Show Notes
Holly Silkman is leading a special project that is going to change lives in a war-torn region: an equine therapy center. Holly and her husband, John, served for many years in the United States military and when they retired, their family had everything they wanted—a home, a ranch, a herd of horses and some land.
After October 7, John Silkman was called to lead Samaritan’s Purse response in Israel. Then a month later, John called Holly to tell her about a unique opportunity—an opportunity to live and serve in Israel for a year. At first, Holly was resistant. She didn’t want to go because she loved her life, but there was an open door for Holly to blend two of her passions: counseling and horses.
“My first thought was, ‘I cannot believe that God is doing this.’”—Holly Silkman
Holly continued to push against God until she spoke with a friend who asked her a very poignant question: when are you going to get serious and follow what God is leading you to do? Holly had to trust God and take the leap of faith.
The Lord revealed to Holly all the positives that this move would bring. Her daughter will grow up in a place where she can walk where Jesus walked and deepen her faith. Holly has been encouraged by Scriptures like 1 Thessalonians 5:24. She is confident that since God has called her, He is going to equip her every step of the way.
“Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.”—1 Thessalonians 5:24 (KJV)
The equine therapy center, that is currently under construction will be available to any people groups in the region. Holly is looking forward to seeing lives changed as people from all ages and backgrounds come to the equine therapy center. Holly shared about the power of horses and how they can sense emotions.
“[Horses] match their heartbeat to you. If you're anxious, they're anxious. If you're relaxed, they will be relaxed.”—Holly Silkman
Please pray for this equine therapy program and the ministry that will take place in this region. Lift up the Silkman family in prayer as they live and serve in Israel. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories from On the Ground, please visit SamaritansPurse.org.
Holly Silkman talks with Kristy Graham about a new project in Israel that will impact people physically, mentally, and spiritually: an equine therapy center. Hear how the Lord opened the doors for this incredible leap of faith and what her prayer is for this program.
Resources
· Learn more about how Samaritan’s Purse is bringing relief to Israel and Gaza.
· Listen to “Leading in Humble Confidence: Israel” to hear from John Silkman about how he strives to walk in humble confidence and reliance on the Lord as he leads in a complex, tense region of the world.
· Hear from John Silkman at the beginning of Samaritan’s Purse response in Israel.