Communication | Missions | Understanding

CULTURAL MIS-COMMUNICATIONS
It’s hard enough to communicate clearly in our own language and in our own culture. When we interface with other cultures the problem is compounded. Ada Lum shares some of her experiences in mis-communication: In a central Asian country a local leader (not the pastor) once said to me, “I want you to speak in our church on Sunday.” What an honor to speak at the largest church in town! We discussed what kind of message would be helpful for that congregation. As it was already Saturday, I stayed up late that night to prepare. The next morning I sat in the front row with our brother, waiting to bring God’s Word to the people. I never did. He never said a word, nor did he seem the least bit perturbed. Rather, he was praising God for the message that the pastor had brought. On reflection, I realized that he had meant something else: How I wish you could speak at our…