Communication Link

Understanding words is vital for living. Coming to Pampanga I find myself dependent on English language and one or two Tagolag words. Many of the younger Filipinos speak English. But they are shy and limited in their understanding. Sometimes I complete a sentence and just get a blank stare. Other times there may be a head nod of acknowledgement. But in reality nothing was understood. Yet to communicate the Gospel and the Word of God language is vital
The youth show up at the Masantol CC gate daily. Communication has been greatly enhanced having time together each day. We might read the Bible. We alternate reading the verses of a chapter in English with some in tagolag. Memorizing scripture is a challenge readily accepted by young Christians in the fellowship here. Often this is done in English and enhances their language capabilities. It seems I should memorize in Tagalag for similar results.
Probably the greatest growth in relationships as well as language understanding has come through playing scrabble. Scrabble is one of Kathie’s and my favorite games. Here in Masantol the teens love Scrabble. But again, they are probably advancing more than us.
When we share Gods word through teaching, communication barriers stretch you. The desire is to communicate the truth of the Gospel. The hope is that the young Christians will grow in Christ. Thankfully we have God’s promise that His word will not return void. It says in Isaiah 55 “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”
That’s a promise I am praying for in Masantol. Many times it seems the Word may not be clear. God has had me simplify teaching over and over seeking to bring clarity. Pray that I might grow in my ability to communicate. Pray that God will send His word forth in the power of His Spirit.