Did you know that Afghanistan was not a designated Islamic State until 1992? It wasn’t until 1996 that Afghanistan was an “Islamic Emirate”. If you look a little further you can see that back into the early 20th century there were movements to remove traditional Islamic headgear from women, as well as attempts to integrate schools with men and women. Very interesting.
I know as a military service member you most likely had to read a small book or pamphlet about the various tribes in Afghanistan and it’s likely that many of you have read “Kite Runner” or other popular books about a particular piece of this nation. I understand that most likely you do not interact much with the local populous. But you do fly around and see them. You see where they live. If you are like me you have to be a little bit curious what it’s like for those tent people, or the mountain people, or the red desert people. Have you ever seen an Afghan that looks Chinese? That’s because of the huge Mongolian influence during the middle ages. What about Bamiyan pass (near Bagram) with the remnants of the huge Buddha statue? It just seems so obvious to me that there is more than meets the eye here in Afghanistan.
This really is an amazing people. There are so many web sites out there where you can find the “back story” on the people of this land. I am by no means a studied expert on the country, but I can tell you this, I am sure our God has a greater purpose for our nation being involved here.
What if?! What if our efforts here as people of the one true God, Yahweh, will influence a nation for Christ? What if our efforts here can save even just one? Could you and I be part of God’s bigger plan? I say YES.
I know you may just be thinking about how to get through tomorrow. I know you may be in a stressful RL progression, or studying for a PIC check ride, or working 12 to 15 hours a day (like me), or just not able to focus in on others. I UNDERSTAND this for sure! However, I have found that focusing on a bigger plan, Gods plan, seems to help my day-to-day perspective. Set your eyes upon the Lord!
Try it! As you are walking to the chow hall, or headed out to the aircraft, ask God if there is a bigger purpose here than we can see. Ask Him to give you insight on how He may want to influence this nation through you. All things are possible to those who believe. You never know. How would you feel for the rest of your life if while you were here God used you to bring an Afghan to Christ! Many of the characters in the bible were primarily insignificant people that God used to make a huge difference (Moses, Joseph, David, Daniel, and Esther, any of Christ’s disciples). The list is huge.
Is God planning on using you while you are in Afghanistan? Will you get the chance when you turn in your laundry? Could you strike up a conversation in the chow hall or a shop? If you look you will see that there are plenty of Afghans around you, and you may just have the opportunity to be the light of the world, Matthew 5:14.
Circumstantial and Necessary Disclaimer: Please be careful! As you know this can be delicate. Don’t bring trouble upon yourself, but also don’t be afraid to get to know an Afghan. Just through relationships with several men I have been able to build enough trust to speak about Christ to them. I haven’t witnessed yet, but I have talked about Christ with a couple. I am taking "baby steps" because I would rather not get blown up-). I am sure my family would concur.
Fly Safe! Remember: White out landings are no different than brown outs! Enjoy!
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