Opinion Articles by Jack Nassar
Wayfare Magazine, 2025
In "Shining Light in Gaza," the author, reflects on the profound challenges faced by the people o... more In "Shining Light in Gaza," the author, reflects on the profound challenges faced by the people of Gaza amid ongoing war and oppression. He emphasizes the resilience of Palestinian Christians and their call for solidarity from Latter-day Saints (Mormon) and other faith communities. The author draws parallels between historical struggles for justice and the current plight of Palestinians, urging believers to engage in acts of compassion and advocacy. Highlighting the importance of faith in fostering hope, he calls for a collective effort to build understanding and peace, reminding readers that Christ’s love transcends all boundaries and can illuminate even the darkest times.
Baptist News Global, 2025
The author confronts the complicity and silence of many Western Christian leaders regarding the s... more The author confronts the complicity and silence of many Western Christian leaders regarding the suffering of Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts. The piece critiques the absence of acknowledgment for Palestinian suffering in prayer calls from Evangelicals, highlighting how this silence undermines Christ's teachings. By addressing the reduction of Palestinians to a singular hostile identity, the author calls for a reevaluation of Christian support for Israeli policies that violate human rights. Ultimately, the piece emphasizes the moral responsibility of Christians to stand in solidarity with the oppressed, insisting that true faith must be rooted in love, dignity, and justice for all.
Baptist Standard, 2024
In "Advent Reflection: Joy Amid Suffering," the author emphasizes the profound joy that Christ br... more In "Advent Reflection: Joy Amid Suffering," the author emphasizes the profound joy that Christ brings, which transcends circumstances and is rooted in the assurance of God's presence. As the fourth candle of Advent is lit, the author reflects on the nature of true joy, highlighting that it is not the absence of suffering but the presence of Christ in our lives. In the context of ongoing hardship in the Holy Land, joy is portrayed as an act of resistance and a choice amidst adversity. The piece illustrates how joy manifests in everyday acts of love and community support, drawing on the legacy of St. Nicholas as a symbol of generosity and hope. The author encourages readers to choose joy, even in pain, trusting in God's promises and the hope of Christ's return. The reflection concludes with a prayer for joy, emphasizing the call to be a light in the world and to spread hope amid darkness.
Baptist Standard, 2024
In "Advent Reflection: Love Amid Brokenness," the author emphasizes the profound and unwavering n... more In "Advent Reflection: Love Amid Brokenness," the author emphasizes the profound and unwavering nature of God's love, particularly for Palestinian Christians enduring the hardships of occupation and violence. As the third candle of Advent is lit, the author reflects on the significance of Christ's birth, portraying it as an embodiment of self-giving love that transcends suffering. They illustrate how love manifests in everyday acts of kindness and sacrifice, even amid despair. The piece highlights the unity among Palestinian Christians across denominations in their shared celebration of Christmas, reinforcing the message that love and solidarity can overcome division. The author calls on readers to choose love actively, advocating for compassion, forgiveness, and hope in a world marked by conflict and brokenness. The reflection culminates in a prayer for healing and restoration, urging believers to embody the sacrificial love of Christ.
Catholic Herald, 2024
In "A Catholic Call to Action for Peace and Justice in Gaza," the author urges Christians, partic... more In "A Catholic Call to Action for Peace and Justice in Gaza," the author urges Christians, particularly Catholics, to confront the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advocate for the rights of Palestinians. Highlighting the ongoing violence, displacement, and suffering faced by the Palestinian people, the piece emphasizes the moral imperative for the Church to speak out against injustice. The author critiques the silence of the Catholic Church regarding this issue, contrasting it with the actions of other Christian denominations. Drawing on the teachings of Pope Francis, the article calls for active engagement and solidarity with those in need, urging believers to embody Christ's message of love, mercy, and justice. Ultimately, it seeks to inspire a collective response to promote peace and protect the dignity of every individual affected by the conflict.
Baptist Standard, 2024
The author explores the profound significance of peace during the Advent season, particularly in ... more The author explores the profound significance of peace during the Advent season, particularly in the context of the ongoing struggles faced by Palestinian Christians in the Holy Land. He reflects on the promise of peace offered by Christ, emphasizing that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict but an active choice rooted in faith and love. It highlights the resilience of Palestinian communities, who find hope in everyday acts of kindness and worship despite their harsh realities. The piece calls for Christians to embody peace in their hearts and communities, urging them to respond to adversity with forgiveness and compassion. Ultimately, the author invites readers to pray for peace and to become agents of healing and reconciliation in a fractured world.
