Southeast Asia—Song of Joy

Joko grew up in a country in Southeast Asia, following the Muslim traditions of his family. As the eldest of six children, he always wanted to be a good example to his younger siblings. The plan worked, until one of his sisters became a follower of Christ.

“I became angry and resentful whenever I saw her or her Christian friends,” says Joko.

One night, when his sister was celebrating Christmas with her friends in the family home, Joko gathered his friends and planned to stone the home in an attempt to intimidate those inside. But just as the group approached the house, Joko heard a song that shattered his anger.

“When I heard them sing ‘Silent Night’, I was stopped,” says Joko. “My anger was gone and it was replaced by gladness.”

Joko wanted the joy that his sister and her friends had. “They prayed for me and guided me,” Joko said. “They taught me the Word of God. Today I am the Lord’s servant and praise the Lord, all of my family have received Jesus too!”