be’er Sheva | Blog | Vision for Israel

A Fun Day for Holocaust Survivors From Be’er Sheva

“Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God."  

Dear Friends,

During the Feast of Shavu’ot, we customarily read the story of Ruth. This is an important story. This book of the Bible not only talks about faithfulness to one another in times of hardship but also the faithfulness of God in all situations. 

In the story, Naomi and Elimelech leave their homeland due to famine. Elimelech dies shortly after they arrive in Moab, and Naomi is left with her two sons in the land of the Moab. Though the sons marry two beautiful women, the men die and Naomi is alone with her daughters-in-law in a land that is foreign to her. She urges them to go back to their families and remarry, but one of them, Ruth, refuses. Out of love for her mother-in-law, she follows Naomi to Bethlehem to live with the people of Israel. 

Though Ruth does not know Naomi’s people, she stays true to her covenant with God and her late husband and stays with her mother-in-law. During a time of uncertainty and fear, Ruth remains steadfast in her faith and her love for her family and does something that likely scared her. This story is often potent for those who become Jewish by choice, not by birth.

It is no secret that it takes a village to make VFI’s work possible. Our extensive areas of service, donations, and events would not be possible without our faithful partners, volunteers, and friends. Just as Ruth walked with Naomi, we often walk by faith when others need help, knowing only that we must serve them and help however we can. It is not our place to understand the situation fully nor feel comfortable, it is our job to carry out the word of God however we can, even when the process feels foreign or intimidating. This would not be a possibility if we did not have loyal supporters.

We rely on the relationships that we have with our partners. Though we don’t always know what will come next, we trust that our partners will be there to help us. With your steady support, we can tackle new projects, while our faith in Yeshua and our vision to help others propels us to keep working. We need these relationships to create reliable, ongoing services for those who need them most. 

Just as Ruth walked with Naomi, we hope that you will walk with us. Please make a donation here.

May the Lord bless you, keep you, and walk with you wherever you go.


Your friends,
Barry, Batya, and the VFI Team

“You are to observe the Feast of Shavuot, which is the firstfruits of the wheat harvest...” 

Our work wouldn’t be possible without the help of our partners. Like Ruth walked with Naomi out of love, we walk with our partners to create a better tomorrow.

The Feast of Shavu’ot and Our VFI Mission | Blog | Vision for Israel

The Feast of Shavu’ot and Our VFI Mission

¼ cup oil
 2 hot peppers, seeded and finely chopped
 2 bell peppers, diced
 8 – 10 garlic cloves, crushed
 5 ripe medium tomatoes, diced
 Salt, to taste
 1 tsp. hot or sweet paprika
 4 eggs

Directions:
1. Heat oil in a medium frying pan over high heat. Add peppers, garlic, and tomatoes. Stir and lower the heat.
2. Cook vegetables until they are tender, stirring occasionally. Add salt and cook for another 7-10 minutes. Add paprika and cook an additional few minutes.
3. Crack the eggs and add them to the sauce, keeping the yolks whole, and covering the whites with the sauce. Cook until eggs are set.
4. Serve immediately. 

Shakshuka combines runny poached eggs in a hearty, spicy sauce of tomatoes and other vegetables for a one-pot meal that’s as much fun to eat as it is to say.

“No more will violence be heard in your land, devastation nor destruction within your borders. But you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise.” 

Dear friends,

Can you imagine losing both of your parents in one day due to hatred and terrorism? Unfortunately, this is Ronen’s story and thousands of other Israelis who have also lost loved ones and experienced horrific trauma due to hatred and terrorism.

When Ronen was 8 years old, he and his family were on their way to a family reunion for the weekend. Before they knew it, murderous terrorists who were on the hunt to kill Israeli citizens surrounded their car. They began throwing stones at the car and then began shooting at them. In a second, Ronen lost both his parents and found himself bleeding in the back seat, along with his brother. 

Ronen and his brother survived with injuries. However, the injuries to their bodies were nothing compared to the deep wounds that were left in their hearts from losing their parents in such a horrific way. Ronen underwent difficult and lengthy rehabilitation processes, and today he is 25 years old and has managed to recover. Ronen has completed his military service here in Israel and is now in need of support to advance and learn a profession in the field of social work. 

Tens of thousands of Israelis of all religions and ages have undergone difficult and lengthy rehabilitation processes to help them overcome the trauma of terrorism and hatred. This severe trauma can paralyze people, making them helpless and mentally debilitated. These people were once living a normal life, but because of the trauma they experienced, their world has completely turned upside down. Fear and trauma can deeply affect a person’s mind, body, and soul. 

So, how do we support people who have been physically and mentally harmed by severe acts of terrorism and hatred? 

Since 1996, Vision for Israel has been offering assistance to these victims. VFI has impacted many Israelis whose lives have been ruined and who have been deeply wounded by the loss of loved ones due to terrorism. We have stood in the gap by providing for their needs, meeting and embracing them, and supporting them in many practical ways. We believe that caring for these people is a powerful way to overcome destruction, hatred, and evil!

