by a Team Expansion Pathways Intern
God has been boldly on the move here, specifically in a refugee camp that we visit several times a week.
In the process of seeking to make disciples, we are specifically seeking for “men of peace” (Luke 10:1-16). We are looking for someone who has rapport, influence, is not rigid, and most importantly is open enough to hear and share. And we believe we have found a man of peace.
Ignatius* is a young Gambian man who claims Islam as truth. Our friend tells us wrenching stories about his extended stay in Libya during his journey to Europe.
He recounts being put in prison on three separate occasions with conditions that I can’t fathom.
Jail cells that are slightly smaller than an American classroom are packed full of nearly 400 individuals. Food is scarce and sleep only occurs standing upright. Bed bugs creep in and crawl among the crammed bodies, burrowing themselves into their skin. Prisoners are demanded to pay for their own release, or potentially face death.
“I saw evil all around me, And who were the people behind all this evil? Muslims. And who are the ones who helped me then and who continue to love and help me now? Christians.”
Asking Questions
My friend recounts his past with us and while doing so ponders the infamous question, “Why?” Yet, he goes further and begins to think out loud.
“I saw evil all around me,” he said. He went on to say, “I saw men, women, boys and girls being denied food, tortured, killed. And who were the people behind all this evil? Muslims. And who are the ones who helped me then and who continue to love and help me now? Christians.”
We hear him processing the Gospel and we try to emphasize who Jesus truly is. We share our testimonies and express the ways that Jesus has worked and transformed our lives.
Jesus is working on his heart through us and it has been humbling to witness.
A Spiritual War
This work has been painstakingly difficult and spiritual warfare has been rampant as we continue to pour into him, but we know that there is also spiritual activity happening on behalf of God. We can feel it. God is on the move!
Just four days ago, Ignatius asked for a Bible. He is so near to accepting Christ and we believe it is just a matter of taking the step of faith and owning it.
Read Part 2 of Ignatius’ journey!
*Name changed