Rudy and Sharon Friesen, volunteers with Christian Friends of Israel (CFI), have been serving in Jerusalem for the past two years. Their work, which also includes collaborating with Derek Prince Ministries to distribute Bible teaching materials, has taken on new urgency since the events of October 7th, 2024. Amid the ongoing war and rising challenges in Israel, their mission is rooted in a simple yet profound question they are often asked: “Why are you here?”
The answer? Because they serve the God of Israel and are committed to standing with His people. Their work is about more than physical presence—it’s about bringing hope and encouragement to those who need it most.
"Comfort My People"—A Calling to Encourage
In the aftermath of tragedy, Rudy and Sharon have witnessed an unprecedented openness among the Jewish people. Sharon observes,
“They feel abandoned. They feel that everybody hates them.”
Rising antisemitism and the devastating impact of war have left many feeling isolated and fearful. Families are torn apart as fathers and mothers go off to war, children suffer from nightmares, and parents live with the constant fear of losing their loved ones.
Through these heartbreaking circumstances, the Friesens are answering the biblical call in Isaiah to “comfort His people.” They build relationships and bring encouragement, reminding the people of Israel that they are not alone. “We stand with them,” Sharon says, “and we encourage them to turn their faces to God—not just their army or equipment, but to their Scriptures.”
Many Israelis are unfamiliar with their own sacred texts, but Sharon uses the Bible to address their fears and offer hope. Whether it’s speaking to parents worried about their children’s safety or simply listening to their struggles, Rudy and Sharon’s ministry is a powerful reminder of God’s love.
Hope in the Midst of Struggle
The conflict has left many soldiers and civilians with physical and emotional scars. Sharon highlights the thousands of soldiers in rehabilitation, many grappling with post-traumatic stress from witnessing horrific scenes. Fathers kiss their children goodbye, unsure if they will return, while families mourn those who have been killed or maimed. Sharon urges believers to pray for Israel’s soldiers, families, and leaders daily. “It’s difficult to see families separated and lives devastated, but prayer makes a difference,” she says.
Yet, even in the face of such immense challenges, Rudy and Sharon see God at work in the land. “If you read Ezekiel 36,” Rudy shares, “it talks about God putting His name on Israel and His people. He’s establishing who He is to the Jewish people and, through them, to the world.”
Rudy has noticed a spiritual awakening among young soldiers in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). “They are gathering for prayer, reaching out to God,” he says. Rabbis are also encouraging Jewish people to dive deeper into their Scriptures, not just through commentaries but by reading passages like Jeremiah 31, which speaks of God’s promise of a new covenant.
"Why Are You Here?"
As Christians, standing with Israel is not just about political support or charity—it’s about sharing God’s heart. One of the most common questions Rudy and Sharon hear from Israelis is, “Why are you here?” They are often told, “You don’t have to be here.” For the Friesens, this is an opportunity to explain the heart of their mission.
“We love the God of Israel,” Rudi explains, “and we want to love what He loves. He loves Israel, and that’s why we’re here.”
This commitment has made a profound impact. “The Jewish people really, really appreciate that we are standing with them,” he adds.
The Friesens acknowledge that the Church has not always supported Israel in its history, but they see it as their responsibility as Christians to stand with the Jewish people and align with God’s purposes for them. By doing so, they help to bridge a gap and show solidarity rooted in faith and love.
