Dear SULADS and Friends,
The SULADS RESOURCE FORUM has now started.....There are many questions relating to cross-cultural mission that needs to be answered. And there are many
insights you've got that others might need them....Share it!!!!!
Or ask the SULADS missionaries to everything you want to know about...
Ask your questions and share your insights in the SULADS RESOURCE FORUM...
So, do you have a problem to discuss? come on, start posting!!!I have posted critical cross-cultural issues about the Mien culture and many others. I think those topics are good enough to start with...Please see them
follow one of the optional links below....
http://suladsthailand.googlepages.com
then click SULADS Forum
or go straight in this link if you are in a hurry;
http://www.atfreeforum.com/mienfield/
Thanks see you!
Sulad Jhun
Friday, September 26, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Illiteracy Challenge
Sulad Jhun Cardeinte
“Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:19,20
In the verbally based community, pressures are great in shaping the members spiritually. Distribution of religious books or any printed pages couldn’t do for their spiritual nourishment. In the Philippines alone, time and money were seem wasted for many years, thousands of translated materials for them seem of no use.
But is this the real problem? Is this situation hopeless? The answer is absolutely no! Our goal is not to let all of them read and write but rather to shape them into maturity because we shouldn’t let them rely on to us till Jesus comes.
Their inabilities; no-read no-write would tend them to totally rely on to the missionary for their spiritual strength. Missionary presence seems their only way of getting spiritual food. They depend largely on what they hear and see, their spiritual maturity is a challenge that we need to pray for God’s wisdom on how to nourish them properly. This is where real and strong and intimate relationship should be made. Our presence is the only source of spiritual guidance. We should be reachable as their open and living Bible.
Sad thing is when we underestimate them and treat them as non-persons and neglect them, because they were so ordinary people that we don’t take much interest to see the all the details of their lives and listen to their story. Sometimes we are in a hurry. “Talk as though they were as good a piece of humanity as you are. They have little enough light and joy, and why not carry additional joy and light to shine in upon them and fill their hearts.” WM 90. Missionaries who are always interested to listen to them often rewarded with success.
We must understand that they are students of the “school of practical experience.” Though they are illiterate in the eyes the world but they are not ignorance at all. For example, the Manobo hilltribe in the Philippines they are not following written rules but they have oral rules to ensure and maintain peace order and to solve problems, which sometimes better than our ways. They have unwritten rules and experience that we can learn from them. When the Holy Spirit will work in their heart, they can be intelligent for God’s cause. Formal school may produce leaders but may not produce humble servants. It may produce scholars but may not produce diehard missionary frontliners. It may produce teachers but may not produce teachables. It often produces dominant-like but may not produce Christ-like. It may produce intellectual but may not produce spiritual, which is the greatest need of the world to see among us.
We can discover from the theology program even here in Asia that almost all of the books are labeled by western. Look at Asian churches today, they seem a reflection of a western culture. Sad to say some church practices seem going out from the Biblical culture.
It seems that western culture became the source of form and authority, because many Asian ministers and missionaries try to get education from the west. This would establish pride and obviously one the evil of global mission, which would hinder our solemn mission.
Nowadays, it seems to appear that the basic qualification for ministry is educational degree and no longer spirituality. Sad to say that this measuring rod of qualification in the world has unconsciously started going inside the church. This seems contrary to the Bible record of the early church, “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.” Acts 6:3.
Let me tell you a fact, in the Philippines alone, there were hundreds if not thousands of less educated laymen who became powerful witnesses. And we cannot deny that some of them have a higher number of baptisms than that of the high educated pastors.
We must take note that they have the equal ability to grow spiritually if they are rightly nurtured. Though may vary by responsibilities, illiterate and less educated are equally able to that of formal schooled members for God. This is the reality if we look at the record in Acts;
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. But since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say.” Acts 4: 13,14
We can see that when the Holy Spirit will work in their hearts, they become equally useful for God. As the pen of inspiration says, “No amount of education, no advantages, however great, can make one a channel of light without the co-operation of the Spirit of God. The sowing of the gospel seed will not be a success unless the seed is quickened into life by the dew of heaven.” DA 172. The amazing thing is that this less educated and illiterate missionaries can hardly be stopped telling about Jesus! Let’s look again the record in Acts;
“The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John, and because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand…Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:1-4,18-20.
Today, some movements which are reaching the illiterate community miss the most important point. We need to understand that the most important we should do in this verbally base communities are not teaching them how to read and write. Sometimes we imitate the western trend. And we are of no difference from the humanitarian programs. Sometimes, we forced them to join in the adult class when they are not interested anymore. Remember that when people grow old, mostly, their interests in formal schooling were already lapsed. How much more to them where influences of schools are very slim. Their memories and brains are no longer as quick as their youth. Adding with their poor diet that their failing eye-sights It is not necessary that we will teach them how to read and write. This may even bring dangers to some since this will eventually lead them to self-confidence and pride. Instead that they will depend upon the guidance and wisdom from the Holy Spirit to used them in the ministry. The early church became effective not because they are intelligence but because they were full of the Holy Spirit.
It doesn’t mean we will no longer build a school for them anymore. School is also important as a center for evangelism and will serve as a starter of our mission goal since the parents love to send their kids in school and we can introduce Jesus. And so that from there we can start to move on build our relationship with the villagers as a whole. But it must not be a prerequisite plan for the adults, unless it is requested. Reading and writing are not so important to them than learning some healthy and practical things that they should not be ignorance. For example, in the Philippines there are unhealthy practices such as defecating anywhere and along the river banks where they get water for drinking, washing, and bathing. They never brush their teeth, and wear no slippers, seldom bath and never use soap in bathing and laundering their clothes. These are necessary things they need to know, so that education in hygiene to improve their health and lives must not be overlook.
