Craig Clouston

 The Extra Step

Bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you.

Deuteronomy 16:17

“La Biblia!” the people whispered in reverence. Their heartfelt gratitude was apparent to those passing out Bibles.

Despite the fact that these were supposed illegal immigrants, this group felt that God was leading them to introduce them to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Midway through their mission, the group began to realize they had not thought this through completely. These Bibles were printed in English, and unless these refugees not only spoke but also read English, this act of love and generosity was simply that. It showed they cared, but the gift was virtually useless.

Realizing their mistake, one woman wryly asked, “Does anyone here speak English?” From behind her came a shy, yet clear voice. “I do,” said a young girl.

Turning, the woman ruefully spoke. “I apologize for our oversight. We didn’t think about the language barrier before we set out today. We only thought to bring Bibles, not Spanish Bibles.”

In awe, the young girl spoke, “La Biblia in any language is precious. And there are enough of us who can read English that we can read to those who do not. Your gift is received in the spirit it was intended. God bless you for bringing us His life-giving Word.”

†

Although it is a wonderful beginning, caring, in itself, is not enough when we are reaching out in the name of Jesus. We must speak the other’s language, if not in voice, then in consideration. Good intention is only part of reaching out in the name of Jesus.

As this story reveals, we must think deeper than our own tribe or nation, including our customs, when we bring any gift so it may be better utilized. We must take that extra step.

We see and interpret through the lens of our own experience. If we do not expand our attention to include those things we do not encounter on a daily basis, we are only reaching out superficially, not wrong, but not complete in our ability to reach others for Christ.

Prayer

“Lord of every nationality, help my gift to be considerate of other’s true needs. Help it say, ‘I care’ in a way that is thoughtful. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”