Northern African and Middle Eastern Unengaged Peoples

There are certain traits that distinguish the Jewish people in Europe and their origins. Those from the Sepharad region, or the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), are often referred to as Sephardic Jews. Many of the Sephardic Jews settled in the Netherlands in the late 16th century after fleeing persecution from the kings of Spain. Those who settled in the Netherlands were also called Portuguese Jews. Today, there are approximately 31,000 Portuguese Jews living in the Netherlands. They are prospering by God’s blessing; however, they aren’t being engaged with the truth about the Messiah. The Portuguese Jews in the Netherlands are celebrating Passover (Exodus 12) at the beginning of April to remember God’s love and faithfulness. As they share this tradition, pray for the Spirit to open their eyes to see the deeper symbolism, revealing the truth about Jesus, who is the Messiah. Pray Psalm 115:9-13 (ESV) over the Portuguese Jews in the Netherlands, asking that they will fear the Lord and put their trust in Him, their help and shield. Pray that believers will desire to learn more about Passover from their Jewish neighbors and have an open opportunity to share what the Messiah has done in their lives.