Psalm 135:8 He it was who struck down the firstborn of Egypt, both human beings and animals; 9 he sent signs and wonders into your midst, O Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants. 10 He struck down many nations and killed mighty kings— 11 Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan— 12 and gave their land as a heritage, a heritage to his people Israel.

Here the psalmist is reminding the Israelites of God’s goodness over the centuries. Of course the story of the Exodus and the entry of God’s people into the Promised Land is a key identity story for Israel. It’s an uplifting narrative for the psalmist.

But today I’m also noticing how this was not an uplifting story for the people of Canaan who lost their homeland. In some ways the battle for this piece of earth continues today. And I have to admit I’m conflicted. God gave this land to Israel and, as Creator of heaven and earth, it is certainly God’s prerogative to do so. However, I’m not unsympathetic to those who believe the land was taken from them.

Lord bring your peace to the Holy Land.