Torch, Fall 2006

Sound familiar? Serious conflicts in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Iran fill our news virtually every day. How should we, as followers of Jesus Christ, respond to the troubling news around us? At Cedarville University, we are committed to helping believers “make sense” of the critical issues of our day. This issue of TORCH seeks to make sense of the Middle East conflict — a tall order, to say the least! The challenges are as complex as the people are diverse. It would be naive to think that in these few 2 TORCH / Fall 2006 M aking S ense of a A gunman shouted “Allahu akbar” (“Allah is great!”) as he threw grenades at the United States Embassy in Damascus, Syria. Within minutes a car rigged with explosives was detonated, leaving pools of human blood on the sidewalk outside the Embassy. pages we can untangle what centuries of hatred and distrust have created. Rather, our goals are to shed light, to provoke thought, to offer fresh views, and, most importantly, to encourage prayer. This issue contains the thoughtful perspectives of outstanding Cedarville professors, as well as the stirring real-life stories of Cedarville family members who have been directly affected by the conflict. Sit back and see what they have to share! Then, rise to the challenge to “make the most of the opportunity.” Equipping for lifelong leadership and service, Dr. Bill Brown Cedarville University President M iddle E ast in Conflict ! , e bas y. MARY LANE / FOTOLIA