It's been a full week since our boys - Eyal (19), Gilad (16) and Naftali (16) - were abducted by Hamas terrorists from a bus stop on their way home for Shabbat.
Our dear friend Ban Ki Moon (secretary general of the UN) has the audacity to say he has no evidence the boys were kidnapped, and the rest of the world has been largely silent. Even the US is telling Israel to show restraint.
The global Jewish community, however, has banded together, united in outrage, courage and prayer. We feel the pain of the teens and their families intimately. Their agony is our agony, their loss our loss.
I watched Iris Yifrach, Eyal's mother, speak at a press conference on national television. What would her message be, I wondered. She is suffering unimaginably. Her son, who she has loved, cared for, and raised for 19 years has been snatched by cruel, despicable terrorists, and she has no idea where he is or what he's going through. This is every mother's nightmare, a torturous reality. How would she have the courage to speak? I was certain she would not be able to utter a sound.
But when I watched, I was astounded to see her strength and determination. Despite the pain in her heart and the worry in her eyes, despite the crushing agony and palpable distress, she was not broken down. She appeared strong and composed, and I was able to draw strength from her.
"Our Jewish people, we love you with all our hearts. I'm begging from the bottom of my heart, continue to pray!
"Our Eyali, we love you! The Jewish world is praying for you. Look what a beautiful people! Give a strong hug to Gilad and Naftali.
"Thanks so much to everyone."
Over the past week, Jews worldwide have stormed the heavens with prayer, beseeching G-d to return the boys safe and sound. Chabad started a mitzvah campaign and so far 3,364 people have pledged a mitzvah in the merit of their safe return.
G-d willing, they will be found safe and sound, very soon.
This week's Torah portion conveys the importance of prayer. Korach led an open mutiny against Moses. He was strong, intelligent and charismatic, and managed to persuade hundreds of people to join his rebellion.
When he challenged Moses' leadership, Moses had to tell G-d not to listen. But why? Surely G-d would not listen to an evil person like Korach.
But our sages explain that if Korach prayed from the depths of his heart, it would be difficult for G-d not to listen, because He listens to all prayers, even those of evil people.
The power of prayer is immense.
If we all unite in heartfelt prayer, surely G-d will have no choice but to listen to us!
Over the weekend, the families of the three boys will be given the list of all the mitzvot people have committed to. If you haven't yet signed up, please do so now. It will give them tremendous encouragement and support.
Am yisrael chai! May our collective prayers be answered, fully and speedily.