It’s been over a decade since a wave of revolution passed through the Arab world. People still disagree on whether it achieved some good goals or just resulted in circling the wagons. A healthy change is usually gradual, from the inside out and from the bottom up. I believe many good things have happened and are still happening in the region. Most importantly is that people started to ask questions, many questions, about anything and everything. It is not easy to suddenly question the things that many thought were unquestionable, but change is not out of the question!
There is a tug-of-war between the let’s-think-outside-the-box camp and that of the always-has-been-always-will-be! People are either pushing forward into the 21st century or running back to the Middle Ages. It is really a crucial time in the region. Human rights are among the most critical issues, especially women’s rights. Just in the past week, two women were killed by men because they refused to marry them. That is a heinous crime, but what is more horrible is that some people, so-called religious leaders, tried to justify it and somehow blame the victims.
It’s interesting that in the Arabic language, the words “rights” and “truth” come from the same root. We’ve produced a number of new programs to help young people, especially women, understand their rights and appreciate the eternal truth behind them. Our approach has always been to care for the entire person—body, soul, and spirit. Listeners comment that they are attracted to our programs because they don’t feel preached at. It’s easy to throw the book at someone, but it’s a lot harder to help them through.
We are committed to present relevant programming that touches people’s lives, one person at a time, and shine a gleam of light into their dark world. Remember, we are the light of the world and that is our role to play.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matt 5:14-16)
Categories: ARABIC
