A few weeks ago, a few students from the Middle East (we will call Mara and Ahmed) were leaving and talking about how on of the students (we will call Abby) from South America is always smiling. Overhearing their conversation, I joined in asked them if they knew why Abby was smiling.
They shook their heads to say no.
I was able to share that the reason for her smiling was that God lived in her heart.
Ahmed replied, sharing how they also had god in their heart. Internally I sensed that I could not just answer yes. It was the god of Islam. And I sensed that for this moment, I would either nod my head and continue the conversation or lovingly disagree. I had to share. So I gently shared how their god was different from Abby’s God and my God. Our God is the God of the Bible, the universe – the One, True God.
Ahmed and Mara looked surprised but not upset. So, we continued the conversation, sharing how God sent His Son to take our sin and give us new life. Abby was gracious to let me use her coat to illustrate how God takes our sin and clothes us with His righteousness. We talked about sin and holiness. About heaven and judgement.
While many parts may not have been fully understand due to language levels, I know that God still uses all things for His glory.
We kept talking and talking until another student came and told them that their ride was ready to leave.
I was excited and filled with joy at this opportunity but also felt inadequate. I was reminded that if God could speak through a donkey – then He could speak through me.
Later they shared with Abby how they wanted to meet and talk again. And we did. But that is for another story. Please pray for Ahmed and Mara, that God would bring into His family.
Turners at WFI 