Another thing, some hill tribe people think they are saving money when they will not buy slippers or boots, which is not true. They must know that the more they are losing money, if they stepped something like sharp nails, broken glass or they will be bitten by the snake. It may cost them a lot than buying a pair of boots or slippers. But teaching lessons such as health, farming, and education, will just improve their lives but it will not change them. So practical lessons must only be a secondary. We do believe that through our personal example they can be taught lessons of a normal living. If they be only spiritualized firstly, then everything will follow. What is the most important is not more than our careful and sensitive in giving a personal example with them. A missionary must be one with them. “What we want is the tender sympathy of Jesus Christ, and then we can melt our way right into their hearts. We want to clothe ourselves, not with pomposity, but with plain simple dress, so that they will feel that we are an equal with them and as though we considered that they were worth saving, and we can melt our way into their hearts.” WM 90
They have more emphasis on what they see, hear and experience. Though they are not word- readers but they are life readers. They cannot read Bible but they can read your life! That’s why it is important to make ourselves a open Bible for them. They need to be cared as often as possible since paper guide wouldn’t do anything to them. What can actually help them is the spiritual person that can guide them.
“Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:19,20
In the verbally based community, pressures are great in shaping the members spiritually. Distribution of religious books or any printed pages couldn’t do for their spiritual nourishment. In the Philippines alone, time and money were seem wasted for many years, thousands of translated materials for them seem of no use.
But is this the real problem? Is this situation hopeless? The answer is absolutely no! Our goal is not to let all of them read and write but rather to shape them into maturity because we shouldn’t let them rely on to us till Jesus comes.
Their inabilities; no-read no-write would tend them to totally rely on to the missionary for their spiritual strength. Missionary presence seems their only way of getting spiritual food. They depend largely on what they hear and see, their spiritual maturity is a challenge that we need to pray for God’s wisdom on how to nourish them properly. This is where real and strong and intimate relationship should be made. Our presence is the only source of spiritual guidance. We should be reachable as their open and living Bible.
Sad thing is when we underestimate them and treat them as non-persons and neglect them, because they were so ordinary people that we don’t take much interest to see the all the details of their lives and listen to their story. Sometimes we are in a hurry. “Talk as though they were as good a piece of humanity as you are. They have little enough light and joy, and why not carry additional joy and light to shine in upon them and fill their hearts.” WM 90. Missionaries who are always interested to listen to them often rewarded with success.
We must understand that they are students of the “school of practical experience.” Though they are illiterate in the eyes the world but they are not ignorance at all. For example, the Manobo hilltribe in the Philippines they are not following written rules but they have oral rules to ensure and maintain peace order and to solve problems, which sometimes better than our ways. They have unwritten rules and experience that we can learn from them. When the Holy Spirit will work in their heart, they can be intelligent for God’s cause. Formal school may produce leaders but may not produce humble servants. It may produce scholars but may not produce diehard missionary frontliners. It may produce teachers but may not produce teachables. It often produces dominant-like but may not produce Christ-like. It may produce intellectual but may not produce spiritual, which is the greatest need of the world to see among us.
We can discover from the theology program even here in Asia that almost all of the books are labeled by western. Look at Asian churches today, they seem a reflection of a western culture. Sad to say some church practices seem going out from the Biblical culture.
It seems that western culture became the source of form and authority, because many Asian ministers and missionaries try to get education from the west. This would establish pride and obviously one the evil of global mission, which would hinder our solemn mission.
Nowadays, it seems to appear that the basic qualification for ministry is educational degree and no longer spirituality. Sad to say that this measuring rod of qualification in the world has unconsciously started going inside the church. This seems contrary to the Bible record of the early church, “Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them.” Acts 6:3.
Let me tell you a fact, in the Philippines alone, there were hundreds if not thousands of less educated laymen who became powerful witnesses. And we cannot deny that some of them have a higher number of baptisms than that of the high educated pastors.
We must take note that they have the equal ability to grow spiritually if they are rightly nurtured. Though may vary by responsibilities, illiterate and less educated are equally able to that of formal schooled members for God. This is the reality if we look at the record in Acts;
“When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. But since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say.” Acts 4: 13,14
We can see that when the Holy Spirit will work in their hearts, they become equally useful for God. As the pen of inspiration says, “No amount of education, no advantages, however great, can make one a channel of light without the co-operation of the Spirit of God. The sowing of the gospel seed will not be a success unless the seed is quickened into life by the dew of heaven.” DA 172. The amazing thing is that this less educated and illiterate missionaries can hardly be stopped telling about Jesus! Let’s look again the record in Acts;
“The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John, and because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand…Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:1-4,18-20.
Today, some movements which are reaching the illiterate community miss the most important point. We need to understand that the most important we should do in this verbally base communities are not teaching them how to read and write. Sometimes we imitate the western trend. And we are of no difference from the humanitarian programs. Sometimes, we forced them to join in the adult class when they are not interested anymore. Remember that when people grow old, mostly, their interests in formal schooling were already lapsed. How much more to them where influences of schools are very slim. Their memories and brains are no longer as quick as their youth. Adding with their poor diet that their failing eye-sights It is not necessary that we will teach them how to read and write. This may even bring dangers to some since this will eventually lead them to self-confidence and pride. Instead that they will depend upon the guidance and wisdom from the Holy Spirit to used them in the ministry. The early church became effective not because they are intelligence but because they were full of the Holy Spirit.
It doesn’t mean we will no longer build a school for them anymore. School is also important as a center for evangelism and will serve as a starter of our mission goal since the parents love to send their kids in school and we can introduce Jesus. And so that from there we can start to move on build our relationship with the villagers as a whole. But it must not be a prerequisite plan for the adults, unless it is requested. Reading and writing are not so important to them than learning some healthy and practical things that they should not be ignorance. For example, in the Philippines there are unhealthy practices such as defecating anywhere and along the river banks where they get water for drinking, washing, and bathing. They never brush their teeth, and wear no slippers, seldom bath and never use soap in bathing and laundering their clothes. These are necessary things they need to know, so that education in hygiene to improve their health and lives must not be overlook.
