D Day: Dedication Day 

The day was a balmy one, probably in the 70s, with beautiful, sunny skies. But even if it had been during the monsoon season, it might not have made a difference to those attending the events. It was a day for which many people had waited and prayed for the past seven years—the dedication of the Falam New Testament on December 12, 2009, in an Asian country. 

Anticipation was so high and transportation was difficult enough that the dedication was scheduled to occur in six different locations at the same time. Approximately 15,000 copies of the New Testament, complete with maps, a concordance, and cross references, were ready to be distributed throughout the country. But before this, they must be dedicated to the Lord.

 Eric Elmer, who served as Bibles International’s representative from Grand Rapids, Michigan, was called to the front of one of the churches, where he was asked to cut the ribbon on a box of the New Testaments. After doing so, one of the special books was carefully removed from the box. A group of men, all of whom had been involved in some way with the work of translation of this New Testament, gathered around it. They lay their hands on the Scripture, asking God to bless His Word, using it for His glory. Tears of joy coursed down the face of many there, as they rejoiced at what God had done for them. Commemorative plaques were presented from the people to Bibles International and the translation consultants, Ross and Cathy Hodsdon, who had overseen much of the translation work.

 All those in attendance at the meeting in Kalemyo received a free copy of the New Testament. Some were so delighted they put it to their lips, kissing it. Paul, Bible’s International’s in-country coordinator, reported having put his copy of the Scripture under his pillow the previous night, but he passed a sleepless night due to the joy he experienced.

 While many of the 15,000 copies are already gone, there is still a great demand for them. In fact, requests have come in from nine different countries outside this Asian country for the precious book. It is the desire of those associated with this project that every Falam person have access to a copy of the New Testament. While the cost of $3.00 is not extravagant for most, it is costly for many of those living in rural areas. They will need help obtaining their copy of God’s precious Word.

 Pray for those involved in the translation, as they have already begun work on the Old Testament. Bibles International is partnering with them on this part of the project as well, trusting the Lord to bring in the necessary funds to make the publication of the whole Bible a reality in His time. We join with them in praying that God might hasten the day when the Bible in its entirety can be held in their hands.