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by Heart for Lebanon
Journey of Hope is a podcast giving you insights into the ministry of Heart for Lebanon. Through conversations with field and regional experts, you will gain a new perspective on what is taking place and what’s possible as we “Make Disciples”. The stories you hear will move beyond theoretical and make the ministry practical as we show you the impact God is making in Lebanon and the Middle East.
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- 2 weeks ago20 min
Introducing the SISTERS Program and the L.I.F.E. Hub with May-Lee Melki Constantine
In this episode of the Journey of Hope Podcast, host Elio Constantine welcomes Heart for Lebanon Managing Director May-Lee Melki Constantine to introduce two new initiatives designed to walk alongside vulnerable young women and teenagers in Lebanon: the SISTERS Program and the LIFE Hub.May-Lee shares how the SISTERS Program has grown naturally out of Heart for Lebanon’s 20 years of ministry among vulnerable young women. Designed for girls and young women facing challenges such as sexual harassment, abuse, early child marriage, child labor, and societal neglect, SISTERS creates a confidential, Christ-centered environment where participants can experience emotional restoration, trauma-informed support, spiritual discipleship, and genuine community.The program seeks to restore the dignity and hope that many young women have lost, reminding them that their circumstances and trauma do not define their worth. Through biblical psychosocial sessions, peer connection, discipleship, and practical support, the SISTERS Program helps young women process their wounds, break cycles of despair, and anchor their identity in Christ.May-Lee also explains the importance of keeping young women connected to Heart for Lebanon even when circumstances prevent them from continuing in traditional education. The SISTERS Program provides a continuum of care, including for girls who may be forced into early marriage, while seeking to walk alongside them and their families with compassion, wisdom, and the hope of the Gospel.Listeners will hear the powerful story of Rahma, an 11-year-old girl who entered Heart for Lebanon’s Hope Educational Program after being removed from school because her family could no longer afford it. Unable to read or write and struggling with significant behavioral and emotional challenges, Rahma initially found it difficult to adjust. Through patient teachers, clear boundaries, unconditional grace, home visits, and discipleship, she began experiencing transformation—not only academically, but emotionally and spiritually. Her mother, initially hesitant about Christian influence, began to recognize the peace and stability Jesus was bringing into her daughter’s life and their home.The conversation then turns to the Life Hub, a new initiative being developed in Southern Lebanon for teenagers who have grown up amid repeated cycles of war, instability, and loss. May-Lee explains that for many teenagers, especially those ages 15–18, traditional education alone is no longer enough. They need belonging, purpose, practical skills, and an identity rooted in Christ.The Life Hub will provide a comprehensive pathway that brings together emotional and psychosocial support, practical skills development, Gospel-centered education, and opportunities for empowerment. Rather than simply remaining beneficiaries of ministry, teenagers will be equipped to become contributors in their families, communities, and society.May-Lee emphasizes that the goal is to interrupt cycles of despair and violence by helping teenagers discover their God-given talents, understand their purpose, and choose a different path—the path of hope and Christ. The initiative is still in its early development stages, with a fuller launch expected in 2027, and will include different programs and spaces tailored to the needs of teenage boys, girls, and young mothers.The episode closes with an invitation to pray for these new initiatives, the young people they will serve, and Heart for Lebanon’s ministry across the country.Show NotesIntroducing the SISTERS ProgramA new initiative growing out of Heart for Lebanon’s long-term ministry to vulnerable young women.Creating safe, confidential spaces where girls can be seen, heard, and valued.Addressing the effects of abuse, early child marriage, child labor, trauma, and societal neglect.Providing Christ-centered emotional restoration, psychosocial support, peer connection, and discipleship.Helping young women understand that their trauma does not define their worth or their future.Building a continuum of care that keeps vulnerable girls connected to ministry.Restoring Hope & DignityHelping young women process their wounds and break cycles of despair.Creating environments built on trust, grace, and unconditional love.Walking alongside girls and their families without creating division.Equipping young women to grow emotionally and spiritually and eventually disciple others.Praying for divine healing, peace, and hope in the lives of participants.Rahma’s StoryAn 11-year-old girl who entered the Hope Educational Program after leaving traditional school.Arriving unable to read or write and struggling with significant behavioral challenges.Teachers recognizing the trauma behind her behavior and respondin