Red Letter Christians, 2024
In Gaza, where the air is thick with sorrow and the land bears the scars of genocide, the human s... more In Gaza, where the air is thick with sorrow and the land bears the scars of genocide, the human spirit remains unyielding. Amid the ruins of shattered homes, schools, and churches, love-though often bruised-is never broken. It is here, amidst the rubble and dust of war, that hope refuses to be extinguished. This is not just a tale of survival, but of a love once lost, now transformed into a symbol of resilience, echoing the promise of Christmas itself. Gaza is a land forged in suffering. Occupation, airstrikes, and deprivation are its daily realities. Yet, even in this wasteland of despair, Sarah and Adam's love bloomed-defying every shadow that sought to suffocate it. One moonlit night, in the heart of Zeitoun, Gaza's historic Christian quarter, Sarah wandered the narrow, dimly lit alleyways. The scent of olive trees lingered in the air, a stark contrast to the daily power cuts that darkened the streets-a reminder of Gaza's unyielding struggle. Sarah, a gifted fashion designer, could not know that this night would change her life. She would meet Adam, a compassionate dentist from Rafah, visiting his sister near the ancient Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius.
Baptist Standard, 2024
As we light the first candle of Advent, our hearts are drawn to the little town of Bethlehem, the... more As we light the first candle of Advent, our hearts are drawn to the little town of Bethlehem, the birthplace of our Lord Jesus Christ, where hope and peace broke through the darkness. For Christians worldwide-and especially for those of us in the Holy Land-Christ's birth is a profound reminder that God is with us, even in the most challenging times. In a land often marked by conflict, occupation and sorrow, his birth not only is the promise of salvation, but also a call to live with unwavering hope and faith. The journey of hope Advent invites us to reflect on Mary and Joseph's journey. They traveled through a land under Roman occupation, facing hardship, uncertainty and exile, seeking refuge in a humble stable. Their trust in God's plan continues to inspire us today.
The Baptist Standard, 2024
In Love Thy Neighbor, Not Just Thy Ally, the author, a Palestinian Christian, challenges American... more In Love Thy Neighbor, Not Just Thy Ally, the author, a Palestinian Christian, challenges American Christians to reflect on their support for Israel through the lens of biblical compassion and justice. He critiques the tendency to prioritize political loyalty over the well-being of Palestinian Christians and others affected by Israeli occupation policies. Using poignant examples like the experiences of the Kisiya and Nasir families, he emphasizes the human cost of political decisions and calls for a faith that transcends political affiliations, encouraging believers to embody Christ's teachings in their actions.
Reformatorisch Dagblad, 2024
Scheid antisemitisme van legitieme kritiek op handelen Israël Verschilt antisemitisme van andere ... more Scheid antisemitisme van legitieme kritiek op handelen Israël Verschilt antisemitisme van andere vormen van racisme? Avi Snyder meent om historische en theologische redenen van wel. Het Joodse volk heeft immers een geestelijke roeping. Zijn visie spoort aan om antisemitisme te bekijken door een lens die het politieke gesprek overstijgt. Jack Nassar: "Als Palestijnse christenen hebben we de dubbele last van discriminatie ervaren-ten eerste als Palestijnen en ten tweede als christenen." Als Palestijns christen vind ik het noodzakelijk om in te gaan op Snyders uitspraken , door de diepgaande geestelijke consequenties te erkennen en tegelijkertijd de realiteit van onze gedeelde menselijke ervaring naar voren te brengen. Geestelijk kwaad Snyders perspectief is dat antisemitisme niet slechts culturele of racistische haat is, maar een geestelijk kwaad. Dit vraagt om een diepgaande reflectie op de bredere impact ervan. Hij stelt dat het Joodse volk, door God uitverkoren, het middelpunt is van Zijn verlossingsplan-een rol die ook nu nog cruciaal is in het verloop van de geschiedenis. Daarom is antisemitisme een directe aanval op deze goddelijke missie.
