Biem literacy class showing off
Try to imagine what it would feel like to read and write your own language for the very first time as an adult. Last week, a class of 20 Biem men and women completed the second literacy class. The resulting sense of accomplishment was tangible.
And now the language that they have spoken all their lives takes on whole new dimensions and possibilities.
Missionary Brandon Buser writes, “One of their greatest satisfactions is when they get a chance to read their books outside of class time in front of their families. The chance to ‘show off their stuff’ is extremely relished.” Brandon adds that this kind of “showing off” is also an effective enlisting tool for future class participants. It seems that no one wants to be left out.
The literacy class is a logical and strategic place to begin. And now preparations for sharing the Gospel can proceed. Brandon says, “Bible translation is such an immense task, but we’re blessed to have a huge group of Biem guys who can help out with this.”
Much of their time, Brandon says, is spent with people building not only relationships, but also language proficiency. With several years of studying culture and language behind them, they are now able to understand how to probe past actual words and delve into more abstract topics.
Brandon shares, “Those times are fascinating as we get their takes on life, death and what happens when they die (to which the overwhelming answer is ‘I’ve no clue’). It’s great to be able to tell them that there is Someone Who knows these answers. Most of these conversations end with a lot of eager folks saying that they can’t wait for the Bible course to start.”
Pray for God to continue to build a hunger in Biem hearts for His Word. Pray that the literacy class will prepare participants for both hearing and reading the Good News about God’s plan for redemption and reconciliation. Pray that God will mightily work among the 2,000 Biem people to powerfully bring them to faith and eternal hope in Christ.