- Aug 1, 202617 min
Ministry Update with Camille Melki and May-Lee Melki Constantine
In this episode of the Journey of Hope Podcast, host Elio Constantine welcomes Heart for Lebanon CEO Camille Melki and Managing Director May-Lee Melki Constantine for a powerful ministry update from Lebanon. As Heart for Lebanon prepares to celebrate 20 years of ministry this October and the 10th anniversary of Hope Evangelical Church, Camille shares encouraging news from the field, the ongoing challenges facing Lebanon, and the remarkable ways God continues to restore hope in the midst of conflict.Camille provides an update on the humanitarian and political situation following months of war, highlighting the devastation many communities continue to face while pointing to encouraging diplomatic developments that offer a glimpse of hope for lasting stability. More importantly, he shares how these difficult circumstances are creating unprecedented opportunities for the Gospel as families search for lasting hope in Christ.Listeners will hear firsthand how Heart for Lebanon's Hope Ministry Centers are transforming lives through education, worship, discipleship, and compassionate outreach. From children eagerly enrolling in educational programs to Kurdish believers worshipping Jesus in their own language for the first time, Camille reminds us that God continues to change lives and transform communities every day.May-Lee then shares how Heart for Lebanon's discipleship ministry has grown over the past two decades—from leading Bible studies during the ministry's early years to developing comprehensive discipleship pathways that are equipping believers across Lebanon. She explains how more than 50 Bible study groups, tailored discipleship classes in three languages, and intentional relational ministry are raising up mature followers of Christ and planting churches among communities from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds.The episode concludes with the inspiring story of Shadia, a Syrian widow whose journey began with receiving a food parcel but ultimately led to a relationship with Jesus Christ, deep discipleship, healing, and a life now invested in leading others to Him. Her testimony beautifully illustrates Heart for Lebanon's commitment to holistic ministry that meets physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.Show NotesMinistry Update from LebanonAn update on the humanitarian impact of the recent conflict.Encouraging progress toward peace through ongoing negotiations.The physical and spiritual needs facing families across Lebanon.Why this moment presents unique opportunities for Gospel ministry.Hope Restored Every DayChildren beginning a new school year with hope.Kurdish believers worshipping Christ in their heart language.H.O.P.E. Ministry Centers serving as places of worship, discipleship, and transformation.Celebrating lives changed through Christ.Twenty Years of FaithfulnessCelebrating Heart for Lebanon's 20th anniversary.Marking ten years of H.O.P.E. Evangelical Church.Reflecting on God's faithfulness through two decades of ministry.Honoring the supporters whose prayers and generosity have made the ministry possible.Discipleship That LastsMore than 50 Bible study groups meeting across Lebanon.Nine- to ten-month discipleship programs offered in multiple languages.Five churches planted through long-term discipleship.Building mature believers who disciple others.Relationships That Change LivesMinistry built through home visits and consistent relationships.Walking alongside families in their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.The story of Shadia—from receiving humanitarian aid to becoming a disciple of Christ and serving others.How You Can PrayPray for lasting peace and stability in Lebanon.Pray for the ministry team serving vulnerable communities each day.Pray for the upcoming 20th Anniversary Celebration.Pray that many more people would encounter Jesus through Heart for Lebanon's ministry.Key TakeawayFor twenty years, Heart for Lebanon has faithfully served vulnerable families with the love of Christ. While the circumstances in Lebanon continue to change, the mission remains the same: to lead people from despair to hope in Christ through compassionate, Christ-centered ministry. Whether through education, humanitarian aid, discipleship, church planting, or simply sharing a cup of coffee with someone in need, God continues to restore lives and transform communities across Lebanon.Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Ministry: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer: heartforlebanon.org/prayer#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #Lebanon #Discipleship #Gospel #ChristianPodcas
- Jul 18, 202617 min
Building for the Future: A Conversation about our Capital Project in Southern Lebanon with Camille Melki