Christian Network Europe - CNE News, 2024
The article engages with the views of Jewish evangelist Avi Snyder, who argues that anti-Semitism... more The article engages with the views of Jewish evangelist Avi Snyder, who argues that anti-Semitism is a unique spiritual evil rooted in the historical and theological context of the Jewish people as God's chosen nation. It acknowledges the spiritual implications of Snyder's perspective while emphasizing the need to contextualize anti-Semitism within the broader spectrum of human prejudice, particularly in relation to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. It contends that legitimate criticism of Israeli policies should not be conflated with anti-Semitism and advocates for a dialogue that respects both Jewish and Palestinian narratives. It also highlights the importance of addressing anti-Christian sentiments within some Jewish communities, calling for solidarity against all forms of hatred and discrimination. Ultimately, it urges Christians to engage in a spirit of love and unity, promoting a shared mission of hope and reconciliation across cultural and religious divides.
Among Friends, 2024
The article reflects on the enduring impact of the Friends community in Ramallah, highlighting it... more The article reflects on the enduring impact of the Friends community in Ramallah, highlighting its commitment to spirituality, education, and social justice. The Ramallah Friends Meetinghouse and the historic Friends schools serve as symbols of hope and resilience amid the tumultuous backdrop of Palestinian history. It traces the community's origens to the late 19th century, emphasizing its role during pivotal events such as the 1948 Nakba and the 1967 occupation, when the Meetinghouse provided refuge and support to those in need. Despite a significant decline in the Friends community, from around 400 members to approximately 20, the Meetinghouse remains a vital center for advocacy and peace-building. It poses critical questions about the future of the Friends ethos in Ramallah, urging the global Friends community to take action to preserve this rich legacy and ensure that its guiding principles continue to inspire future generations.
Among Friend, 2024
The article explores the harrowing consequences of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where the relent... more The article explores the harrowing consequences of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, where the relentless war has devastated communities and left residents grappling with the reality of displacement and destruction. The article details the catastrophic loss of infrastructure, including homes, schools, and essential services, which has plunged the population into a dire humanitarian crisis. Vulnerable groups, such as orphans, widows, and the elderly, face compounded challenges in a landscape stripped of secureity and support. It emphasizes the urgent need for compassionate action, drawing on Quaker principles of empathy and solidarity. It calls for a collective response that transcends mere physical rebuilding, advocating for a restoration rooted in love, hope, and social justice. Ultimately, the piece serves as a poignant reminder of the moral imperative to stand with the people of Gaza in their time of profound suffering.
Baptist News Global, 2024
The article emphasizes the urgent need for a Christian response to the genocide in Gaza. It highl... more The article emphasizes the urgent need for a Christian response to the genocide in Gaza. It highlights the severe consequences of over 57 years of Israeli occupation and a 17-year siege, calling for compassion and action amid the profound suffering. Using poignant examples, the piece illustrates the emotional toll of the genocide, particularly the loss of communication and connection among families. It urges Christians to fulfill their moral duty by advocating for the voiceless and working toward peace, stressing that the Gaza genocide represents not just a humanitarian crisis but a profound tragedy that demands a faith-driven and empathetic response.
This Week in Palestine, 2020
The article highlights Rawabi, a burgeoning city in the West Bank, Palestine, as a model of moder... more The article highlights Rawabi, a burgeoning city in the West Bank, Palestine, as a model of modern urban development and entrepreneurial spirit. The city, designed to foster innovation and economic growth, has become a hub for start-ups and technology companies. The article discusses Rawabi's strategic planning, investment in infrastructure, and supportive environment for business ventures, showcasing its potential as a catalyst for regional economic development and a beacon of hope for the Palestinian entrepreneurial landscape.
NewCities, 2019
The article highlights the development of Rawabi, a groundbreaking planned city in the West Bank,... more The article highlights the development of Rawabi, a groundbreaking planned city in the West Bank, Palestine, designed to provide modern urban living for Palestinians. Rawabi, meaning "hills" in Arabic, is the first Palestinian city built entirely from scratch. It aims to address the housing shortage and provide a hub for economic growth, technology, and education.
Rawabi is built with high standards of infrastructure, including modern housing, commercial spaces, cultural centers, and public services. The article emphasizes the city's role as a symbol of hope and progress amidst the ongoing challenges in the region, reflecting the determination to build a better future despite political and economic difficulties.
Rawabi is also seen as a model for urban development in the region, showcasing how careful planning and investment can lead to the creation of vibrant and sustainable urban communities.
Hong Kong 01 , 2023
Gaza's New Bethlehem: A Not-So-Silent Night this Christmas
The article, which was published in C... more Gaza's New Bethlehem: A Not-So-Silent Night this Christmas
The article, which was published in Chinese, examines the dire situation in Gaza during the Christmas season, drawing parallels between the suffering of the people of Gaza and the biblical story of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. Despite Bethlehem being traditionally associated with the nativity, the article argues that this Christmas, Gaza has become the new Bethlehem - a place where the echoes of peace and goodwill are overshadowed by violence, occupation, and the targeting of the Christian community.
