Continuing to Sow in Different Ways
Daily challenges, God’s provision
Many in Jade Star Country live in constant worry and fear due to worsening natural disasters and armed conflicts, a reality that continues to shape the mission of illumiNations Asia. Rising costs of living, especially for rent and daily necessities, put additional pressure on everyone. The translation team has their share of concerns also – some have family members who have been forced to flee their homes and relocate, similar to the experiences described in I Want Jesus to Save Me From My Lostness, such that daily needs have become a struggle; younger team members worry about being stopped, interrogated, or even arrested when they go out. These daily challenges affect lives and well-being throughout the country, echoing other stories shared in the Impact Stories of Bible translation work across Asia.
Recently, the Jade Star translation team experienced a shock: a thief managed to break into their current office space – a building secured with good quality fixtures and doors, and additional metal grilles installed over the windows and doors for extra security! Such a thing had never happened before, and left the team genuinely shaken, a reminder of how fragile access and security can be as seen in A Long-Held Dream Fulfilled. But thanks be to God, no team member was harmed or injured, reflecting how God continues to work even when circumstances seem closed, as shared in God Calls. Two Windows laptops and two iPads were taken, but not the MacBooks and essential equipment such as the video camera. Thus the translation team could continue their work without major disruptions by sharing the remaining laptops.
~ Rev. Yulius
“From the moment this film began playing, I saw a very high enthusiasm from the community. Children to grandparents here watched the film of the Lord Jesus in Nyakeh language… Although two hours long, no one moved from their places until it finished. This showed that this film is truly understood by the Nyakeh people, including the children.
~ Ps. Kristanto
Closed doors, opened windows
Due to the unstable political situation in the country, the translation team was unable to conduct Scripture Engagement, Trauma Healing and Deaf Arts workshops in other cities as planned for this period. In Jade Star City, various circumstances also led the team to discontinue the regular Bible studies that they had been holding at local schools and churches for the HI community, challenges also reflected in other faith and inspiration stories.
Translation team members prayed for a way to open so they could restart this meaningful work, much like the perseverance highlighted during Pentecost 2025. God gave them a new idea: to organize the Bible engagement program at their own office on Saturdays, aligning with how community gatherings are encouraged through the Join the Movement initiative, and invite everyone to come.
During the first session, the team spent three hours with the people who attended. Together, they watched translated Bible videos, discussed what they learned, performed short dramas, and participated in interactive activities, demonstrating approaches commonly used in global Bible engagement efforts recognized by organizations such as Wycliffe Global Alliance. It was a joyful and engaging experience for all; so much so that the second program, held two weeks later, attracted 33 people to attend!
Another participant, B*, realized how beneficial the Saturday Bible study program is for HI individuals who live in isolation. “The sessions enable us to build friendships with one another, and provide encouragement to those who are feeling down,” B* said. “I’m thankful for such programs that help HI people learn about Jesus and build our self-confidence,” a testimony that connects with other stories from the Impact Stories category.