As you may know, a ministry team from the Spring of Life Church & Ministries is now visiting the Bekaa valley on a monthly basis. As they go, they carry their faith, hope, and love in their hearts in order to share them with the Syrians who have come to find refuge in the area. Saturday, August 31, was the day for another eagerly anticipated visit. About 400 adults showed up at different times during the day, 200 of them participated in the worship service, 60 families received food portions and clothes, around 70 families received medical service, and children participated in games and learning activities.
Worship and Sermon:
Upon our arrival, the people welcomed us with great warmth. Syrian refugees and local Bedouins gathered to praise and worship. They heard a message from Pastor Kevork, who preached about the importance of seeking the Kingdom of God, through which they can receive everything they need in their lives.
Testimonies:
The Lord’s anointing was present, and many gave testimonies. Samah testified that she used to suffer from ear pain, and the Lord healed her through a word of knowledge by the pastor. Similarly, Jamila received healing on her knee. Moreover, 13-year-old Amal testified that she had been set free from anger, depression, and self-cutting, and that she hasn’t harmed herself ever since she prayed with the pastor last month. Many people gave their lives to Jesus. A lady said that she used to suffer from loneliness and her life was miserable, but during the service the Lord touched her, and she gave her life to Jesus.
Medical checkups and food packages:
Around 60 families received food and clothing, and more were examined by Dr. Habib Hazkiel with the assistance of 2 volunteer nurses. Most of the patients received the medicines they needed.
Children’s Ministry:
The children were divided into several groups:
Ages 5-8, boys and girls: The program began with praise and worship. They sang Christian songs they had learned earlier and listened to a story from the Bible, “the Parable of the Lost Sheep”. They also participated in many activities, like arts and crafts, modeling with clay, coloring and working with beads.
Ages 9-12, girls: We began teaching English and Arabic languages in Biblical contexts. The girls studied the story of Joseph, through which they learned about walking with God and forgiving others.
Ages 9-12, boys: They had a great time playing outdoor games. Later, they watched a movie about the miracles of Jesus and discussed it.
Finally, we know that what we are sowing in these people’s lives will bring glory to the Kingdom of God.
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Our target from the beginning has been gaining the trust of these people and building friendships with them in order to know their needs more intimately and to show them God’s love, which is far greater than any task we may do. We are grateful to God that every month we are moving a step closer to our target.