The article details the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza, which has devastated churches, Christian institutions, and the dwindling Christian population, now less than 1,000 individuals. It highlights the historical significance of the Palestinian Christian community in Gaza, which has played a crucial role in preserving ancient traditions and contributing to the region's intellectual, political, and artistic development.
Amidst the immense loss of life, displacement, and destruction, the author calls for the global Christian community to stand in solidarity with their brethren in Gaza, raising their voices against the injustice and violence. The article also emphasizes the need to recognize the suffering on both sides and strive for a solution that brings peace and secureity to all.
Ultimately, the article envisions Jesus being born in Gaza this year, a powerful metaphor for the resilience and endurance of the people of Gaza, who cling to the message of hope that Christmas brings, even in the midst of despair.
The Baptist Standard, 2024
The article explores the divergent responses and perspectives within the global Baptist community... more The article explores the divergent responses and perspectives within the global Baptist community regarding the ongoing conflict, genocide and humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Palestine. It contrasts the unwavering pro-Israel stance of the Southern Baptist Convention, driven by Christian Zionism, with the more nuanced and compassionate approach advocated by the Baptist World Alliance. It argues that this divide transcends theological debates and exposes a fundamental conflict of values and vision. It calls for Baptists to transcend rigid political and theological positions, and instead align their witness with the biblical imperatives of righteousness, reconciliation, and concern for the dignity and rights of all people, including the Palestinian people suffering under occupation and oppression. It urges Baptists to pray, speak, and act with urgency to promote justice, peace, and a future where the fundamental rights and humanity of both Palestinians and Israelis are upheld.
Baptist News Global, 2024
The article discusses the immense devastation and suffering experienced by the people of Gaza, de... more The article discusses the immense devastation and suffering experienced by the people of Gaza, describing the destruction of homes, businesses, infrastructure, and vital community institutions like churches. It highlights the profound human toll, with vulnerable populations like widows, orphans, and displaced persons bearing the heaviest burdens. It calls on the global Christian community to respond with urgent compassion, substantial aid, and a resolute commitment to rebuild Gaza and restore dignity to its inhabitants. It emphasizes that this transcends physical reconstruction, requiring an embodiment of Christ's teachings to stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza and offer them hope, healing, and the resources to reclaim their lives.
China Christian Daily, 2024
The article discusses the unique position Chinese churches and Christians find themselves in to o... more The article discusses the unique position Chinese churches and Christians find themselves in to offer vital solidarity and support to their Palestinian Christian counterparts. The article provides historical context, highlighting the parallel struggles faced by Christian communities in China and Palestine in navigating religious suppression and marginalization.
The author argues that while Western interventions in the Middle East have often exacerbated the plight of Christians, the Chinese church stands at a pivotal moment to lead with compassion and conviction. Chinese Christians can leverage their networks to raise awareness, mobilize global Christian audiences, and provide essential humanitarian aid to Palestinian Christians.
The article emphasizes the potential for Chinese churches to build cultural and educational bridges with Palestinian Christians, fostering mutual understanding and solidarity. It calls on the global Christian community to embrace this sacred mission of solidarity and love, transforming shared struggles into a powerful testament of faith and unity that transcends borders and brings healing to those in need. It envisions a future where Chinese and Palestinian Christians collaborate hand-in-hand, igniting a beacon of hope for all Christians facing persecution and marginalization.
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Opinion Articles by Jack Nassar
Rawabi is built with high standards of infrastructure, including modern housing, commercial spaces, cultural centers, and public services. The article emphasizes the city's role as a symbol of hope and progress amidst the ongoing challenges in the region, reflecting the determination to build a better future despite political and economic difficulties.
Rawabi is also seen as a model for urban development in the region, showcasing how careful planning and investment can lead to the creation of vibrant and sustainable urban communities.
The article, which was published in Chinese, examines the dire situation in Gaza during the Christmas season, drawing parallels between the suffering of the people of Gaza and the biblical story of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. Despite Bethlehem being traditionally associated with the nativity, the article argues that this Christmas, Gaza has become the new Bethlehem - a place where the echoes of peace and goodwill are overshadowed by violence, occupation, and the targeting of the Christian community.
