In this Christmas season, the familiar carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem" fills our hearts with peace and wonder. Yet, if we reflect on the circumstances surrounding Jesus’ birth, we see that Bethlehem was anything but peaceful at that time. The world was in turmoil, and people looked to kings and rulers for solutions to their problems. But behind the scenes, in a quiet and unassuming way, God was doing something extraordinary—sending His Son into the world to change it forever.
Today, as we look at Bethlehem again, we see echoes of that same turbulence. In the midst of war, unrest, and uncertainty in Israel, it might seem as though chaos has the upper hand. But just as in the days of Jesus' birth, God is working behind the scenes in ways we cannot fully comprehend. And He is using His people to spread His light and hope, even in Bethlehem.
Through our partnership with Christian Friends of Israel (CFI), Derek Prince Ministries (DPM) is privileged to play a small part in this great story of redemption. Together, we are sharing the gospel and equipping Arab believers in Bethlehem with the truth of God’s Word. And lives are being changed—one at a time.
A Visit from Bethlehem
In the first week of December, CFI's Jerusalem office was blessed by a surprise visit from some Arab believers living and ministering in Bethlehem. Elias and his sister Nerim, who serve the youth in their local church, stopped by and met with Rudy and Sharon Friesen (CFI).
Elias and Nerim shared how they’ve been using DPM resources to disciple others in their community. Nerim, a third-year psychology student, is especially excited to use the Self-Study Bible Course with a friend. She shared how this study is giving her and others a solid foundation in their faith—empowering them to grow in their own spiritual journey and to help others do the same.
Elias, too, testified about the impact these materials are having among the young people he serves. It is inspiring to see how God is raising up young leaders in Bethlehem to spread His light in a region that so desperately needs it.
Sharing God’s Love in Bethlehem
But the story isn't limited to young people like Elias and Nerim. Maria (name changed for safety reasons), an Arab believer in Bethlehem who runs a small store, is also using DPM resources to share the gospel in a practical and heartfelt way. She gives out Derek Prince books, like You Matter to God and Blessing or Curse: You Can Choose, to customers from all religious backgrounds who visit her shop.
In her own words:
"I am so thankful, and happy that I can give the Arabic DPM books out for free. People come into my store, and as I am able, I share with them my faith in God. Often I am also able to give them a book. Some do not have any money, so when I can offer one of Derek's books to them at no cost, they are really touched. These books are opening hearts and planting seeds of faith."
Her store has become a quiet place of ministry—where conversations about spiritual truths happen, and where people leave not only with books in their hands but with hope in their hearts.
Christmas Miracle
On Friday, December 13, CFI held a special Christmas event for Arab women from the Old City of Jerusalem. Each woman received a gift bag with sweet gifts and two Derek Prince' books, Surviving the Last Days and The Divine Exchange. The books were received gladly, and a total of 70 were handed out.
Sharon and Rudy shared a simple but powerful message from Matthew 1: “His name shall be called Immanuel – God with Us,” reminding everyone that God is near. God sent His Son to save us from sin, and to reconcile us with the Heavenly Father. One of the most touching moments came afterward when we heard that two women who hadn’t spoken to each other in years were reconciled during the gathering. It was a beautiful picture of God’s Christmas miracle at work and made the day feel even more special.
Far from home
The Jewish population of Israel also desperately needs the message of God's love and hope. Just like Joseph and Mary during the very first Christmas, many Jews today are far away from their homes. Many displaced families are still living in hotels or rental homes. Children, youth, adults; many are traumatized and anxious about their future. The CFI team visits them and offers practical help, such as providing the children with tablets with which they can continue their education online. At least as important as this tangible help is listening to their stories and offering comforting words.
The CFI team also continues to distribute Derek's Bible teaching to Messianic believers in Israel, in Hebrew, Russian, Spanish and other languages. What a privilege to serve both the Jewish and Arab peoples in these challenging times and show them the love of God.
A Light in the Darkness
As we celebrate Christmas, we remember that Jesus is the Light of the World. In Bethlehem, where He was born, that light continues to shine today—through Arab believers, through ministry partnerships, and through the generosity of donors who make this work possible.
We give thanks to God for His faithfulness in using these resources to reach young and old, men and women, in Bethlehem and beyond. Your prayers and support are making an eternal difference.
This Christmas, let’s remember that God often works in ways we don’t expect, just as He did over 2,000 years ago. Amidst the turbulence of our world, He is quietly, powerfully, and faithfully building His kingdom. Together, let’s continue to share the message of hope that began in Bethlehem—a message that still has the power to change the world.
From all of us at Derek Prince Ministries, we wish you a blessed Christmas filled with the joy and peace of Jesus Christ. Thank you for being part of this ministry and for helping us bring His light to the nations.
Merry Christmas!