Another thing, some hill tribe people think they are saving money when they will not buy slippers or boots, which is not true. They must know that the more they are losing money, if they stepped something like sharp nails, broken glass or they will be bitten by the snake. It may cost them a lot than buying a pair of boots or slippers. But teaching lessons such as health, farming, and education, will just improve their lives but it will not change them. So practical lessons must only be a secondary. We do believe that through our personal example they can be taught lessons of a normal living. If they be only spiritualized firstly, then everything will follow. What is the most important is not more than our careful and sensitive in giving a personal example with them. A missionary must be one with them. “What we want is the tender sympathy of Jesus Christ, and then we can melt our way right into their hearts. We want to clothe ourselves, not with pomposity, but with plain simple dress, so that they will feel that we are an equal with them and as though we considered that they were worth saving, and we can melt our way into their hearts.” WM 90
They have more emphasis on what they see, hear and experience. Though they are not word- readers but they are life readers. They cannot read Bible but they can read your life! That’s why it is important to make ourselves a open Bible for them. They need to be cared as often as possible since paper guide wouldn’t do anything to them. What can actually help them is the spiritual person that can guide them.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Expanded article; Audio Bible Answers for Challenges
By Sulad Jhun Cardeinte
I have one thing to share, the SULADS missionaries and others assign in the verbally base mission field, are really in need of some audio tools. All of the old folks and most adult do not know how to read. I'm sure the solution is not literacy program when it comes to reaching the old illiterate villagers. Aside from the long process of learning the local language, our young missionaries are too young to be listened to by the illiterate but respected Datus (village’s head) and all other older folks in the village.
Second, our missionaries are not working for a long term bases. This means their short term is not enough to learn the language. But if they could carry the portable digital audio Bible with them then they will be more effective not only in the humanitarian work but in witnessing for God.
Now is the time! I guess the solution is to take advantage of the new powerful invention- the audio Bible. We have been doing the same here since I'm working with the verbal and isolated Mien tribe. My Mien language is not yet perfect but witnessing becomes possible and not too stressful. A portable digital audio Bible player is proven useful and effective for sharing God's word.
Here in Asia alone, thousands of hilltribe villages are completely illiterate. They do not read simply because they couldn’t. These people have been heavily dependent to oral form of communication. You can’t teach them all to read and write. Besides, this is a very difficult and time-consuming process and not all of them could ever learn how to read. The chances to hear the word of God are very slim with that old-slow way of reaching the illiterate villages. The solution is audio Bible! So God's word can be made quickly available to them.
Even in the lowland literate community here in Asia, still portable audio Bible is needed. Yes, they can read but they don’t have interest to read, while others simply have eye-sight defects. This is true to our elderly people whose health and strength started failing. They are one of the most challenging to reach but don’t be discourage, audio Bible player is the answer!
My church members shared their stories on how they listened to God's word through the audio Bible player when I'm away for the other church. This means they still have access to the word of God even their missionaries are away.
I highly recommend the one of the excellent producer- the Megavoice Company. Please follow this link to learn http://www.megavoice.com/bible.php.
These tools could be given free if the missionary organizations reaching the hilltribe people will work hand-in-hand with them. Contact the Megavoice Company for more particular.
Let me end this article with very important cautions. This audio Bible tools are not effective if the Holy Spirit is not working. The audio tools are not the substitute of our devotion and prayer. Second, this may not be heard by them if our personal relationship with them is not truly valued. Gift is only valuable and will be treasured if the person itself who gave it is loved by someone else. They may already have radio and TV to entertain them. And so what is the difference with the audio-gospel? Those are boring and couldn’t entertain them.
To make the difference is your responsibility and it can only be answered by you! They would love it if they loved you! They will treasure these effective audio tools forever if you have a real place in their heart.
I have one thing to share, the SULADS missionaries and others assign in the verbally base mission field, are really in need of some audio tools. All of the old folks and most adult do not know how to read. I'm sure the solution is not literacy program when it comes to reaching the old illiterate villagers. Aside from the long process of learning the local language, our young missionaries are too young to be listened to by the illiterate but respected Datus (village’s head) and all other older folks in the village.
Second, our missionaries are not working for a long term bases. This means their short term is not enough to learn the language. But if they could carry the portable digital audio Bible with them then they will be more effective not only in the humanitarian work but in witnessing for God.
Now is the time! I guess the solution is to take advantage of the new powerful invention- the audio Bible. We have been doing the same here since I'm working with the verbal and isolated Mien tribe. My Mien language is not yet perfect but witnessing becomes possible and not too stressful. A portable digital audio Bible player is proven useful and effective for sharing God's word.
Here in Asia alone, thousands of hilltribe villages are completely illiterate. They do not read simply because they couldn’t. These people have been heavily dependent to oral form of communication. You can’t teach them all to read and write. Besides, this is a very difficult and time-consuming process and not all of them could ever learn how to read. The chances to hear the word of God are very slim with that old-slow way of reaching the illiterate villages. The solution is audio Bible! So God's word can be made quickly available to them.
Even in the lowland literate community here in Asia, still portable audio Bible is needed. Yes, they can read but they don’t have interest to read, while others simply have eye-sight defects. This is true to our elderly people whose health and strength started failing. They are one of the most challenging to reach but don’t be discourage, audio Bible player is the answer!
My church members shared their stories on how they listened to God's word through the audio Bible player when I'm away for the other church. This means they still have access to the word of God even their missionaries are away.
I highly recommend the one of the excellent producer- the Megavoice Company. Please follow this link to learn http://www.megavoice.com/bible.php.
These tools could be given free if the missionary organizations reaching the hilltribe people will work hand-in-hand with them. Contact the Megavoice Company for more particular.
Let me end this article with very important cautions. This audio Bible tools are not effective if the Holy Spirit is not working. The audio tools are not the substitute of our devotion and prayer. Second, this may not be heard by them if our personal relationship with them is not truly valued. Gift is only valuable and will be treasured if the person itself who gave it is loved by someone else. They may already have radio and TV to entertain them. And so what is the difference with the audio-gospel? Those are boring and couldn’t entertain them.