Ronen is just one of the hundreds of students who have received and will continue to receive support for higher education studies. This year VFI plans to invest in the future of 60 Israeli students in their pursuit of higher education. Our goal is the raise $30,000 to invest in the lives of these students, which will greatly impact the future of Israel. 

Now is the time to support the advancement of those Israelis who want to rehabilitate, overcome, and become valuable citizens that impact the nation of Israel!

Will you join us in making an impact on the future of Israel by investing in the higher education of these young Israelis who are choosing to overcome the trauma of terrorism and hatred? Please donate here.

“Doing justice brings joy to the righteous, and terror to those who do evil.”

This is Ronen’s story and thousands of other Israelis who have also lost loved ones and experienced horrific trauma due to hatred and terrorism.

Overcoming Hatred and Terrorism | Blog | Vision for Israel

Last week, Vision for Israel was delighted to conclude yet another cultural event supporting Victims of Hostilities.
In cooperation with the Representative Organization of Victims of Hostilities, we held a cultural evening at the Arts Center in the neighborhood of Pisgat Ze'ev in Jerusalem.

About 307 survivors of hostilities and 35 Holocaust survivors (invited by Vision for Israel) came to watch the musical "Bustan Sephardi" (Spanish Garden) by the Habima Theater, directed by Tzadi Tzarfati.

For victims of hostility, the ongoing effects of trauma, PTSD, and loneliness are just some of the burdensome wounds which they fight to heal every day. Finding relief amid such intense healing is often a hard task for many, as even keeping up with the basic tasks can be daunting.

For that reason, we took it upon ourselves to organize an evening in which, for a few precious hours, they could enjoy a life-giving evening full of laughter and entertainment.

We kicked the evening off by registering all who came and meeting them face to face. Greeting them, taking their names, and distributing their tickets for the play allowed us to say, without many words: "We see you".

After that, we were delighted to see the sparkle in their eyes and the smile on their face as we then handed out gift baskets filled to the brim with pampering products such as hand cream, body lotion, body wash, and body butter, all gifted by "Sabon shel Pa'am".

We then moved on to enjoy a casual time of connection and conversation over a selection of light refreshments - coffee, tea, soft drinks, cakes, and sweet and savory pastries.

Coming out of a long period of Covid restrictions in which we could not gather in groups, it was great fun to see the hall filled with people and hear the sounds of laughter and joy before the show.

During and after the play, many came to thank us, expressing their enjoyment of the play, the gift baskets, and our kindness.
A representative of the Holocaust survivors said that even after the lights went out and all went home, some of the survivors called later on to say thank you and express their enjoyment of the play and how respected they felt as we gave them the best and most accessible seats in the house!

VFI was privileged to donate the refreshments, means of transportation for the participants, a photographer to document their smiles, as well as cover half the cost of the play.

For victims of hostilities, the ongoing effects of trauma are burdensome; that's why we organized a cultural event so that we can ease their load even for a bit.

A Cultural Evening for Terror Survivors | Blog | Vision for Israel

Join us for this week's reading of Parashat Behar from Leviticus 25:1 - 26:2, which means 'on the mountain'. We will explore the generosity of God and the instructions he gives to the Israelites regarding their crops, and fields.

Through this Parasha, we will learn of the just character of God to take care of the poor and the foreigner amongst us and how when we trust him and allow the fields to rest (as we do on a Sabbath day), He multiplies what we gave Him as an offering.

The people of Israel have assembled on Mt. Sinai to hear God's instructions regarding the land he was to give them in Israel. He starts by setting his standards for rest just as He did in the garden of Eden, stating in Leviticus 25:1-4:

"The Lord said to Moses at Mount Sinai, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'When you enter the land I am going to give you, the land itself must observe a sabbath to the Lord.  For six years sow your fields, and for six years prune your vineyards and gather their crops. But in the seventh year the land is to have a year of sabbath rest, a sabbath to the Lord. Do not sow your fields or prune your vineyards.“

Why is rest so important to God? After the fall, the ground would not easily yield its fruits (Genesis 3:17-19), and man would have to work by the sweat of his brow.

God's original intent for the Garden of Eden was for humanity to enjoy it without worrying about food or provision. He also commanded them to rest on the seventh day of the week, calling that day 'Sabbath' which in Hebrew means 'to strike, to seize'. 

In Leviticus, God does not only extend his commandment to rest on the Sabbath but also extends it to the soil of the ground and the crops that they yield.

He then introduces them to an even greater standard of rest called the Jubilee in which they were to (verse 8): “Count off seven sabbath years—seven times seven years—so that the seven sabbath years amount to a period of forty-nine years.”

He explains that the (verses 11-12): “fiftieth year shall be a jubilee for you; do not sow and do not reap what grows of itself or harvest the untended vines. For it is a jubilee and is to be holy for you; eat only what is taken directly from the fields.”

Furthermore, he explains that in the year of Jubilee, each should return to their own property.

God then instructs the people how to handle their land and property and to fear the Lord while dealing fairly with the poor.

