A Gospel Opportunity At The School

The people of the Holy Land belong to many different religious and ethnic groups, and divisions run deep. The whole world watches this region and wonders if peace is possible.

At CHLF, we are grateful to stand with followers of Jesus who are pursuing peace in their own communities as a daily practice. They know their neighbors. They know the local schools, churches, families, wounds, and possibilities. And often, they see opportunities for witness and reconciliation long before anyone from the outside would know where to begin.

Randa, who serves with the churches in Beine and Rameh, recently sent us a story that encouraged us deeply. We think it will encourage you too.

From Randa - Contest at School

"Recently, I was invited to serve on the judging committee at the elementary school in Beine, where a special competition was held for both Muslim and Christian students. The students participated by reciting prayers and hymns, and I was honored to be part of the Christian judging panel. Children from first through sixth grade stood before us and beautifully recited their prayers and songs, while we evaluated their performances and selected the winners.

Soon after, I was invited once again to attend the award ceremony for the winning students. We prepared Bible stories for all the participants, along with copies of the Bible and gifts for every child. The children were filled with joy, and the school principal expressed her heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for everything we had done.

The event was also attended by Muslim sheikhs and the head of the local council. He even asked me to present a Bible to the council chairman as a gift, which I gladly did. He thanked me warmly for it.

It was truly a wonderful and meaningful experience. We were able to encourage the children and place the Word of God into their hands in a way that suited their ages and understanding."

---

While the world waits for those in power to do something about the troubles of the Holy Land, our partners are reaching out to their neighbors with respect, courage, and grace.

That does not make the suffering less real. It does not erase the injustice, fear, or grief that so many people are carrying in the Holy Lands. But it does remind us that God is still at work through faithful disciples who are willing to take small steps toward peace in these places.