A MISSIONARY from the continent of Africa writes: “It was a long time before I learned the language of the Negros well enough to converse with them over the things of God.”
Thus it was that for two and one-half years I sought in vain for the word “Saviour.” How difficult it was to make these people understand the gospel without that word; they could not understand me.
I asked Kikuwi and other natives for help in this matter but ever without satisfactory results. I shall never forget the time when my longings were gained.
It was a very dark night, black clouds chased each other and hid the brilliancy of the southern sky. I had seated myself with the natives around their fire, while they were telling each in his turn what had happened to each during the day. Kikuwi, being the brightest among them was relating how he delivered another from a lion. I was an attentive listener, thinking I might hear the word “Saviour,” “Redeemer” or “Deliverer.” I had almost given up all hope, when Kikuwi added in conclusion: “Bwana nukuthaniwa na Kikuwi.” (“Yes, Kikuwi has saved him.”)
I could have shouted for joy as I heard him say this, but to make sure I reversed his sentence and asked him: “You became his Saviour?” And when he answered in the affirmative, I said to him: “See Kikuwi, this is the word I have been searching for so long. I wanted to tell you that Jesus, the Son of God had come—” .
“Yes, yes,” he interrupted me quickly, and his black face shone: “I know it now, I understand now how Jesus came from heaven to kuthania (redeem, save) us from our sins, to kuthania us from the hand of Muinm (Satan).
I never heard more precious words. At last, at last had I found the word which should prove the key to the hearts of these black people.
Arriving at home I sank down on my knees in thanksgiving and praise.
The next day was Sunday. I sat early in the morning singing and playing on the guitar, a hymn I had translated. Kikuwi came to me telling me there were some people outside to see me. I. sang that song for them—but I should also preach to them.
“Kuthania” (Saviour) came for the first time over my lips. I had scarce begun, when one of the men interrupted me with a question, which was of great encouragement to me, for I could see that these people had real longing for peace.
What was my astonishment when Kikuwi begged so earnestly: “Master, let me speak once!”
And in a most wonderful way he brought the good news of God’s salvation before these, people. What was it that had filled this man with this wonderful light, he who hitherto had been able to grasp the truth only in little fragments? It was through that word “Saviour” of the preceding night that light had shone into his soul, light from above.
From childhood I have prayed to my “Saviour”, my “Redeemer.” I have had the privilege to witness for Him for years and to preach Him, to others, but since that night, that word “Saviour” had to me new, heavenly music. Dear child, is He precious to you? “Behold,” said the angel to the shepherds, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, for unto you is born this day a SAVIOUR.” The work of salvation has long been completed on the cross; and He calls to you, dear children, “Come, for all things are now ready.”,
What are you waiting for?
Messages of God’s Love 4/19/1908