In this episode of the Journey of Hope Podcast, host Elio Constantine sits down with Heart for Lebanon President Camille Melki to discuss an exciting new chapter in the ministry's mission: the launch of a new H.O.P.E. Ministry Center in southern Lebanon. In the midst of war, economic collapse, and ongoing humanitarian crisis, God is opening the door for a permanent ministry presence that will serve thousands of vulnerable families with both practical care and the hope of the Gospel.Camille shares why southern Lebanon has remained central to Heart for Lebanon's ministry since its founding in 2006 and how the recent conflict has created unprecedented opportunities to reach people searching for hope. As families continue to experience displacement, loss, and uncertainty, the ministry has witnessed a growing openness to the message of Jesus Christ through compassionate humanitarian aid, Bible studies, discipleship, and worship gatherings.Listeners will gain insight into the strategic location of the future ministry center in Ghazieh, situated to serve Sunni, Shia, and Christian communities alike. Camille explains how this center will become a place for worship, discipleship, children's education, youth ministry, women's ministry, medical care, and humanitarian assistance—all while creating opportunities to introduce families to the transforming hope found in Christ.The conversation also explores the practical realities of launching a major capital project in a post-war environment, including securing permits, finalizing construction plans, and trusting God to provide the resources, workers, and protection needed for the years ahead. Camille invites listeners to join the ministry in prayer as they prepare to begin construction on what will become a lasting testimony of God's faithfulness in one of Lebanon's most strategic regions.Show NotesWhy Southern Lebanon?Heart for Lebanon's ministry began in southern Lebanon in 2006 during the Hezbollah-Israel war.The region remains one of the most strategically important areas for Gospel ministry.Years of conflict have created deep physical and spiritual needs.Families are increasingly searching for hope and truth.God continues to open doors for ministry despite difficult circumstances.The Vision for the New H.O.P.E. Ministry CenterA permanent ministry home in Ghazieh.Worship services and church gatherings.Bible studies, discipleship, Sunday school, youth, and women's ministries.Safe educational programs for vulnerable children.Medical clinic and humanitarian distribution center.A place where children can simply be children again.Meeting Physical Needs While Sharing the GospelProviding food, medical care, and essential relief.Building relationships through compassionate service.Sharing the simple message: "Jesus loves you."Seeing increasing numbers of families place their faith in Christ.Humanitarian aid opening doors for discipleship and spiritual transformation.A Ministry for Every CommunityServing Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims, and Christians.Strategically located near Sidon and surrounding villages.Demonstrating Christ's love without discrimination.Creating opportunities for people from every background to hear the Gospel.Building trust through consistent compassion and care.How You Can PrayPray for safety throughout construction.Pray for wisdom as contracts are finalized and building begins.Pray for the resources and workers needed to complete the project.Pray that the center becomes a beacon of hope for generations to come.Pray that many people will encounter Jesus and grow in their faith through the ministry taking place there.Key TakeawayGod continues to build His Kingdom—even in the midst of war.The new H.O.P.E. Ministry Center in southern Lebanon represents far more than a building; it is a place where lives will be transformed, communities restored, and the Gospel proclaimed for generations to come.As construction begins, believers have the opportunity to pray, partner, and participate in what God is doing to bring lasting hope to Lebanon.Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Ministry: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer Ministry: heartforlebanon.org/prayer#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #CapitalProject #SouthLebanon #HopeCenter #Gospel #Discipleship #ChristianPodcast #Lebanon #BuildingHope #KingdomImpact #Prayer #HopeInChrist
- Jul 4, 202619 min
A Fourth of July Conversation on Faith & Freedom with Tom Atema
In this special Fourth of July episode of the Journey of Hope Podcast, host Elio Constantine sits down with Heart for Lebanon Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board, Tom Atema, for a thoughtful conversation about the meaning of freedom and the responsibility that comes with it as followers of Jesus Christ.As Americans celebrate Independence Day and 250 years of the nation's history, Tom reflects on the biblical foundations of freedom, emphasizing that true liberty is found not in doing whatever we desire, but in living as God intended. Drawing from Scripture and personal experience, he shares how freedom begins with recognizing that every person is created in the image of God and called to live in relationship with Him.Throughout the conversation, Elio and Tom compare the realities of religious freedom in the United States and Lebanon, exploring how believers in different parts of the world experience the privilege—and sometimes the cost—of following Christ. They discuss the challenges faced by Christians who come to faith in difficult environments and the importance of protecting the freedoms that allow the Gospel to flourish.Listeners will also hear a biblical perspective on freedom through passages such as John 8:36 and Romans 8, reminding us that Christ alone sets us free from the bondage of sin and death. The episode encourages believers to cultivate daily disciplines of prayer and Scripture, live with humility and respect toward others, and shine as lights in a world that desperately needs the hope of Christ.The conversation concludes with a call for Christians to steward their freedoms faithfully, engage in respectful dialogue, and remain rooted in God's Word as they navigate an increasingly complex culture.Show NotesWhat Does Freedom Mean?