Story
Since the outbreak of fighting along Lebanon’s southern borders about a year ago, the country has endured increasingly difficult times. The conflict reached a devastating climax in September 2024, when over a thousand airstrikes hit southern Lebanon and other regions in less than 24 hours. The bombardments caused widespread destruction, death, and devastation, forcing many Lebanese families to flee their homes. Entire villages were left paralyzed, with life coming to a standstill. Prolonged electricity and telephone blackouts exacerbated the situation in some of the regions.
Youssef, an 87-year-old man, lives in the small village of Azzeh (Southern Lebanon) with his wife, where they have lived most of their lives. Before the economic crisis, Youssef and his family lived comfortably, able to provide for their needs. But as Lebanon plunged into economic turmoil, their situation deteriorated. Today, they find themselves struggling to meet even their basic necessities. Without the financial support of their children, making ends meet would be impossible.
The couple’s three children all live abroad. However, Youssef and his wife are only in contact with their youngest son, who checks on them from time to time. The neglect from their other children weighs heavily on their hearts, adding to their feelings of loneliness. Despite the distance and fractured relationships, Youssef finds comfort in the regular visits from neighbors, whose kindness helps them manage their household needs. Youssef gratefully acknowledges this, saying, “We are thankful to the Lord for always putting good people in our path, who show us the love and mercy of Christ.”
Health issues plague the couple. Youssef, who suffers from severe visual impairment, depends on his wife to guide him, especially to their beloved church, the Hope Evangelical Church in Ghazieh, which they attend every Sunday despite their physical struggles. Youssef often recalls how, when he could still see, he read the Bible and came to believe deeply in the Lord Jesus.
The war has only deepened their challenges. Azzeh, once a bustling diverse village, now feels desolate. Most of the residents fled the heavy bombardments, leaving only Youssef’s family and his brother’s. The houses surrounding them were destroyed, but Youssef and his wife remain, trapped by the ongoing conflict. Amid the chaos, the elderly couple relies on a portion of food they received from Heart for Lebanon just days before the latest bombings began.
When contacted, Youssef’s voice carried both relief and gratitude. “Thank you for remembering us… We’re still fine,” he said. He explained how they cannot leave their home due to the constant shelling of their village and nearby areas. The war has cut them off from much-needed medical supplies and other essentials. Yet even in this dire situation, Youssef expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Thank you for never forgetting us, by never forgetting to check on us and always supporting us with food. Pray for us to get our medications. No one is able to enter or leave the village.”
Youssef and his wife continue to find joy in the simplest moments. He often shares amusing anecdotes from his life and testimonies during visits, filling the room with laughter and warmth. The Heart for Lebanon home visits, whether they have spiritual goals or just for check-ups, are precious to this elderly couple and Heart for Lebanon’s team. Heart for Lebanon is committed to supporting vulnerable individuals during these difficult times.
