A Secret Faith
Esther John, born Qamar Zia on October 14, 1929, in Madras, British India, lived a life marked by remarkable transformation and courage. Raised in a wealthy Muslim family, Esther's life took a dramatic turn when she transferred to a Christian school at the age of 17. There, she was deeply inspired by a teacher's faith and the words of the Book of Isaiah, particularly Isaiah 53. This inspiration led her to secretly embrace Christianity, reading the Bible under her blankets at night.
A Bold Decision
Despite facing the prospect of an arranged marriage to a Muslim man, Esther's newfound faith compelled her to make a bold decision. She fled her home, choosing to follow Jesus with unwavering devotion. In 1955, she was baptized and took the name Esther John, a symbol of her transformation and commitment to her faith.
Serving Others
Esther dedicated her life to serving others and spreading the Gospel. She worked tirelessly in an orphanage in Karachi and later moved to Sahiwal to serve in a mission hospital. From 1956 to 1959, she trained at the United Bible Training Centre in Gujranwala, preparing herself for evangelistic work. Her mission was clear: to share the teachings of Jesus and improve literacy among women in the villages around Chichawatni.
A Martyrdom Remembered
Esther's life, however, was tragically cut short on February 2, 1960. Mrs. White, with whom Esther was staying, found her murdered in her bed. During the subsequent police investigation, an inspector, upon reading her diaries, remarked, "Esther did indeed have a lover. It was a man named Jesus." This poignant observation highlighted the depth of her relationship with Christ.
Though her earthly journey ended in tragedy, Esther John's legacy endures. She was buried in the Christian cemetery in Sahiwal, and a memorial chapel was dedicated to her at the hospital. Her story continues to inspire, a testament to the transformative power of faith and the courage to follow Jesus, even at great personal cost.
