Kentucky flags are flying at half-staff in honor of the 1,200 Israelis killed in a surprise attack by Hamas. Hamas is a declared terrorist organization. And there are several horrendous accounts of brutal killings of children and defenseless civilians. In response, Israel is retaliating against Hamas in the Gaza territory. As the war escalates surrounding nations may join the conflict, which could possibly spark a regional or even a world war. Now this conflict goes back some 3,800 years to the division between Abraham and his two sons: Isaac and Ishmael Isaac became the father of Israel, and Ishmael is claimed by muslims. The two have been at war ever since. Even though we are removed from the war, may we pray for an end to the bloodshed, and for grace to all of those who have lost loved ones.