The testimony of an illegal migrant

I came to Canada from Fuzhien, China by illegal means and was apprehended and put in B.C.’s Women’s Correctional Centre. I have been here for seven months.

In China, I accompanied my grandma to church every Sunday. I went to church with her for 19 years but remained an atheist. In my mind, Christ and Buddha were false idols and I did not believe in either of them.

In this penitentiary, a Christian group called The Friends of Migrants came to visit us girls every Saturday. They told us about the gospel of Jesus Christ. I joined the group out of curiosity because I had nothing else to do.

After three months, I found out that these Christians were telling us the truth. I began to know God. I started to read the Bible and discovered a lot of truth and wisdom in the Word of God. For example, Proverbs has teachings to guide me in a correct way of life – teachings even my parents did not know how to teach me.

Four months after I left home, my elder brother followed my venture as an illegal migrant. I was very worried when I received the news. I was afraid that he would be caught and locked up like me. I prayed for him everyday, that God would be with him, that God would grant him peace, that God’s peace would be enough.

To my surprise, God granted my brother a safe journey to his destination. Thank God! I realize now if I put my trust in the Lord, I can experience joy and peace.

Jesus said, “If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. . . . Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” When I read this, my immediate reaction was, “it’s very hard to do, and I can never do it.”

However, I tried, and miraculously I did it. Several times some Caucasian prisoners asked me to give up my things for them. I was reluctant to do so, but the Word of God came to my mind and I gave to them without hesitation. Afterwards, I had a wonderful, joyful feeling I had never experienced before.

The words of the Bible are taking root in my heart. Now I can do easily that which I found difficult to do before. The Holy Spirit has helped me.

I am so happy that I have come to know God in Canada. Praise God!

This testimony was first published in the Oct. 2005 Chinese MB Herald, and was translated by Teresa Ko, member of Pacific Grace MB Church, Vancouver.