In Jerusalem, New U.S. Embassy

As Christians turn their hearts toward Bethlehem this advent season, U.S. President Donald Trump is looking 6 miles down the road toward Jerusalem. Hot Chocolate and Current Events is our weekly effort to help homeschool families connect over the important issues of the day. Talking about these issues helps families give their kids a solid foundation and firm belief system. 

This week, President Trump decided to move the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. This was a momentous decision. Why was this embassy move so important, and was it the right thing to do?

This topic is a complex one, though it is one worth studying. 

1) Read this article from the CBC News (Canada). It provides a good background on the issues involved. 
http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/what-s-at-stake-if-trump-moves-u-s-embassy-to-jerusalem-1.4433151

2) Kick back with a  cup of cocoa and watch Donald Trump’s brief address on the embassy move. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rw-0wH63_4

Map Points
Tel Aviv, Israel
Jerusalem

Discussion Questions

• Why should nations have the right to determine their own capitals? 
• Why do you think some world leaders opposed this embassy move? Are their concerns valid?
• Why do you think previous presidents and prime ministers failed to deliver on their promise to move their embassies to Jerusalem? 
• Do you think the embassy move will help bring about a lasting peace in the Middle East?
• Is President Trump’s embassy move courageous? 
• Do you think that the embassy move is “a great deal” for both Israelis and Palestinians. 
• Do you agree with President Trump that this was “the right thing to do”? 
• "Peace is never beyond the grasp of those willing to reach it.” Do you agree with President Trump’s quote? 
• Do you think other nations should follow the lead of the U.S. in moving their embassies? 
• What do you think was President Trump’s best reason for moving the embassy?
• Do you think Vice President Pence's upcoming trip to the region will be helpful? How?
• What do you think Trump means when he says, “Our children should inherit our love, not our conflicts”? Do you think they will?