· Every person is created equally in the image of God· Freedom is both a gift and a responsibility· True freedom is found in following Christ· Liberty does not mean living without boundaries or accountability· Gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy as believersFreedom in America and Lebanon· Religious freedom in different cultural contexts· The realities of persecution and social pressure· The importance of protecting the right to worship openly· Understanding freedom from both individual and communal perspectives· Supporting believers who faithfully follow Christ in difficult circumstancesThe Biblical Foundation of Freedom· John 8:36: "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed"· Romans 8 and freedom from the law of sin and death· Freedom begins with surrender to Jesus Christ· Christ removes the burden and shame of our sin· Living in dependence on God's grace rather than our own effortsThe Responsibility of Christians in a Free Society· Spending daily time in God's Word· Seeking God's wisdom before engaging with the world· Respecting those with whom we disagree· Living as ambassadors of Christ with humility and love· Protecting freedom through faithfulness and biblical convictionBeing a Light in a Dark World· Reflecting Christ's love in everyday life· Remaining steadfast as culture changes around us· Sharing the Gospel within our spheres of influence· Trusting God's mercy, which is new every morning· Celebrating both earthly blessings and eternal hopeEncouragement for Believers· Freedom in Christ removes the chains of sin and shame· God calls His people to live with both courage and compassion· Reading Scripture is a privilege that many believers around the world do not enjoy· The Christian life is marked by surrender, trust, and joyful obedience· Our ultimate freedom is secured through Jesus Christ aloneKey TakeawayTrue freedom is not the absence of limits, but the presence of Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus sets us free from sin and calls us to live with purpose, humility, and love. As we celebrate earthly freedoms, may we never forget that our greatest liberty is found in Him alone.Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Ministry: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer Ministry: heartforlebanon.org/prayer#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #FourthOfJuly #FreedomInChrist #ChristianFreedom #FaithAndCulture #BiblicalTruth #Prayer #HopeInChrist #JourneyOfHopePodcast #Lebanon #ReligiousFreedom #John836 #Romans8
- Jun 20, 202616 min
Biblical Fatherhood: A Father's Day Conversation on Faith and Family with Camille Melki
In this special Father's Day episode of the Journey of Hope Podcast, host Elio Constantine sits down with Heart for Lebanon President Camille Melki for an encouraging conversation about the challenges fathers face in today's rapidly changing world and the hope that can only be found in Christ.From war and economic uncertainty to cultural pressures and the growing influence of technology, fathers everywhere are navigating difficult circumstances while striving to protect, provide for, and lead their families. Camille shares biblical insights on the role of fathers, pointing listeners to the example of our Heavenly Father and the enduring truths found in Scripture.Throughout the conversation, Elio and Camille explore how fathers can remain grounded in their faith, lead with integrity, and trust God even when circumstances feel beyond their control. Drawing from personal experiences, biblical examples, and the realities facing families in Lebanon and around the world, this episode offers practical encouragement for fathers seeking to lead their families well.Listeners will also hear a heartfelt reflection on God's faithfulness through life's challenges, including Elio's experience as a new father, and why prayer, Scripture, and dependence on Christ remain essential anchors for every parent.The episode concludes with a call to pray for fathers in Lebanon who are navigating conflict, economic hardship, and uncertainty while faithfully caring for their families.Show NotesThe Challenges Fathers Face Today· Navigating war, conflict, and instability· Providing security and stability during uncertain times· Financial pressures and economic hardship· Raising children in a rapidly changing culture· The influence of technology and social media on familiesThe Biblical Role of a Father· Protecting and providing for the family· Leading with integrity and righteousness· Modeling faith, patience, and forgiveness· Pointing children toward Christ· Reflecting the love of our