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Romans 11:13-15, I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them. For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead? 

Paul is stating that because Israel rejected the Gospel, the Gentiles had the opportunity to receive it.  Interestingly, Paul says that the salvation of the Gentiles was meant to instill a desire in the Jews for the same amazing gift.  But that didn't necessarily happen.  At the same time, the Gentiles really didn't do anything to make the Jews jealous of this gift.  Think about it, Gentile Christians throughout the centuries have had the opportunity to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ with Jews, to demonstrate the abundant life that comes by walking closely with Jesus.  While that may have happened occasionally, more often we see Jews treated with persecution, oppression, and violence. 

Let's pray...God, over and over again, people bearing your name have messed up.  Who are we kidding?  We mess up all the time.  Lord, help us do better.  Instill in us the desire to share your amazing gift of grace with others.  Today, we pray a special prayer for the Jews.  One person at a time, may they see the grace of Christ at work in their world.  We pray for salvation and life change.  In the name of Jesus, Amen.