An Atheist's Prayer
Richard Wurmbrand was born into a Jewish family in Bucharest, Romania, in 1909. By the age of 14, he had embraced atheism and Marxism, seeing the idea of God as harmful. Despite his convictions, Richard yearned for love in the universe, expressing a heartfelt, albeit skeptical prayer: 'God, I know surely that You do not exist. But if perchance You exist, which I contest, it is not my duty to believe in You; it is Your duty to reveal Yourself to me.'
The Carpenter's Bible
In 1938, two years into his marriage with Sabina Oster, Richard encountered a man whose faith would change his life. An old carpenter named Christian Wolfkes had been praying for a Jewish person to come to Christ. He gave Richard a Bible, which Richard described as 'written not so much in words, but in flames of love.' This profound encounter led Richard to accept Jesus, and soon after, Sabina followed.
Serving Through World War II
With newfound faith, Richard and Sabina dedicated their lives to serving others, even amidst the horrors of World War II. They preached to German forces and rescued Jewish children, acts that led to multiple arrests. In 1948, Richard boldly declared the incompatibility of Communism with Christianity. His public stand led to his arrest and 14 years of imprisonment, where he endured severe torture. Despite this, he famously said, 'It was in being tortured by them that we learned to love them,' demonstrating the transformative power of Christ's love.
Voice of the Martyrs
Released in 1964 after being ransomed, Richard testified before the U.S. Senate, exposing the brutalities he faced. The Voice of the Martyrs was born from his experiences, advocating for persecuted Christians worldwide. In 1990, after decades in exile, Richard returned to Romania, bringing a message of forgiveness and hope.
Throughout his life, Richard gave glory to Jesus, even in suffering, embodying the love and forgiveness that only Christ can inspire.