God does not only command rest to the capable amongst the people of Israel or rest to the soil, but also to the restless of society – the poor and the needy.

Imagine being in a position where you have no means to provide for yourself; every day is a struggle, and your only way to survive is to beg for kindness and mercy. For the poor and the needy, there is no rest for the body or soul; neither do they have anything to offer to their children and no inheritance to pass down.

Although they did not toil, strive or sweat for the fields to yield their crops, nor did they offer anything in order to be able to purchase its goods, God deems them worthy of receiving and entering into rest (Leviticus 25:35-36):

"If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves among you, help them as you would a foreigner and stranger, so they can continue to live among you. Do not take interest or any profit from them, but fear your God, so that they may continue to live among you."

In Israel today, many farmers who work the ground take a "Shnat Shmita", a 'year off' in which they do not raise crops. Oftentimes they will put up a sign on the edge of their field by the side of the road which reads: "We keep the seventh year".

The world might think taking the seventh year off to be a foolish desicion. In today's economy, which knows no rest and the competition is fierce, many business owners or farmers cannot afford to take such long breaks, adding on to the pressure of their daily grind in an ever-changing and never stable economy.

It is a great risk to take, and yet for those who put their trust in God, the greater risk would be to be self-sufficient and independent of Him since striving leads to unrest.

For those who fear they will be without or find themselves lacking, God understands their concern and worry, and being kind to us in our weakness, offers a promise. In this promise, He reminds us that if we do what is right, He will command blessings to be upon us (verses 18-22):

"Follow my decrees and be careful to obey my laws, and you will live safely in the land. Then the land will yield its fruit, and you will eat your fill and live there in safety. You may ask, ‘What will we eat in the seventh year if we do not plant or harvest our crops?’ I will send you such a blessing in the sixth year that the land will yield enough for three years. While you plant during the eighth year, you will eat from the old crop and will continue to eat from it until the harvest of the ninth year comes in.”

The temptation to worry is understandable, and yet God offers a greater solution to our need for food, clothes, and housing. 

In Matthew 6:26-33 Yeshua patiently reminds us to cast our worries on Him instead of carrying the burden alone:

"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?...But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

We encourage you to read these verses and dwell on them. Focus on God's kingdom and the spiritual or tangible soil and field of your life and heart, and see where God is asking you to rest and to lend to those in need.

As He promised, if you rest, he will make sure that you are overflowing with blessings far beyond your investment, work, or toil.

As we reflect on this Parasha, we thank God for giving us the grace to trust Him fully and to lay our worries for provision on Him. 

Let's pray together:
“God, please help us to put our trust in you and rely on your loving-kindness and trust daily in your provision. Help us follow your instructions in faith. Guide us to share with those who need your care the most.”

In Parashat Behar, God teaches the people of Israel to rest, trust & be generous by asking them not to yield their crops every seventh year.

Parashat Behar - Trust over Worry | Blog | Vision for Israel

When life crumbles before us, we have two options: to give in to heartache or to find strength within ourselves to persevere.

Many of the soldiers who fight for our freedom come from families affected by acts of terrorism. Consider how much strength it takes to overcome your pain and protect others from terrorists like the ones who harmed your family. Though these people’s lives are full of pain, difficulty, and sorrow because of terrorists, they persevere to save others from the same fate. The strength of these individuals is immeasurable.

As an organization, we support both victims of terrorism and IDF soldiers. It inspires us to hear about victims who find the strength to enlist in the army and fight to thwart terrorist acts. These children of God suffer from post-traumatic stress and face endless rehabilitation challenges, but continue to serve and protect our country.

Hadar* is one such outstanding and brave soldier who recently received financial aid from VFI for Passover. In 2016, when she was only 13, Hadar was seriously injured in an act of terrorism. Her family was driving in Har Khevron when a vehicle passed them on the road and opened fire at them. Her father was killed on the spot, and her mother and brother were seriously injured. Hadar managed to pull her parents out of the vehicle and seek help.

As the daughter of a bereaved family, she needed a signed permit from her mother to join the IDF. Though her mother suffered a serious head injury and extensive rehabilitation, she signed without any hesitation because "the army is a part of our lives." The strong value of defending the homeland has seeped deep into Hadar, who serves with courage, heroism, and excellence.

As part of her military service, Hadar chose the position of thwarting terrorist acts in Judea and Samaria. "For me, my job is to watch over my home. I'm sure Dad smiles from ear to ear and is very proud of me," Hadar said.

This is an inspiring example of a young girl who managed to find strength in times of darkness and grow from the crisis she experienced. We are proud of her, salute her, and are very happy to support her and her family. It is people like Hadar who inspire us to continue doing what we do. Our work can impact those who have suffered the most, and because of that, we will never stop striving to fulfill our mission.


*Name has been changed.

In the face of suffering, many victims of terrorism find the strength to fight against the people who hurt them. Their strength and stories inspire us.

The Painful Wound that Led to Heroism | Blog | Vision for Israel

Yes, I will rejoice over them to do them good, and I will assuredly plant them in this land, with all My heart and with all My soul. 

