Beauty for Ashes: Seeking Hope in Israel After October 7

Two years ago, on October 7, 2023, Israel faced one of the darkest days in its modern history. The Hamas attacks shocked the world and ignited a war that continued to divide and devastate for two years to come. Yet in the midst of fear and pain, one question arose: What is the reality for believers in Jesus living in Israel?

That question inspired the creation of the powerful new documentary, Beauty for Ashes, a story of faith, courage, and redemption emerging from tragedy.

October 7: The Day That Changed Israel Forever

On October 7, 2023, the world watched in disbelief as Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel. It was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Sirens wailed across Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and towns near the Gaza Strip. Thousands of rockets rained down while armed terrorists stormed peaceful neighborhoods, killing and abducting civilians.

Hamas infiltrated Israel by land, water and air. They took dozens of innocent Israelis hostage back into Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel was at war – Israel’s first declaration of war since the Yom Kippur War in 1973.

The IDF called up hundreds of thousands of reservists, which included many of our friends, FIRM staff members, volunteers, and ministry partners. FIRM’s powerful campaign to #PrayByName for the hostages Hamas took by force into Gaza spread around the world. Many Christians have been praying for the captives to be set free.

It is hard to believe that we had been praying for dozens of them still this month, two years later. Thank God, the ones that were still alive, returned home on October 13 of this year. What a miracle!

Is Hope and Healing Possible?

As the Israel-Hamas war continued, antisemitism worldwide has been on the rise. And even so, already in December 2023, a delegation of 74 Christians from ten countries arrived in Israel for a Hope & Healing Serve Tour.

These courageous and compassionate believers arrived in Israel to support communities near the borders, close to the war front. They came to learn about the basic needs and serve affected families and communities, especially in the Gaza envelope as well as kibbutzim in the north.

Members of the FIRM delegation, with participants from ages 15 up to 93, traveled throughout Israel to offer support through service. They met with local government officials, soldiers on the frontline, and families affected by the war. And they’ve been working alongside Israeli believers to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the midst of this darkness.

“I know how important it is that we [took] the opportunity to be here, when no one else will come. There’s so much fear,” a participant from the USA shared. “But to come and to say, I stand in faith for you… It’s so important [to say], on behalf of Christians around the world, we love you, we support you, we’re here for you.”

Beauty for Ashes in Today’s Israel

We have been able to magnify our impact with the generosity of Christians worldwide. We have seen hundreds of thousands of people impacted in tangible ways. The boldness of those taking action is what sparked the idea to tell the story of hope rising from the ashes.

October 7th, 2023 was devastating but we didn’t want to allow it to bring a wedge between us and the Word of God. So we prayed. We mourned, and fasted, and sought light. And it was that relentless search that built the story of “Beauty for Ashes”.

The 50-minute film shows the remarkable unity, faith, and determination to heal and rebuild during one of Israel’s darkest times. The film follows three courageous individuals: a Palestinian pastor, a Jewish mother, and an Israeli soldier. Through their stories, we witness the shared pain and resilience of Jewish and Palestinian Christians.

You might find yourself wondering why we chose the name “Beauty for Ashes”. How could beauty be found in the wake of the events of October 7th? How could light possibly shine in such a dark time?

The answer lies in God’s promise from Isaiah 61:3, where He declares His intention “to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.”

A Documentary to Inspire and Spring to Action

The powerful vision from God’s Word—of beauty rising from ruin, joy emerging from mourning, and praise overcoming despair—is the heartbeat of our documentary. As we contemplate God’s promise “to console those who mourn in Zion”, we search out what God has been doing in the midst of heartache and pain.

We wanted to show how God’s promise of turning ashes into beauty is being fulfilled, even amidst grief and devastation. But more than that, we invite everyone to join us on this journey: get exclusive behind-the-scenes content, learn how you can get involved, and be part of sharing this vital message of hope and healing.

It is more than a political story, it’s a spiritual one, highlighting the power of faith in Jesus to bring healing, hope, and reconciliation. With perspectives from figures like Ayaan Hirsi Ali and Hananya Naftali, this is a must‑watch for those seeking clarity, truth, and hope in a time of division.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting news or unsure what to believe, Beauty for Ashes offers a fresh, faith-based perspective. It reveals how faith, courage, and unity are bringing hope where it is most needed. Step beyond the headlines and experience the unfolding story through the eyes of those living it.

Meet the Director of Beauty for Ashes: Rebecca Kroese

With a keen eye for detail and a deep commitment to her craft, the film’s director, Rebecca Kroese delivered a documentary that not only informs but also moves viewers, encouraging them to seek understanding and peace.

Rebecca Kroese has over a decade of experience in video production. She had created multiple television shows that aired on major Christian platforms. Now, her expertise in directing live television events and her passion for capturing the raw nature of human stories converged in “Beauty for Ashes”.

You can watch an interview with Rebecca Kroese about the documentary here.

Rebecca’s dedication to storytelling shines through as she navigates the complexities of the October 7th events and the subsequent conflict, offering a unique and heartfelt perspective. Her work aims to inspire, educate, and foster unity, highlighting the resilience and faith of those affected by the turmoil.

How to watch the Beauty for Ashes Documentary

Can God truly turn ashes into beauty, even amidst such deep grief? Our hope is to show how this ancient promise is being fulfilled right now in Israel. Beauty for Ashes will show you how the followers of the Messiah are choosing to serve, heal, and rebuild. And they are a living proof of God’s promise in Isaiah.

To watch the film, click here.

You can also bring this message of hope to your church, community, or city. We’ll equip you with everything you need—free of charge. The Screening Kit includes a digital copy of the film, promotional materials, and a discussion guide. Visit our website for more details!

We pray for the day to see all the sorrow be turned into joy. And may God turn all the ashes from this war into beauty.

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes