Eyes & Ears

 

What we saw: Senegalese hospitality was an amazing thing to witness and experience! I think we could learn a lot in that arena. Believers who so deeply loved and appreciated the church, weren’t taken up with finding fault in the church. The high price that some of our missionaries are willing to pay in order to build deep relationships, just astounded us. People were willing and even eager to spend and be spent for the Gospel. And all the while they view it as a privilege, not a cross to bear!
What we heard: Updates were shared about churches that are thriving in challenging environments. Story after story of hurt and persecution that our African brothers and sisters in the faith are facing day-in and day-out, challenged us to endure suffering patiently. We kept hearing that the translated Word of God is impacting communities even in the absence of missionaries; and sustains the hearts and minds of those facing tremendous social pressure.

“I have lived in a dark room, but have stuck my head through the window and into the Light, and I will never go back into that darkness again.”
–A Guinean believer

What we saw and heard in West Africa convinces us of the importance of Bible translation, literacy, and Bible teaching in the heart language. We are delighted to be part of preparing people for this great opportunity. –Dan