I have doubts about everything I’ve been doing lately. After last week’s column Unfortunately, American Jews May Need A New Home | Evan Wechman (patheos.com), I received many emails disparaging myself and all Jews.
Now, you won’t see most of the ugly opinions expressed in the comment section on the bottom page of the article. These people were too cowardly. Possibly they knew their distorted views would not be left on the page. So instead, they researched the internet, found my professional website which contains my personal email address and wrote to me at length. It wouldn’t stop. I received these abusive notes sometimes every 30 minutes during one long day.
These cowards didn’t even list their name, but just spewed hate claiming Jews were terrible participants of a genocide and were never even involved in a holocaust in Germany. How friends do you have a discussion with such people who have lived their life blinded by hate?
Jesus Won’t Back Down to Antisemites
So, I have doubts. Not about my stance or whether Jewish hate must end, but whether my writing makes any contribution. I’ve already asked Jesus to help me decide whether I should keep sharing my message or not.
I have not received a sign yet, but Jesus would never walk away from the truth. Nor would he want his disciples to do so either.
I am reminded of John 14:18 which states” I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” John 14:18 KJV – I will not leave you comfortless: I – Bible Gateway Therefore, I know my savior will provide me comfort during these difficult times now and ahead.
Jesus wants me to lay my doubts with him and push forward. So, I am remaining steadfast with my lord and will continue defending the Jewish people both in the United States and Israel. To quote rock and roll legend Tom Petty” You can stand me up at the gates of hell, but I won’t back down.” Tom Petty – I Won’t Back Down Lyrics | Genius Lyrics
I’m not going anywhere. These antisemites who try to shut me up will learn that it’s going to take a lot more to separate me from Jesus. And let’s not forget, my savior was just a Jewish carpenter.
Antisemitism has always been a part of my life, though it has usually been less direct. I had doubts, but now realize with the support of Jesus, I must defend and bring comfort to all Jews.
Inspired by Holocaust Survivor
I remember a family member’s bar mitzvah a few years ago where the synagogue was fortunate enough to have a speaker from the holocaust. She was beautiful in every way. She spoke of the horrors she endured but her will to live and please God kept her going.
I am in no way comparing myself to this woman. But if she was able to fight on against the Nazis, I know I can never just give up based on some feeble emails. Fight on she would say, as would Jesus.
The Jews have always had to fight rather than run away. In Deuteronomy 31:6 Moses says “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV – Be strong and courageous. Do not be – Bible Gateway
I will be strong in my faith and continue to cast my anxiety onto my God, knowing he will protect my family and me.
Earlier in the article, I wondered if I could reach people who think of me as the devil. The truth is such people are too far gone, but I will try to inspire those who can hear me. I know that amid all the hate in this county, there are still good people who wish to encourage me to march onward.
I have many Jewish friends who didn’t place their bright menorahs by the windows in their homes this past Hannukah. They didn’t want the hate that it may give off. I’m not upset with them. I understand and love them too. But I am here, a Jew, and I’m not running away. Let me and my savior be the light.
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