As an American of Lebanese decent I am excited to see the movement to oust Syria from Lebanon. The looming presence of the Syrian army with the restraints by their government has oppressed the Lebanese people socially, economically and politically. As a Christian, I believe this liberation to be a work of God's hand for two reasons. Historically, God has worked to liberate the oppressed, the afflicted and the downtrodden. In the Old Testament we see God rallying his people to overcome the oppressive hand of Pharaoh. In the New Testament we hear JEsus announce his mission "to proclaim liberty to the captives" and "to set at liberty those who are oppressed". Secondly, God often uses the death of a good man to bring forth new life and freedom. Jesus said that "unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain." In Lebanon's case, it was the killing of Prime Minister Rafik Hariri who longed for a free Lebanon that sparked anti-Syrian demonstrations. In our own American history we honor men like Abraham Lincoln and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who ultimately lost their lives for their work with civil liberties. Most of all, we must reflect on the death of Jesus Christ for the sins of mankind and his resurrection that brings new life. My hope and prayer is that God will continue to work in Lebanon as He did in Egypt to
"LET MY PEOPLE GO!"
