In Nazareth, we often see something quiet but very powerful taking place—something that cannot be built through plans alone, but only through the love of God at work in people’s hearts. It happens in simple moments. Conversations. Smiles. Children choosing small gifts with joy. And in these moments, we see how the Lord is building bridges that only He can build.
Recently, we spent time with a very special family—Daria and her two daughters, new Jewish immigrants who have been coming regularly to our humanitarian aid center. Like many families who arrive in Israel, they are navigating a new beginning. New language, new systems, new pressures. It is not always easy. But in the middle of this transition, they found a place where they are received—not as strangers, but as family.
As we sat together, there was a natural warmth in the room.
One of the little ones quietly moved between the shelves, choosing something small for herself with a smile. It was a simple moment, but it carried something deeper—a sense of safety, of belonging, of being seen.
When we asked Daria how she feels about coming here, her response was honest and heartfelt. She shared how much she loves coming, how this place feels warm and welcoming, and how there is always someone ready to help. For her daughters, it is not just about receiving something—it is about coming to a place where they feel comfortable, even happy. A place where kindness is consistent.
She also spoke about something very important. In her own words, she said how good it is that there are places like this—places where people can come and receive help when they need it. There was no pressure in her words, no formality—just a simple expression of gratitude for something that many might take for granted: a community that shows up.
And this is what we see again and again.
What begins as practical help—food, clothing, small gifts—becomes something much more. It becomes relationship. Trust. Connection. It becomes a bridge.
Here in Nazareth, where Arab believers serve alongside Jewish families who come for support, we are witnessing something that reflects the heart of God. As it is written,
“For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility”
Ephesians 2:14
These are not just words from Scripture—they are becoming a lived reality in front of our eyes.
We are not only distributing aid. We are opening space for people to meet one another in a different way. Not through history, not through tension—but through love, dignity, and shared humanity. And in that space, the light of Yeshua is revealed—not loudly, not forcefully, but clearly.
Daria and her daughters are also among the many families who will benefit from something the Lord is now preparing for the future. In their own city of Nof HaGalil, we are working toward establishing a new humanitarian aid center—a place that will allow us to serve even more families, more consistently, and more closely to where they live.
This is not just about expanding a project. It is about strengthening these bridges. It is about being present where people are. It is about continuing to build a place where Jewish and Arab lives can meet, not in distance, but in care.
When we look at Daria’s family, we do not just see a story of receiving help. We see a picture of what God is doing across this land. One family at a time. One relationship at a time. One open door at a time.
And through it all, we are reminded that the Gospel is not only spoken—it is lived.
Thank you for standing with us, for making moments like these possible, and for being part of what God is doing here in the land.
With gratitude from Nazareth,
Pastor Saleem Shalash
Prayer Points:
- Pray for Daria and her daughters that they would continue to experience God’s peace, provision, and guidance in this new season of their lives.
- Pray for the growing relationships between Arab believers and Jewish families—that trust and unity would deepen.
- Pray for the establishment of the new humanitarian aid center in Nof HaGalil, that it would be a place of blessing, dignity, and hope for many.
- Pray that through every act of kindness, hearts would be open to encounter the love of Yeshua.