Children throughout the Middle East are hurting. There is much bloodshed and violence in the Middle East, and children are some of the most affected. Christian TV channel SAT-7 is trying to change this. Their programmes seek to give these children a hope for life, and an opportunity for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. SAT-7 KIDS is the only Christian channel just for children across the Middle East and North Africa. With a viewership of over 9 million viewers, it is vastly popular, and spreading the Good News far and wide. God is using SAT-7 to broadcast His message of love and reconciliation throughout this strategic region.

Incredibly, in Iraq 1 in 3 children watch SAT-7 KIDS, and in Saudi Arabia 1 in 4 children watch the channel! A recently created programme – With Jesus – recognises the dangers in their society but creates a safe and fun place for them to experience childhood. So far, episodes have taught kids “How Not to Fear” and “God is My Friend”. An episode entitled “I Am Special” told children, “If you have no parents or friends, you can go to Jesus.” A unique segment draws the viewers into Bible stories. One episode features an actor playing the part of Joseph from the Bible. Joseph calls the studio on Skype from his home out in the desert. Producer Mounir Zakhary says this segment adds value to the show because “You feel you are in the moment.”

Since it launched in October, With Jesus has already found a big audience. This autumn it attracted the most views on the SAT-7 KIDS YouTube channel. The series caught the attention of an Egyptian
schoolgirl. The hosts were explaining how to be an ambassador for Christ at school. This schoolgirl was not sure how to relate to a classmate from a different background. Not long after watching the episode, she saw her classmate being bullied at school and stood up for her in front of the bullies. The two girls formed a special bond and became close friends.

With Jesus is designed for 8 to 14-year-olds but is also touching adults. One lady tells of her worst fears coming true when her husband left her and took their daughter with him. During a live episode of With Jesus, she decided to call the show and request prayer. The team prayed with her on-air. A few stressful weeks later, her husband and beloved daughter returned home to her.

Produced by Mounir Zakhary and directed by Marian Ramsis, the first season of With Jesus includes 16 episodes lasting 55 minutes each. Hosted by Mina and Michelle and the Prayer Service Team
for Kids, as many as 18 people are in front of the cameras at one time. This creates an atmosphere full of activity and energy.

Source: SAT-7 News

BIBLE STUDY: Isaiah 54:13

Day 1 – PRAISE: God for the impact SAT-7 is having on Arab children who are learning to trust Jesus.
Day 2 – PRAY: That God will use With Jesus to the comfort and nurturing by the Holy Spirit.