Heavenly FatherLearning from Scripture· The example of the father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son· God's love, grace, and pursuit of His children· Proverbs 20:7 and the importance of integrity· Finding wisdom and direction through God's WordTrusting God Through Every Season· Remembering God's faithfulness in past circumstances· Building confidence through prayer and Scripture· Finding peace when situations feel beyond our control· Trusting God's care for our children and families· Depending on Christ rather than our own strengthA Father's Personal Journey· Elio's experience as a new father of twins· Walking through uncertainty during a NICU stay· Learning to surrender fears to the Lord· Discovering God's peace in moments of helplessnessEncouragement for Fathers· God has not called fathers to carry every burden alone· Faithfulness matters more than perfection· Prayer remains one of the greatest gifts fathers can give their children· Our ultimate hope and security are found in ChristPrayer Requests· Pray for fathers around the world facing uncertainty and hardship.· Pray for fathers in Lebanon navigating economic and political instability.· Pray for wisdom, patience, and strength as parents raise their children.· Pray that fathers would lead their families with integrity and faith.· Pray for children to grow in their relationship with Christ.· Pray that families would find their hope and security in God alone.Key TakeawayNo matter how challenging the circumstances may be, fathers can find strength, wisdom, and hope in Christ. By remaining rooted in Scripture, committed to prayer, and dependent on God's faithfulness, they can lead their families with confidence and integrity through every season of life.Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Ministry: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer Ministry: heartforlebanon.org/prayer#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #Fatherhood #FathersDay #BiblicalFatherhood #FaithAndFamily #Prayer #ChristianParenting #HopeInChrist #JourneyOfHopePodcast #Lebanon #FaithfulnessOfGod
- Jun 6, 202627 min
Vision 20 and war response - May-Lee_mixdown
In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with May-Lee Melki Constantine to discuss Heart for Lebanon’s Vision 20 campaign, the ministry’s 20th anniversary initiative, and how God is using this season of conflict and uncertainty to open new doors for Gospel-centered ministry across Lebanon.The conversation begins with an overview of Vision 20, a campaign designed to celebrate two decades of God’s faithfulness while looking ahead to the future of ministry. May-Lee shares how the initiative focuses on three key areas—transformation, expansion, and innovation—as Heart for Lebanon seeks to reach more people with the hope of Christ in the years ahead.Listeners will hear about plans for a new Hope Ministry Center in South Lebanon, a strategic expansion project that will significantly increase ministry capacity in one of the most underserved and conflict-affected regions of the country. Despite ongoing instability, the team explains why now is the time to move forward rather than retreat.The episode also explores Heart for Lebanon’s response to the current war, which has displaced more than one million people throughout the country. May-Lee shares how the ministry rapidly mobilized to serve thousands of newly displaced families through emergency aid, relational outreach, and spiritual care, while continuing to prioritize discipleship and Gospel engagement. Throughout the conversation, listeners will hear how crises often create unique opportunities for transformation. From growing attendance in Bible studies and churches to increased openness among families searching for hope, the team shares how God continues to work in remarkable ways amid hardship.The episode concludes with a powerful story about an 11-year-old Syrian girl named Ghothran, whose faith and curiosity about Jesus opened the door for meaningful spiritual conversations with her Muslim mother. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the midst of trauma and displacement, God is planting seeds of hope that can impact future generations.Show NotesVision Twenty: Celebrating 20 Years of MinistryCelebrating two decades of faithful ministry in LebanonReflecting on lives transformed through the GospelLooking ahead to the future through prayer and strategic growthFocused on Transformation, Expansion, and InnovationMinistry Expansion in South LebanonDevelopment of a new Hope Ministry CenterMore than 70,000 square feet of ministry space plannedIncreased capacity for discipleship, education, church ministry, and leadership development-Expanding Gospel presence in a region deeply affected by conflictResponding to the Current CrisisMore than 1.2 million people displaced by the warThousands of additional families receiving emergency supportDistribution of mattresses, bedding, and essential relief itemsOngoing relational ministry and spiritual care alongside humanitarian aidTransformation Through AdversityIncreased attendance in Bible studies, churches, and discipleship programsGrowing spiritual hunger among families seeking hopeOpportunities to share the Gospel with communities previously unreachedThe Church