More Information Please
A frontline worker shares the story of a friend of their family who had often been in their home. At times she had joined them in Bible discussions and had even prayed with them, so she knew they were Christians. One day she told them she had been looking for a group that would teach the closest to the Holy Scriptures, one “that followed the Word of God from Genesis to Revelation” she explained.
She had concluded from her internet search that a group called Seventh-day Adventists adhere the closest to God’s Word of any she had found. The worker was astonished and mentioned at the time that they were Seventh-day Adventists, but for some reason she didn’t fully register their comment.
Later the worker forwarded a link to her in Arabic that gave good information about Adventists and their beliefs. She messaged, “It is about this church that I would like more information.” When he responded that they were Seventh-day Adventists, she appeared surprised and replied instantly, “Surely God has sent you to help me in my spiritual journey… I already consider myself a part of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.”
Even with praise for what God has already done, the worker appeals, “There are difficulties and dangers ahead, but please pray that God will protect her and show us how to encourage her.”
A Daisy Witness
A critical care nurse in one of the most prestigious hospitals in a closed country in MENA was recently surprised when she was given the hospital’s D.A.I.S.Y. Foundation Award, a highly-coveted professional honor sponsored by an internationally-recognized foundation with 3,000 participating hospitals.
The award recognizes nurses who are exceptional in expressing compassion and care to their patients. It highlights the kindness, personal investment, and sensitive witness of one nurse in MENA who has impacted thousands of patients and colleagues in the Middle East for over 20 years.
Her response to the compliment is measured though; a professional award is not an achievement to her. It is only a byproduct of her daily, constant prayer that God will use her in every situation. “I am just thankful the Lord can work through me, in me. I am humbled by the unique opportunities He has given me. I love my work. I love my patients. I love Jesus, and sometimes I even tell people so!”
We Are Brothers
Recently a young man approached a humanitarian worker in a completely closed country in MENA. “You are my brother,” the young man declared. The worker, thinking he was receiving a compliment, affirmed the young man, “Yes, yes! We are all brothers.”
“But you don’t understand! You. Are. My. Brother.” the young man responded emphatically. The worker quickly realized what the message might mean. Only later did the young man share that he had been studying secretly and had even traveled to another country in order to declare his faith in Jesus in baptism. He had returned a brother! Please pray for this young man to remain faithful; he is the first among his people.