Reality
Anyone who has tried to learn a new language, whether for a high school or college credit or because they found themselves in a new environment will most likely agree that learning a new language is not easy.
A new language means new sounds and new words, even new phrases and a new way of looking at the world. It isn’t easy, but it also creates opportunities to speak with new people, listen to new music, and participate in new events.
Language learning sounds fun and exciting. And it is for a few weeks. Then reality hits. “I can’t understand what they are saying!” “That’s now how I learned it!” “I just want to be able to communicate and not sound like a babbling 2-year-old.”
I’ve had all these thoughts and many more. However, I also know language learning is vital to evangelism and discipleship. For that reason, I continue to, shall I say torture myself with learning Kiswahili and sound like a bumbling idiot at times, many times.
Hope Along the Way
There are glimmers of hope along the journey. Not long ago I was able to have a conversation with my Kiswahili teacher, Mugo, about a national holiday. Yes, he had to explain some things to me in English, but I also was able to hear and respond in Kiswahili more today than yesterday.
Language learning is a journey. A journey of perseverance. A journey of pain at times, but also moments of hope and excitement.
Perseverance
It reminds me of the discipleship journey I am on. Sometimes it is exciting when I see personal progress. Other times I get discouraged when I sin and fail to live up to what I know is biblically right. However, I cannot give up. I am called to Christ Jesus and to know him more, love him with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength, and love my neighbors. To live like a disciple, I must press on in language learning. I must love my neighbors enough to persevere so I can share with them the love of Jesus and how to walk with him.
Most of you reading this won’t be learning a new language to live in another culture, which is fine. However, we are all called to be followers of Jesus and disciple-makers. This requires continual learning and perseverance to disciple as many people as possible within our circle of influence.
Question for You
What challenge are you facing today that requires perseverance on your part and that you know will be useful as you follow Jesus and make disciples?