The Extra Step
April 29
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 bring-
ing us His life-giving Word.”
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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.”
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