By Gary M. Burge. This work is a personal exploration of the author's perspective about the crisis in the Middle East, put on paper to communicate with other Christians who share the same opinions he does and seek answers to the same questions he does; questions such as: How do I embrace my commitment to Judaism, a commitment to which I am bound by the Bible, when I sense in my deepest being that there is a profound injustice afoot in Israel? How do I celebrate the birth of this nation Israel when I also mourn the suffering of Arab Christians who are equally my brothers and sisters in Christ? How do I love those Palestinian Muslims who are deeply misunderstood by all parties in this conflict?

As the author of this book, I receive emails from Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America (as well as the U.S.) giving constructive criticism and generous compliments. This topic is a flashpoint for Christians and those who are Zionists (embracing a land-promise theology) will see any critique of Israel's domestic policies as anti-Jewish. Nothing could be further from the truth. To read a critique stronger than mine, simply read Isaiah. The thesis of the book is simple: if Israel is making a Biblical, theological claim to the Land, then it must also uphold Biblical standards of nation-building and justice. Both modern Israeli writers and Christians committed to justice see grave shortcomings in this country that was to be a "light to the gentiles." They recognize that Judaism holds precious ideals of justice and truth within its heritage. But the current political program of Israel's government is neglecting them. Western Christians have to face some upsetting facts about Israel -- and this book is a guide through some of them. Countless Israelis and American Jews are far ahead of us in this courageous endeavor. And it is to them that I owe my inspiration. Pilgrim Press (2004), English, Paperback: 286 pages.