One warm Sabbath morning, while doing a Discovery Bible Study with the Pnong community in one of our nearby villages, a young boy named Davee approached me with a gleam of excitement in his eyes. His tiny, dirty hands held a rhinoceros beetle, a creature both majestic and mysterious. He placed the beetle on my hand with great care, its glossy black exoskeleton reflecting the sunlight. This was no ordinary gift; it was a symbol of trust and friendship, a bridge between our worlds.

The rhinoceros beetle, revered in many cultures for its strength and resilience, has become a poignant metaphor for the spiritual journey we undertake in mission work in our village. Just as the beetle carries itself with unwavering determination, so too must we, as missionaries, bear the weight of our calling with steadfast faith. The beetle’s tough and impenetrable armor reminds us of the spiritual armor we must don daily—faith, righteousness and the Word of God.

As I held the beetle, I marveled at the intricate design of its body, a testament to God’s wondrous creation. This small creature, often overlooked, serves as a powerful reminder that every element of creation has a purpose, just as every individual we encounter in our mission has a story worth knowing and a soul worth saving.

The act of receiving this gift from the Pnong child was more than a simple exchange; it was a divine appointment. It underscored the essence of mission work—building relationships, fostering trust and sharing the love of Christ through humble acts of kindness. This beetle, a small yet significant token, embodied the beauty of God’s creation and the profound impact of human connection.

In the grand tapestry of our missionary journey, it is these moments—simple yet profound—that weave together the threads of faith, hope and love. They remind us that in every encounter, no matter how small, God’s presence is evident, guiding us to fulfill His greater purpose.

I will cherish this memorable encounter for the rest of my days.

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