In a land where public expressions of Christianity are forbidden, a remarkable journey unfolds. This is the story of a Saudi man who, amidst the strict confines of Sharia law, encountered Jesus in a life-altering way. As a devout Muslim, he was entrenched in the rituals and prayers of Islam, yet felt a profound emptiness. He described his prayers as 'hitting the ceiling and falling back down,' a reflection of the spiritual void he experienced.
Jesus Appears in Dream
His life took a dramatic turn when a forbidden Arabic Bible found its way into his possession. The words of Jesus captivated him, but it was a series of vivid dreams that truly shook his beliefs. One night, he dreamt of being in a terrifying place, and Jesus appeared to him, saying, 'Son, I am the way, the truth, and the life. If you give your life to Me, I will save you from the hell you have seen.' This divine encounter left a lasting impression, leading him to embrace Jesus as his Savior.
Secret Faith in Riyadh
On a night in October 2013, in the privacy of his room in Riyadh, he accepted Jesus Christ, feeling a sense of renewal and freedom he had never known. He expressed it as finally exhaling after holding his breath for 35 years. Yet, his newfound faith came at a cost. To avoid suspicion, he continued outwardly practicing Islam, attending mosque prayers while secretly worshiping Jesus in his heart. Despite the fear of persecution, he experienced a 'secret joy' that sustained him.
Divine Protection Under Persecution
Throughout this journey, he witnessed God's protection. During a police raid on a house church, the authorities miraculously overlooked the 20 believers gathered inside. This divine intervention reinforced his belief that Jesus was with him every step of the way. He found peace in knowing that while following Jesus might not be easy, it was certainly worth it.
His story is a testament to the power of Jesus to transform lives, even in the most challenging circumstances. Despite the risks, he holds firm to his faith, attributing his strength and transformation to Jesus's unwavering presence in his life.