Catherine’s Story -Being Intentional
The hustle of early mornings, late nights, and people from around the world coming with similar ambitions to work hard and make money were Catherine’s first impressions of her new city.
“At American universities it’s common to refer to pre-requisite classes as weed-out classes, because they are so rigorous that only the people who persevere through them can hopefully continue on to medical school.” Catherine, who moved to Dubai to be intentional with her career, compared the same idea to the city.
“When you are in the United States you can associate with other Christians and there is a social benefit,” said Catherine. “But here everyone’s religion is different and it’s easy to get weeded-out spiritually without having complete dependence on God.”
Catherine said that she has actually grown more spiritually through her church here in Dubai then she did in America.
She started her journey by google searching physical therapy jobs before visiting the city and applying in person. Catherine started working four days a week, which was her dream job so she would still have time for herself and to meet ladies outside of work.
“What was uncomfortable at first was not being familiar with the social cues,” stated Catherine. “For example, I’m used to being direct in my job like, ‘You need to lose weight and strengthen your core muscles which will help with your back issues’ but it’s important to understand the shame-honor culture and be sensitive.”
She has learned how to lead her patients to the conclusion that their lower backs would hurt less if they exercised more by showing videos and pictures.
After a couple of months of working in the clinic, she was able to talk to one of the other therapists from India about Jesus’ birth during the Christmas season.
“It was surreal! It was the first time I’d ever met someone that’s never heard of a Bible story or even the name of Jesus,” replied Catherine.
Catherine has enjoyed living in this new context and is looking forward to the day when one of her colleagues decides to follow Jesus.
Prayer Requests
Pray for Believers to do their work enthusiastically for the Lord remembering that they serve the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24).
Pray for those moving to Dubai with their jobs to be intentional with their coworkers, learning how to share their faith effectively. Pray that many will hear the Great News and choose to follow Jesus.