TO GOD NO ONE IS INVISIBLE

 There are 24 million Tajiks in the world, and 99% identify as Muslim with little to no access to the Gospel. Among this unreached people group, one of the most overlooked part of the population is the deaf community. Many live in isolation, with no access to educational resources in sign language, teachers that can help them, and someone that can share God’s love in a language they can understand. 

In the midst of this reality Marisa, a Reflejo worker who learned TSL (Tajik Sign language) visits and helps women, children and families in the deaf community. These are some of their stories.  

Nasiba and her children:  
Nasiba is a deaf mother with severe vision loss and three CODA children (hearing children born to deaf parents)—ages 6, 8, and 11. Because they didn’t share a common language, communication at home was limited and often frustrating.  Through Marisa’s weekly visits, the children began learning sign language and new ways to communicate and express affection to their mother. Today, Nasiba’s children can share their thoughts and connect with their mother in ways they weren’t able to before. As Marisa continues walking alongside the family, they are also being introduced to the love of a God who sees them, knows them, and values them just as they are. 

Tania and the women who feel unseen: Through the community workshops Marisa organizes for deaf women, Tania found a safe space to share what she had never been able to say. For the first time she spoke about the pain of being pressured into an arranged marriage without having a voice in the decision. Marisa listened attentively, stood by her, and reminded her that before God she is not invisible and that her voice matters. Now, Tania knows she is not alone and that there is a God who sees and deeply cares for her. 

God is opening doors where there was once silence and isolation. Thanks to your prayers and support, deaf Tajik families are discovering hope and God’s love. Together, we can continue bringing light to those who have too often gone unseen and unheard.  

“Thereafter, Hagar used another name to refer to the LORD, who had spoken to her. She said, “You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?”” Genesis 16:13