Sunday Inspiration

The reader knows by now that I don't write unless inspired. We have been back in Korea for almost 2 weeks now and today (Sunday) I was inspired by something. My Chinese students were great today! I only had 2 come to the Bible study (classes have not started yet), but it was one of those moments of feeling like the efforts here are worthwhile.
I had them read the Good Samaritan story in Chinese. I always have them read in Chinese first so they get the story in their own language. I then asked them to tell me in English what the story was about. I was very proud of them. It took a little time for them to get it out, but they hit it on the nail, as the expression goes. I then had them read it in English, and we spent time teaching them the newer and more difficult words in the story. I spoke to them about the word "despised"--"a despised Samaritan came by. . . ." I explained what it meant to be prejudiced against someone. I also used the story to talk about mercy toward all people.
It was so good to hear them, in English, speak to me about how the story teaches us to love everyone regardless of race, etc. I literally applauded their effort and told them what they said was very good. The smiles on their faces and the sparkle in their eyes told me how good they felt knowing they did so well with their English today.
A few months ago if I had asked them to summarize the story in their own words in English the response would have been silence. But today, they spoke so well and had fun doing it. My helper Deborah also commented on how well they did today.
I find inspiration in that. Here are 2 Chinese students grasping the gospel story about how to love God and their neighbor. A few months ago they knew little English and even less about the Bible! No one can ever take that story from them. It will go with them back to China! We are helping the world get better one student at a time. I can't ask for anything better than that.
I love my Chinese students. In time we have built a very good relationship with them and that relationship is great, just like Jesus wants the world to be someday. I am so privileged to be a part of their lives.