Much more than just a language school
“I, Hannah (name changed), have been in my country of assignment in North Africa for three years now. It takes time to really settle in, but I’ve already learned a lot about the country, the people, the language and the culture.
Let’s start with the population: Officially, over 90% of the population is Muslim. In real life, however, things look a little different. Many young people – especially in the cities – are secular, agnostic and some are even atheists. Talking about it openly is still taboo, but some people will tell you in confidence that they do not fast, pray or even believe in God.
There are sometimes major differences between rural and urban populations. Poverty in rural areas in particular draws many to the cities, where they hope to find work. However, unemployment is a huge problem. The unemployment rate for young adults under the age of 24 alone is almost 40%. It is therefore not surprising that many want to go to Europe to find training or work.
Our language institute
God has opened a door for these young people in particular. Quite unplanned, but very guided, my colleague founded a German institute all by herself 5 years ago. Initially, there was only one pupil in her first class. In the meantime, by God’s grace, we have grown to three teachers, four classes and currently almost 80 students. Most of them are young adults who want to start an apprenticeship in Germany and need to demonstrate the necessary language skills. Our aim is not only to teach our students the language, but above all to pass on God’s love, acceptance and good news. However, the latter is not possible very openly. As in many Muslim-majority countries, it is not allowed to evangelize in this country either. According to the law, it is even illegal to shake a Muslim in his faith. For foreigners, this can lead to them being expelled from the country. Locals can even face a prison sentence if they are reported.
God opens doors
But we believe that this is no obstacle for our great God. In the lessons themselves, we talk about European culture and therefore also about Christian festivals and values. Our prayer is that this will broaden the pupils’ horizons and that they will ask more questions. After all, we teachers are usually the first Christians they get to know. God has also opened doors for one or two pupils. Conversations about faith arise, especially after class.
For example, there is one of my former students, Ali (name changed). We got talking about the situation in Israel/Palestine. I shared with him my conviction that only forgiveness could heal the deep wounds that people have and that this forgiveness comes from Jesus. Ali then asked many questions and was genuinely interested in what I believe. I pray that he will continue to ask and start reading the Bible himself.
What the future holds
How long I can stay in the country myself is entirely in God’s hands. The authorities could decide at any time that they no longer want to tolerate the work of foreign Christians and expel them. Because it is very likely that the secret service is well informed about the house churches and us foreigners in the country. Over the decades, there have been repeated waves in which numerous foreign workers have been expelled.
That’s why I ask for prayer that I and all my brothers and sisters here in the country really live every minute for Jesus and waste no time so that many of our fellow human beings hear the Good News. And you are welcome to help us too!”
A story from ReachAcross
