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Preaching a campaign can be a very rewarding experience. As you look out over the congregation, you see eyes fixed on you, listening intently as you proclaim God’s message, then glancing at the projected image on the screen that illustrates your worlds. The message seems to flow from your lips, a sense of God’s power floods your soul, and you rejoice that you have been obedient to Jesus’ command to “go into all the world and preach the gospel.”
 You are not standing before the congregation alone, however. There must be a means to bridge the communication barrier, for you are only a layperson with no knowledge of the spoken or written language of the country. This time Marina is my translator and, standing beside me dressed in her finest black dress, she translates my English words and phrases into her native Ukrainian.
Marina is very conscientious about the task before her but somewhat doubtful of her ability. Regularly each day at mid-morning she knocks on my door and asks to see our notes for the evening presentation. She will spend the morning and part of the afternoon poring over the notes, picking out the unfamiliar words and phrases, and especially the medical terms. She carries her English/Ukrainian dictionary wherever she goes and frequently refers to it. Sometimes the word is not listed and she asks, “What does this mean?” Then, locating the word in context, by re-phrasing and some gesturing, I explain the meaning. The procedure is repeated for each word until all have been clarified. Then she returns my notes.
During the service, I am at the lectern and Marina stands poised beside me. I speak, she translates. Little by little her confidence is restored and she relaxes. Her words flow smoothly now. Occasionally she turns toward me. There is something that she doesn’t understand. I re-phrase the sentence or find a synonym for the unfamiliar word and she continues. The service closes with prayer and we both relax and step forward to greet the people in the congregation. One elderly gentleman has attended each service. He comes forward and kisses each of us on both cheeks. It is his demonstration of approval.
Marina and I have spent two weeks working together during this campaign in the Ukraine. Besides translating for each meeting, Marina has helped with communication during our off hours. She has had a successful experience and is more determined on becoming a career translator. A lasting friendship has developed and though we may never meet again on earth, looking heavenward, we look forward to our reunion in heaven. |