To make the difference is your responsibility and it can only be answered by you! They would love it if they loved you! They will treasure these effective audio tools forever if you have a real place in their heart.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Solution; Audio Bible
I have one thing to share, sulads missionaries assign in the mission schools are working with the verbally base isolated communities. All of the old folks and most adult do not know how to read.....I'm sure the solution is not literacy program when it comes to reaching the old illiterate villagers. Our young missionaries are too young to be listened to by the illiterate but respected Datus and all other older folks in the village.
Second, our missionaries are not working for a long term bases.....This means their term is not enough to learn the language. But if they can carry each of them the audio Bible to share it to all then they will be more effective not only in the humanitarian work but in witnessing for God.
I guess the solution is to take advantage of the new powerful invention- the audio Bible....We are doing the same here since I'm working with the isolated Mien tribe. My Mien language is not yet perfect but witnessing becomes possible and not too stressful.
My church members shared their stories on how they listened to God's word through the ambasador audio player when I'm away for the other church..... This could be given free if the oeganization reaching for the hilltribe people and for the Sulads specifically if they are going to work hand-in-hand with the Megavoice company....please click here to learn.... http://www.megavoice.com/bible.php
Hope this is helping.......God bless.....
In God's service,
Sulad Jhun Cardeinte, Thailand
Second, our missionaries are not working for a long term bases.....This means their term is not enough to learn the language. But if they can carry each of them the audio Bible to share it to all then they will be more effective not only in the humanitarian work but in witnessing for God.
I guess the solution is to take advantage of the new powerful invention- the audio Bible....We are doing the same here since I'm working with the isolated Mien tribe. My Mien language is not yet perfect but witnessing becomes possible and not too stressful.
My church members shared their stories on how they listened to God's word through the ambasador audio player when I'm away for the other church..... This could be given free if the oeganization reaching for the hilltribe people and for the Sulads specifically if they are going to work hand-in-hand with the Megavoice company....please click here to learn.... http://www.megavoice.com/bible.php
Hope this is helping.......God bless.....
In God's service,
Sulad Jhun Cardeinte, Thailand
Monday, July 21, 2008
Is Caring Enough? How God's Enemy Use Humanitarian Works
Sulad Jhun Cardeinte
To care people is a nice thing but our work-goal does not stop right there. I could still remember my personal experience in my first mission field in one of the mission school in the Philippines. I got a partner ahead of me for about 5 months in the mission field. It was a pioneering work. People were so prejudice about hearing God’s word. Many months passed, after a routine of caring for the sick villagers, helping the needy and the likes, I could sense that we already won their confidence, so we were really glad about it. But my partner had always warned me not to talk about Jesus and the Bible, so I did. We just introduce gospel songs for the children and some stories that have moral lessons.
One day, when I was left alone in our cottage, a group of mothers- our good supporters in the village asked me about the Sabbath and about our Christian lifestyle, as they always observe us having unique differences with them. I remember my partner’s words but it seems there was a small voice that prompted my heart to communicate the truth to them. Sensing the rare opportunity, so I told them about how a true Christian should walk as Jesus did as our perfect example. Mothers were nodded in approval while hearing my side concerning our faith.
I was so happy as I went back to the cottage. I feel that I was unburden that day. So excited to relate my fresh experience to my older partner, I told everything to him. But I felt so disappointed as he replied angrily. He asked me why I told those things to them. He added that if somebody would ask me again concerning our faith, I will just tell them we just follow what our parents believed.
Is that how we represent the Savior? Is that how we accomplish our mission? Our mission is to make proclaim God’s Word, so we can make disciples as the final result. Caring must followed by teaching and after this equipping. Sad picture can be seen in many humanitarian organization today which ended their services to caring. They don’t have real program that equip the missionary members. This also reflects to the kind of missionary they have. The result, though they are gathering many people, they are not actually growing.
Is it a very sad thing to hear we stay long in the field, just waste our effort, time and money doing social works. Helping them for their stomach but neglecting the real saving purpose, to fulfill the great commission. We are gospel worker not a social worker. Meeting three areas in the village namely; health, agriculture and education are important in fact the government is also trying to do something to at least uplift the life of the people. But this must not be our main concentration or else we don’t have any difference from the humanitarian upliftment program. And the people will miss on heaven.
Jesus is active in humanitarian work, but let us look at carefully the "Jesus' humanitarian method." Let us examine the reasons why Jesus feed the 5,000 people recorded in Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6: 32-44, Luke 9:10-17 and John 6:1-12;
1. The crowd followed him- “But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them.” Mark 6:33, (see Matt.14:13, Luke 9:11, John 6:2)
2. Remote place- “As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place…” Matt. 14:15 (see Mark 6:35, Luke 9:12
3. Already very late- “…and it’s already very late.” Mark 6:35 (see Matt. 14:15, Luke 9:12)
The feeding of 4,000 people has revealed similar reasons;
1. The crowds have been with Jesus-“I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. Matt.15:32.
2. They are hungry and may collapse on the way- “I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.” Matt. 15:32, Mark 8:3
3. Some of them came from far places- Mark 8:3
Yes, they are hungry, but what made them hungry? Is it because they were doing personal business or hearing the word of God? Firstly, they have been following Jesus. The record implies that Jesus, His disciples, and the people had been without either food or rest during the entire day because of their spiritual enrichment program. Then everyone was hungry. The disciples could see no solution to the problem but to dismiss the people, asking them to go hoem. But the “compassion” of Jesus (see v. 34) extended to their physical and spiritual well-being.
There are a lot of Missionary program today which offers too material rather than spiritual. In the sense that their concentration is more focus on health, agricultural and educational. The Apostle Paul's ministry recorded in Acts gives as an idea of our job description as gospel proclaimer,“…He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” Acts 19:9,10. The reason why everyone who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of God because everyday the Apostle Paul devoted his time for an intensive program of public evangelism. The Apostle Paul conducted lectures, but his lecture was not on health, agriculture and education. A lot of effort he exerted were basically focus on proclaiming the gospel.
