Excerpt from David Dolan's latest "Israel Update."  David is a Jerusalem-based author and journalist who has lived and worked in Israel since 1980.
_________________________________


From Darkness to Light

One thing seems beyond question: 2007 is destined to be another unsettled year for the violence-plagued Middle East.  But despite it all, the God of Israel still reigns over the troubled affairs of men, and His plans and purposes will stand in the end. 
 
Indeed, some rabbis note that a full lunar eclipse will take place hours after the Purim holiday begins on the evening of March 3, reaching its climax in the Middle East just after midnight.  The eclipse is especially unique in that scientists say it will be at least partially visible from every continent on earth. It is also occurring on the very day that marks Israel’s deliverance from ancient Persia’s nefarious plans to wipe out all of the Jews living in Queen Esther’s day. 
 
With modern Persian leaders issuing the exact same vows today, some rabbis see the celestial event as a divine sign that the God of Israel intends once again to eclipse the contemporary annihilation plot emanating from Iran.  If so, King David’s modern kin can repeat his ancient words of praise, uttered in the midst of turmoil: “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me.  You will stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me.” (Psalm 138:7).