continuing to serve faithfully amid uncertaintyA Story of Hope: GhofranAn 11-year-old displaced Syrian girl participating in virtual learningLearning about prayer and sharing it with her motherA Muslim mother becoming curious about Jesus and asking for prayerA powerful example of children opening doors for Gospel conversations Prayer RequestsPray for displaced families throughout LebanonPray for children experiencing trauma and instabilityPray for the continued growth of discipleship and church ministryPray for the Hope Ministry Center project in South LebanonPray for wisdom, protection, and endurance for the Heart for Lebanon teamPray that many more families would encounter the hope of Jesus ChristKey TakeawayEven in the midst of war, displacement, and uncertainty, God continues to transform lives, open doors for the Gospel, and use His people to bring hope, healing, and lasting impact throughout Lebanon. Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Requests: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer Ministry: heartforlebanon.org/prayer#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #Vision20 #Lebanon #HopeInChrist #Discipleship #MiddleEastMinistry #FaithInAction #ChurchPlanting #GospelTransformation #PrayerForLebanon
- May 23, 202622 min
Hope in the Midst of War: Ministry Update, Our Response, and Prayers
In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine shares a recent prayer gathering with Heart for Lebanon’s ministry partners, offering a sobering update on the ongoing conflict in Lebanon and the ministry’s response amid continued war, displacement, and uncertainty.The episode begins with an overview of the current situation in Lebanon, including the fragile ceasefire, the ongoing violence affecting civilians, and the growing humanitarian crisis impacting millions across the country. Listeners hear firsthand how families continue to face displacement, fear, economic collapse, and instability while searching for safety and hope.Throughout the conversation, Camille Melki shares how Heart for Lebanon has expanded its emergency response efforts to serve thousands of additional families through food distribution, shelter support, hygiene supplies, and ongoing community care. More importantly, he explains how these humanitarian efforts create opportunities for “Jesus conversations” with individuals and families from diverse faith backgrounds who are encountering the love of Christ in the midst of suffering.The episode also highlights the devastating impact the conflict is having on children, mothers, and vulnerable families. May-Lee Melki shares stories of children experiencing trauma, interrupted education, anxiety, displacement, and fear, while also pointing to the hope found through Heart for Lebanon’s educational and discipleship programs.Listeners will hear powerful testimonies from children and families whose lives are being impacted through both in-person and virtual ministry efforts, including stories of faith, prayer, healing, and curiosity about Jesus among communities who may have never otherwise encountered the Gospel.The episode concludes with a focused time of prayer for Lebanon, the region, displaced families, ongoing peace talks, and the protection of the Heart for Lebanon team as they continue ministering in dangerous and challenging circumstances.Show NotesCurrent Situation in Lebanon• Ongoing conflict despite a temporary ceasefire• Continued civilian casualties, displacement, and instability• Over 1.2 million people displaced across Lebanon• Economic collapse and humanitarian challenges continue to worsenHeart for Lebanon’s Emergency Response• Expanded ministry efforts serving thousands of additional families• Distribution of food, hygiene supplies, blankets, and emergency aid• Humanitarian care paired with Gospel-centered ministry• “Jesus conversations” opening doors among vulnerable communitiesImpact on Children & Families• Severe trauma, anxiety, and interrupted education among children• Increased risks facing women, mothers, and young girls• Stories of displaced families navigating fear and uncertainty• Heart for Lebanon continuing educational and child-focused outreachStories of Hope• Testimonies from children and families encountering Christ• Virtual and in-person ministry creating opportunities for discipleship• Families from Muslim backgrounds asking questions about Jesus• The Gospel advancing even in the midst of conflict and despairPrayer Requests• Pray for displaced families and vulnerable children• Pray for protection over the Heart for Lebanon team• Pray for peace negotiations and stability in the region• Pray for the Church to continue boldly sharing the hope of ChristKey TakeawayEven in the midst of war, displacement, and uncertainty, God continues to open doors for the Gospel as families encounter the hope, peace, and love of Jesus Christ through faithful ministry and prayer.Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Requests: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer List: www.heartforlebanon.org/prayer#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #Lebanon #PrayerForLebanon #HopeInChrist #MiddleEastMinistry #FaithInAction #Discipleship #EmergencyResponse
- May 9, 202620 min
What is Stewardship? With John Frick.
