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November 27, 2024

Grace Amidst Trails

Adel was born in 1962 in Taalabaya, Bekaa, Lebanon, into a family consisting of a mother, father, a brother, and five sisters. He was the eldest among his siblings. His father owned four car repair workshops, and the family was financially comfortable. Adel studied at a private school in Taalabaya until the ninth grade, as there were no higher grades available at this school. Later he transferred to another school in Zahle, where he excelled academically.

In 1975, Lebanon was engulfed in a severe war. The roads between Taalabaya and Zahle were not functioning normally due to the war, which forced Adel to leave his school. Due to the danger in their area, the family had to move to live with their aunt in Jalala. Sadly, their house was destroyed later by a missile strike.

After the war ended, Adel’s family faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Adel’s father rented a house, and he opened a small grocery store. Adel helped his father in the shop, and he earned a modest income. After working with his father for twenty years, Adel decided to pursue agriculture seeking new opportunities and challenges.

In 2003, he met and married Silva, but their desire for children remained unfulfilled. Sixteen years into their marriage, Silva fell ill with cancer and passed away, which was very difficult for Adel.

Adel has gone through numerous challenges and hardships, from facing the turmoil of war to enduring his wife’s battle with cancer and eventual passing. Despite the weight of these trials, Adel found strength and solace after accepting Jesus as His personal Savior. In the midst of his struggles, his faith became a source of comfort and hope, and he found light in the midst of his darkness.

One day, the “Hope Evangelical Church” team was reassuring and following up with Adel’s sister at her flower shop. During this visit, the team had the opportunity to meet her brother, Adel. Adel and the team discussed certain concepts about the Bible, but Adel expressed harsh opinions and misconceptions about the teachings of the Scriptures. The team responded respectfully by using verses from the Bible. At the end of the conversation, they invited Adel to attend church meetings on Sundays.

Curious to know more, Adel attended church and found himself drawn to the worship and preaching. The warmth of the community and the depth of the teachings resonated deeply with him. Adel actively participated in various church activities. Through the guidance of mentors and the study of scripture, his understanding of the gospel deepened. Eventually, he made the profound decision to get baptized and share his testimony and spiritual journey publicly. During his baptism, he proclaimed who Jesus is to him and expressed his commitment to follow him throughout his life.

After that, the church pastor invited him to attend leadership training classes to become an effective leader in the church field. Adel enthusiastically participated in these classes, and he even volunteered with the church’s visitation team.

Adel expressed his gratitude for the love and care he received from the church. He always prays for strength and wisdom for himself and all servants of God, and he prays for all people thirsty for the word of the Lord like he once was.

Through trials and loss, Jesus turned Adel’s sorrow into happiness, his weakness into power, and his turmoil into peace.

By Admin H4L
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Story
October 29, 2024

Youssef’s 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.

By Admin H4L
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Story
October 29, 2024

You may have heard this statement before

Over the last few weeks I have heard a lot of theories.  There have been some very positive conversations and some conspiracy theories; some are just not true and some sound good, but after thinking about it, I’ll rethink and say, “wait a minute that’s not right”.

Then in an email I received from a seminary I take continuing education course from, the first line read: “Don’t let the world teach you theology.”  Michael Easley has said this often.  This warning especially deserves attention as we are in a season of many interruptions, the war in Lebanon is raging, natural disasters here in the USA etc. all these events and other events have caught my attention recently as I have talked to many people. Even in good times, the world preaches a “sermon” of anxiety and worry and today it seems to me that more Christians are worried and full of anxiety. To be honest this is concerning to me.

So how should you and I respond to to unexpected events taking place around us?  The answer for those of us as followers of Jesus is, we must choose peace right where we are.  

  We live in a fallen world so we are not operating as we should be. We are not bent this way because every day, we encounter the reality of a broken world. The world we live in is not as Christ intended it to be. Disruptions of various kinds may upset our peace. Hurricane Helene and Milton come, or war comes, and our “peace” is interrupted. Our relationships aren’t always as they should be. We may experience anxiety due to our materialistic and fast-paced culture in which we must adjust to and live, is not easy and anxiety takes over and then peace departs.