This month, our beloved Israel is celebrating 74 years of independence. However, long before our independence, Jewish people lived in Israel. This land was promised to our forefathers, and in the proceeding centuries, we have returned to Zion as the scriptures foretold.

Even still, our journey as a people has not been an easy one. Persecution, the Holocaust, and expressions of hatred towards the Jews are just some of the reasons that the state of Israel is so important. Our independence allows us to remain true to our culture and faith without fear of retribution or judgment.

Even though this land is ours and we are celebrating 74 years of independence, the people of Israel still face war, terror, and persecution every day. Though we have established ties with Jordan to the east and Egypt to the south, these peace treaties are fragile and could disintegrate if tensions rise in the Middle East. Because of the Abraham Accords, Israel has new peaceful relations and trade with such nations as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, Kosovo, and Sudan. 

However, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, and others still seek to destroy our land, people, and culture. After 2000 years of persecution, we are still fighting for our freedom.

As we celebrate Israel’s 74th Independence Day, it’s important to remember that there are people who need our help. Proverbs 29:18 says:

Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint;
but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction.

At Vision for Israel, we’ve always aimed to work for a safer, healthier place for our communities. We are here because we have a desire to contribute and to rehabilitate the weak and downtrodden in our society. It’s our calling to create a bridge between those who love the God of Israel and the people living in Israel. So far, we have reached over 1.5 million people. Though this is a great accomplishment, there is always more work to be done.

With your help, our friends and supporters, we can continue our vision and make sure that the people of Israel do not perish. We can help build a better community and future for this land, in accordance with God’s will. To help us on our mission, donate here.

Happy Israel Independence to all! May the Lord bless and keep you.

Barry, Batya, and the VFI Team

For thus says the Lord: “Sing with gladness for Jacob, And shout among the chief of the nations; Proclaim, give praise, and say, ‘O Lord, save Your people, The remnant of Israel!’ 

May the Lord Bless and Keep You,

Barry, Batya, and the VFI Team

The Jewish people have been persecuted for thousands of years. We gained independence 74 years ago, but there is still so much work to be done.

What’s Next for Israel? Celebrating 74 Years of Independence | Blog | Vision for Israel

What’s Next for Israel? Celebrating 74 Years of Independence

Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught. 

Dear friends,

There is nothing more horrifying than acts of terror. As wars rage and radical terrorists aim to harm those who are unlike themselves, the biggest casualties are often people who wanted nothing to do with the violence. Innocent, everyday people have their lives stolen from them over their heritage and religion.

This is what is happening in Israel right now. Radical terrorists have been attacking Israel in recent weeks, and two Arab members of the Israeli police were recently killed by these actions. Iranian groups of Hamas and Islamic jihad are looking to bring violence and war to the streets of Israel, and the result has been renewed waves of terrorism throughout the country. Thousands of people are vulnerable and scared for their lives.

Many choose to turn away in the face of terrorism. After all, it’s ugly. It doesn’t feel good to acknowledge, much less confront. It’s natural to not want to see the pain, suffering, and devastation of other human beings.

However, this is not how Vision for Israel reacts. Our team turns toward the pain, rather than away, to try and help as many victims and survivors of terrorism as we possibly can. Every year we give nearly $400,000 in aid to terror survivors.

Recently, for International Women’s Day, we hosted a fun day for terror survivor women. Each holiday we support hundreds of families who have suffered because of terrorism. For Purim, we hosted a special day for the families at the Millennium Center. We provide annual scholarships for students for higher education and educational programs. We aim to do more with every passing year.

We are coming to you, our partners and friends, to ask you to turn toward those who suffer from the violence with us. Join us in being a beacon of God’s love and light to people who have seen the very worst of humankind. Rather than shutting down in the face of an impossible situation, let’s spring into action, together.

A donation is a wonderful way to begin, and you may make one here.

We thank you with all of our hearts for your support during this time.

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins. 

Israel is experiencing a new wave of terrorism from radical Islamic groups. Help us to provide support and comfort to the victims during this time.

A Renewed Threat of Terrorism in Israel | Blog | Vision for Israel

Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom Hasho’a in Hebrew) commemorates the genocide of six million European Jews at the hands of Nazi Germany between 1941 and 1945 and is commemorated one week after Passover. This year it’s on April 28.

In Israel, a siren is sounded on this day throughout the country in memory of those who lost their lives. Cars stop in the middle of the highway, and bypassers stand still in solidarity so that the world will never forget or repeat the horrors of the Holocaust. 

Today, there are nearly seven million Jews who live in Israel. After World War II, many Holocaust survivors made Aliyah (immigrated) from Europe. With broken but hopeful spirits, they risked the dangerous journey through the Mediterranean Sea by ships to the shores of Israel as pioneers, rebuilding Israel as their new home. Even then, many ships were returned to Europe or refugee camps in Cyprus since Israel was under the British mandate.

