One of my favorite stories of all time.
A visiting preacher had come to Kenya to share the Gospel message.
As he preached across the country he decided to learn a little Swahili to impress the people.
He thought it would be a good idea to tell the people how much he loved their country.
"How do I say 'I love your country''? he asked his translator.
"Ninapenda nchi yenu," came the response.
Standing on the platform he raised his voice to build rapport with the masses.
"Ninapenda uchi yenu," he uttered.
Laughter swept across the audience. In frustration he decided to utter his statement again.
"Ninapenda uchi yenu." More hilarious laughter.
"Ninaepnda uchi yenu." The translator stepped up to the mic to stop him.
"Thank you brother that is very kind of you."
He continued with his message.
After the service he asked the translator why the people had laughed.
"You mixed up one letter. You used 'u' instead of 'n'."
"And how did that change my statement?" he inquired.
"Uchi means nakedness."
And so the preacher had publicly proclaimed that he loved the nakedness of his congregation. Probably not the highlight of his ministry.
Yes, one little letter makes all the difference in the world. I'm reminded that it really is the small things that make all the difference in the world. Small attitude adjustments. Small steps of faith. Small acts of service. Small displays of kindness. Memorizing a small Bible verse. Praying small prayers. For when you add up all the small things you will find the secret of greatness in a person's walk with the Lord. I like this thought because it removes intimidation.
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