As a follower of Jesus, the Holy Spirit indwelling you, gives you and I the power to choose peace (Romans 8:6). I love the scripture where Paul shares with the Philippians (Chapter 1:12-29) that had to choose to have this kind of attitude in order to achieve “peace”. Its true, I have proven it; life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it.

 In fact, throughout the Bible, God invites us to rest in Him and His truth even when the world seems to be falling apart, or our personal lives are rocked by some big, unexpected event.  God gives us a road map for a peace that overcomes in the midst of our storms. Lean into Jesus the author of our faith, during these times.

Tom Atema
Co-Founder of Heart for Lebanon

By Admin H4L
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Story
September 11, 2024

The Power of God’s Word

Maral Iskandarian was born in Bourj Hammoud, Lebanon, in a family of four that consisted of her parents and one brother. Her father was a tailor while her mother was a seamstress. Even though they were not rich, they were able to provide for their basic needs.

At the age of five, Maral started her schooling at a local private school. She was a top student, and thus, she graduated with distinction in 1990. Her goals were more inclined to follow engineering at college. Nevertheless, the persistence of the Lebanese Civil War was the trigger for the sudden change of her plans. The family had to live in makeshift bomb shelters due to the constant shelling of the neighborhood in Beirut, and at the same time, they had to struggle to maintain their life on a low income.

Maral’s educational endeavors became impossible after the halt of the war. She did not opt for the major of fashion design but she decided to learn the skill of sewing from her parents and thus became a seamstress. At the same time, she was also very loyal to her denomination, and on the other hand, she was very active at her church, she went to mass every day and was in the choir.

Nizar, a taxi driver who transports passengers from Aanjar to Beirut, would sometimes go to the same sanctuary where Maral would go to pray. It became their meeting point. After a long courtship of two years, they obtained the matrimonial vows. Maral lived with her husband in Aanjar, where they started a simple and happy family, with three sons and two daughters.

Even after the transfer, Maral was still a great member of her spiritual community. She kept the traditions and was partaking in church services. Through familial relations, she was introduced to her husband’s cousin, who was a regular attendee of Bible study classes conducted by Heart for Lebanon and he invited her to join.

The idea of learning about the Bible intrigued Maral and she started to study its deep and amazing teachings. For the next few weeks, she was always in class and took part in the discussions which gave her spiritual well-being and comfort.

The ideas gathered from these meetings helped Maral to have a deep understanding of spiritual growth. In conclusion, she said, “In the classes, I acquired the skill to develop a personal relationship with the Lord, and thank God for the blessings that he has given me. I also made new friends in the Christian community, and had deep discussions about the Bible, which was different from the small talk that we had in the past.”

With zeal, Maral seized the chance to extend her knowledge through discipleship classes, and in the end, she accepted the invitation to participate in the leadership training courses. Along with a pen and paper, she delved into the world of knowledge, actively involved and asking for the answers to the questions about Christian leadership and servanthood.

“Each lesson that I learn is a new wisdom that helps me choose the right words when sharing the gospel and a better way to know the people I want to help,” she said

Throughout her spiritual development, Maral wanted to be a vessel of divine grace.

By Admin H4L
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Story
September 3, 2024

A Testimony

My name is Albert Choueiry, born in 1967. From the age of 9, I was deeply involved in our traditional, liturgical church, serving in the choir until I turned 40. Despite my belief in Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I felt a persistent spiritual emptiness and lack of nourishment in that church.

It was during this time that I met Sister Wadiha at work, who introduced me to her son Rony, suggesting he could help me with my spiritual struggles. This encounter sparked my curiosity about Evangelicals and their relationships with believers, prompting me to seek answers.