Some might wonder why so many Jews stayed in Europe during the rise of the Nazi regime in 1933? And why, knowing persecution was imminent, did they not flee to Israel?

The Jews of Europe were stuck between a rock and a hard place, and the reality was much more dangerous and complex than one might assume. 

With the growing popularity of the Nazi party and the rapid increase of antisemitic crimes, the Jews in Germany feared for their safety. Although all would agree that their circumstances were dire, no one could have predicted the unimaginable terrors that lay ahead.

As racial tension and pressure in Germany began to mount, more than 90,000 German and Austrian Jews fled between 1933 and 1939 to neighboring countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Czechoslovakia, and Switzerland. For the most part, these countries opened their doors to fleeing Jews and brave gentiles hid Jews in their basements, attics, floors, and closets. 

In the aftermath of the Kristallnacht pogroms (pogroms against the Jews carried out by the Nazi party) on the 9th-10th of November 1938, more than 100 Jews were murdered, and 30,000 Jewish men were imprisoned in concentration camps. Thousands of Jews attempted to flee the very next day. With Germany stripping German Jews of their German citizenship in 1935, immigrating to different countries became near impossible without proper documentation.

Spain permitted entry to almost 30,000 Jewish refugees, primarily from 1939 to 1941. Approximately 300,000 Polish Jews, nearly 10% of the Polish Jewish population, fled German-occupied areas of Poland and crossed into the Soviet zone between 1939 and 1941.

Tens of thousands were deported to Siberia, Central Asia, and other remote areas. After the German attack on the Soviet Union in June 1941, more than a million Soviet Jews fled eastward into the Asian parts of the country. 

Countries such as France, Belgium, and the Netherlands took in 30,000 each, and the United States accepted 102,000, the most of all countries. 

Although many Jews did make it to other countries, many were turned away at the border, and some who came by ship were not even allowed to dock. Imagine arriving at the border of a country that might be your only hope of survival, only to be turned back, doomed to almost certain death.

Jews looking for safety did not initially set their hopes on returning to Israel as one would expect. Israel, then ruled by Britain, took in 55,000 but limited the number of refugees they were willing to accept. 

In Europe, although close to 30,000 Jews were accepted into Switzerland, approximately 20,000 were turned away at the Swiss border.

The famous St. Louis ship carried 937 Jews seeking refuge in Havana, Cuba, but only 28 were allowed to disembark. The ship then tried its chances with the United States and Canada with no success, finally returning to Europe to disperse the people between the countries. 

At a certain point, escape became near impossible after the war began on September 1, 1939. With lack of funds, burdensome immigration bureaucracies, and lack of efficient communication or transportation - families were trapped and forced to watch as evil approached.

What transpired after these events was a nightmare no one could have foreseen. Millions of Jews were taken to ghettos, concentration camps, and death camps scattered on European grounds. The option of escaping was only by death.

Unfortunately, the world is nowhere near done with wars and persecution. Yeshua warns us that the end of days holds many challenges:

"You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains. Then they will deliver you over to be persecuted and killed, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name." (Matthew 24:6-9)

According to the World Zionist Organization and the Jewish Agency's Antisemitism Report for 202, the year 2021 was "the most antisemitic year in the last decade". The report found that the average number of antisemitic incidents reported in 2021 was more than ten per day, with approximately 50% of attacks occurring in Europe.

Unfortunately, antisemitism is not a thing of the past. As the world becomes progressively worse, Jews living in the diaspora will have to make the difficult – yet not unfamiliar – decision to flee again. 

Since the establishment of Israel in 1948, more than 3.4 million Jews have made Aliyah to Israel. 

With the recent Russia-Ukraine war, over a million Ukrainian refugees fled to neighboring countries, and thousands of Ukrainian Jews made an emergency Aliyah, seeking refuge in Israel. 

How can Israel prepare for the waves of immigrants bound to come from the nations when wars escalate?

New immigrants go through many hardships and challenges as they charge forward with courage to begin again in a different culture.

At Vision for Israel, we know just how important it is to receive our Jewish brothers and sisters with open arms. That is why we donate household goods such as fans to combat the Israeli heat and provide food baskets and backpacks for their children.

Acclimating to a different country is made easier when the local body of Messiah rallies around in support, practically and emotionally. Serving them allows us to hear their stories and hardships and encourage them along the way.

As believers, we should pray for the Jews whom God calls back to Israel to receive the grace to uproot and make their home in the land. Let us not forget to lift up the Ministry of Interior, which accompanies the families and aids them in the transition.

The first Holocaust survivors to make it to the shores of Israel could never have imagined that one day, millions more would follow in their footsteps. Their bravery and courage serve as an example for new immigrants to believe that they too will successfully triumph over the hardships of immigration.

Their testimony is a fulfilment of prophecy, as we read in Ezekiel 37:4-6:

“Again He said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, ‘O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD! Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: “Surely I will cause breath to enter into you, and you shall live. I will put sinews on you and bring flesh upon you, cover you with skin and put breath in you; and you shall live. Then you shall know that I am the LORD.”

