(July 16, 2015 - by Roger Reimer)  From the context of a large Eurasian city along a major riverfront, a voice is being heard that shares a message of hope and meaning to a people beleaguered by economic crises and a dearth of practical help or local government services.

As one unnamed source put it, “I see how people are living and how needy they are. They’re losing their jobs and many families are cutting back on spending just to finance loans they can’t afford.”

With pensions amounting to less than US$200 a month, senior citizens are especially hard hit while utility bills keep escalating as do medicine and housing costs. The city is also being saddled with increasing debts that it cannot afford. Defaults by banks and government instability loom on the horizon.

“Lacking government supporting services, this city faces many challenges that should merit help,” said David, executive director of the Europe/Eurasia Region.

Amid this environment of despair, a group of people have established a local FM radio station as a beacon of light. With music and inspirational teaching, the gospel of Jesus Christ is being communicated to listeners with the desire of making a difference in their lives.

“Building this ministry hasn’t been easy,” David explained. “Obtaining legal permits, dealing with the local bureaucracy and facing a lack of funds and equipment failures have all stretched the faith of the group.”

“But our radio partners have trusted in the Lord and stepped out to bring good news to their city which so desperately needs it,” he continued. “And because of their sensitivity to the culture, the station is being received favorably and even enthusiastically. Listeners can hear about real hope and joy in the midst of their struggles to survive.”

In the future, the partners hope to see local programs produced to complement the prerecorded material they receive from sources outside of the city. Then they will be able to speak to the immediate context and address the heart issues of their listeners.

“They know God has given them a window of opportunity and favor to press ahead, and they are thankful with grateful hearts to serve and to let people know that there is light, the true light that enlightens the world—Jesus,” David concluded.

Source: Reach Beyond