The first day of Toraja Bible Week in Rantepao was a joyful one. Since early in the morning, the LAI Products Exhibition as well as the Biblical Objects Exhibition were ready to be opened for the people of God to visit. Mr. Ai's family visited the Bible Museum to introduce their children to the word of God through the stories of the Bible, despite the long distance they had to travel. Mr. Ai hopes that activities like this can exist and be sustainable.
The opening ceremony of Bible Week began with a warm atmosphere from the participants. Starting at 6:00 pm, the Bunga' Lalan Building was filled one by one with various groups, ranging from students, teachers, and even pastors. In a message based on Proverbs 8 and themed Biblical Spirituality, Rev. Dr. Abraham Tanggulungan invited the congregation to use the Bible as an encouragement and foundation for life. He also gave examples of some figures who rejected the word and those who did not. The message from these examples is that as Christians, we should never delay in getting closer to the Bible. Every word of wisdom is a treasure more precious than gold and jewels. This message seemed to be a rallying cry that touched the hearts of everyone present, reminding them that time with God is of the utmost importance.
The first day of Bible Week was then closed with the TB2 Scattering Seminar which was nicely presented by Rev. Anwar Tjen, Ph.D. Some participants claimed to gain more knowledge from this seminar. Although the language may change, the word of God never changes forever.
Friends of the Bible, Toraja Bible Week is still ongoing until Sunday. However, may we proclaim with renewed vigor and go home with one conviction that God's word is an invaluable treasure in every step of His people's lives. [zvp]
