Only God Can Turn the Tables

One year ago this last week, 2,750 tons of Ammonium Nitrate exploded in the harbor of Beirut, Lebanon. The blast, equivalent to 1.1 kilotons of TNT, killed more than 200 people, injured 7500 and resulted in $15 billion in damage, leaving 300,000 without homes. I recall walking along the beautiful waterfront of Beirut and driving by the seaport when our mission team from Gateway visited in 2019. We could not have imagined the destruction that would soon follow. For the Lebanese, neither would they have been able to forecast the catastrophic fall of their country into political and economic chaos. Truly, the country is in a chaotic freefall with its sectarian power struggles and lack of accountability paralyzing any form of constructive reform. Basic commodities are now in short supply. More than half the country is also now living in poverty. Considering that so many refugees from the surrounding countries fled to Lebanon with almost nothing in the past decades, you have to know that the situation is critical for mere survival. 

In the midst of this sobering reality, I can tell you that both of our partners in Lebanon are moving forward and expanding their ministries to meet the demands of people in need. Resurrection Church has purchased an adjacent lot in downtown Beirut to build a larger church. The Grow preschool has also purchased a property to open a second location in an even more strategic area of Beirut. It seems strange that these opportunities come in a time of such horrific need and yet, why should we NOT expect that God is all about meeting the needs of the suffering and the spiritually lost of Lebanon. I celebrate that this news of ministry expansion is an example of God’s people going on offense for the sake of the gospel. They are not shrinking back and protecting their turf. They have vision and desire to do so much more for Jesus in spite of the basic living challenges all around them. 

So I wonder, though Covid is a pale challenge for us compared to what the Lebanese are facing, am I looking for opportunities in every challenge? Do I expect God to show up and move among us as I seek to honor him in my everyday life? I am in awe of our Lebanese sisters and brothers and desire that Gateway remain faithful to them as partners. Let us also follow in their footsteps. Let us not be weary in doing good (Gal 6:9). The harvest is here and people are looking for answers. As Pastor Hikmat Kashouh said in their memorial service, “Only God can turn the tables.”