Universal Truth

I got word about two weeks ago that I would have the opportunity to speak to a group of Ugandan women. The excitement of sharing God’s truth with the women of Uganda faded quickly as I began to focus on how little I have in common with the women on the other side of the globe. I can’t imagine that self-image is a high priority to women who struggle to provide meals and medicine for their children. My excitement turned to fear. What will I share when I know nothing of their struggles? Who am I to share with them anyway? I’ve seen glimpses of this culture on the videos of teams who have gone before us; and through the children’s visits, I’ve witnessed first hand the overwhelming love and joy that this group of people have for and in their Saviour. They need to be sharing to me. I want some of what they’ve got.

I was recounting my fears to a friend and without hesitation she said, “Share the Word. It’s universal.” Simple. Profound. It was embarrassingly obvious - share the Word. After all, what do I have in common with the middle aged, Jewish men who penned the words of God’s amazing truth? I am neither a man nor Jewish, and I am certainly not middle-aged – not even close. Right? I could list dozens and dozens of differences between Paul, Peter, James and myself, but none of them could compare to the one amazing thing that we share - Jesus. We are loved and redeemed by the same Creator God of the universe. We are broken sinners whose only hope of freedom in found in the blood of Jesus, and we are bound by the truths of the same 66 books wholly inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Our differences are wide. The women of Uganda might not understand my sarcastic humor, but they do understand brokenness, fear, and trial. Just like Paul and just like me. More than that, they understand provision, grace, and what it means to be loved by Jesus, and sweet friends so did Paul and so do I.

Jesus and His word are universal. He is for them, and me, and you. I know that American stories and quirky cultural references won’t tickle the ears of a Ugandan crowd, but the unending message of hope that is the Word has the power to trickle truth into every fiber of their souls.

Please pray alongside me that God’s message will be clear. That He will speak through me, and that no part of me will interfere in what He has in store for these women.

With much love,

Tonya