How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
Yesterday, talking with Virginia - my deaf friend - she was lamenting how many of the deaf congregation can not pick up and read the bible for themselves. In church they are asking so many questions, they're hungry for the Word!
If they are able to read, the text of the bible often is just too much for them to understand.
It's a completely other language than sign. It's hard to understand.
She felt that it was unfortunate that in the USA there are several resources for deaf Christians to study and learn the bible in ASL (American Sign Language) but none here.
So what is a deaf christian to do?
That's one of the reasons that her husband, Carlos, the deaf pastor, wants to make a Mexican Signed Bible and other bible study resources on DVD. A huge task, but so necessary.
Until then?
I told Virginia that there are several countries and languages where the people do not read. And back in the bible days there was no bible for them to pick up and read . . . so how did those christian grow? How do the tribal people without written language learn about God?
We tell them!
And may the Holy Spirit be our guide, but we tell them!
4 comments:
Good reminder, "we tell them", by mouth, by actions, by some not acting out even! I guess that's the whole message of James, "Preach the Gospel, if necessary use words." Thanks for reminding me of that. xoxo
It's amazing how America takes for granted how blessed we are here with resources for just about anything we need.
... The babe is a doll. I hope the fam is doing good! We love and miss you guys... Hopefully we can come down soon. We're aching to do missions... pray for Gods direction and timing. We're thinkin and praying for you guys and all the deaf down there.
Amen!!!
One wise mentor used to tell me,"If they don't understand the way you sign, then sign in a way they will understand."
For Deaf Souls,
Bro. Shane
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