It is a sad fact that there are missionaries today who don’t know even how to conduct Bible study, because they don’t have the basic training. The reason is that their concentration is focus on humanitarian program. As the Apostle was wise to “…took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus.” Acts 19:9. So it is wise for us to conduct a serious effort, equipping our missionaries of the word of God, so that the near villages will hear the word of God.
It is a responsibility of the outreach movement to check out whether their missionaries are thorough equipped and knows how to impart the gospel.
We must be involved in expanding the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. The problem we faced is not just how to improve them but most important is how to evangelize them. Or else they see no difference from that of other social organization.
A true missionary is conscious that he has a heavy responsibility to present the truth. I appreciate those movement that are reaching the unreach which give special “how to give Bible study” training. As I have notice that there are movements today that excludes this most important training. How could they impart God’s word when they are not equip to the things they need?
The pen of inspiration says, “in a special sense Seventh-day Adventists have been set in the world as watchmen and light bearers.”9T 19. We must take note that we are not the light but we are just bringing the light. We are not the truth but we are just carriers of truth. They couldn’t see the truth we bear unless we are going to share what we have. It wouldn’t be appropriate to say our presence in the mission field is enough. As it is “Now, just now, is the time to obey the commission, “teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” Matthew 28:20. Those who do this work must have a ready knowledge of the Scriptures. “It is written” is to be their weapon of defense. God has given us light on His word, that we may give this light to our fellow men.” CT 540.
In reality, doing social works alone will benefit their stomach but not their hearts. We must reach their heart by letting the truth shine out.
It is not bad to do social work and I'm not against them. Caring the sick, providing them food and clothing, educating them, and etc. But if we forget our mission-tasks that would be another story. Our goal why we invest our time, effort and money is to spread the everlasting goodnews of Jesus. Doing humanitarian services means an opportunity to share Jesus. Humanitarian program should not be the end of our goal itself, but it is a starting point to find chances to witness.
Let us remember our accountability towards God. He placed the burden of on our shoulders to declare the truth. It is not enough to do social works! It is beyond. The gospel must be proclaimed. In the whole Asia alone we have thousands of villages just remain unreached. So how come you will be stagnated in the so-called social development and upliftment program. “ All of us must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent me, because there is little time left before the night falls and all work comes to an end.” John 9:4. We need to ask the Holy Spirit’s guidance that we may do the right thing God wants us to do.
To care people is a nice thing but our work-goal does not stop right there. I could still remember my personal experience in my first mission field in one of the mission school in the Philippines. I got a partner ahead of me for about 5 months in the mission field. It was a pioneering work. People were so prejudice about hearing God’s word. Many months passed, after a routine of caring for the sick villagers, helping the needy and the likes, I could sense that we already won their confidence, so we were really glad about it. But my partner had always warned me not to talk about Jesus and the Bible, so I did. We just introduce gospel songs for the children and some stories that have moral lessons.
One day, when I was left alone in our cottage, a group of mothers- our good supporters in the village asked me about the Sabbath and about our Christian lifestyle, as they always observe us having unique differences with them. I remember my partner’s words but it seems there was a small voice that prompted my heart to communicate the truth to them. Sensing the rare opportunity, so I told them about how a true Christian should walk as Jesus did as our perfect example. Mothers were nodded in approval while hearing my side concerning our faith.
I was so happy as I went back to the cottage. I feel that I was unburden that day. So excited to relate my fresh experience to my older partner, I told everything to him. But I felt so disappointed as he replied angrily. He asked me why I told those things to them. He added that if somebody would ask me again concerning our faith, I will just tell them we just follow what our parents believed.
Is that how we represent the Savior? Is that how we accomplish our mission? Our mission is to make proclaim God’s Word, so we can make disciples as the final result. Caring must followed by teaching and after this equipping. Sad picture can be seen in many humanitarian organization today which ended their services to caring. They don’t have real program that equip the missionary members. This also reflects to the kind of missionary they have. The result, though they are gathering many people, they are not actually growing.
Is it a very sad thing to hear we stay long in the field, just waste our effort, time and money doing social works. Helping them for their stomach but neglecting the real saving purpose, to fulfill the great commission. We are gospel worker not a social worker. Meeting three areas in the village namely; health, agriculture and education are important in fact the government is also trying to do something to at least uplift the life of the people. But this must not be our main concentration or else we don’t have any difference from the humanitarian upliftment program. And the people will miss on heaven.
Jesus is active in humanitarian work, but let us look at carefully the "Jesus' humanitarian method." Let us examine the reasons why Jesus feed the 5,000 people recorded in Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6: 32-44, Luke 9:10-17 and John 6:1-12;
1. The crowd followed him- “But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them.” Mark 6:33, (see Matt.14:13, Luke 9:11, John 6:2)
2. Remote place- “As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place…” Matt. 14:15 (see Mark 6:35, Luke 9:12
3. Already very late- “…and it’s already very late.” Mark 6:35 (see Matt. 14:15, Luke 9:12)
The feeding of 4,000 people has revealed similar reasons;
1. The crowds have been with Jesus-“I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. Matt.15:32.
2. They are hungry and may collapse on the way- “I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.” Matt. 15:32, Mark 8:3
3. Some of them came from far places- Mark 8:3
Yes, they are hungry, but what made them hungry? Is it because they were doing personal business or hearing the word of God? Firstly, they have been following Jesus. The record implies that Jesus, His disciples, and the people had been without either food or rest during the entire day because of their spiritual enrichment program. Then everyone was hungry. The disciples could see no solution to the problem but to dismiss the people, asking them to go hoem. But the “compassion” of Jesus (see v. 34) extended to their physical and spiritual well-being.
There are a lot of Missionary program today which offers too material rather than spiritual. In the sense that their concentration is more focus on health, agricultural and educational. The Apostle Paul's ministry recorded in Acts gives as an idea of our job description as gospel proclaimer,“…He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” Acts 19:9,10. The reason why everyone who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of God because everyday the Apostle Paul devoted his time for an intensive program of public evangelism. The Apostle Paul conducted lectures, but his lecture was not on health, agriculture and education. A lot of effort he exerted were basically focus on proclaiming the gospel.
