Refugees are typically seen as recipients of giving, but the Keliko people turn that concept on its head with their generosity. Displaced in South Sudan, Keliko foster a culture of hospitality and giving despite their own difficult circumstances.
Meeting one gift with another
In 2018, Wycliffe Bible Translators finished a decades-long effort to translate the New Testament and portions of the Old Testament into the Keliko language. For this Christian people group, these Bible translations were a priceless gift. Now, believers can have and use Scripture in their own language in their daily lives.
At a recent church service, Wycliffe visitors saw Keliko generosity first-hand. The church building was a large tent made of tarps and the pews were plastic chairs, but the congregation’s heart was one of blessing.
“When they took the offering, there was a child holding a bowl… in the front, and then everyone got up out of their seats and they were dancing to the front. [Some gave] money if they had it, others [were] putting their hands in as if to say, ‘I’m all in. I’m all in for the Lord and the work of the kingdom,’” says Susha Roberts of Wycliffe USA.
A translator explained that the funds collected were to support church work, including ongoing translation and Scripture use. Keliko refugees raised this money through small jobs and by selling portions of their food rations.
Click here to read more.
SOURCE: Mission Network News, Kali Katerberg
BCNN1 WP 