CHONGQING, China – In the bustling city of Shenzhen, Zhang Hao from Chongqing and Zhu Xiaoxiao from Henan met, fell in love, and started a family. Both were raised in Christian households, but their paths in faith diverged; Zhu was deeply involved in church ministries, while Zhang focused on his career, even venturing into entrepreneurship.
Life in Shenzhen was a whirlwind. Zhang navigated roles as a corporate executive, procurement manager, and entrepreneur, launching both a logistics company and a hot pot restaurant. Despite the church's need for pastors and Zhu's devotion to church work, Zhang remained fixated on business and making money. "But I kept hearing a voice, 'Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?' It echoed in my mind and dreams," Zhang recalled. This persistent message from Psalm 139:7 led him to question his life's direction.
As Zhang's business ventures expanded, the pressures of urban life grew. Even with his success, he felt a void that financial achievements could not fill. Zhu, on the other hand, found peace and purpose in her service to the church. "I often prayed for my husband, hoping he would find the same peace and fulfillment in our faith," Zhu shared. Her prayers, along with those of Zhang's mother, created a spiritual foundation that gradually softened Zhang's heart.
"Returning to Chongqing felt like coming full circle. We were back where our journey began, but now with a renewed purpose."
In 2018, due to household registration concerns and their children's educational needs, the family decided to return to Chongqing. This move marked a significant turning point. Back in their hometown, Zhang and Zhu dedicated themselves to ministry work. "Returning to Chongqing felt like coming full circle," Zhu said. "We were back where our journey began, but now with a renewed purpose."
Initially, balancing ministry with family and financial responsibilities was challenging. Zhang and Zhu juggled multiple roles, from leading church activities to managing household duties. However, their commitment to the Lord and to serve Him remained firm. They soon realised that to serve more effectively, they needed a deeper understanding of theology. "We decided to pursue theological studies, despite the financial strain and the demands of raising our children," Zhang explained.
The couple enrolled in a local Bible school, where they experienced both support and sacrifice. "Behind every theological student are many supporters and contributors," Zhang said. "God provided for us through the kindness of others, ensuring we lacked nothing." With Zhang's father stepping in to help with childcare, they could focus on their studies. "My father mainly handles childcare duties now," Zhang noted. "We had some savings from my previous business, providing us with enough to sustain ourselves."
"Our path has not been easy, but every step has brought us closer to God and to each other. We look forward to what God has in store for us and remain steadfast in our mission to serve His kingdom as husband and wife."
In 2022, they received a generous gift of biblical study resources from the United Bible Societies (UBS) through their Bible school. These resources, often difficult and expensive to obtain, were invaluable. "These books enrich our biblical studies and are essential tools in our ministry," Zhu said. One morning, during her personal devotion, Zhu wrestled with the parable of the unjust steward found in Luke 16:1-13. Verse 8, "The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness," puzzled her. Did it imply that deceit pleased God? Through her biblical resources, Zhu found clarity: the master praised the steward's foresight and prudent planning, not his dishonesty. This understanding illuminated her sermon preparations, helping her convey deeper insights to her congregation.
Zhang and Zhu's journey is a testament to faith and dedication. "These biblical study resources help us understand Scripture better and prepare us to serve our community," Zhu shared. "The maps, charts, and thematic paragraphs are invaluable references for our Bible studies and sermon preparations. Possessing these books means having a comprehensive collection of various contents, greatly facilitating our work."
As Zhang and Zhu continue their ministry in Chongqing, their unity and commitment to God's work inspire those around them. Their journey, marked by perseverance and faith, underscores the transformative power of answering God's call. "Our path has not been easy, but every step has brought us closer to God and to each other," Zhu reflected. "We look forward to what God has in store for us and remain steadfast in our mission to serve His kingdom as husband and wife."
Story: Priscila Fan & May Ang
Photo: UBSCP
2024@UBS China Partnership
