My parents named me Jennifer Javed Khan. It’s a combination of Christian name “Jennifer” and “Javed Khan” is the Non-Christian part.
Office corridor; Jennifer, a loud sound in the hallway. All the people look around to see who it is! Taking one long deep breath, I stand and start my walk towards the interview room. Trying to escape all the questioning glares; I finally reached the room, as I entered a gentleman asks me to sit. So, you are Christian? Typical first question that I have to answer. Yes sir. Why do you have Javed Khan as your last name? My ancestors were Muslims; they converted to Christianity. A sharp look! Most of you are not that educated and experienced? Sir, I am blessed; and God has paved my way in every step I have taken.
So, the interview was all about the name and my religion. This is just a chunk of all my interviews in all the places I have worked.
One Sunday the Sermon was about preaching God’s Word to all. “Why should we preach?” This changed a whole lot of me. Thinking that I am not a Theology student led to the question of “how can I go and preach”.
The same night two verses gave me comfort and from that day onwards I live on these verses.
Psalm chapter 46, verse 10 “Be still”
John chapter 15, verse 4 “Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.”
God is with me, I don’t need to worry. The prospect that I am already preaching His name with the people I work with. They know me as a Christian, and they appreciate me for my work. They think I am talented. It’s a wonderful feeling of confidence.
Christ-Confidence
Since that day Christ has strengthened me. We sink in trails, but get courage to flow through it as He is always there – He makes our way out of the temptation.
We need not be harassed by what people think of you, as long as you remain in His word no external power can hurt you.
Therefore, to be a Christian - to feel, in the trials of life, that we have one friend, unchanging and most mighty, who always helps us!
He is Father and mighty to strengthen, calm, and comfort. People get themselves tattooed as a token of affection and remembrance on parts of the body. We should be happy and satisfied to know He can never forget Me! As He has written my name on the palms of HIS hands.
The biggest goal I have achieved so far is to love my name as it is Representing my God.
Jennifer Javed Khan is a PSI young writer from Pakistan and based in the West Indies.