James relaxed in his airplane seat, relieved to be heading off to a Christian conference and a few days of rest. As he thought about the week ahead, he felt God say to him: “Tell the lady sitting next to you that I know her and love her.”
James glanced over at the young hijab-wearing Muslim lady, unsure at how to strike up a conversation. Culturally, it would be awkward for him as a man to start chatting with her. But he did it anyway.
“Asalaam alaikum”, he greeted her. “Sorry to bother you, but I am a Christian, and a few minutes ago, I felt God wanted to tell you that He sees you and knows you. And that He loves you, too.”
Saripa’s eyes opened wide, as she stuttered back: “You’re a Christian?!? I have just been reading the Bible. Can you help explain it to me?”
“Yes, of course”, James said in shock, as he marveled at God’s ways. “But where do you live? Maybe my wife can meet with you to explain more.” She proceeded to tell James that she lived in the exact city he was working in. And then they realized that they lived in the same neighborhood, and, in fact, on the very same street! God was indeed at work in their family and bringing a hunger for His Word.
Later that week, James’ wife reached out to Saripa and the two began a study of Scripture that only God himself could have orchestrated.
How Can We Pray?
- Pray for Thai Muslims who have an interest in Jesus but struggle to learn more. Pray for Christian friends who can explain the Good News.
- Pray for the growth of the church in the province of Narathiwat, which has just 70+ Christians among almost a million Muslim residents.
- As Jesus prayed in Matthew 9, ask God to send more workers to reap the harvest to come.
