On the outskirts of Port-au-Prince in Onaville this year, gangs took control. Many people were forced to leave their homes, and the kids from our Children’s Homes were among them. The last few months have brought uncertainty and challenges as a result. Because of the social and political instability in the country, this Christmas will look a little different than it has in the past for our friends in Haiti. Yet despite troubling circumstances, our children, staff, and pastors are looking ahead to December 25 with a renewed sense of unity and hope.

This Christmas, the Children’s Homes and compound may not host the festivities as in years past, but the location has always been a secondary concern. We hear so often that the church is not the building—it’s the people—and that thought sums up our current situation. Our children, despite being physically separated from the familiar walls of the Mercy and Regency Homes, have carried the warmth of their shared relationships with them. In the midst of this challenging situation, Pastor Poyis has been a rock for our kids. His unwavering commitment to their well-being has been a source of comfort and security, and that sense of stability and close community accomplishes more than a building ever could.

The resilience of our kids, staff, and pastors shines brightly this season—but it is the source of their hope that shines brighter. The heart of Christmas is the gospel message, and that is what brings peace in any situation, despite the chaos in the world around us. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to earth as a baby. He came as the incarnate message of love and redemption, promising with His life that we would be restored and made whole. The nativity scene itself highlights the radical nature of the gospel—Jesus came in a lowly stable, surrounded by shepherds and farm animals, yet was greeted by angels and kings. The message of Christmas is for everyone, regardless of who you are or where you find yourself in life. The gospel is the promise of peace.

In Haiti, this Christmas brings an opportunity to remember one important truth: that God keeps His promises. As our friends face uncertain days ahead, they do so as people who know Jesus, the Prince of Peace—the embodiment of God’s grace and love. They celebrate because of the community they have with one another through Him, knowing that He is the true source of joy. And that truth is what we see foreshadowed in so many good Christmas traditions. The act of gift-giving, for one, mirrors the ultimate gift humanity receives in Jesus—a gift that transcends material security and embodies the greatest love this world has ever seen.

As we pray for and support our Haitian brothers and sisters from afar, we rejoice in knowing that our steadfast and promise-keeping God cares for them. May this Christmas bear fruit for the gospel all around the world, spreading the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ, whose life brings us peace.

To learn how you can be praying with us for the ministry in Haiti, visit Prayer Requests.