Torch, Fall 2006

Features A Clash of Worldviews 4 Make the Most of the Opportunity 26 Three theistic religions jammed together in a small area form a critical mass that generates chain reactions of hatred and violence. Martin and Gracia Burnham were missionaries to the Philippines when they were taken hostage by an Islamic terrorist group. Gracia shared her story in Chapel last spring. The Volatile Middle East 8 Major players are making important decisions with potentially enormous consequences. Future directions are unclear. What is the bottom line? Israel, My Homeland Lebanon, My Homeland 14-15 For many, the dark days of July 12 through August 14 were little more than a news event. For these writers, the war hit home. Editor David Ormsbee Managing Editor Janice Supplee Associate Editor Kara DeMusz Proofreaders Sarah Borich Wendy Orchard Senior Designer Michael Bieniek Photography Scott Huck Cedarville TORCH Vol. 27, No. 2, Fall 2006 Published by Cedarville University Dr. Bill Brown, President NO PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS Cedarville TORCH is published for alumni and friends of Cedarville University. Direct comments and requests for extra copies to: Managing Editor Cedarville TORCH 251 N. Main St. Cedarville, OH 45314 937-766-7808 torch@cedarville.edu www.cedarville.edu 1-800-CEDARVILLE ISSN 1093-4618 Political Fallout 16 We are fighting a War on Terror, but our leaders are unable to reach a consensus on terrorism, and our nation is ambivalent about the war. Fall 2006 / TORCH 3 Praying for the Impossible 20 God changed a heart once on the road to Damascus. He can do it again and again in the caves of Afghanistan and the mountains of Pakistan. “Behold, Days are Coming ...” 22 Events that involve the nation of Israel have inherent prophetic significance and remind us of God’s plan for the future.