Kamila's journey began under the shadow of oppression. From a young age, Kamila, like many Afghan women, found herself ensnared in a web of societal constraints. The Taliban's rule cast a long shadow over her life, where basic freedoms were stripped away, leaving little room for dreams or aspirations. The oppressive regime dictated every aspect of a woman's life, from education to personal expression. Yet, even amidst this somber backdrop, Kamila harbored a spirit that yearned for liberation and a life filled with purpose.
Kamila’s early years were marked by a stark reality. Once she reached her teenage years, school was no longer an option, as the Taliban's laws forbade it. Kamila's world was confined to her home, her voice silenced in public spaces. She was forced into marriage at a tender age, a fate shared by many women around her. She was discouraged and saddened by his circumstances, and she didn't know how they might ever change.
A Family Transformed by Faith
Kamila's life took an unexpected turn when her husband, Nabi, underwent a profound transformation. Once a man who embodied the harshness of their societal norms, Nabi's heart softened in the most miraculous of ways. His journey towards Christianity began when he encountered Christian evangelists who introduced him to the teachings of Jesus. This newfound faith ignited a change in Nabi that was palpable to Kamila. His once harsh demeanor melted away, replaced by an unexpected kindness that left Kamila both bewildered and intrigued. “He became so kind that I felt that he was not the same man at all!” she said.
But then he shared with her the impetus for change: his newfound faith in Christ. The only thing Kamila knew about Christians was that they were “infidels,” and she was angry. However, the change in Nabi was so profound that Kamila soon found herself drawn to the very faith she had been taught to shun. She decided to attend church, albeit with skepticism in her heart. There, she says, “I realized everyone was talking about God, love, and goodness." This was a totally different God than she had ever known—a God of love and mercy and kindness. She learned of a God who listened, a Savior who cared, and a community that embraced her. "They said that Jesus answered prayers, so I prayed to Him for a son," she said. Her prayers for a son were answered, and with the birth of her baby boy, Kamila was reborn, too. She gave her heart to Christ.
The Taliban Come to Power...
Kamila's newfound faith was soon put to a harrowing test. The Taliban's return to power brought with it a wave of persecution that swept through the Christian community with relentless force. Nabi, steadfast in his faith, was arrested and subjected to unimaginable suffering. His time in prison left him physically broken, no longer able to walk, yet his spirit remained unyielded. Upon his release, Nabi's unwavering commitment to his faith led to his tragic execution. A Taliban solder accosted him on the street, demanding that he give up his faith in Christ and return to Islam...or be executed on the spot. Nabi remained faithful to the Lord, and he was executed.
The loss that tore through Kamila's life with devastating impact. She faced the daunting challenge of survival...and the fact that the Taliban's attention was now on her. The weight of grief was compounded by the harsh reality of being a widow in a society that offered little support. Soon, she and her children fled Afghanistan and began a new life in a foreign country.
Our Field Minister Rachid Meets Kamila
In her new country, an underground church provided a sanctuary where Kamila could nurture her faith and find solace among fellow believers, many of them also Afghans, who understood her struggles. Together, they ministered to her, wrapping their arms around her with hope in the Lord.
They also introduced her to several of our Field Ministers. They rallied around Kamila, offering not just spiritual support but practical assistance. Through the generosity of people like you, Kamila received help with basic living expenses and medical needs. These acts of kindness were not just lifelines; they were reminders that she was not alone in her journey towards healing and rebuilding.
“I believe with all my strength in Christ Jesus, that He has a plan for us. I have great hope in God and submit to His will. My family has suffered greatly, but I have become stronger in Christ, and we are part of the body of Jesus Christ. I have many health issues, but these too are making me stronger in Christ. May all believers remember me in your prayers.’”
Rebuilding a Life of Faith and Hope
As the days turned into weeks, Kamila began to piece together the fragments of her life, rebuilding it moment by moment. She began to bake bread at her home and sell the loaves at local markets, not only providing for her family but slowly reclaiming her independence!
Our Field Ministers are continuing to minister to Kamila, walking alongside her with encouragement and hope. Please continue to pray for her, and please consider making a gift to minister to more Afghan refugees like herself.