Even before the devastating violence that began in October 2023, healthcare in the Gaza Strip was under extreme pressure due to the Israeli blockade. Maternity and child health services were among the worst affected, with many essential pharmaceuticals and life-saving drugs unavailable or in short supply.

For many years, we have we have supported our partner the DSPR-NECC to provide antenatal, maternity and well-baby services at its three family health care centres in the Shajaia, Darraj and Rafah areas of Gaza. Sadly, due to the war, the clinic in Rafah is now the only one in operation.

At the Rafah clinic, the staff provide primary healthcare, dental care and distribute dignity and hygiene kits. They also provide psychological support sessions for children and parents.

Conditions in Rafah are extreme, with more than 1.5 million people sheltering there – the majority of whom have been displaced from other areas of Gaza. The DSPR-NECC’s humanitarian response is being severely hampered by the difficulties of supplies getting into Gaza, a lack of electricity and restrictions on movement.

But they are doing all they can to help those in desperate need: “The destruction of our premises, the limitations of our resources, the poor connection and fragmentation never prevented DSPR-NECC from keeping a light in the middle of darkness and trying to help people live with dignity.”

Bible reading

Why, my soul, are you downcast?
    Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
    for I will yet praise him,
    my Savior and my God.

Psalm 42:5

Thought

This psalm expresses deep lament. The distress of the psalmist is so great that he compares it to a mighty ocean wave sweeping over him (verse 7). Psalms like these teach us about the importance of being honest with God – of telling him about our pain and anguish, and directing our deep feelings of grief towards him rather than trying to deal with them on our own. God is big enough to handle our questions, our anger, and our sadness.

Prayer

Father God,

We come before you with hearts full of sorrow and grief about what is happening in Gaza. We lift before you all of those injured, killed and bereaved. Those who have lost everything and been displaced.

We cry out for those still held hostage, and for their families and friends.

We pray for the leaders of Gaza, Israel and Palestine. Impart to them the courage and compassion to recognise the humanity in each other and walk towards peace.

Forgive us for when we carry violence and hatred in our own hearts. Help us bring all of our sorrow, grief, pain and doubt to you, that our hearts may be transformed and our lives may become reflections of your redeeming love.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Inspired by what you read here? Share it on social (don’t forget to tag Embrace!):