Asia International Mission is often faced with communicating in different languages.
When there is a clear language barrier, such as English to Telugu, we are aware
we may need to ask questions in a multitude of ways to ensure we understand one
another; we may even need someone who is bi-lingual to help clarify our
communication. This is true any time we communicate with people from a
different culture, not just when we speak different languages.
It’s
important to use the language of the culture when we communicate rather than
expecting their culture to speak the language of the church, which may be unfamiliar
or foreign to them. Making this simple, but thoughtful change makes all the
difference in a participant’s experience.
In the words of the Apostle Paul, "Though I am
free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as
possible. To the Jews
I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one
under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under
the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law
(though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win
those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have
become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I
do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings."
(1
Corinthians 9:19-23)
These
words remind me the messenger determines how best to adapt and communicate with
those whom he wants to share his message. That often means seeing things from
another’s point of view and learning how, in their language, to describe life.
In today’s world, where change is the norm, we need to continually adapt to
those around us.
Developing
ways to communicate the love of Jesus in a practical way is crucial, so people
actually experience this love and not just hear about it. Being careful about
using words and concepts with which we are comfortable help us not miss the
chance to share God’s love in a way that others can understand.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Board of Directors
We are very grateful and tremendously blessed to have
a group of dedicated individuals serving on the Board of Asia International
Mission. Each of these people loves Christ and the Great Commission.
They are
Ben Burnsed; Habilitative Training
Specialist, Sharon Cook; Business Owner, Lynn Brandenberger; USDA, Rosalie
Lazarlere; Retired Teacher, Crystal Ricketson; House Wife, Dr Chris Puckett; Physician,
Ken Thomas; IT Consultant, Alice Sharrock; Business Owner, Russ Sharrock; President
& Founder.
During the next month of September, please pray
specifically for each of these individuals.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prayer Requests
Pray for our future mission trips to India. Next one
is in May.
Pray for funds for AIM’s many projects.
Pray for short-term volunteers who are contemplating future
mission trips.
Asia International Mission is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) non-profit ministry.
All gifts are tax-deductible and 100% of donations are used as designated