This past week, our outreach team from Beit Hallel Congregation participated at our leadership retreat in Cyprus. It was a precious time of studying the Word, building relationships with other Israeli ministers, and being refreshed in the Spirit.
But as often happens, God had additional plans beyond what we could have imagined!
During their time on the island, the outreach team found opportunities to share the Gospel with locals and build bridges of friendship with Israel. One particularly moving testimony came through the faithful obedience of one of our follow-up workers, Miriam.
While at the hotel where the retreat was held, Miriam noticed a woman working there who appeared distressed. Sensing the Spirit prompting her, Miriam approached the woman, Eleni, and gently asked how she was doing. Eleni opened up, sharing that she was overwhelmed by trouble with her children, describing them as “nothing but trouble.”
Miriam, filled with compassion, spoke to her heart. She shared how the Lord sees children as a blessing, referencing Psalm 127:3, which says, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him.” She explained how God’s Word transforms how we view life’s challenges, including parenting.
As Miriam spoke, Eleni began to cry, admitting that she wanted to think differently about her children and her circumstances. Miriam shared how Jesus can completely change a person’s heart and renew their mind, giving them a new perspective on life’s struggles. She explained the Gospel message—God’s plan of salvation and the need to be born again.
With the Holy Spirit clearly moving in her heart, Miriam asked Eleni if she wanted to receive forgiveness and eternal life in Yeshua (Jesus). Eleni, visibly moved, said yes. Together, they prayed the prayer of salvation, and in that moment, Eleni gave her life to Jesus.
The transformation in Eleni was immediate and profound. Her face, once marked by stress and despair, radiated joy and peace. She expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying she felt like a new person. Eleni shared that she had never experienced such hope and love before, and she was eager to learn more about living a life of faith in Yeshua.
Before parting, Miriam connected Eleni with the leadership of a local congregation in Limassol, encouraging her to grow in her newfound faith within a supportive community. Eleni was excited about the opportunity and promised to stay in touch with Miriam as she begins her journey of walking with the Lord.
This testimony reminds us of the power of a simple act of obedience.
Miriam’s willingness to reach out, listen, and share the love of Yeshua led to Eleni’s salvation and the beginning of a transformed life.
Let us give thanks to God for this incredible work and continue to lift Eleni in prayer—that she would grow deeply in her faith, be strengthened in her walk with the Lord, and that her family would also come to know the love of Jesus.
Amen!
