Zakia's story

Day 6: Pray for the Hazara diaspora

During the last 20 years of war many Hazara escaped to the United States, Canada, Australia, and Europe. They face culture shock, separation from family, and the lure of materialism. Pray for Christians in these countries to reach out to the Hazara with love and sensitivity. Pray that the Hazara will have access to the Good News in their language through the radio and internet.

Zakia's story

Zakia's family is one of the lucky ones. After 3 long years in the refugee camps, Zakia's application to be relocated to America was approved!

Saying goodbye to her brothers and sisters was heart wrenching. When she kissed her ailing mother and father goodbye, she knew she would never see them again. Her family was glad for Zakia to go to America with her husband and 4 children. They knew she would find work and become rich. Then Zakia would be able to send money to support all of the family in Afghanistan.

Life in America was much different than she thought it would be. Zakia knew a little English, but it was difficult to understand different accents. The crowded, noisy city was overwhelming after her quiet rural life. Her neighbors were always too busy when she asked them to come have tea with her. The children were learning strange customs at school. Her daughter was even beginning to refuse to wear her head covering.

Because they worked different shifts at the factory, Zakia had little time with her husband. Everything was very expensive. She was lonely and worried for her family in Afghanistan because she couldn't send very much money to them.

At Christmas time, an American came to visit Zakia's small apartment. As they drank tea together, the kind woman said that she was a neighbor and had some things for Zakia's family. She brought bags of food, clothes, and brightly wrapped gifts—even a Christmas tree! When Zakia asked why she would do this, the lady explained that her church liked to share God's love with others. The church even provided English lessons for refugee families.

In the months that followed, the lady helped Zakia find inexpensive shopping areas, taught her how to drive, and took her to the doctor. She even helped Zakia find a radio program in her language. It was nice for the family to hear stories in their mother tongue. Zakia is beginning to enjoy her new life now, because of the kindness of people who want to share God's love.

Pray that refugee families like Zakia's will find the love of God through meeting the people of God. Pray that more churches will reach out to people of different backgrounds so that they will see and hear and experience the love of Jesus!

Use Matthew 25:40 and Ezekiel 34:22 as you pray.

*Names have been changed to protect individuals. Photos do not represent the individual described in the story.

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