Breaking Barriers: A Warm Encounter with an Ultra-Orthodox Family
PLEASE PRAY FOR: Reuven & Rochel
MISSIONARY: Asaf Pelled
LOCATION: Antwerp, Belgium
Asaf Pelled was in Antwerp, reaching out to Jewish people passing by. A religious looking couple, dressed in traditional Sabbath clothing, walked past with their baby. He greeted them with a friendly, ‘Shabbat shalom!’ Surprisingly they came over to talk.
To break the ice, Asaf complimented the husband on his traditional fur hat. With that small gesture, the couple - Reuven and Rochel – were happy to talk.
Usually with the ultra-Orthodox, only the husband speaks but both began engaging in a gospel conversation with Asaf. He showed them a card with Isaiah 53 printed on it, but with no chapter or verse reference. Reuven began studying it carefully, determined to grasp its meaning. Unsure of its source, he listened with interest as Asaf explained it came from Isaiah.
Asaf shared how the passage points to the promised Messiah who would bear the sin of his people. Reuven said some in their community believe that righteous rabbis suffer on behalf of others. Asaf gently challenged him, saying that according to the Bible, the Messiah is not just one way to God, but the only way.
Asaf then shared his testimony, explaining how a long spiritual search led him to salvation in Jesus. Reuven and Rochel listened attentively. Then, a remark was made about how unusual it was to have such a warm, open exchange with an ultra-Orthodox couple. They smiled and said they stopped because they had been greeted kindly. Sadly, they added, most people in the city are not glad to see them.
The couple’s baby began to stir and they had to go. Despite this, they expressed a desire to continue the conversation when Asaf was back in Antwerp. Then, with gratitude on both sides, they parted ways.
For your prayers...
Please pray that Reuven and Rochel will carefully consider all they heard about Jesus from Asaf and that their gospel conversation will soon continue.
Please pray for Asaf as he reaches out to Jewish people in the Netherlands and Belgium through his evangelistic book table and street outreach.