SDK 2023 programme in West Nias

Torrential rain drenched the hilly land of Nias, travelling through villages scattered across the island's interior. The cool mountain air mixed with the sea breeze created a distinctive atmosphere to accompany the One in Love (SDK) Bible distribution trip for God's people in Sirombu, West Nias. Dewi Barus as Head of LAI Medan Representative accompanied by Iman Pasaribu (LAI Medan Representative Store Staff), Aryo Chess Nugroho (LAI Jakarta Finance Staff), Dwi Prasetyo (LAI Jakarta Support Raising Staff) and Perlando Panjaitan (LAI Jakarta Partnership Services Staff) worked hand in hand to visit and deliver SDK Programme Bibles to 9 points divided into 5 days of travel from 20 November to 24 November 2023. 

The first journey was stopped in Fadoro Hunogoa village, Hiliserangkai sub-district, right in front of the Fadoro Village Head Office there was a mired truck that made the only access to West Nias Regency and parts of South Nias Regency had to be cut off. The team had wanted to return to Gunung Sitoli because it was not possible to continue to Sirombu. The car rental owner, who has a network of friends between rental owners, immediately reported to his friends whether there were other vehicles from Sirombu heading to Gunung Sitoli to exchange vehicles. Luckily there was a vehicle from Sirombu that was at the same time on its way to Gunung Sitoli. Timpun rushed to take out the backpacks that were in the previous car to be carried to the other car that was across the disconnected truck. We continued our journey to Sirombu wet and cold because we had to walk to reach the car.

We arrived at ONKP Hilibadalu which was the first point. The LAI team was welcomed by the community with friendly smiles and met directly with Rev Mathias Daeli, S.Th., Ephorus of Orahua Niha Keriso Protestant (ONKP). The village is inhabited by people who are persistent and live in limitations. The economy of the village depends on crops and the sea, the limited income makes them have to live simply. "We are very happy and welcome to receive this Bible," explained Rev. Mathias Daeli. "There are people who have been prepared by God throughout Indonesia to help this programme and we, the people of Sirombu in West Bias Regency, would like to say thank you very much," continued the Ephorus.

Through conversations with the villagers, we also realised how important togetherness and mutual cooperation are in facing life's difficulties. Even though they live in limitations, a sense of togetherness and joy radiates from every face. The Bible that was present in their midst also strengthened their faith and made them appreciate the presence of God who is also present in the world in simplicity. The rain that fell throughout the SDK Bible distribution journey became a melody that reinforced the natural and cultural richness of the Land of Nias.(pp)