Dignity, Mobility, and Hope in Jesus

Handicapped. This word defined Ahmed’s* life. Unable to visit his family or neighbors, he spent many lonely days wishing he could enjoy the sunshine. One day contacts stopped by Ahmed’s house for a visit. They also brought a gift for him: a wheelchair. Ahmed was delighted! With his wheelchair he would be able to go outside and feel the sunshine on his face.

For many disabled people, the gift of a wheelchair is a new beginning. It can replace sadness and despair with hope and smiles. In the Middle East, some handicapped people may never have seen a wheelchair, much less used one. Many face loneliness, rejection, or despair; others face deplorable conditions with no one to care for them. Although a wheelchair may seem like a small gift, it can be life-changing for adults and children. The blessing of a wheelchair truly brings hope to the handicapped.

As our staff and contacts distribute wheelchairs, opportunities arise to share Jesus’ love. In a poor Middle Eastern village, Hasan struggles with his disability. He longed to have a wheelchair, but no one seemed to care that he needed one. One day, Christian workers visited Hasan, and he requested a wheelchair. When the Christians later returned, and presented him with a wheelchair, he was overjoyed. He said, “For a long time I did not meet people like this who have care and love for others.” Our contacts explained the love of Jesus to Hasan, and he was deeply touched. Tearfully, Hasan pleaded, “Please come always and visit me. Your coming makes me happy and gives me peace.”

Although it may seem that much of the world neglects or disdains these precious people, God has not forgotten them. Besides wheelchairs, Hope for the Handicapped provides adult briefs, walkers, and other items for the disabled. Thank you, supporters, for not only gifting the handicapped with dignity and mobility, but also with the hope of Jesus!