In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with Heart for Lebanon’s newest team member, John Frick, Senior Director of Development, for a thoughtful conversation on stewardship through the lens of Scripture and mission.What begins as a discussion about giving quickly expands into a deeper exploration of what it truly means to live as stewards of everything God has entrusted to us—time, resources, influence, and life itself. Drawing from Jesus’ teaching on loving God with all our heart, soul, and strength, John unpacks how stewardship is not limited to finances, but is instead a full-life posture of surrender and obedience.He reflects on the biblical foundation of stewardship beginning in creation, where humanity was entrusted with the care of God’s world, and how that calling continues today. From there, the conversation turns to how Western Christianity often narrows stewardship into a financial concept, while Scripture presents something far more holistic and transformative.John also shares his perspective on Heart for Lebanon, highlighting how the ministry uniquely integrates both Gospel proclamation and practical care—feeding the hungry while also making disciples, in the spirit of both Matthew 25 and Matthew 28. He describes this as a “holistic Kingdom approach,” one that reflects the way Jesus Himself ministered.Having known Heart for Lebanon’s founder Camille Melki for over a decade, John speaks to the ministry’s impact in Lebanon and why he felt called to join the team. He emphasizes that what is happening through Heart for Lebanon is far beyond human explanation—evidence of God’s hand at work as grassroots leaders are equipped, disciples are made, and communities are transformed.The episode closes with a challenge to listeners: to step into where God is already at work. As John echoes Henry Blackaby’s well-known principle, stewardship ultimately becomes about joining God in His mission and faithfully offering Him all that we have.Show NotesWhat is Biblical Stewardship?Stewardship includes far more than moneyRooted in Jesus’ command to love God fully (heart, soul, strength)Everything we have belongs to GodDiscipleship is lived through obedience, not partial surrenderA Whole-Life Understanding of StewardshipTime, talent, influence, and resources all belong to GodTithing is not the limit of obedience—it is the beginning of surrenderTrue stewardship flows from recognizing God as the owner of all thingsBiblical FoundationsCreation mandate: humanity called to steward God’s worldGenesis shows stewardship continues even after the FallJesus’ teaching: “Why do you call Me Lord, Lord, and not do what I say?”Heart for Lebanon’s Model of MinistryIntegrates physical care and Gospel proclamationReflects both Matthew 25 (compassion) and Matthew 28 (disciple-making)Built on a holistic Kingdom vision, not separated ministriesKingdom Impact in LebanonGod is raising up grassroots leadersDiscipleship happens in homes and communitiesGrowth is described as beyond human explanation—“punching above its weight”A Call to ParticipationFind where God is already at workJoin Him rather than trying to lead independentlyStewardship is ultimately about obedience and participation in God’s missionKey TakeawayStewardship is not about managing a portion of what we own—it is about surrendering all of who we are and joining God in what He is already doing.Connect & Pray With Us📧 Podcast: podcast@heartforlebanon.org🙏 Prayer Requests: prayer@heartforlebanon.org🔗 Prayer List: https://heartforlebanon.org/prayer📬 Email Updates: https://heartforlebanon.org/emailsignupFollow Heart for Lebanon🌍 Website: https://heartforlebanon.org📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartforlebanon📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeartforLebanon🐦 X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/HeartForLebanon#JourneyOfHope #HeartForLebanon #Stewardship #Discipleship #FaithInAction #MiddleEastMinistry
About Journey of Hope
Journey of Hope is a podcast giving you insights into the ministry of Heart for Lebanon. Through conversations with field and regional experts, you will gain a new perspective on what is taking place and what’s possible as we “Make Disciples”. The stories you hear will move beyond theoretical and make the ministry practical as we show you the impact God is making in Lebanon and the Middle East.
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