Maysaa, a Syrian mother of four boys, has faced years of hardship and uncertainty. Before the war in Syria, she lived a simple, peaceful life in Aleppo. But when the conflict erupted, everything changed overnight. And after a year of displacement, her family settled in Southern Lebanon.
“I come from a strict [Muslim] background,” she shared. “In Aleppo, I used to wear the niqab, covering my whole body and face. My husband often threatened to marry another wife and would beat me until I developed back problems.” Despite the abuse and fear, Maysaa chose to stay to keep her children safe in the chaos.
Through a neighbor, Maysaa first heard about Heart for Lebanon and came seeking help. But when she accepted an invitation to attend Bible studies at our Hope center, she came to know a truth she had never heard of before. From the start, she was eager and committed to know more about Christ. She joined our discipleship program and ended up finishing the three cycles in three years.
Through these studies, Maysaa discovered a new identity and purpose. “One of the things I love the most is the difference between the teachings of Christ and the teachings I previously received. Despite my strict background, I was given value in Christ. By learning the teachings of Christ, the old unrighteous habits and ideas are changed into righteous ones, which satisfy the Lord,” she explained.
Maysaa is now part of our Missional Leadership Program so that she in turn can lead others in her community to the truth and hope she found in Christ. “Fear of the Lord, being slow to anger, and seeking wisdom were essential lessons I learned through the leadership training program,” she shared.
Maysaa has found healing and reconciliation, after surrendering her life to Jesus. She has forgiven her husband and no longer carries the bitterness that once weighed her down. Today, she is surrounded by a loving community of believers and will play a role in the lives of others in need of Christ’s salvation, just as she once did.
Heart for Lebanon is a faithful partner of The Bolick Foundation