Syrian Christians feel encouraged by prayers during International Day of Prayer
As the world celebrated the International Day of Prayer on Sunday, May 8, Christians in Syria are encouraged by the prayers offered by believers from different countries on their behalf.
Christians in Syria, particularly in Aleppo, have endured intense persecution and violence since the war erupted in 2011. As a result, many have fled to other places in search of safety.
From an estimated 1.8 million Christians living in Syria, about 1 million have left the country. Sarah, who used to live in Aleppo, is one of those who have chosen to leave their homes behind.
Sarah remembered the difficult days and thought about those who are still living in the war-torn country.
"There was a lot of fighting where we lived," she shared. "I know from my own experience how difficult it is to live in these circumstances. I know what it is like to see people getting killed by bombs."
Knowing that many Christians prayed for Aleppo and Syria during the International Day of Prayer gave Sarah hope that God will hear and respond to these prayers.
She herself witnessed the power of prayer when she prayed for a young man on Sunday. Sarah has opened her house to help young Christians from Aleppo and meets with them regularly. On that particular day, she prayed for the young man whose experience during the war made him lose his faith and turn his back on God.
"When I prayed for him, he suddenly surrendered his life to Jesus Christ," Sarah said. "I am so happy that I can offer the people of Aleppo a safe place to have some rest. This boy is now thinking of staying in Syria because he believes he has a message for the country."
The ceasefire that was declared in Aleppo during the first week of the month made Sarah more hopeful that things will start to improve in her hometown. She said she looks forward to the things that God will do in Aleppo.
