Recap of Jordan

Jordan had so much to see and experience for those who are willing to go out and walk with God. Before we left for Mafraq we had the opportunity to see Petra Jordan’s greatest tourist attraction. The city is famous for its rock-cut architecture and water system. Established possibly as early as 312 BC as the capital city of the Arab Nabataeans. It is also famous for being the place where the holy Grail was found in Indian Jones and the last crusade. We were also taken into more spectacular deserts as we headed to Wadi Rum. This was where the movie the Martian was filmed. It looked a landscape from Star Wars or Mad Max and it was very beautiful especially at sunset. On one of our free days we were able to go to Geranase where Jesus Cast out legion. It was so cool to be able to see the Sea of Galilee and were Jesus did a lot of his ministry and spent time with his disciples and his father. We also headed to Jerash where there were many ancient Roman ruins, this was also that place where  they say Jacob wrestled with God.

Sea of Galilee from Geranase  

 

Petra

Wadi Rum

The organization we worked with is doing a lot of great things with the Syrian Refugees. See video below for an overview of the Syrian crisis. We have visited many house to sit with refugees living in Mafraq. In Mafraq there are around 70,000 refugees as well as two camps Anatra with 80,000 and Zaatari with 200,000 ( Check out the documentary “Salem Neighbor” on netflix for a look inside the Zaatari camp). The organization focuses on those in the city with homes. Some have nothing when they move in so they supply them with bedding supply, a gas stove and propane.

We sat and listened to their stories as we drink very strong coffee or tea that is half sugar. We have heard stories of losing loved ones, losing homes and all of their possessions, false imprisonment, people disappearing, torture, war and escape through the desert as they fear for their lives. Syria is in a bad state and there does not look like there will be change anytime soon. Yet these families are holding onto hope of returning to Syria for a better future, but as time goes on that hope is fading. These families have each other at least and they are still very joyful and always greet us with a smile as we enter their homes.

This organization has also created a school for Syrian children where they get a good education as well as a good meal each day. There they are loved as well as taught discipline. The head principal Agap loves these children, and they respect Him for it. When he enters the room the children shape right up no matter how crazy they were, he does not even have to use words. That is the type of man you want for your children to learn but also grow. They also have an english program for adults and that was a lot of fun to help out with as these guys truly want to learn before many of them will be heading to America or Canada for relocation.

Continue to ask God for hearts to be open to what the church is doing as many have recognized the love christians are showing them. That workers keep coming into the organization as there are many needs to be filled. Thank you for all of your support and prayer. There is only one month left, but I want  it  to be the best month of the race.