Ashfin’s Story

Ashfin’s story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. His journey from militant devotion to miraculous encounter shows how Jesus meets us in the darkest places and calls us into His transforming love.

Born into a devout Shiite Muslim family in Iran, Ashfin was fascinated by the supernatural from a young age. His grandfather—a respected Islamic leader—chose him as his spiritual heir, and Ashfin embraced the role with fierce devotion. His dream? To become a missionary who would win “misguided Christians” to Islam.

That devotion grew into militancy. After serving three years in Hezbollah’s military ranks, Ashfin was arrested while traveling with illegal passports. But prison didn’t weaken his zeal—it intensified it. “Instead of praying three times a day, I prayed five,” he recalled. “I read the Koran every ten days. People came to me for revenge because when I prayed, their enemies grew sick. I became power hungry.”

A Radical Encounter with the Living Jesus

Then came the night that changed everything. Alone in his cell, meditating, Ashvin felt a dark presence descend. “I felt it choking the life out of me. I commanded it to leave in Allah’s name, but I was dying. In desperation I cried, ‘God, help me!’ Then I heard a clear voice: ‘Call on the name of Jesus.’”

Barely able to breathe, Ashfin whispered, “Jesus, if You are true, show me Yourself.” Instantly, peace filled the room.

The Forgiveness Islam Could Not Offer

Still, he wrestled with confusion. Why would Jesus help a Muslim? For two weeks, he fasted and prayed, begging Allah for direction—only to meet silence. Terrified he had committed the unforgivable sin, Ashfin finally gave up. That’s when light filled his cell. Overwhelmed by the weight of his sin, he collapsed in tears. “Allah doesn’t visit humans,” he thought. Then he felt a hand on his shoulder. 

“I forgive you,” the Presence said.

“Immediately, I knew I was forgiven! In Islam, forgiveness isn’t known until judgment day, not even Mohammed knew his fate. I cried, ‘Who are You?’ A voice answered: ‘I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.’”

Still confused, Ashfin pressed, “But what is Your name?”

“Jesus Christ, the Lord.”

A Calling That Continues Today

Decades later, tears still fill Ashfin’s eyes when he remembers that moment. “Islam taught me, ‘Kill in the name of Allah.’ But Jesus said, ‘Love in My way. Forgive in My way.’” Decades later, Ashfin still weeps when he recalls that moment

Soon after, the Lord gave him a vision. Ashfin saw people from every nation and generation. Jesus asked, “Who will tell them of My forgiveness?”

Ashfin answered, “Send me.” That day, in a prison cell, he became a follower of Christ. 

And the same Jesus who met Ashfin behind bars wants to meet you, too, wherever you are. He is faithful. He is near.

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If Jesus could meet Ashfin in a prison cell, He can meet anyone—anywhere. If you feel stirred to

grow deeper in your faith or help share the hope of Christ with the world, take your next step today.

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