It is a sad fact that there are missionaries today who don’t know even how to conduct Bible study, because they don’t have the basic training. The reason is that their concentration is focus on humanitarian program. As the Apostle was wise to “…took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus.” Acts 19:9. So it is wise for us to conduct a serious effort, equipping our missionaries of the word of God, so that the near villages will hear the word of God.
It is a responsibility of the outreach movement to check out whether their missionaries are thorough equipped and knows how to impart the gospel.
We must be involved in expanding the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. The problem we faced is not just how to improve them but most important is how to evangelize them. Or else they see no difference from that of other social organization.
A true missionary is conscious that he has a heavy responsibility to present the truth. I appreciate those movement that are reaching the unreach which give special “how to give Bible study” training. As I have notice that there are movements today that excludes this most important training. How could they impart God’s word when they are not equip to the things they need?
The pen of inspiration says, “in a special sense Seventh-day Adventists have been set in the world as watchmen and light bearers.”9T 19. We must take note that we are not the light but we are just bringing the light. We are not the truth but we are just carriers of truth. They couldn’t see the truth we bear unless we are going to share what we have. It wouldn’t be appropriate to say our presence in the mission field is enough. As it is “Now, just now, is the time to obey the commission, “teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you” Matthew 28:20. Those who do this work must have a ready knowledge of the Scriptures. “It is written” is to be their weapon of defense. God has given us light on His word, that we may give this light to our fellow men.” CT 540.
In reality, doing social works alone will benefit their stomach but not their hearts. We must reach their heart by letting the truth shine out.
It is not bad to do social work and I'm not against them. Caring the sick, providing them food and clothing, educating them, and etc. But if we forget our mission-tasks that would be another story. Our goal why we invest our time, effort and money is to spread the everlasting goodnews of Jesus. Doing humanitarian services means an opportunity to share Jesus. Humanitarian program should not be the end of our goal itself, but it is a starting point to find chances to witness.
Let us remember our accountability towards God. He placed the burden of on our shoulders to declare the truth. It is not enough to do social works! It is beyond. The gospel must be proclaimed. In the whole Asia alone we have thousands of villages just remain unreached. So how come you will be stagnated in the so-called social development and upliftment program. “ All of us must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent me, because there is little time left before the night falls and all work comes to an end.” John 9:4. We need to ask the Holy Spirit’s guidance that we may do the right thing God wants us to do.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
The Danger of Relying on the Translator
Sulad Jhun Cardeinte
“For if the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.” 1 Cor. 14:8, 9
To communicate the gospel effectively we must not let the locals understand us but rather we must understand them by learning their own language.
There are non-English speaking countries which some people can speak English. But it wasn’t complete, they have their mother tongue and so often times when they express themselves in English it couldn’t represent their real feeling and emotion.
Mistakes would not be avoided if you asked one of the locals to translate your sermon. Depending on the ability of the translator but by experience, I learned later on that out of 100% only about 40 to 45 % is being communicated. This means without taking time to acquire the local language we will not like to reach our goal to reach the unreach. But most alarming here is that the limited translator expresses what he understands and believes, though he is trying to represent you.
It is not bad to have translator at the start while doing the friendship evangelism. But as our ministry started to mature and so we move on to present the unique doctrine of salvation as their understanding progresses.
In that critical stage, though the first thing we should consider to a translator is his language ability, there is danger of relying on him (translator) since what he usually expresses is his view about certain things. This involves his spiritual experience in the past.
Evangelists who do not take time to learn the language are often misrepresented by their limited translators. We can read a lot on the internet about the huge number of baptism after the almost a month evangelistic meeting of a well-known evangelist. But do you think they have the biggest part of the success? No. Because oftentimes when they arrived at the evangelistic meeting place everything is ready and candidates for baptisms were already finish their Bible study at their respective homes. Believe me, those were actually the faithful and untiring effort of the local laymen. Well, we can excuse the visiting evangelists and missionaries but language acquisition should be one of the first priorities of the long term missionaries.
“For if the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.” 1 Cor. 14:8, 9
To communicate the gospel effectively we must not let the locals understand us but rather we must understand them by learning their own language.
There are non-English speaking countries which some people can speak English. But it wasn’t complete, they have their mother tongue and so often times when they express themselves in English it couldn’t represent their real feeling and emotion.
Mistakes would not be avoided if you asked one of the locals to translate your sermon. Depending on the ability of the translator but by experience, I learned later on that out of 100% only about 40 to 45 % is being communicated. This means without taking time to acquire the local language we will not like to reach our goal to reach the unreach. But most alarming here is that the limited translator expresses what he understands and believes, though he is trying to represent you.
It is not bad to have translator at the start while doing the friendship evangelism. But as our ministry started to mature and so we move on to present the unique doctrine of salvation as their understanding progresses.
In that critical stage, though the first thing we should consider to a translator is his language ability, there is danger of relying on him (translator) since what he usually expresses is his view about certain things. This involves his spiritual experience in the past.
Evangelists who do not take time to learn the language are often misrepresented by their limited translators. We can read a lot on the internet about the huge number of baptism after the almost a month evangelistic meeting of a well-known evangelist. But do you think they have the biggest part of the success? No. Because oftentimes when they arrived at the evangelistic meeting place everything is ready and candidates for baptisms were already finish their Bible study at their respective homes. Believe me, those were actually the faithful and untiring effort of the local laymen. Well, we can excuse the visiting evangelists and missionaries but language acquisition should be one of the first priorities of the long term missionaries.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Lessons I Have Learned in Two Weeks
Sulad Jhun Cardeinte
(This article written in October 2007)
When I stepped back on the airport, everything had flashed back in my mind the things that I have had a lot of trouble adjusting almost a year past. But I get through with it and was getting used to living in Thailand. But being absent for several months, it seemed everything I see is like a new experience to me. I could feel the impact of the strange things that confronted me in my head; the kind of people, the belief, the language, stressful traffic, spicy food, styles of dress and etc. I know I’ve got a return shock and so I paused for a moment and say “LORD, please direct my steps.” As I felt the need to undergo some process of enculturation again to understand the people’s thinking and new way of life around me.
