Last summer the Lord opened my eyes to see Muslims as He sees them—people in need of a Savior. We all know about 9/11, we know about Abraham and Ishmael, and we know the general American view of Muslims—“they are all terrorists.” My heart needed changing; I looked at Muslims with suspect and little or no concern.

There was an older man with a white beard working at a store that appeared to be Middle Eastern and Muslim. The Lord prompted me to speak with him and I hesitated, not wanting to interact with him. But I obeyed and found out he is from Bangladesh. We exchanged a few words, and I continued to befriend him. Since then, I have given him the gospel in print.

I teach school and last year there was a children’s book with the picture of what appeared to be a Muslim girl. I stayed away from “that” book, not wanting to have anything to do with those people with the headscarf, but the Lord drew me to the book again. My heart was changing, softening to this new group of people with whom the Lord would have me share His love.

Little did I know, He was preparing me over those months. During first semester, I received an email from someone wanting to do her practicum in my class. The name appeared to be Arabic, though I was not sure. When I saw her for the first time, I could graciously receive her with her hijab because the Lord prepared my heart. We were comfortable with each other and talked without reservation.

More than once she said she was not comfortable at the other schools where she had done the rest of her practicum. She felt she was not received well. God changed me just in time. To Him be the glory! We are developing a relationship—recipes, friendship, visiting with each other. She has introduced another Muslim friend to me.

Just about the time the practicum student came along, we had a guest at church that directs outreach for Muslims. Coincidental? I don’t think so. He had material to read—testimonies, information, and tips on how to interact with Muslims. Another missionary friend gave me more material to help in reaching this group of people, especially women.

I am humbled the Lord would give me this opportunity to share Him with a group of people that is despised, shunned, and unloved. So far it is a family of five, a sister and brother, and an older man. Little is much when God is in it.

And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.
John 12:32 (ESV)

A testimony from Jane*, 2012

*pseudonym