Journey of Hope Heart for Lebanon

In this episode of Journey of Hope, we step into the classrooms of Heart for Lebanon's H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) Program, where transformative stories unfold every day.

Our host, Elio Constantine, takes us on a journey to discover the profound impact this initiative has on the lives of over 1,000 at-risk children in Lebanon.

Bashir, the field manager and a lead pastor, shares the program's history and its exponential growth from 27 to 400 students in the Bekaa Valley alone. He emphasizes the importance of sharing Christian values and the love of Jesus, which resonate not only with the children but also ripple out to touch entire families.

Witness the narrative of change through the eyes of Maram, a 13-year-old girl who learned the value of kindness and equality through the program's Bible sessions. Maram's aspirations to become a psychologist and help those with mental health challenges highlight the program's success in instilling hope and ambition in the hearts of these young learners. 

Learn how Heart for Lebanon is battling the crisis of education and childhood neglect by providing a sanctuary of learning and love. Hear from Aida, a dedicated teacher, and Bushra, a former student, who both testify to the nurturing environment and personalized care that set the H.O.P.E. Program apart from any other educational experience.

As Elio Constantine wraps up the episode, he extends a heartfelt invitation to listeners to engage with Heart for Lebanon's mission. By visiting heartforlebanon.org/prayer, you can join the prayer community, support the program, and help sow seeds of hope in the fertile ground of young hearts and minds.

For questions, email podcast@heartforlebanon.org

In this episode, we turn our attention to a beacon of light amidst the challenges faced by Syrian refugee children in Lebanon. With over 470,000 registered young refugees, and many more unaccounted for, Lebanon stands as the largest per capita host of Syrian refugees worldwide.

This influx puts a strain on the country’s infrastructure and educational system, leaving countless children without access to schooling and facing a precarious future.

Our host, Elio Constantine, guides us through a narrative of transformation, focusing on Heart for Lebanon's H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) Program. This initiative is not just about academics; it's about nurturing life skills, instilling Christian values, and fostering a sense of community and belonging.

We hear from Joanna, the program's curriculum overseer, and Nada, a dedicated teacher, who shares the profound impact of the program on both the children and the educators themselves.

Through their stories, we learn about the holistic approach Heart for Lebanon takes, addressing the children's needs with love and care beyond the classroom. We witness how the Hope Educational Program equips these young minds not only with knowledge but also with the resilience and faith to navigate life's storms.

There is also a moving personal account of Ayman, a 15-year-old Syrian refugee whose life was radically changed by the Hope Center.

For those inspired to make a difference, visit heartforlebanon.org/prayer to discover how you can become a prayer partner and support the H.O.P.E. Program. Join us in praying for the teachers, the children and their families, and help foster a future where every child has the opportunity to become a leader of faith in their community. Tune in for an episode that will challenge your heart and inspire you to be part of the Journey of Hope.

In this moving conversation, we rejoin Yasser as he delves into the indispensable connection between prayer and fasting. With a Muslim background and a transformative encounter with Christ in the early '90s, Yasser's insights bridge cultural divides and bring a profound understanding of spiritual disciplines.

Part 2 of our series with Yasser, a key contributor to Heart for Lebanon's missional leadership program, focuses on the life-changing impact of prayer. From personal transformation to the power of intercession, Yasser's stories underscore the vitality of an authentic relationship with God through disciplined practice and heartfelt prayer.

In this episode, we also hear the poignant testimony of Micheline, whose journey from ritual to relationship illustrates the transformative power of truly knowing Christ. Her story is a testament to the beauty of discovering one's faith not as a series of obligations but as a living, breathing walk with God.

As our host, Elio Constantine, reminds us, the turmoil in Lebanon is a backdrop to the powerful testimonies shared. He extends a heartfelt invitation to listeners to pray for the Heart for Lebanon team and the nation itself, as they strive for peace, reconciliation, and biblical justice.

This episode isn't just a podcast; it's a call to action—a reminder that the practice of our faith is not just theoretical but a daily commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus. Join us for an episode that challenges, inspires, and calls us to deeper devotion, and if you missed Part 1, be sure to catch up for the full story of hope, transformation, and discipline in faith.

For those moved to support or learn more about the work of Heart for Lebanon, visit heartforlebanon.org and consider joining the prayer community. Together, let's embrace the journey of hope.

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📋 Episode Chapters
(00:00) This podcast is part two of a series we did with Yasser
(02:24) All of what you said sounds to me as if it's something that we should live
(09:08) Micheline shares her story of finding God for herself
(16:19) "Prayer for me is important because of a personal testimony."
(21:40) The five disciplines that can help any Believer
(22:23) We encourage you to pray for Lebanon after listening to these two episodes

In this thought-provoking episode of Journey of Hope, we delve into the transformative power of faith beyond religious rituals with our guest Yasser who talks about how fasting, when stripped of its true spiritual essence, can become a mere tradition devoid of its intended purpose.

As we approach the month of Ramadan, this dialogue takes a timely look at fasting from both Christian and Muslim perspectives, exploring its origins, significance, and the cultural nuances that have shaped its practice. Yasser's journey from observing Ramadan to discovering the biblical context of fasting illuminates the stark differences between performing religious duties for merit and embracing a discipline that deepens one's relationship with God.

This episode is not just about abstaining from food; it's an invitation to reflect on the communal aspects of faith, the importance of discipline, and the pitfalls of reducing profound spiritual experiences to mere formalities. Join us as we uncover how fasting can lead to a disciplined life that truly reflects the character of Christ.

Listen to Part 1 of this enriching conversation and be sure to catch the upcoming episode, Part 2, where we'll dive deeper into the indispensable role of prayer in fasting and the dangers of disconnecting the two. Subscribe to our podcast to ensure you don't miss the continuation of this inspiring story of hope and transformation on Journey of Hope.

In the week where the world looks at love through a cultural view, we are asking "what is love?" from a Biblical view?

Without the love of Christ in our hearts, the ministry of Heart for Lebanon would not exist today. From the beginning love has been the starting point of serving all those we encounter with the goal to show them the love God has for them, and lead them to know Him personally.

Hear our guest, Hoda Melki, share about how the ministry began and why we do what we do with the compassionate heart of Jesus Christ at the center.

Our Family Care initiative is designed to show the love of Christ through meeting survival needs with tangible goods while opening the door to deeper relationships with the families we serve. Both refugee and local Lebanese families benefit from humanitarian aid and relational visits that lead to spiritual conversations.

Our Team is able to meet with and evaluate families in need, and supply essential food and hygiene items. It takes a lot of work and time but the relational value added to the people we serve far outweighs the cost.

To see an example of a family served, and where they are on their faith journey now, visit heartforlebanon.org/family-care-brings-rasha-hope/