“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid." John 14:27.Amir came to Canada as an immigrant. Someone invited him to the Chai Centre, a Christian outreach to Newcomers where he soon became close friends with several Mbb's from his country. They shared their own journey to Jesus. Amir started attending their church and felt very comfortable with his newfound friends. He had been lonely and was experiencing hurt from the past and anxiety about his future. He liked the fact that he could go up to the front after the service to be prayed for by a group of very kind believers. He had a sense of belonging. The services are in English and a lot of the content went over his head. What didn't go away was doubts about the existence of God. He had left Islam and came here as a secular person. Since others were getting baptized the Pastor suggested he join them. He assured him that he'd get peace once he did that. Amir thought that if this is what you have to do to belong and get peace, he'd do so.
Just recently he invited us out for a Persian meal. In retrospect, the questions we had about his conversion experience were confirmed--he didn't really have a testimony of meeting Jesus. While there he explained why he wasn't going to church anymore. Amir said he has more peace as an atheist than he had following Jesus. He was really strong about his lack of beliefs. So, we let him talk. At one point he mentioned that in his country there are two kinds of armies--the real army and then the secret army.
The 2 army idea was a segue to go further. There can be a sense of peace in the world but Jesus makes it clear that he came to give us a gift--not the peace the world gives but only he can give. When life goes well and a person is on a roll, there is a euphoria that lasts for a season. But often by mid-age people tire of this and wonder what life is all about. Amir isn't there yet. He works a lot of overtime, bought a car and has some extra money. Amir is delighted that his wedding is being planned. He hopes that some of his family will join him here as well.
Satan also seems to work overtime to cause doubt and fear to overcome secular people who contemplate faith in Jesus. They have grown accustomed to living life without God. Sadly, they are unaware that even breath is a gift from God they receive every day.
Following Christ usually results in the believer being rejected and harassed by his community. It's inconsistent how Muslim families put up with a person being an atheist but go ballistic if he follows Jesus. In spite of that, Mbb's have a deep peace in their hearts.Lord, you know Amir's heart. He tasted your goodness and love demonstrated by your people yet doesn't understand what changed these believers' hearts. Please give him a longing to find the only peace that doesn't fade away. Amen.