My journey took a significant turn when I met Pastor Bashir and others at Heart for Lebanon. Invited to attend Hope Evangelical Church, I soon realized I had been in the wrong place for many years, lacking a true understanding of the Bible and the person of Jesus Christ.

Finding my spiritual home, I eagerly participated in Bible study and later in leadership lessons. I developed a deep affection for my fellow brothers and sisters in the organization and began changing my life from one marked by a harsh, vulgar demeanor due to my work as a personal guard to one aligned with godliness.

I now understand that life without Christ is meaningless and that being Christ-like involves a fundamental change in attitudes and actions, such as generosity, walking closely with Jesus, and embracing discipleship. Through leadership lessons, I am learning discipline, attentiveness, and humility as I share my faith with others.

I am deeply thankful for the brothers who imparted these invaluable lessons and guided me on this life-changing journey.

By Admin H4L
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Story
August 27, 2024

Youmnas Spiritual Growth

After coming to Lebanon, Youmna’s life has undergone significant changes. In a world filled with challenges and hardships, her journey embodies resilience, hope, and growth. Youmna, a kind-hearted 13-year-old girl filled with love and affection, endured difficult days in Syria, amidst the sounds of suffering and fear due to ongoing wars and conflicts. She is currently living in Lebanon with her family, who are facing difficult circumstances. Youmna’s parents are considering returning to Syria, but she is sad and worried about it.

“I came to Lebanon when I was 8 years old. I still remember the horrific days in Syria which were filled with bombing and violence. I still can’t let go of my memories. Loud noises, like fireworks, still make me feel fearful and anxious. I don’t want to go back to Syria. I don’t want to leave behind my friends, school, and the activities I love. I’m also sad because there won’t be any activities or Bible clubs like the ones I attend here at the “Heart for Lebanon” center.” As Youmna spoke, tears filled her eyes.

Youmna always stands out for her love of learning and personal growth and always seeks to develop herself, especially spiritually. She enjoys activities that help her connect with Jesus and deepen her spiritual relationship. Youmna has been participating in the “Summer of Hope” programs where Jesus had profoundly changed her.

“I love to attend the club program where I eagerly learn about God and listen to His teachings and I try not to miss it every Wednesday. I have learned to read the Bible and pray constantly. The last thing I read was about Matthew, who had committed many sins, but when he met Jesus, he changed and followed him. Sometimes when I read the Gospel, I don’t understand the message, so I ask my mother to help me.  As I engaged with the “Children at Risk” programs, I discovered the profound significance of Jesus as our Savior. Through lessons, discussions, and conversations, I came to believe deeply that his sacrifice on the cross was an expression of boundless love, offering forgiveness for our sins. Inspired by stories of his miraculous deeds, like healing the blind and the paralyzed, I found solace in prayer, experiencing firsthand his transformative power. One particular moment stands out vividly: a heartfelt prayer was answered, and I felt a surge of joy, reaffirming my belief that Jesus listens and responds to our deepest desires.

I’ve learned a lot about what pleases God and have become more mindful of my actions and choices. Besides, I enjoy attending the theater program and listening to stories from the Bible. It helps me feel connected and closer to God and gives me joy. I love Abraham’s story as I found comfort and inspiration in his journey of faith. Even though Abraham made mistakes, God still kept his promises to him, showing forgiveness and love.” Youmna expressed 

One day, Youmna shared with the team a heartfelt revelation: her dream of becoming a doctor. With a clear sense of purpose, she expressed her desire to make a positive impact by serving others. Yumna’s aspiration isn’t about earning a title, it’s about embodying compassion and lending a hand to those facing hardships.

On the other hand, Yumna’s path towards this dream was influenced by personal experience. “My uncle passed away because he was sick and couldn’t afford the medications he needed or hospital treatment due to insufficient funds. My dream is to be a doctor, help and treat patients, especially the poor who cannot afford medication or hospitalization.” Youmna shared

The “Summer of Hope” team is praying that Youmna’s life shines brightly with love and compassion and that God guides her steps and grants her wisdom, perseverance, and opportunities to fulfill her calling to serve others.

