You and I have a problem. We're greedy.
Let me tell you why.
We live in an age unlike any other. With access to the Bible in over a hundred different translations - and that's just in English.
Then there's the resources available. Hundreds of devotionals, bible apps and websites where you can study the bible and translate it into the original hebrew or greek. It would take more than a lifetime to read all of it.
Yet, eighteen hundred language groups still have no translation of the Bible.
That's over a hundred eighty million people who don't have even one word of written scripture in their native tongue.
Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Why should this be important for you? Because, we don't live on bread alone.
This weekend my pastor talked about different phrases that we use and never knew were originally from the bible. "It's a drop in the bucket", "A labor of love". "By the sweat of your brow."
I was surprised at some of them, but it also showed me just how much this book has affected society.
We crave stories and the Bible is the greatest story ever told.
It's full of daring sword fights, damsel's in distress, mighty warriors who walk with lions and brave women who risk everything to save a nation. Stories of love and forgiveness. Stories of redemption and justice.
And then there's the best story ever. All about a guy who willing gave up his life, in order to save the world.
From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.
Loren Cunningham, co-founder of Youth With a Mission (YWAM), recently had his 80th birthday.
When asked what he wanted for his birthday, he said he wanted to see a bible in every home around the world.
He wanted to see an end to what he called, "bible poverty".
That's what you want for your birthday?! Wow.
It gave me a lot to think about. But the challenge of what he was asking was uncomfortable and seemed impossible.
What could I possible do to help see this birthday wish come true?
I'm only one person.
And from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Then I started to think about the things I've been entrusted with. The resources I have at my fingertips.
Well, every month I have the opportunity to write an article and share my thoughts with the world.
Why not write an article about bible poverty? Why not use my gifts and talents to raise awareness and encourage others to get involved.
It gave me a new perspective on what I could do and I hope it encourages you as well. To think outside the box.
So, what can you do?
Well, you can visit http://www.endbiblepovertynow.com/ and check out all the unique ways you can get involved.
Or you can start thinking outside the box and use your gifts and talents to raise awareness.
Charis Joy Jackson is working as a full-time missionary with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) a non-profit organization in Brisbane. During the day she makes movies and in her spare time is writing a novel. www.charisjoyjackson.com
Charis Jackson's previous articles may be viewed at http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/charis-jackson.html
