ISRAEL: LIGHT TO THE NATIONS

With all the negative spin about Israel that permeates much of the discourse on the Middle East, it is always good to remember to highlight the positive aspects. According to the National Energy Index 2012, published by the Foundation for National Security Research, a think tank based in New Delhi, Israel is among the top ten most powerful nations of the world. 

The NPI ranks countries in terms of their ability to influence world events. The classification is based on a statistical comparative analysis of a country's economy, military, diplomacy, technology, and population. The NPI classified military capability of Israel as sixth in the world (and the strongest in the Middle East). The technology that ranks fourth. Its economy is in the twenty-fifth place. In addition, Israel is considered a world leader in technology and science. 

Significantly, the study notes that Israel ranks fifteenth in the rate of development of the UN, a reflection of the high quality of life enjoyed by the Israelis. 

Think about it. Modern Israel was created after 2000 years of housing and lack of Jewish powerlessness and hand the systematic murder of six million Jews. And after decades just six and a half years of existence that is at the forefront of national achievements - an international force to be reckoned with. 

What a contrast to the centuries of persecution and devastation of the Holocaust, when Jews had no place of refuge. And what a reminder of the need for lighting a secure Jewish homeland.