SEND! magazine Third Quarter 2005: A Call That Never Leaves
A Call That Never Leaves
Reaching Muslims with the Love of God
Anish stood atop the ancient monument overlooking the city, hands outstretched. "Lord, save these people," he prayed. "I don't know how You're going to do it, but this is my burden."
Five times a day, the somber strains of the Muslim call to prayer wail from the minarets in Anish's city. But for Anish and other GFA missionaries who reach out to the followers of Islam, their call never leaves them.
When God first burdened Anish's heart for Muslims, he was already enrolled in a GFA Bible college. Because this type of ministry would not be the easiest way for a young missionary to begin, his leader suggested a different area of work.
A teacher agreed. "If you really want to minister among Muslims, you will definitely have to sacrifice," he warned.
But Anish knew that God had spoken to him, despite the fact that his calling would be a difficult one.
"Sir," he pleaded, "my heart is for Muslims." So, before beginning full-time missionary work, he spent several months after graduation learning about the teachings of the Koran, the holy book of Islam, and gaining practical outreach experience.
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| Did you know? More Muslims live in India—140 million—than in Sadia Arabia, Iraq and Iran combined. This is the second largest population of Muslims in the World. |
One man expressed fear of his brother, who had told him, "If you accept Jesus Christ, we will definitely kill you." Another agreed that Christianity was true but felt he couldn't act on it because of family opposition.
In Anish's community, Muslim sentiment is particularly strong, and persecution of Christians—especially pastors—is common. So Anish is a "social worker," helping the poor with medical needs. He also spends time just developing relationships with people. As they get to know him and see his genuine interest in their lives, they ask questions, giving Anish opportunities to share his faith.
Anish's wife extends his ministry by befriending Muslim women and assisting him in community outreach. Even more important, says Anish, "she prays for me. She is my best encourager."
And Anish knows that with the daily challenges and obstacles he encounters in his ministry, encouragement is vital. He has received countless threats on his life. He doesn't see the same quantity of results that many other GFA missionaries do.
But he continues to press on in his calling. So far, four Muslims have come to Christ through his efforts—and Anish believes the Lord will bring even more.
"We have so many struggles," he states candidly, "but it is His call and His work. He has enabled us to do this work. It is God who does the ministry; we are just the vessels."
Your prayerful gift toward GFA's Muslim outreach will enable and encourage missionaries like Anish to press on in their calling! Donate online at www.gfa.org/muslimoutreach
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