News & Stories

Being Light in a Dark Land

August 6, 2012

By Penny Iverson, serving in Taiwan

Every now and then, something happens that makes me EXTREMELY glad that God placed us here in what seems to be a spiritually dark place. Today as I was walking home from church, two elementary school girls were coming toward me on a bike. As they drew closer, they stopped. The one in front said, “Teacher, why did Jesus die on a cross?”

Just like that—right out of the blue! And these are not even kids who come to our church activities. What a joy it was to stop in the street and explain the miracle of Jesus’ atonement for our sins.

I kept my answer pretty brief. They smiled and said, “Thank you,” and they were on their way again. I see these girls often; one mom who at the betel nut* stand next to our church.

This incident, so random and matter of fact, it is exactly how we see our ministry here. Many people have no interest in Jesus, and therefore much of our work involves being light by representing Him to those around us. We seldom find someone who is ready to hear the whole gospel and respond. But as we live here and serve our community, people begin to trust us and recognize Christ in us. Then they start to ask questions, and more questions, and their hearts begin to open.

Sunday’s encounter showed me that the Holy Spirit has begun to open the hearts of these two girls with a hunger to know more. It’s a first step, and I believe that the Spirit will continue to draw them to Jesus.

*a seed that is valued as a mild stimulant and for its medicinal properties