President of Medical Teams International Bas Vanderzalm
Syria (MNN) ― It's been 15 months since sects in Syria began their attacks against President Assad's regime. The violence is getting worse, and more innocent people are being killed.
President of Medical Teams International Bas Vanderzalm says, "There are over 100,000 people who are now receiving food. There are 65,000--and many more--now on the way as refugees, because it's just too difficult of a place. A number of them are Christians who are finding persecution and difficulty."
When Christians in the West hear these kinds of stories, it's difficult to know what to do. "[God] doesn't want us to turn our backs on Syria. He's certainly not turning His back on them, even in these difficult times."
We have a responsibility to believers in Syria, says Vanderzalm. "There are Christians and believers in Syria, and we who are believers should pray for them and stand with them."
Medical Teams is sending in over one million dollars worth of medical supplies at the request of local Christians. "We're hoping as a result of this that the witness of the churches to the love of Christ will be shown in very concrete ways. And as a result of people experiencing compassion and care for their children and their families, [we hope] that this will draw them to explore God's love for them," says Vanderzalm.
He continues, "For $5 or $10, we can provide enough medicine for one child. That's an enormous gift in the middle of a very difficult circumstance."
Vanderzalm believes now is the time for Christians to help in the Middle East. "I think there's a tremendous Kingdom struggle underway, and we as believers need to do all we can to support those who are caring for those who are suffering."
If you'd like to help Medical Teams International supply medicine to the region, click here.
