In light of the explosive events in Syria in the last few days, I am going to take a detour from what I had intended to write. I have fresh details to share about the success HOB missionaries are having in many places across the Mideast, but right now the tragic events, centered mostly in and around the northwest corner of Syria, need to be addressed.
Most readers are aware of the insane violence that has erupted in the last few days. The exact number is not known, but I received news a couple days ago that Syria’s new government under Jolani has responded to a military rebellion by leftovers of Assad’s Alawite faction. This did in fact happen but then the militant jihadists decided to go after the civilian population, including any Christians they could locate. Approximately 250 or so brand new believers that the House of Blessing missionaries had reached within the last month were tortured and/or executed.
The news I received this morning however, is much worse. I am told that an additional 900+ have met the same fate. From what I am seeing in the news, some of these folks may have been crucified. News has also come in from Jewish Bible teacher, Amir Tsarfati, that the Jolani-affiliated commander openly calls for the slaughter of Alawite women and children over his microphone: “To the Mujahideen, do not leave alive any Alawite, male or female. The most respected among them will be slaughtered. The most respected Alawite woman will be slaughtered. Slaughter them all, including the children in the bed. These are pigs. Take them and throw them into the sea.” Videos are now emerging of militants doing exactly that.
There are efforts being made by the House of Blessing to evacuate as many Christians as possible who are still in the region. They were part of the Alawite community but have become followers of Jesus Christ. So far, 300 have been rescued but there are many more who are trapped.
I just received an email letting me know what has happened to a few of the brothers. Brother Zalatimo passed on the news that he met with brother Jaafar, who witnessed the execution of the brothers Zamzam, Suhaib and Rajai. They sacrificed their lives to make sure 379 of the believers were able to get out of the area. The men were stoned to death. The militants were hoping to get them to deny their faith, but they refused, saying that their blood was not worth more than the blood of Christ. They never cried out during the beating. They verbally said that their death was for the sake of Christ. Come and save us, O Lord, were their last words. They were then thrown out and left to rot but someone buried them.
Please pray for those who are trying to help, including brother Abdelrahem and other HOB missionaries. They are in very great danger.
As these efforts are in progress, the work of the ministry is continuing across the Mideast. Ramadan continues through March 30, 2025. This is turning out to be one of the deadliest Ramadans that the House of Blessing has had to endure. But, their commitment is that the harvest, which is ripe, must come in as soon as possible. As brother Abdelrahem has stated on several occasions, we are quickly running out of time. The return of Jesus is at the door. Please note: Abdelrahem has inherited Pastor Rashid’s mission and is taking full responsibility for the oversight of the mission of the House of Blessing, funds and all. Please email me with your questions.
Thank you all for your prayers and support. A verse that just came to mind is from Jesus’ response to the repentant thief on the cross next to Him. The thief humbly asked Jesus to remember him when He comes into His kingdom. Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” That is where our slain brethren are also. Praise God.
Forever in His Service,
Jake (aka “Jack”)