On this Holocaust Remembrance Day, we honor the survivors who journeyed to Israel and made it the incredible nation it is today.

Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom Hasho’a in Hebrew) commemorates the genocide of six million Jews and how Israel has rebuilt itself as a nation since then.

Holocaust Memorial Day - Always Remember, Never Forget | Blog | Vision for Israel

Holocaust Memorial Day - Always Remember, Never Forget

The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you 

This Passover, millions of Jews in Israel and around the world will gather around the table for the Passover Seder. They will read from the Haggadah (telling the story of the Passover), eat a leaven-free meal, partake of the elements on the Passover plate and sing traditional songs. 

During Passover, most supermarkets and restaurants do not sell any food with yeast, and many Jews clean their houses of leaven.

In the Bible, Egypt is mentioned almost seven hundred times and another 25 times in the New Testament, often in connection to the covenant God has with Israel, as written in Leviticus 26:45:

"But I will remember for them the covenant with their ancestors, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the nations, that I might be their God. I am the Lord."

Why did God repeatedly remind the people of Israel that He delivered them from Egypt? And what is the connection between the Abrahamic covenant and deliverance from slavery?

There are many reasons for God reminding His people of the covenant he made with their forefathers. Here are a few recurring themes:

Because He Loves
The main reason is that God wanted to constantly remind His children of His great love for them. God saw the suffering His people endured under the heavy hand of the Egyptians and decided to put an end to their injustice. 

He Alone is God
The people of Israel were easily swayed into serving and following other gods. Through signs and wonders, God proved to them that a man-made idol did not have the power to protect them.

Trust Protects the Heart
God constantly reminds them that it was He who brought them out of Egypt so that they would not lose courage in difficult circumstances. Not only did He deliver them in the past, but He would continue to do so always. 

What does it mean to be in a covenant relationship with God? 
On the human level, a covenant made between two people can easily be broken – but not so with God. He is a faithful God who kept the covenant He made with Abraham, Issac, and Jacob:

"But because the Lord loved you and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers, the Lord brought you out by a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt." - Deuteronomy 7:8

These verses should be an encouraging reminder in our own lives that God is a faithful redeemer. His reason? Because He loves us.

Even though the people of Israel experienced many miracles, they were still prone to forget His goodness. They might have been free from physical slavery, but a slave mentality controlled their actions. 

By the time the people of Israel arrived at the desert of Zin, they were all but trusting:

"In the desert the whole community grumbled against Moses and Aaron. The Israelites said to them, "If only we had died by the Lord's hand in Egypt! There we sat around pots of meat and ate all the food we wanted, but you have brought us out into this desert to starve this entire assembly to death." Exodus 16:2-4

The people were discouraged. Their lives in Egypt were hard enough, and now they were faced with an entirely new set of challenges. Was Moses a trustworthy leader? Was God going to abandon them to die in the desert without food and water?

God steps in to prove His love and asks them to put their trust in Him in Exodus 16:4-5:

"Then the Lord said to Moses, "I will rain down bread from heaven for you. The people are to go out each day and gather enough for that day. In this way I will test them and see whether they will follow my instructions. On the sixth day they are to prepare what they bring in, and that is to be twice as much as they gather on the other days."

God was their provider. He rained manna from heaven and told them to collect double the daily amount before the Sabbath rest. This was an opportunity for trust – an open invitation to rely on Him for their provision.

Nevertheless, the people still had a hard time trusting. When they went out to collect manna on the Sabbath day, they found none. God was determined that they would not be controlled by a spirit of fear and scarcity but would rest in his trustworthy character.

God used the manna once again as a reminder to the people of Israel for generations to come that He always was and forever will be their provider:

Moses said, “This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Take an omer of manna and keep it for the generations to come, so they can see the bread I gave you to eat in the wilderness when I brought you out of Egypt.’” Exodus 16:32

God uses the Passover lamb (Exodus 12:21) as a precursor to Yeshua, who was destined to give his life for the sins of the world from the beginning of time.

When Yeshua celebrated the Passover with his disciples (Mark 14:12), they did not know that soon after, He would become the ultimate sacrifice, shedding his blood on the cross as atonement for our sins.

His sacrifice should inspire us to accept the forgiveness He so willingly offers and live pure and holy lives that honor His name. 

"Get rid of the old yeast, so that you may be a new unleavened batch—as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." 1 Corinthians 5:7

In Israel today, over 800,000 people live under the poverty line. Most struggle to put food on the table on a day-to-day basis and barely make ends meet, let alone a Passover meal. But God has set in the heart of Vision for Israel to partner with Him in providing food baskets and money vouchers to the needy during the holiday season. 

Families, single mothers, and the elderly line up with tears of gratitude and words of appreciation for the simple gift of participating in the Passover meal with the rest of Israel. Through the generous hands of donors and partners of Vision for Israel, we are privileged to be a part of fulfilling God's covenant relationship with His people.

Just as the people of Israel were encouraged to rely on God for His miraculous provision, many rely on Vision for Israel's help to get them through the holiday season with dignity.

