Coming to know the true meaning of life
in Jesus: Dinesh’s story

DUBAI, UAE — When Dinesh took a job as caretaker at the Bible Society in the Gulf’s new Jebel Ali Bible Centre in October 2003, he had no idea how quickly and completely his life would change. A migrant worker from Nepal, like many thousands of others in the Gulf (see story), his main concern was to earn money to send to his family. Living far from home, he was excited to see that the Bible Centre clearly catered for people like him, offering publications in many different languages. The only book in his language, however, was the Bible. He started to read it simply because it was a link with home. Soon, however, he found himself returning regularly to the shelf on which this Bible was kept, becoming more and more immersed and often reading several chapters at a time.

At about this time, Dinesh received news that his wife had fallen ill. She failed to respond to treatment and he became increasingly worried about her. He found that Bible provided a great source of strength and comfort. He also started to pray, supported by members of the local Christian community. His wife gradually recovered and, having witnessed God’s healing power, Dinesh accepted Jesus. Less than a year after his first chance encounter with the Bible, he was baptised.

“I pray that there will be Bible Societies everywhere so that others will have the same opportunity as me to come to know the true meaning of life in Jesus through reading his Word.” (WR 390/20 - 02.05)