Good morning! Today, Monday 30th September 2024, we mark International Translation Day. This day is celebrated to honour the work of translators worldwide, whose efforts make information accessible across languages. For Christians, it reminds us of the most translated and transformative book in history—the Bible. Imagine a world where the Bible was available only in a handful of languages. Many of us would miss out on the joy of knowing God’s Word in our own tongue. Yet, through the dedication of translators over centuries, we now have the Scriptures in nearly every language on earth, allowing people everywhere to access God’s message of love, salvation, and hope.
The Bible itself speaks to the importance of understanding God’s Word. Romans 10:17 says, “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” The fact that we can hear (or read) the Gospel in our own language is a gift—one that connects us deeply to God and builds our faith.
The Power of God’s Word in Translation
The story of William Tyndale comes to mind on a day like this. Tyndale, a 16th-century scholar, was the first to translate the Bible into English from Hebrew and Greek, despite fierce opposition. His work paved the way for the accessibility we enjoy today. It’s thanks to people like Tyndale, whose passion for sharing God’s Word knew no bounds, that we can open our Bibles and hear God speak in our native language.
Imagine not having a Bible in your language. Imagine hearing about God, but not being able to read His Word for yourself. This was the reality for many before the work of translators brought the Bible to people in their own languages. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Without translation, that light would remain hidden for so many.
A Living Word for All People
The beauty of the Bible is that it speaks to all people, across time and cultures. Whether in English, Swahili, Mandarin, or Spanish, God’s truth remains the same. Isaiah 40:8 declares, “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” Even though we may live in different parts of the world, speak different languages, and face different challenges, the message of God’s love, His grace, and His plan for salvation is universal.
This reminds us of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations.” The Gospel is for everyone, and translation helps fulfil this command by breaking down language barriers and making the Good News accessible to all nations.
Reflection Question with Action Step
How often do we stop to appreciate the accessibility we have to God’s Word today?
Action Step: This week, take a moment to thank God for the ability to read the Bible in your own language. Consider supporting Bible translation ministries that work to make Scripture available in every language on earth.
A Moment to Reflect with an Encouraging Action
On International Translation Day, let’s not just celebrate the work of translators in general, but thank God for the people who sacrificed so much to bring the Bible into our hands and hearts. If we ever find ourselves taking the Bible for granted, let’s remember the power it holds, the lives it changes, and the effort that has gone into ensuring we can read it in our native language. Let’s make time today to dive into the Word, letting it guide our steps and shape our hearts.
Prayer
Lord, we thank You for the gift of Your Word, and for the countless people who have worked to translate the Bible so that we can read it in our own language. Thank You for the wisdom, truth, and love that are found in Your Scriptures. Help us to never take this gift for granted, but to cherish and live by Your Word each day. Give us hearts that are hungry for more of You, and empower us to share Your truth with those who have yet to hear it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