This Passover, let us remember again that God has always been faithful to provide for us. Every day He fulfills His covenant with us and offers daily manna in our personal lives as a testimony of love. As we sit around the table to tell the Passover story, let us not only reminisce on the miracles God did in the past but also the miracles of today.

The Passover is an opportune time to trust God to be our Provider. If He provided manna in the desert for the Israelites – He can do it again for us.

The Passover Lamb - God’s Provision | Blog | Vision for Israel

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 

Your donations and support go a long way, and our team has already helped hundreds of people in the first quarter of this year. This is what we’ve been up to.

Recently, our team at Vision for Israel held Bar and Bat Mitzvah celebration for young adults who have experienced terrorism. Many of these individuals wouldn't be able to celebrate this major milestone without the support of our generous donors.

Donation of 60 iPads to Bar/Bat Mitzvah Children

Letter from The President of the State of Israel

This is a letter from President Yitzhak Herzog after the Bar Mitzvah event that took place at his residence for 60 children, victims of hostilities:

Dear Barry and Batya,

I was excited to receive your letter and I want to thank you for your
condolences and care following my mother’s passing away.

I was happy to see you and get to know VFI’s activity at the recent


Bar and Bat Mitzvah event—and even more so, the story that you brought
to my attention in the letter touched my heart. Your ability to look with open
eyes at the reality; to recruit partners, resources, time, and means to help the
underprivileged in general and terror survivors, in particular, is inspiring and
enables all of us to have an optimistic outlook on the future of the state of
Israel. I wish you both a long life with health and goodness,
and may you continue the meaningful work for the entire Israeli society.


Your success is the success of us all.


Warm wishes,


Improving Food Security in Low-Income Communities

We started the year already in full swing, beginning with the distribution of food baskets to low-income families. May we always have an abundance of supplies to give freely.

Vision for Israel takes care of Holocaust survivors’ needs every day. We hold weekly social events to help them emotionally cope with the challenges they are going through, and sponsor 500 survivors every month, to receive life-saving panic buttons should they suffer from a fall or other medical emergencies. Together, we are extending God’s care to these dear individuals.

Thanks to our loyal friends and donors, Vision for Israel recently placed mobile shelters throughout the Gaza Envelope settlements, including Okafim, Netivot, Kibbutz Nir Am, Giv’olim, Dorot, and Gevim. A total of 48 shelters have been placed thanks to the donors of Vision for Israel, and we are planning on donating more shelters as soon as possible. All shelters are located near public spaces, parks, schools, neighborhoods, and shopping centers so that the maximum number of people have access in case of an emergency.

At Vision for Israel, we are working on rehabilitation through music and the arts. The workshops we provide approach social justice from a new angle, giving several groups of people an opportunity to grow and heal.

The cost for each participant is about $200 and our goal is to sponsor 100 people. This has the capacity to change endless lives, heal generational trauma, and further the mission of social justice well into the future.

We are preparing to help the families arriving in Israel as much as we can with daily, basic needs and support. These refugees need shelter, food, hygiene products, clothing, shoes, and other basic necessities that the Israeli government is not providing. We are here to fill that gap and make sure that these newcomers feel love and support from the Lord.

Supporting Emergency Response Team on the Ukrainian Border

Vision for Israel sent assistance to our friends who are on the borders of Ukraine. Rescuers Without Borders, an Israeli organization and partner of ours, has sent medical professionals there. We continue to send them funding as we have for many years. With your help, they are able to purchase medicine, food, clothes, blankets, and other support items for refugees who have made it to the safety of Ukrainian border countries like Poland.

We opened the doors of the Millennium Center to families of victims of terror and violence for Purim this year. Hundreds of parents, children, and grandparents came dressed up in costumes to celebrate and enjoy themselves. 

MDA volunteers provided an ambulance and volunteers, to make sure that everyone stayed safe all day long. This reassurance is key for many terror survivors.


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.

Impact Report—April 2022 | Blog | Vision for Israel

I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says the LORD, and I will bring you to the place from which I caused you to be carried away captive. 

Passover is fast approaching. As we prepare to reflect on and celebrate the liberation of the Jews from slavery, we must acknowledge how persecution and antisemitism continue to affect our world today. Currently, thousands of Ukrainian Jews and non-Jews are fleeing their homes in search of safety and peace. Many of them are coming here, to Israel, to find the security that they so desperately need. Many of them face ongoing persecution from several fronts.

During this Passover season, it’s especially appropriate to help those who are fleeing hardship, just as our ancestors did many years ago.

Israel is a unique place, a small country, and the only home for the Jewish people. So whenever crises arise, anywhere in the world, the State of Israel will open its doors to the Jewish people and to those who are escaping major conflict areas. In some cases, refugees come in with special permits.

Right now, the Israeli government has basic programs for the new immigrants and the refugees coming in. Though their efforts will surely help, our team is preparing for the months ahead.

Vision for Israel believes in being ready for crises and times where we all face more challenges because when a crisis comes it's too late to prepare. We have learned to keep and set aside survival and emergency items for any disaster that may happen.

