The conflict in Syria has lasted now nearly four years. The official death toll is 200,000 and rising, and the UNHCR calculates almost 4 million registered refugees in the region.

My family and I live close enough to the Syrian border that we sometimes hear the faint sound of towns being shelled just across the border. The conflict has brought an influx of refugees into our town.

I met an old man who came from one of those border towns. His town used to be inhabited by 50,000. Then the Syrian army came sowing seeds of fear and violence. Now its a ghost town.

He and his family watched as the army rampaged their house and burnt it down. They also killed their cows and sheep. He fled immediately across the border with eight children and dozens of grandchildren to protect them from harm. Since then he has heard that several relatives have been killed. His eyes filled with tears as he recounted the events.

We have visited Syrian refugees and their families. We have listened to their stories of destruction and heartbreak. Refugees keep asking these questions: What is the purpose of this evil? Is it only for a despotic ruler to cling to his seat? Is it merely for one evil nation to terrorize another? Who can bring an end to the death and destruction?

Their questions are opening doors for the Gospel. We have shared about the only One who can rule in complete righteousness and justice on the earth; the only One who can atone for our sins and empower us to forgive; the only One who promises to wipe every tear; the only One who can give rest to our tired souls as we await His return.

Jesus is our hope and salvation.

Thank you for helping us tell Syrians about hope and salvation.

**This account comes from a long-term field worker.**

Original article: www.frontiersusa.org/blog/article/syria-4-years-of-conflict