Little by little makes it grow July 15, 2014 – Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea – Written by Karen Weaver with Tim Scott
“He who gathers money little by little makes it grow.” Proverbs 13:11 Although the Maiwa people of Milne Bay Province do not have the book of Proverbs in their language, they often demonstrate the wisdom found there. Takashi and Yaeko Nakamura came from Japan to live among the Maiwa people. From the time they started translation work in 1989, they always felt supported and encouraged by the Maiwas. They built friendships and often people would stop by their house for a visit. In 2005, Gerold, a leader in the community, came to visit. He and Takashi chatted about village life and about the translation of the New Testament. Although the book would not be ready for several years, Gerold was curious to know the price. Takashi replied, “I do not know the price, but I think it will be around K10.” (At that time K10 was equal to about US $5.) Gerold leaned back in his chair and said with a smile, “I want to buy one for me and my family. The cost will be expensive.” Takashi also smiled and replied, “If you start saving money now, you will be able to buy one.” Gerold followed that suggestion and began saving money little by little. The amount grew and grew. Other people in Biniguni Village saw his example and they started saving for the New Testament, too. Meanwhile, Takashi and Yaeko and the translation team continued their work. Little by little the chapters were completed and checked for accuracy. When the finished Maiwa New Testament was ready, the price of the book was K5, instead of the K10 that Takashi had guessed. By that time around 100 people in the community had saved enough money to pre-pay for a New Testament. When the dedication day arrived on April 18, 2012, each of these people was able to go home with a Maiwa New Testament of their own. And what about Gerold? He had saved enough that he was able to buy a book for himself and to purchase one for each of his four children as well! For more information on this release, contact ThePNGexperience, PO BOX 413, Ukarumpa, EHP 444, Papua New Guinea Phone: 011 + 675 + 537-3544 ext. 4431 or Email: thePNGexperience@gmail.com Pictures do not always depict actual event, activities or people. Photos by Tim Scott use by permission only. “Tok Save” is the PNG “Tok Pisin” term for announcement or “For your information.” The English spelling conforms to Commonwealth English spelling.