Early in our work in Cuba I learned a vital lesson I've never forgotten.
The people of Cuba are in need of virtually everything and nothing is taken for granted. Things most Canadians can simply reach for—heat, water, food, and medicine—are rare commodities to the average Cuban.
With that knowledge we decided to do what we could for those we came into contact with. Armed with extra clothes, a variety of medicines, and a few copies of our Spanish God's Masterwork Bible study guides, we met with one pastor couple.
After they shared a time of fellowship and a modest meal we gave them the gifts we had brought. Their response was unlike anything I had imagined. First, we presented badly-needed clothing for distribution to those most in need in their church family. They were delighted and grateful. Smiles spread across their faces.
Next, we gave them the medicine. We were able to bring approximately 10 pounds of varied medicines into the country. Health care products that are basic to us are as rare as gold for them. We pulled out the medicines believing that these would delight them, and they did. Again, they were grateful and gracious.
Finally, we presented the study guides of Chuck Swindoll's God's Masterwork series, a teaching survey of all the books of the Bible in five paperback volumes. I gave them to the pastor saying, ”We brought a few books along as well, hoping that they might encourage you.”
His response put a lump in my throat. The pastor looked at me, then at the books. Then he looked at his wife and again looked back at the books. They both looked back at me and began to cry. They were overwhelmed with the blessing of being given a few books that would enable them to learn and teach the Bible more effectively to the people in their church. Clothes were a blessing, medicine almost a miracle, but books that taught God's Word—priceless.
Does God's Word appear in the list of things you value?
Just a thought.
