Young Mother Ministry

Jen, Samah, and I

As our years out here continue on, ministries change as new opportunities present themselves. The first year we were here, the Lord opened my eyes to teaching middle school students. The needs of the Palestinian youth were right in front of me. Marriage was new; getting to know how to be a wife was overwhelming at times, and learning how to live overseas was exciting. Over the next year or so, I was placed to teach high school—a whole different kind of need. This was also the first time I became a mother. God brought me to a new place in life, with new responsibilities and big changes. Now that I have three babies, my time at home has grown increasingly. So, the ministry opportunities became limited. Or so I thought.

Shari and her daughter, Eliana

I soon realized that there were many young mothers, living right beside me, who were staying at home, alone, all day. Mothers who just needed some time with other mothers. New mothers, older mothers. Tired mothers. Lonely mothers. My eyes have been opened to yet another avenue of sharing the Word of the Lord.  These ladies just need a friend. The opportunities are endless. Just opening up my home for lunch, is a simple way for mothers to bring their children, talk with adults, smile, laugh, ask questions, and just relax in the presence of believers—whether they are or not. Community, as a young mother, is essential. I’ve realized this through spending more time with women. Sure, I could stay home with my own kids, do things with my own family, reach out to the youth, but when I spend time with the young mothers, the needs of a people group are divulged.  When I spend time with these mothers, God shows me more of His heart.

Nariman and her family

What an opportunity. What a gift. What a blessing to be used by God in this way.

Jen and her daughter, Lina