Before my move overseas, I understood that learning Greek would be an important part of ministry and the mundanities of life in Greece. I knew that I would need it to navigate public transport, get the correct groceries at the grocery store, and simply order a coffee. Even more so, I know I would need it to be successful in reaching the people I’m ministering to in my church community, my neighborhood, and the brothels. What I did not know or anticipate is the level of connection that comes with learning someone’s mother tongue.
I just recently returned from a short visit back to the States, where the Lord revealed even a glimpse of the emotion evoked when we are met in conversation in our native language. As I was boarding and settling into my long-haul flight, the flight attendant walked past me and asked a simple question: “How are you?” This question wasn’t a big one by any means; in fact, it’s quite common practice for us English speakers when we greet someone. What got me about this question was the fact that this was the first time in about 5 months a stranger had looked me in the eyes and, in my mother tongue, asked about my well-being. There was no need to mentally translate and attempt to formulate a response. My comprehension and response came before I could even think twice about it. I felt seen and, to a degree, understood by this stranger.
As I sit and ponder the emotions that arose with this interaction, I can’t help but imagine how much more impactful this is to the people I minister to. Yes, learning a foreign language in your 20s is hard. It’s stretching, humbling, and extremely frustrating at times. Knowing that my efforts to learn someone else’s mother tongue can evoke deep feelings of recognition and care reframes the entire journey of language learning for me. If my discomfort in doing something challenging can facilitate peace and comfort for those I’ve been called to live among, I consider that a victory.
In the grand scheme of life, two years is just a blip. It’s nearly impossible to become fluent in any language in that time. I think if we enter a two-year missions commitment with the mindset of language learning for the people we’ve been called to dwell among and for the glory of God alone, He can help us with the rest. As people seeking to serve the Lord and His people, our aim should be to connect and love. Let Him fulfill the roles of great teacher and translator.