Please pray for Youmna as she has asked for requests concerning the conflicts and wars, especially in Syria, pleading for peace to descend upon the afflicted countries. Additionally, she seeks prayers for her brother’s health, who is suffering from asthma, and her family’s well-being, as well as for her future. Your prayers are deeply appreciated during this time.

By Admin H4L
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Story
August 15, 2024

I Only Knew Him as the Creator

Mohamad and his family, originally from Syria, fled their homeland in 2012, seeking refuge in Lebanon. They settled in the Bekaa Valley, hoping to find safety. Mohamad is the father of four children: Dilivan, Abed Al Hannan, Fahima, and Liliana. Each of them actively participates in the ‘Children at Risk’ programs. Mohamad expresses his joy as his children eagerly engage in the activities. He believes the moral and ethical lessons they learn, including teachings about God, are essential for their development.

Dilivan, in particular, has been involved in the programs for nearly three years. Her involvement has equipped her with significant knowledge and understanding of biblical teachings and enriched her spiritual growth.

The team recently noticed her eagerness for Gospel stories and her desire to learn more about Jesus and share Him with others. Additionally, she expressed her strong desire to spread faith, love, and serve Jesus.

“Before joining the Summer of Hope activities, my knowledge about God was quite limited; I only knew Him as the Creator. I never used to pray, and I didn’t even know how to. However, I’m so grateful for the opportunity to visit the center where I discovered who Jesus is and learned how to communicate with Him through prayer. When I first heard about Jesus, I felt astonished and really curious. So many questions filled my head, and I was trying hard to figure it all out. But as time went on, I started to understand more. Each time, I learned something new about Jesus, I felt amazed. His stories and teachings showed me how much he cared and loved people and how he could change lives, including mine.

I have learned that Jesus is God, and He sacrificed Himself for us. He’s our only Savior. Without Him, we would be drowning in sin. He died to wash away our sins, but we must believe in Him and ask Him for forgiveness. I believe in Jesus Christ, and every day my faith grows stronger. I love to know and learn more and more about Him. I enjoy reading the Bible, and I always watch YouTube videos about the Gospel stories. After being lost and distant from God, He found me, I found my way back to Him!” Dilivan said happily

Dilivan expressed that prayer brings her closer to God and makes her feel His presence even more. One day, she shared her inspiration and dream with the team, saying, “My dream is to learn guitar, play in the church, and praise and glorify the Lord. My goal is to testify and share with others the message of Jesus. I’ve already told my cousins about Jesus. There is no life without Him.”

Through our Summer of Hope programs, children can find refuge, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. They are provided with opportunities to explore true faith, discover their purpose, and deepen their relationship with God. These programs aim to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of children, enabling them to pursue their dreams and make a positive change in their communities, like Dilivan and many other children.

By Admin H4L
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Story
August 6, 2024

A Haven of Love

Once upon a time in Syria, a country exhausted by war, a beautiful little girl named Waad was born. The joy of her arrival was shadowed by tragedy when her mother passed away two months after her birth. Little Waad needed care and love, and her grandmother, who held a boundless love for her granddaughter in her heart, took on the responsibility of raising her. Fleeing the dangers and destruction of their homeland, they sought refuge in Lebanon, yearning for a land where they could find safety and peace.

In Lebanon, Waad’s grandmother became her anchor. She dedicated herself to filling the void left by Waad’s mother, offering her a childhood filled with love and beautiful memories. Despite the challenges, the grandmother’s embrace was Waad’s safety.

Life in Lebanon was not easy, but the bond between Waad and her grandmother grew stronger with each passing day. Her grandmother provided the stability that Waad desperately needed. The girl’s father, who had remarried and started a new family, showed no concern for his daughter, abandoning her to her fate. This abandonment only deepened the bond between Waad and her grandmother, who became her sole protector and nurturer.

