Last Friday I was in a thrift store in Ocean Springs, MS with some friends. As usual, I decided to glance through the section of used books. I happened to notice a copy of the French Bible. I do not speak much French but I like languages and, since it was only $1, I bought it.
As I held this little Bible in my hands I was once again overwhelmed with thankfulness for God's word. I am thankful that God has chosen to communicate with mankind in such a detailed, intimate way. I am thankful for the many copies of the Bible I have in my home in several different versions. And I'm thankful that the Bible is available to so many people in their own unique languages.
I think about the task of Bible translators. As someone who works with languages I understand how difficult the task can be. I work mainly with Spanish speakers and they have had the Bible in their own language since before the King James was translated into English. But what about those who work with Eskimos, Native Americans or Native African tribes? Isn't is just as important that they have the word of God available to them.
I am thankful that someone chose to translate the Bible into English so that I can understand it. But I don't want to be selfish. I want to support those who are working tirelessly to bring the precious, life-giving word of God to every man, woman, boy and girl around the world. If you are going to give a gift, why not give the word of God? The next time you are in the Christian book store buy one of those Bible that are being sent to a soldier or an orphanage. You won't miss the five dollars it will cost you and the rewards are eternal.
There is an organization called "Faith comes by hearing" that has put the Bible into audio format for many of the world's languages. The audio is available on a radio -like device called a proclaimer. The proclaimer can be charged by electricity, solar power, or crank. It is loud enough to be used in group Bible study for people who can't read which is common in poorer countries. A proclaimer can be bought for $100 and will bring the word of God to an entire village.
At the risk of sounding like a commercial, I am personally making a commitment to help bring the word of God to more people. For the price of a 20 oz Coke a day I can buy 6 proclaimers a year? Can we do our best to spread the word of God? Whether it be buying a cheap copy of the scripture and sending it to someone in jail or supporting a Bible translation society, the possibilities are endless. Will you join me? The effort may be small but the rewards are eternal.
In Christ's Service,
Sullivan Jones
