‘Am I worthy to read it myself?’

Anisa* and her husband Sobir* serve with OM in Central Asia, where few people have heard the truth of Jesus. They currently live in a predominantly Muslim country and come from another nearby Muslim-majority country, so they are familiar with the culture of the region. Last year, Anisa began a bachelor’s degree at a local university in the capital city to be among students and share the good news of Christ as led by the Holy Spirit.

She had more than 70 classmates — young men and women from villages across the country —none of them followers of Jesus. In one large classroom, they sat and learnt together. One of their subjects was World Religions. Their teacher shared in detail about several major religions, but when it came to Christianity, she said very little and even included some incorrect information. Anisa could not stay silent. Raising her hand, she said, “I am a Christian. If you allow me, I would like to clarify a few things.” She explained that Christians do not worship three gods, but one.

'What does it mean to you?'

When the class ended and the teacher stepped out, nearly 20 classmates crowded around Anisa, questioning her. One of them asked, “Why do you say Jesus is the Son of God?” She answered carefully and in detail. Her heart was glad for this opportunity, for she felt this was exactly why she was there.

Afterwards, Anisa made two close friends, one of whom was a young woman named Muhabbat*. They often sat together in class. When Eid al-Adha, the Muslim Festival of the Sacrifice, was approaching, Anisa asked her, “Muhabbat, do you know the story behind this festival? Why do people slaughter animals in the name of sacrifice? What does it mean to you?”

She admitted honestly, “I have never really thought about it. I only know it is connected to Prophet Abraham.”

Anisa invited Muhabbat to her home to read the story of Abraham from the Bible in her own heart language. Muhabbat agreed. They began reading from Genesis 12, and the next day, they continued from where they had left off. Anisa talked about Abraham’s sacrifice and the foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Muhabbat suddenly stopped her. With a serious expression, she asked, “Would I be able to have this Holy Book? Am I worthy to read it myself, or can only an elder person read it?”

Anisa assured her that anyone who desires can read God’s Word. “The Bible is given so we may know God’s will and His love for us,” she said. “Let me arrange a copy for you.”

Muhabbat was eager. The semester was ending in only three days, and she would soon return to her village. The very next day, she knocked at Anisa’s door with her younger brother Sulton*. She said, “I was afraid I might forget to ask for the Book at the last moment. Can I have the Book today?” Her thirst for God’s Word astonished Anisa. Truly, this was the Holy Spirit at work.

Anisa’s husband, Sobir, was also home, and they gave Muhabbat and Sulton a New Testament in their language, which they received with joy.

Sobir has since built a close bond with Sulton, who is 17. He trains him in athletics five days a week, and Sulton sometimes visits their home. Sulton told them how grateful he is for the coaching and how much he values the warmth of their care. This summer, he even invited Sobir to his village, introducing him to his parents and grandparents. They welcomed Sobir warmly and encouraged Sulton to obey his coach.

Muhabbat has returned to her village and paused her university studies. Even though she no longer sees her in class, Anisa remains in touch with her by phone and hopes to see her again in December. Anisa and Sobir continue to pray that God will do a deep work in both siblings' hearts.

Please pray that the Holy Spirit will continue His powerful work in Muhabbat and Sulton’s lives. May salvation come to their whole family.

*name changed