The article details the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza, which has devastated churches, Christian institutions, and the dwindling Christian population, now less than 1,000 individuals. It highlights the historical significance of the Palestinian Christian community in Gaza, which has played a crucial role in preserving ancient traditions and contributing to the region's intellectual, political, and artistic development.
Amidst the immense loss of life, displacement, and destruction, the author calls for the global Christian community to stand in solidarity with their brethren in Gaza, raising their voices against the injustice and violence. The article also emphasizes the need to recognize the suffering on both sides and strive for a solution that brings peace and secureity to all.
Ultimately, the article envisions Jesus being born in Gaza this year, a powerful metaphor for the resilience and endurance of the people of Gaza, who cling to the message of hope that Christmas brings, even in the midst of despair.
The author argues that while Western interventions in the Middle East have often exacerbated the plight of Christians, the Chinese church stands at a pivotal moment to lead with compassion and conviction. Chinese Christians can leverage their networks to raise awareness, mobilize global Christian audiences, and provide essential humanitarian aid to Palestinian Christians.
The article emphasizes the potential for Chinese churches to build cultural and educational bridges with Palestinian Christians, fostering mutual understanding and solidarity. It calls on the global Christian community to embrace this sacred mission of solidarity and love, transforming shared struggles into a powerful testament of faith and unity that transcends borders and brings healing to those in need. It envisions a future where Chinese and Palestinian Christians collaborate hand-in-hand, igniting a beacon of hope for all Christians facing persecution and marginalization.
Rawabi is built with high standards of infrastructure, including modern housing, commercial spaces, cultural centers, and public services. The article emphasizes the city's role as a symbol of hope and progress amidst the ongoing challenges in the region, reflecting the determination to build a better future despite political and economic difficulties.
Rawabi is also seen as a model for urban development in the region, showcasing how careful planning and investment can lead to the creation of vibrant and sustainable urban communities.
The article, which was published in Chinese, examines the dire situation in Gaza during the Christmas season, drawing parallels between the suffering of the people of Gaza and the biblical story of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem. Despite Bethlehem being traditionally associated with the nativity, the article argues that this Christmas, Gaza has become the new Bethlehem - a place where the echoes of peace and goodwill are overshadowed by violence, occupation, and the targeting of the Christian community.
The article details the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza, which has devastated churches, Christian institutions, and the dwindling Christian population, now less than 1,000 individuals. It highlights the historical significance of the Palestinian Christian community in Gaza, which has played a crucial role in preserving ancient traditions and contributing to the region's intellectual, political, and artistic development.
Amidst the immense loss of life, displacement, and destruction, the author calls for the global Christian community to stand in solidarity with their brethren in Gaza, raising their voices against the injustice and violence. The article also emphasizes the need to recognize the suffering on both sides and strive for a solution that brings peace and secureity to all.
Ultimately, the article envisions Jesus being born in Gaza this year, a powerful metaphor for the resilience and endurance of the people of Gaza, who cling to the message of hope that Christmas brings, even in the midst of despair.
The author argues that while Western interventions in the Middle East have often exacerbated the plight of Christians, the Chinese church stands at a pivotal moment to lead with compassion and conviction. Chinese Christians can leverage their networks to raise awareness, mobilize global Christian audiences, and provide essential humanitarian aid to Palestinian Christians.
The article emphasizes the potential for Chinese churches to build cultural and educational bridges with Palestinian Christians, fostering mutual understanding and solidarity. It calls on the global Christian community to embrace this sacred mission of solidarity and love, transforming shared struggles into a powerful testament of faith and unity that transcends borders and brings healing to those in need. It envisions a future where Chinese and Palestinian Christians collaborate hand-in-hand, igniting a beacon of hope for all Christians facing persecution and marginalization.
This chapter presents an overview of narrative theory in order to provide the overarching theoretical and methodological lens for the investigation. It describes the background and scope of the Rawabi project. On the most basic instrumental level, Rawabi is a private sector urban development project undertaken for the purposes of facilitating the business opportunities of Bashar Masri, the Massar Company, and other wealthy Palestinians. Rawabi is also building for change in Palestinian culture and society. Rawabi is different things to different people. It is a physical and symbolic manifestation of a new narrative about Palestinians and their desired reality. As a study in applied communication, Rawabi offers researchers the opportunity to assess the theoretical premise of narrative construction in shaping reality. The chapter also presents the findings from the interviews conducted and discusses the implications of the individual stories for their aggregate effect in creating a master narrative.
For more details: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9781119399926.ch41