What Time is Your Flight from Bali to Sumba?

"What time is your flight (from Bali) to Sumba?" I asked Alpy on the phone a few months ago.

"You mean the overnight ferry, Pak Clive? The plane is much too expensive," Alpy replied.

The Cost of Travel

Time and expediting a mission are usually at the top of my priorities. However, the Lord humbles me in moments like these. A $130 return flight is how I would travel from Bali to Sumba Island. Yet, even this is out of reach for local Indonesian partners like Alpy. I reflect on how much of this has to do with traveling on an overcrowded Indonesian inter-island ferry. It seems more about my comfort than anything else. I did take a return trip overnight on such a ferry from Kupung to Sabu Island, but that's a story for another day.

Understanding Sumba's Culture

Alpy loves her Sumba people. She is very aware of how the ancient indigenous, ancestral, and animistic beliefs called "Marapu" dominate her community. While technically, the island is no longer classified as unreached for Christ, Alpy and many others know how syncretism has blended with Christianity. Traditional powers still influence the lives of people in Sumba.

Distributing Kulumi Audio Bibles

We have had the privilege of giving hundreds of Kulumi audio Bibles for Alpy to distribute personally through her family and network. This method is one of the most effective ways to get Kulumis to the right people.

The Impact of the Kulumi Bible Player

One man, who has never been to church and is heavily invested in the traditional Marapu traditions of Sumba, listened to the Kulumi Bible. He was amazed by the message that even 2000 demons recognized Jesus as the all-powerful Son of God. Here he is, thanking Alpy (and us) for the Kulumi Bible player and how he can now listen to the words of Jesus.

Alpy and her people in Sumba, Indonesia

The very dry and poor island of Sumba, Indonesia

The Importance of Accessibility

Access to Christian Scriptures is vital for communities like Sumba. The Cahaya Foundation aims to expand its global reach. We want to make these Scriptures accessible to more oral listening communities. By distributing solar-powered Kulumi players worldwide, we hope to reach those who prefer audio formats.

The Future of Sumba

As we continue this mission, we remain committed to understanding and respecting the cultural context of the Sumba people. Each Kulumi player we distribute opens a door to new understanding and faith. The journey is long, but the impact is profound.

In conclusion, the work we do is essential. We strive to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and the message of Christ. The Kulumi audio Bible is a tool for transformation. It allows individuals to engage with the Scriptures in a way that resonates with their culture and lifestyle.

Let us continue to pray for Alpy and the people of Sumba. Together, we can make a difference.