So now we are preparing again for those who are coming and those who will arrive soon. We must be ready and have the resources and supplies to support them when they get here. They will need basic furniture, food, household supplies, hygiene products, clothes, and much more. They need someone they can depend on. As always, our team is up to the challenge.

We must also not forget that Vision for Israel is still supporting local families who are experiencing poverty, illness, or hardship. Our work on those fronts continues, as suffering doesn’t take a break. No matter what happens in Israel, we are committed to being here to support those who need it, just as God has always been here for us.

It’s impossible to convey how much we need you, our loyal friends and partners, right now. There is so much suffering and pain as a result of the war, persecution, violence, and terror. Life is incredibly difficult for these people, and our hearts break for them.

When you donate to Vision for Israel, you are bringing a sign of hope and peace to these people. Their world is falling apart, but we must show them that there are good people in this world who are ready to show them God’s love and compassion during this hard time. In the face of darkness, we must be beacons of God’s light.

Your ongoing prayers and financial support make a powerful impact. Please make the choice to help create a safer, more loving world in Yeshua’s name. You can take your first step here.

Happy Passover to all of our partners around the world.


May the Lord bless and keep you,

Barry and Batya with the VFI Team

Rather, worship the Lord your God; it is he who will deliver you from the hand of all your enemies. 

Thousands of Ukrainian refugees are flocking to Israel. We need your help to give them the support they need to survive this unthinkable horror.

On the Verge of Crisis | Blog | Vision for Israel

As a working mother who values her time but also the health of her family, I always prefer to bake and cook at home—I like to know what’s in the food that enters my body. But when it comes to taste, I don’t compromise—and if a recipe looks like it has all the good and healthy ingredients, that’s even better. Enjoying this banana bread while it’s warm, with tea or coffee, is a delightful choice for any time of the day. Since it’s both easy to make and delicious, I make it often for Barry and my toddler grandson. Enjoy!

2 bananas, mashed
 2 cups plain yogurt
 2 tbsp. coconut oil
 2 tbsp. butter, melted (or peanut butter)
 2 eggs, beaten
 4 tbsp. date syrup (or molasses)
 2 tbsp. honey
 1 tsp. vanilla extract
 1 1/2 cups spelt flour
 4 tbsp. quick oats
 1/2 cup almond meal
 2 tbsp. ground coconut (optional)
 1 tsp. baking powder
 1/4 tsp. baking soda
 Pinch of salt
 Chocolate chips or chunks (optional)

1. Mix all wet ingredients in a large bowl.
 2. In a separate bowl, mix all dry ingredients.
 3. Add dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until well blended.
 4. Butter 2 loaf pans and pour batter into pans. You can top with chocolate chips or leave it plain.
 5. Bake at 365°F/185°C for 30-40 minutes.

Variation: Try adding chunks of baked apple on the bottom of the pan before pouring the batter.

Now you can experience the authentic flavors of Israel and the surrounding region, with Batya Segal’s personal favorite recipes. A long-time lover of fresh, delicious, and easy-to-execute meals, Batya’s recipes will bring the aromas of Israel into your kitchen for the whole family to enjoy. Yours free as a thank-you for supporting our life-changing work in Israel.

Enjoying this banana bread while it’s warm, with tea or coffee, is a delightful choice for any time of the day since it’s both easy to make and delicious.

Batya's Sugar-Free Banana Cake | Blog | Vision for Israel

For those of you who, like me, choose to eat a mostly vegan diet, lentils are a star in their kitchen. I had looked everywhere for a palatable recipe featuring plant-based protein, but for all my effort—I had little success. But one day, we visited a friend’s house on a Friday afternoon as the wife was preparing vegan delicacies for the Sabbath. The aromas emanating from the kitchen were so delicious, I couldn’t resist asking what she was doing. I tried these delicious patties, and was hooked. I altered the recipe a little, and added some of our favorite spices to the mix, resulting in a real hit for our family—even the meat lovers.

1 ½ cups cooked lentils
 4 tbsp. Tahini
 1 cup fresh spinach/beet greens/parsley (optional)
 1 egg
 ½ cup almonds or walnuts, ground
 ½ cup rolled oats
 1–2 tbsp. whole spelt flour
 1 onion, finely chopped
 3 garlic cloves, crushed
 ½ tsp. each: cumin, black pepper, salt, paprika
Oil for frying

1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor, or chop by hand.
 2. Roll into balls and press to flatten. 
3.  Heat oil in a large frying pan and fry the patties until golden brown on both sides.
4. Serve with Tahini.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds or almonds.

Note: If you prefer to bake in the oven, grease the baking pan or line with parchment paper, and brush the patties with oil.
If the mixture is too wet, add more flour. If it's too dry, add another egg.

For those of you who choose to eat a mostly vegan diet, lentils are a star in their kitchen.  I tried these delicious patties, and was hooked. 

Batya's Lentil Patties | Blog | Vision for Israel

Recipes

Vegetable Lasagna

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

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