Inaya is a young believer from the Philippines. Because of clan tensions and the betrayal associated with becoming a Christian in her community, she must celebrate Christmas in secret.

Inaya* from the Philippines is only 11 years old and yet, like so many young Christians worldwide, she is seeking to remain faithful to Jesus amidst great danger. Whilst the Philippines is not in the top 50 of the Open Doors World Watch List, life for Christians in many parts of the nation can be incredibly difficult. 

For her family, daily life is fraught with tensions between the clans which make up the community’s social fabric. Cycles of violence and revenge have the potential to unleash themselves at any time, because of the honour culture which shapes how households relate to each other. 

As well as this, Islamic culture and identity are so tightly interwoven that to leave the religion for another comes at great cost. Inaya herself was born into a Muslim family, but recently her parents turned to faith in Christ, and so did Inaya.  

The joy of this transformation is one they must keep to themselves, however – to share their newfound faith would mean social rejection and threats to their lives. In the worst cases, it could mean death. 

A dangerous combination 

The combination of these cultural norms is a dangerous atmosphere in which Inaya and her family live out their faith. Whilst they have been receiving care and training from a persecution preparedness program run by Open Doors partners, they are not exempt from the dangers.  

Inaya’s father, whom she affectionately calls Ama, was caught in a ‘rido’ – a violent clan conflict. Along with other brave believers, he chose non-violence, inspired by the training he had received. During the clash, however, Inaya’s father was shot in both arms. Though he survived, he was unable to work for a whole year. 

“That day, when Ama was hurt, everything changed,” Inaya recounts. “We were so scared. Sometimes I don’t know if he will be okay.” 

A watching world 

In a tightly knit community, watching eyes place daily pressure on believers like Inaya. Converts are perceived as traitors who defy both the religion of the community and the social order, posing a threat to the traditions which give them meaning. 

Now, Inaya and her family live more cautiously than ever, whispering prayers and songs of praise to the God who rescued them. For them, their faith is worth the risk. 

A refuge from fear 

With the help of Open Doors local partners, Inaya has the opportunity of participating in a children’s story-telling program. Hidden away in a discreet location, the group meet together to sing songs, do crafts and read Bible stories – a precious relief from the pressures they face outside. 

Once, they read the story of Daniel in the lion’s den. In a terrifying situation, Daniel prayed and was rescued from great danger by God. Remembering the story before bed, Inaya had a realisation. 

“If Daniel wasn’t alone, maybe I’m not alone either,” she said to her mother that night. Such stories are growing her courage in the face of persecution.  

“I’m scared,” Inaya admits. “But I feel brave too, like there’s a light shining inside me.” 

A hope in their hearts 

A light which cannot be extinguished – this is what Inaya and her fellow believers celebrate at Christmas with their global family. The festive season looks quite different for them, however. There are no decorations, no gift-giving and no gatherings. 

But their joy in Jesus remains firm, a resilient flame burning bright in the darkness. They delight in small ways to mark the coming of Christ, like going for a swim or simply enjoying being together. 

“We don’t have lights or presents,” she says. “But I feel happy because we remember Jesus and we’re together.” 

Like Mary who, after meeting the shepherds who praised the babe in her arms, ‘treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart’ (Luke 2:19), Inaya and her family celebrate Christmas in the quiet of their hearts. 

*Name changed for security reasons

Source and photo:  Open Doors