Did you know that there are about 400 sign languages in the world and none of them yet have the whole of the Bible? Deaf Opportunity Outreach (DOOR) International, which has a centre in Kenya, is working to change this.
One of their translation consultants, Josh, explains his work:
Celebrating portions of the Bible in Kerala Sign language
‘Today I have been working on a commentary piece on the fruit of the Spirit, specifically joy. After I have done the study I will sit with one of our Deaf translators and work to explain what the Bible teaches about joy so that he can sign it in a way that is clear and easily understood by the Deaf in their own language. It is exciting and fun. I love my job.
But you know what is so frustrating? Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” But that hasn’t been translated yet. 1 Peter 4:12-13 says, “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” Wow! But that isn’t translated either.
Praise God for the work that has been accomplished! It is impacting lives. Deaf people in Kenya are turning to Jesus and growing in their faith.’
Please pray:
- Pray for the translation teams working at the DOOR centre in Kenya.
- Pray for the translators as they do the difficult work of taking meaning from one language and communicating it clearly in another.
- Pray for those working with the teams to help them understand what the texts mean so they are able to do that work.
- Pray for those who will be checking the translations for accuracy.’
Watch the need for sign language Bible translation, an inspiring video that explains how deaf communities are being impacted with God’s word.
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