Kirk
Field Personnel in Southeast Asia
As one who has been involved in two Bible translations for people groups where believers comprise less than one percent of the population, I have had the opportunity to see people reading and understanding the Word for the first time. It is fascinating to hear their reactions and listen to how they feel what they have read would apply in their cultural setting. By contrast, so many of us in the United States are used to having dozens of translations on our bookshelves or smartphones—perhaps this wealth of scripture causes us to forget the incredible significance of the Word. I struggle to remind myself to approach the Word with humility—and give it my full attention despite mountains of internal and external distractions. Below is a blessing to use before you read scripture.
A Blessing for the Reading of the Word
As you open this book
May your mind be calmed
Your ears sharpened
Your heart quieted
May your reading inspire you
Challenge you
Break your heart
Heal you
May you be mindful of the wonder of scripture
Always there
Always waiting
A book longing to be read
May you remember those who have never known
The miracle of these words
In the language of their hearts
In a place of freedom
May you listen as God speaks
Silent in His presence
Still as a weaned child
The rushing world far away
And may you emerge from this time
A mustard seed sprouting
A light learning to shine
A blessing
Pray...Give...Go.