‘Lucas A.’ recently shared a beautiful testimony of God’s faithfulness in building His kingdom in Central Asia and calling His children into light.
“My name is ‘Abu’ and I am from the northern mountains. When I was growing up, my family wanted me to become a religious teacher (Imam) and help our people by guiding them in the right path. I studied Islamic Rituals (theology) for 18 years and then I became a lead Imam in the community. Our area has 700 households and I was the spiritual leader, teaching them from the Quran and leading them in prayers and all religious matters. Since I couldn’t reach all the houses, I trained a group of disciples who helped me in overseeing them and performing all religious matters.
About 18 months ago, the radical Islamic militia came and took control of our place. After some time, they invited me to discuss some rituals. But our discussion turned into a debate, and when they lost the debate, they started beating me very badly and I could not move. Some of my friends helped me to come to the capital of the province for medical treatment.
I was reading the Bible and comparing it with the Quran, then I found out the Bible is better than the Quran.
‘Abu’ – former Imam
I had no place to go but I heard there was a home where I could stay. I came to them and stayed for a month, and they served me with joy and love. They washed my hands and I was wondering why he is doing that, then I asked him ‘Why are you serving me?’ That man said because he is a follower of Jesus. I was amazed that the leader of Christians is serving people instead of people serving him. It was new for me, because I was not serving my people as an Imam but people were serving me. Then I asked for a Bible and they gave me a Bible.
I was reading the Bible and comparing it with the Quran, then I found out the Bible is better than the Quran. The love of the believers toward one another touched my heart, and I trusted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. When I was in need and wounded by Muslims, the Christians took care of me and helped me to start my life again.
I went back to my home and I shared the good news with my people, and around 60 people gave their lives to Jesus. They want me to help and teach them to grow in their faith so they can help others. I took 5 of them to back to the capital of the province for the training. We had a great time in learning the word of God, worshiping, and prayers. Now I want to train the other 60 people people in our area.
I have the heart now to share the love of God with my people and help them to know the love of God in Christ. This is the work of the Holy Spirit and comes from the seeds of many who have labored, given sacrificially, prayed, and taken great risk to bring the gospel to my country. All glory to God!”
Yours prayers are appreciated for these persecuted brothers and sisters!