THAI SONG
The day I arrived, I heard about evangelistic meeting that was going on in the Chinese Adventist church through my sisters’ friend that visited them that day. Having gone to the challenging air trip in the middle of the night, I was still dizzy and actually needed some rest. But the friends of my sister persuaded me to help them sing. It was an official invitation for the night evangelistic presentation.
Knowing that Chinese in Thailand are still Thai by language, I decided to go with them, thinking that I can inspire them through Thai songs. That evening came and we were ready to sing. We sang the first song”As the Deer” and I sang the Thai version “Jit Win Yan”. The audience was so amaze seeing a Pilipino singing Thai song. That has been the natural impact I always observe whenever I sing in the Thai church. But some of them were so touch that they can’t help waving their hands with their very emotional faces. They seemed enjoying the heavenly moment with God as they could feel it through the song.
But many can’t help but turned on their videos and some their cameras to get me shots. It seems that it was their first time to hear a clear Thai song from a foreigner. And they wanted to gather what they heard and get memories for their future use. But they forgot the heavenly blessings of that moment.
This holds true to our Christian experience that we try to escape the present moment of our lives by the busyness of the things we tried to build up for our future use and forget to live the full spiritual life at the present time. We love to linger the past moments and work hard for the future that we neglect the status of our present relationship with God.
BIG BOX
When the Sabbath afternoon came, a missionary minded family invited me to join them distributing the free “Steps to Christ” with a new attractive cover “The Secrets of Happiness.” The plan was to distribute a big box to “Lumpini Park” the most known and biggest park in Bangkok. Everyone was excited as we were heading to the park. As we stepped off the taxi, just in front of the guarded gate, we helped carry the heavy box going inside the park. One of the two guards in the main gate suspiciously stretched his neck to peep the inside of our box. But we simply passed by naturally as if we did not bring questionable things to distribute inside the park. I already knew that such religious activity would not make the Thai government happy. Thousands of religious books had been confiscated by them in the past. But that missionary family (a Filipino who has been teaching in Bangkok) was purely innocent and all they know were to help save the Thai people.
As we got through the park, we made the box ready on the bench. Seeing many people gladly walking, I and the kids started to gather books in our hands to distribute. Unfortunately, we placed the box just about 10 meters away to another guard station inside the park.
I knew that the guard will really stop us, but I did not tell anyone of my companion to avoid early commotion. But I gathered the books without delay and slipped away to the very opposite direction. In about 4 minutes, as I started handed out the books, I saw them from the distance that the guard had confronted them and finally ordered to take the box away from the park.
Innocent and obedient as they were, they headed back outside the park. I thought that was the end of our activity, but they started giving books outside the park just in front of the main gate! They offer the books to anyone without exception even those who were going inside the park. They even gave one to the guard!
As I finished giving the books to people inside, I headed outside the park and was amaze seeing many people entering the park reading the books. I even saw the guard reading at his table as I reached the gate! Seeing the remaining few copies of books in the big box, I joined with them. And finally carried the empty box again inside the park!
Statistically, 70% accepted our free book gifts. But 30% refused the gifts with varied reasons. Some refuse because they said they will do the jog exercise and don’t want to have something in hand that will disturb their rhythm. Outside the park, some refused because they were so busy and have no time to read while some walked with their fix plan and don’t want to be delayed.
Too long to write, but these are all present in the Christian realms. The Holy Spirit has been trying to do everything, every possible ways beyond human eyes can see. But He has been half welcome! We sometimes give very small space to HIM that HE can hardly work freely! We do not give the Holy Spirit the full chance to get involve in every detail in our life. Then we unconsciously go against the things God wants. We tend to become so engross with our work, wanting to let everyone see that we are one of the best workers in this planet!
How much space we give for the Holy Spirit? Is HE still the one that controls the rhythm of our life? If we give HIM the full chance to drive the steering of our life and accept HIS full guidance then we will truly understand that His plan is the best!
SMALL PUPPY
Pet lovers as they were, we realized that no one is allowed to bring dog at the park. This is a problem different from the challenge we met through the big box of books we brought in. But the guard at the gate did not notice the small animal with us. And so we were admitted. We passed by several steel board notices at the park that no dog is really allowed. But we tried to insist that we only bring a puppy and not dog. But as we kept on walking, we realized that there is no such thing as puppy in Thai language and it belongs to one name “ma.” No matter how small or big it is! But we can’t let the puppy go. In fact, the husband and the two boys of maam Luisa went back home to get another two puppies! They love the puppy so much that we decided to carry it wherever we go and trying to hide it whenever we saw a park guard. It was a bad experience that I was physically and mentally involved and affected!
When it began to dark, we decided to go home. Many strict guards were guarding at the gate but fortunately they all stayed in one place and we easily outsmart them and were so happy to make our way out from the park without their knowledge. Then we ate outside and enjoy at the small restaurant with the cute puppy! Then finally we waited for the cheaper public bus, hoping we could save some money. It seemed that we were waiting for the last bus since we waited for more than 30 minutes. But finally it arrived and we happily got in right away.
Unfortunately, we were not aware that people bringing animals are not allowed to ride the bus. When the unforgiving conductress saw the puppy with us, she was so upset and asked the driver to stop and with all her authority ordered us all to step out right away from the bus in the presence of many passengers! To avoid further embarrassment, we stepped out right away just because of a small puppy. Still in the feeling of shame and humiliation, we decided to ride the expensive taxi.
Do you have small puppy in your spiritual life? The silly things that you love most that is so hard to give up. Ask God on how to surrender your small puppy-sin. Christians who won’t give up their small puppies will be put to shame in the judgment day.
