The Only Hope is Jesus

The problems faced by Afghan refugees, especially devout Christians, are numerous in Pakistan. One father tells us: -- Every one of us who is here has a reason not to return to Afghanistan. Before the Taliban came to power, we had jobs – we were psychologists, tailors, police officers, or artisans. Some women we know who demanded their basic rights to life, food, education, and schooling from the Taliban were killed or imprisoned and disappeared.

We were able to flee to Pakistan, and we are grateful for that. But living here is also a great challenge. Our stay feels like we are buried alive. We live in constant fear of being discovered by the police. Our apartments are like prisons; we don't even dare to go to the bakery around the corner to buy bread – for fear of being caught and deported. Our children are most afraid of this, so they always stay at home. When they are sick, we cannot take them to the doctor. They cannot go to school either. To do so, we would have to be living here legally. A three-month visa costs $1,000 on the black market. Where can we get the money? We are not allowed to work.

What's particularly bad is that we don't know how long this situation will last.

It is very dangerous for refugees who are deported to Afghanistan. If the Taliban find out that they are Christians, it means certain death for them. Nevertheless, we know that God's will will be done in our lives. I trust Him. In Jesus, we have hope and eternal life—despite all the obstacles, struggles, and problems. We just have to keep looking to Jesus. Like Peter. As long as he looked at Jesus, he could walk on water. Only when he looked away did he sink. But even then, Jesus took his hand and helped him. I believe that God is with us, will deliver us, and give us peace. --