Selma’s Journey, Part 1
A Lutheran high schooler is intrigued by the faith of a classmate.
I grew up in a Christian home nestled in the small village of Ohafino, where my parents faithfully attended the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia. When I was a child, a priest “baptized” me by sprinkling water on my forehead, and that’s how I became a Lutheran at a very young age. While I believed in God, I never personally studied the Bible for myself or understood many of its teachings: I simply followed and did what my parents told me to do.
I thankfully had the chance to attend school, and during my high school years, God began directing my life in a way I never expected. One day, while I was sitting alone behind the biology laboratory and trying to study, a fellow student named Matthew approached me. “Hi Selma,” he greeted me warmly. “Could I share some Bible verses with you?” I smiled and quickly nodded. Matthew handed me a small piece of paper filled with Scripture references. “Look them up in your Bible,” he encouraged. “And if there is anything you don’t understand, come back and ask me about it.”
Little did I know that Matthew was trying to ignite a desire for spiritual things in my heart. Since I did not own a Bible, I borrowed one from my roommate. As I read through the passages, I noticed that many of them focused on Bible prophecy, including the last-day events described in Matthew 24. Some of the verses were new and difficult for me to understand, and I remembered Matthew’s parting invitation to study with him.
Unfortunately, I misplaced the paper a few days later. Although I had Bible questions to ask, I felt embarrassed to admit that I had lost what Matthew gave me. Yet whenever we met at school, he gave a gentle reminder. “My sister,” he said, “I’m still waiting for you to come and ask your questions.” Matthew never gave up on me—his patience and concern lingered long after our school days were over.
Later, Matthew invited me to attend a Bible study on the school campus. I had no idea that such Bible studies existed at our school! That day, Matthew taught about the judgement in the context of the gospel. Although it was my first and only Bible study before the school year’s end, the lesson deeply touched my heart. What impressed me most was learning that Jesus loves me dearly, died for me, and is now ministering for me in the heavenly sanctuary. He intercedes before the Father on my behalf.
Here was truth that I had never heard before! I wanted to learn more, but the school year ended, and everyone returned home for the holiday.
(To be continued.)
Location
Namibia
Author
Told by Selma to Paulo Adu who is the director of Bright Star Ministries in northern Namibia.
How You Can Help
Pray for Selma to remain steadfast in her newfound faith. Pray for Selma as she uses her gifts to reach others with the truth.
Donate to the evangelistic work in Namibia by sending your gift marked “Namíbia Evangelism” or “Namibia Bible Workers” to:
Mission Projects International
PO Box 237
Kirksville, MO 63501
To give securely online, scan the QR code or visit missionspro.org/donate