As Waad grew, she came to know our Summer of Hope team through various activities we conducted in the community. Her bright eyes and warm smile quickly captured our hearts. We established a connection with her and her grandmother, visiting them regularly to offer support and companionship. Despite the weight of her struggles, Waad always greeted us with a hopeful spirit, eager to share her world with us.

Waad would often ask us to pray for her, a simple request that spoke volumes about her faith and hope. She was always excited to introduce us to the family she lived with, her face lighting up as she spoke of her grandmother, the woman who had become her entire world.

Through our visits, we witnessed the strength of their bond and the impact of the grandmother’s love and care.

By Admin H4L
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Story
July 29, 2024

Grasping an Opportunity

Christian was born into a loving family in Taalabaya, Lebanon, where peace and affection filled their home. With her parents, grandmother, and brother, Christian’s upbringing was grounded in faith, attending weekly masses at their liturgical church. Initially enrolled in a prestigious private school, Christian’s education shifted amidst the turmoil of war, necessitating a move to a local public school near Zahle.

After completing her studies, Christian pursued a dual major in Political Sciences and Social Education at university, graduating with distinction in 2005. She embarked on a teaching career at The Lebanese Canadian School before transitioning to entrepreneurship, founding a successful clothing store in 2007.

In 2008, fate intervened when George, a client at her store and a member of the Internal Defense, caught Christian’s eye. Their courtship blossomed over two years, leading to a joyous union. Blessed with two daughters, the couple invested in a home of their own.

However, the economic downturn of 2019 plunged them into financial distress, wiping out their savings. With George’s salary barely covering basic expenses, Christian made the difficult decision to reenter the workforce after closing her business to care for her children.

A chance encounter at her daughters’ school led Christian to Hope Evangelical Church, where she was warmly welcomed by the pastor. Despite initial reservations, Christian embraced the fellowship and found solace in the community’s support during her trials. Through their prayers and encouragement, Christian’s faith deepened, leading her to dedicate her life to the Lord.

Grateful for the love and assistance she received, Christian expresses her heartfelt appreciation. “I thank you for your care, both emotional and material,” she shares. “I thank the Lord for using you to guide me on this journey of faith.”

As Christian continues to walk in the light of God’s word, let us lift her in prayer, asking for blessings upon her path and growth in her spiritual journey.

By Admin H4L
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Story
July 16, 2024

From Darkness to Light

Donya, whose heart is filled with faith and resilience, has depicted a powerful story of strength of spirit and steadfastness in the face of challenges. She began her life in Beirut amidst war and conflicts. She was able to endure that difficult period because she was being taught the Evangelical Church, which gave her the strength and resilience to bear various circumstances. However, when she returned to her hometown in southern Lebanon, she found herself facing new challenges related to caring for her brother who was suffering from mental health disorders.

After the death of her brother two years ago, challenges mounted before Donya. She found herself alone, struggling against economic and social hardships. From this dark place, she began her journey in search of light and hope, and the Heart for Lebanon organization served as an oasis where she found support and guidance. She initially benefited from the food aid, and over time, she started attending Bible study sessions. Despite social and economic challenges, she began to feel the difference that the Bible made in her life. It wasn’t just a source of comfort, but it became her guide in every step.

“In every worship gathering I attend, I feel that time is short, and I want to listen and delve deeper and deeper.” These words summarize Donya’s passion and desire to explore the depths of spiritual teachings. Thanks to her continued attendance and participation, she began to overcome loneliness and sorrow, finding hope and encouragement in each new story from the Bible.

Through this journey, Donya transformed from a person suffering from loneliness and distraction into a source of inspiration for those around her. She began to share the grace of the Bible with her sister and her daughter, and she became capable of speaking confidently and steadfastly about the values of faith. “I have learned a lot from the Bible, and I am committed to reading it and participating in church activities,” Donya said.

By Admin H4L