By Faith Kemmler
Director of Children's & Family Ministry
Like many others, I had to study a language in high school. My small school only offered French and Spanish, and being the practical person I am, I chose Spanish. I thoroughly enjoyed learning a new language. I liked the rhythm of practicing conjugation and the simplicity of recounting my favorite things and daily routines as I learned to translate simple sentences. Pronunciation was not a problem when my sentences were rehearsed, but doing the work of mentally translating while holding conversations with my teacher and peers was a struggle. I couldn’t even imagine holding a conversation with a native speaker!
Then, after my junior year of high school, my youth group traveled to Guatemala for a mission trip. I was both excited and nervous to put my studies to the test. As soon as our plane landed, our group was inundated with people offering us services in a language we didn’t understand. Not yet matched up with our translator, my youth pastor looked to me. To my surprise, I was able to translate and help our group navigate the airport.
Throughout the rest of the trip, there were a plethora of opportunities to hone my language skills. But these moments of translation became so much more. In the market I met Raul who sold pastoral stoles and had family in Pennsylvania. We continued to get to know each other, and years later, when my friend returned for a different service project, Raul still remembered me.
Kimberly and I played together at the playground each day swapping games from our cultures. Her bright smile still brings me joy as I reminisce about our week playing together.
Despite my nerves, the Holy Spirit was clearly active and present in building bridges between us. Much like the early believers at Pentecost, even in the noise of different languages, we were able to feel and understand the connective power of God’s love.
God’s Spirit works in us even amid discomfort and uncertainty. This Pentecost season, step outside your comfort zone and trust in the Holy Spirit to do the rest.