Lebanon (MNN) — Hardship continues in southern Lebanon six months after a ceasefire ended the war between Hezbollah and Israel.
Nearly a million people from the region were displaced at the end of last year, and around 90,000 people still cannot access their homes today.
“If you don’t provide the proper infrastructure – food, electricity, sewage, telecommunication, roads – it’s going to be very difficult for the citizens of southern Lebanon to return to their villages and towns,” Camille Melki with Heart for Lebanon says.
Those who have returned home are dealing with destruction and trauma. “People are still suffering silently. You have emotional scars, traumatized children [and] people who feel left alone because our government… is still not living up to the needs of many families who have suffered,” Melki says.
(Photo courtesy of Heart for Lebanon)
Help from Heart for Lebanon makes it a little easier to meet daily needs. “When the ceasefire agreement was made, everybody thought this was the end of humanitarian aid,” Melki says.
“Heart For Lebanon is coming alongside many families and individuals to support and walk with them on this journey.”
Help for today, hope for tomorrow
Heart for Lebanon’s consistent and reliable presence speaks volumes during uncertain times, especially to those who don’t know Jesus.
“People of all faiths have been affected by this war that Hezbollah drew us into with Israel,” Melki says.
“For them to know that Heart for Lebanon is willing to stand by them is very puzzling because most humanitarian agencies and other aid groups have already quit providing aid and support.”
Questions lead to Gospel opportunities as people ask why Heart for Lebanon’s approach differs from most aid groups.
“We don’t provide aid because we have more resources than others, but we want to [show] in our actions, presence, and love that God cares. The love and care you are receiving is God’s love given to you through us,” Melki says.
“It gives us so much credibility by being present, serious, and purposeful in our humanitarian aid, which leads us to beautiful Jesus conversations.”
You can support Heart for Lebanon’s efforts here. Most importantly, pray. “Pray that we stay purposeful and resilient, focusing on what God has called us to do,” Melki requests.
“First and foremost, centered at everything we do, is looking at every opportunity to share the Gospel and make disciples, as Christ has commissioned us to do.”
Ask the Lord to strengthen staff and volunteers affected by violence. Out of 80-plus believers at Heart for Lebanon, “30 of our staff members have been directly affected by this war. You are serving and helping people who are hurting while you are hurting as well,” Melki says.
“Prayer for the team and the recipients is very important. Focus your prayer on resilience and obedience.”
Header and story images courtesy of Heart for Lebanon.