(This article written in October 2007)
When I stepped back on the airport, everything had flashed back in my mind the things that I have had a lot of trouble adjusting almost a year past. But I get through with it and was getting used to living in Thailand. But being absent for several months, it seemed everything I see is like a new experience to me. I could feel the impact of the strange things that confronted me in my head; the kind of people, the belief, the language, stressful traffic, spicy food, styles of dress and etc. I know I’ve got a return shock and so I paused for a moment and say “LORD, please direct my steps.” As I felt the need to undergo some process of enculturation again to understand the people’s thinking and new way of life around me.
THAI SONG
The day I arrived, I heard about evangelistic meeting that was going on in the Chinese Adventist church through my sisters’ friend that visited them that day. Having gone to the challenging air trip in the middle of the night, I was still dizzy and actually needed some rest. But the friends of my sister persuaded me to help them sing. It was an official invitation for the night evangelistic presentation.
Knowing that Chinese in Thailand are still Thai by language, I decided to go with them, thinking that I can inspire them through Thai songs. That evening came and we were ready to sing. We sang the first song”As the Deer” and I sang the Thai version “Jit Win Yan”. The audience was so amaze seeing a Pilipino singing Thai song. That has been the natural impact I always observe whenever I sing in the Thai church. But some of them were so touch that they can’t help waving their hands with their very emotional faces. They seemed enjoying the heavenly moment with God as they could feel it through the song.
But many can’t help but turned on their videos and some their cameras to get me shots. It seems that it was their first time to hear a clear Thai song from a foreigner. And they wanted to gather what they heard and get memories for their future use. But they forgot the heavenly blessings of that moment.
This holds true to our Christian experience that we try to escape the present moment of our lives by the busyness of the things we tried to build up for our future use and forget to live the full spiritual life at the present time. We love to linger the past moments and work hard for the future that we neglect the status of our present relationship with God.
BIG BOX
When the Sabbath afternoon came, a missionary minded family invited me to join them distributing the free “Steps to Christ” with a new attractive cover “The Secrets of Happiness.” The plan was to distribute a big box to “Lumpini Park” the most known and biggest park in Bangkok. Everyone was excited as we were heading to the park. As we stepped off the taxi, just in front of the guarded gate, we helped carry the heavy box going inside the park. One of the two guards in the main gate suspiciously stretched his neck to peep the inside of our box. But we simply passed by naturally as if we did not bring questionable things to distribute inside the park. I already knew that such religious activity would not make the Thai government happy. Thousands of religious books had been confiscated by them in the past. But that missionary family (a Filipino who has been teaching in Bangkok) was purely innocent and all they know were to help save the Thai people.
As we got through the park, we made the box ready on the bench. Seeing many people gladly walking, I and the kids started to gather books in our hands to distribute. Unfortunately, we placed the box just about 10 meters away to another guard station inside the park.
I knew that the guard will really stop us, but I did not tell anyone of my companion to avoid early commotion. But I gathered the books without delay and slipped away to the very opposite direction. In about 4 minutes, as I started handed out the books, I saw them from the distance that the guard had confronted them and finally ordered to take the box away from the park.
Innocent and obedient as they were, they headed back outside the park. I thought that was the end of our activity, but they started giving books outside the park just in front of the main gate! They offer the books to anyone without exception even those who were going inside the park. They even gave one to the guard!
As I finished giving the books to people inside, I headed outside the park and was amaze seeing many people entering the park reading the books. I even saw the guard reading at his table as I reached the gate! Seeing the remaining few copies of books in the big box, I joined with them. And finally carried the empty box again inside the park!
Statistically, 70% accepted our free book gifts. But 30% refused the gifts with varied reasons. Some refuse because they said they will do the jog exercise and don’t want to have something in hand that will disturb their rhythm. Outside the park, some refused because they were so busy and have no time to read while some walked with their fix plan and don’t want to be delayed.
Too long to write, but these are all present in the Christian realms. The Holy Spirit has been trying to do everything, every possible ways beyond human eyes can see. But He has been half welcome! We sometimes give very small space to HIM that HE can hardly work freely! We do not give the Holy Spirit the full chance to get involve in every detail in our life. Then we unconsciously go against the things God wants. We tend to become so engross with our work, wanting to let everyone see that we are one of the best workers in this planet!
How much space we give for the Holy Spirit? Is HE still the one that controls the rhythm of our life? If we give HIM the full chance to drive the steering of our life and accept HIS full guidance then we will truly understand that His plan is the best!
SMALL PUPPY
Pet lovers as they were, we realized that no one is allowed to bring dog at the park. This is a problem different from the challenge we met through the big box of books we brought in. But the guard at the gate did not notice the small animal with us. And so we were admitted. We passed by several steel board notices at the park that no dog is really allowed. But we tried to insist that we only bring a puppy and not dog. But as we kept on walking, we realized that there is no such thing as puppy in Thai language and it belongs to one name “ma.” No matter how small or big it is! But we can’t let the puppy go. In fact, the husband and the two boys of maam Luisa went back home to get another two puppies! They love the puppy so much that we decided to carry it wherever we go and trying to hide it whenever we saw a park guard. It was a bad experience that I was physically and mentally involved and affected!
When it began to dark, we decided to go home. Many strict guards were guarding at the gate but fortunately they all stayed in one place and we easily outsmart them and were so happy to make our way out from the park without their knowledge. Then we ate outside and enjoy at the small restaurant with the cute puppy! Then finally we waited for the cheaper public bus, hoping we could save some money. It seemed that we were waiting for the last bus since we waited for more than 30 minutes. But finally it arrived and we happily got in right away.
Unfortunately, we were not aware that people bringing animals are not allowed to ride the bus. When the unforgiving conductress saw the puppy with us, she was so upset and asked the driver to stop and with all her authority ordered us all to step out right away from the bus in the presence of many passengers! To avoid further embarrassment, we stepped out right away just because of a small puppy. Still in the feeling of shame and humiliation, we decided to ride the expensive taxi.
Do you have small puppy in your spiritual life? The silly things that you love most that is so hard to give up. Ask God on how to surrender your small puppy-sin. Christians who won’t give up their small puppies will be put to shame in the judgment day.
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