A Change of Heart - Part Four
Most would agree that the best way to appreciate another culture is to engage with its people. For John* this has meant immersing himself in the Arab world. As he picks up the language, enjoys the sights and understands the customs, he’s discovering that the learning process works both ways too.
We run into so many people who believe that we are Christians simply because we were born in the West to Christian parents and grandparents. Most also cannot believe that someone can be a true Arab Christian, that churches exist with believers from a Muslim background.
Culture, religion and personal identity are so interlinked in the Arab world that it can feel like you are betraying your family and country by even investigating the Bible. With this barrier to following Jesus, many struggle with the idea that any Muslim chooses Christ out of genuine motives.
One taxi driver told me, ‘Well, if that’s the case, then they probably were poor people who had nothing else to hope for. They thought if they became a Christian, they would meet foreigners who would help them out or even help them get out of the country’.
John has found that these honest encounters have presented opportunities to help change misconceptions with grace and truth. After all, living for Jesus doesn’t guarantee wealth, security or prosperity but promises more eternal realities like forgiveness of sins, unconditional love and a hope in the resurrection to come.
By being in the Arab world, John has not only learned a lot about himself and the culture that he is beginning to love, he’s also developed a greater awareness that the Bible’s life-changing message is for every human being.
God has used these conversations to remind me that these are REAL people, and that we are not so different - we all need the grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ.
What about you?
AWM loves to get alongside anyone who feels a burden to share this life-changing message of hope in Christ with Muslims in the Arab world. Whether you’re a student, retired or looking to share your professional expertise overseas, we would happily investigate your calling with you.
Wherever possible, AWM always looks to encourage the partnership of the local church and would want to ensure that an individual or couple planning to serve has the backing of a fellowship.
For more information browse our long-term opportunities section and contact your nearest national office.
* Name has been changed for security reasons.
