Written by: The Word For The World
Article source: JOY! Magazine
Reuben Kabwe, a Bible translator with over 24 years of experience, carries an urgent message: “People ask why we’re always in such a hurry. They don’t realize that, in our hearts, we know we are already late.”
This sobering reality came to life for Reuben during a visit to Ndambaland, where the New Testament had been launched in the Ndamba language. The celebration was filled with joy and hope, but what happened the next day would leave an indelible mark on him.
While on his way home, heart full, Reuben saw an elderly woman walking along the road, leaning heavily on her walking stick. He stopped and said, “Grandma’” handing her a Bible, “this is the Word of God in your language.”
With surprising strength, the elderly woman struck him with her walking stick, tears streaming down her face. He was startled and scrambled to apologize, fearing he had offended her.
But the woman touched Reuben’s shoulder, tears streaming down her face. “My son, why did you come so late?” she cried.
Her words cut deeply. A stark reminder of the countless lives that pass without ever experiencing the transformative power of Scripture in their heart language. How long did she pray for scripture in her heart language? How long did her heart yearn to tell Bible stories to the younger generation in her village.
“We think we’re moving fast,” Reuben reflects, “but the truth is, we are far behind.”
For The Word for the World, this encounter is a rallying cry to act. “Every day matters.”
THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW. EVERY LANGUAGE TRANSLATED IS ANOTHER LIFE TOUCHED, ANOTHER SOUL TRANSFORMED.
Together, we can bring the light of Scripture to every corner of the world—one language at a time. Will you join us in this mission of hope?
This article is featured in the January issue of JOY! Magazine, which is now on sale nationwide! Pick up your copy from any leading supermarket, or read a digital version of this issue here: https://joygifts.co.za/product/joy-magazine-january-issue-2025/
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Date published: 17/01/2025
Feature image: Supplied by The Word For The World
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