THE INVITATION

With the dark waters of the Black Sea to the north and the crystal beaches of the Mediterranean to the south, Turkey bridges the gap between the Middle East and Europe. Home to the majestic Nur mountains and the lively old city of Istanbul, it’s no wonder that Turkey is among one of the most travelled to countries in the world.

For many Syrians, however, going to the country as a carefree tourist is but a dream. For millions, it is a terrifying journey that means leaving behind home, family and friends. 3.6 million Syrian refugees currently live in Turkey, and Fatima* is one of these. 

Faith and food

Fatima left home and country in order to protect her family from war. She landed in a city where she soon found a Community Centre distributing food weekly to refugees. Fatima would come weekly to collect food and stay to receive prayer. Soon she started bringing Muslim friends along, not to receive food, but to receive Christian prayers. There she met Serah*, a believing Turkish volunteer.  “Please come and visit me in my home,” Fatima shyly invited.

When Serah and a friend arrived, six of Fatima’s neighbours there waiting for them in the small living room. Together they sat on the floor and ate a delicious meal of spiced rice and vegetables, generously made on the budget of a Syrian refugee. Fatima then said, “I invited my neighbours here so that you can pray for healing for them!” This was the start of weekly visits and telling Bible stories to about 15 ladies.

Dreams and visions

Then the Muslim ladies started    having dreams and visions of Jesus. First it was Aisha*. “I keep having dreams of a very bright light. Do you know what this means?” she asked. When asked when these dreams started, she replied, “Well, a few years ago I died and I went above my body. But then I heard the voice of God say, ‘Your time isn’t up yet’. I came back into my body and since then I’ve had these dreams.” The two visitors were amazed. They explained, God has a very special plan for your life. And this bright light is Jesus. He is not only the Son of God, but He is God. When you are ready to accept Him, we would love to pray for you.” Aisha knew that God had already been inviting her to Him. She very quickly accepted. Next her sister came to faith. Then another couple believed too!