Weekly devotion: How can we change lives for the better?

The Learning Centre for the Deaf, Lebanon

Young children enjoying the play area at the Learning Centre for the Deaf.

This week we’re praying for the Learning Centre for the Deaf (LCD) in Baabda, Lebanon.

The LCD’s Early Intervention Programme has a hugely positive long-term impact on the lives of the children it supports. Working closely with young children and their families, the programme focuses on language development, self-esteem and inclusion within the family and society. The LCD also supports deaf students in high school and vocational school to continue their education, ensuring equality of opportunity.

In addition to its education programmes, the LCD also advocates for the rights of deaf people in Lebanon. Working collaboratively, it lobbies the government for the increased provision of sign language interpretation, communication technology and employment rights.

In the recent Israel-Hezbollah war (October-November 2024), the LCD building became a temporary shelter for families displaced by the conflict. Since the ceasefire was agreed on 27 November 2024, it has been able to resume its programmes.

Bible reading

“‘Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the Lord.

“‘Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favouritism to the great, but judge your neighbour fairly.

“‘Do not go about spreading slander among your people.

“‘Do not do anything that endangers your neighbour’s life. I am the Lord.

“‘Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbour frankly so you will not share in their guilt.

“‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbour as yourself. I am the Lord.’”

Leviticus 19: 14-18

Thought

These ancient Bible verses, found in the book of Leviticus in the Pentateuch, are thought to have been written down in the 7th century BC. The purpose of this book was to instruct God’s people on how to live holy lives, so that God would continue to dwell among them. While some of the rules and practices may sound strange to the contemporary reader, we see a real sense of God’s heart for justice and of his desire for his people to care for and lift up the oppressed. To ‘love your neighbour as yourself’ is a key theme.

Ask yourself: The Learning Centre for the Deaf is making real and tangible changes in the lives of hearing-impaired people in Lebanon. Can you think of practical ways that you could help change other people’s lives for the better?

Prayer

God of Justice,

You are the God who is close to the brokenhearted, the God who raises up the oppressed, the God who lifts up the lowly.

We pray for the work of the Learning Centre for the Deaf. May it continue to transform the lives of deaf people in Lebanon and help bring about a more inclusive society.

We thank you for your amazing love which knows no limits – may the same love overflow from our own hearts and bless those around us.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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