When speaking to Christians in predominantly Muslim countries one word that stands out to me that is used often to describe their society is “darkness.” And unfortunately, it is dangerous for them to be light in darkness, but many of them have decided not to hide their light under a basket, but to share the message of the Gospel and God’s love with the Muslims around them. They face the possibility of being ostracized from family and friends, but they still share their love for Jesus and His Word.
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16
So many are not ashamed of the Gospel and are ready to share the message of salvation. What excites me is the wave of Christians going to the Middle East even though they know their lives and livelihoods may be at risk. Many do not go in as missionaries, but skilled professionals offering much needed help to the sick and the poor. This gives them the opportunity to share their light in a dark world, while giving hope to the hopeless.
The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. Isaiah 9:2
Many of these believers know they are going into the enemy’s territory where Christians are hated. However, they still go to love those who do not love them. They help those who have little to give them in return, and care for those who cannot care for themselves. When they do this, they change minds and soften hearts, and give a new perspective to those who were taught that Christians were no good. However, these Christians have shown them a side of Christianity which they had not known before, and they experience God’s unconditional love through these believers. They then see that all Christians are not evil, but many are good.
But love your enemies and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil people. Luke 6:35
Many Muslims want to do evil to Christians because they believe they are devils. Nevertheless, many Christians knowing the danger of going to Muslim countries to spread the Gospel will count the cost and yet still put their lives at risk and go. They know that to live is Christ and to die is gain.(See Philippians 1:21) God has given them the strength and the courage to go and undoubtedly, He is with them in these foreign lands.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
And as our brothers and sisters go to invite others who know little about Jesus into the family of God, we must never forget to pray for these brave folks who are on the frontlines. We must also pray for Christians who live in countries hostile to the Gospel, but still have the courage to share God’s Word. These are true soldiers of Christs carrying His light into a dark world.
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