In the heart of Communist Eastern Europe, where faith was often met with fierce opposition, a man named Brother Andrew embarked on a daring mission. Born Anne van der Bijl in Sint Pancras, Netherlands, in 1928, Andrew's early life was fraught with challenges. After serving in the Dutch army during the Indonesian National Revolution, he was haunted by the atrocities he witnessed and sought solace in alcohol and bravado.
Dutch Soldier Finds Faith
A turning point came when he was injured and hospitalized. There, he began to read a Bible his mother had given him, igniting a profound transformation. By 1950, he surrendered his life to God, setting him on a path that would change not only his life but the lives of countless others.
A Step Towards Complete Obedience
In 1952, Brother Andrew responded to God's call with a heartfelt prayer: 'Whenever, wherever, however you want me, I'll go… I'll begin this very minute. Lord as I stand up from this place, and as I take my first step forward, will you consider this a step towards complete obedience to you?' This marked the beginning of his journey to smuggle Bibles into the Soviet Union.
Miracle at Border Checkpoint
By 1957, Brother Andrew made his first trip into Yugoslavia, a Communist state at the time. With his blue Volkswagen Beetle packed with Bibles, he approached border checkpoints. He famously prayed, 'Lord, in my luggage I have Scriptures I want to take to Your children. When You were on earth, You made blind eyes see. Now, I pray, make seeing eyes blind.' Miraculously, he passed through undetected, a testament to Jesus' intervention.
Bible Smuggler Legacy Continues
Brother Andrew's faith and courage led him to establish Open Doors in 1955, a ministry dedicated to supporting persecuted Christians. Over the years, he traveled to over 125 countries, crossing many borders and meeting with leaders of various groups, always driven by his commitment to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
Brother Andrew's life was a testament to the power of faith and obedience. As he once said, 'The bigger the darkness, the easier it is to spot your little light.' His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that Jesus is the true force behind change and transformation.
