Throughout our time in Huaraz, one of our main ministry opportunities has been translating modern worship music into the Quechua language for the first time! The Quechua people in Peru have been regarded as “other” in the past and have often been ashamed of their culture. Previous to the presence of our ministry partner, AWI, there were few instances in which the Quechua people could learn about God in their own language and express their thanksgiving through worship. Singing Quechua worship music in public, while dressed in traditional clothing, has created common ground between us and them, despite any preexisting language/cultural barriers. Seeing a bunch of “gringas” (as the locals call us) dressed in Quechua clothing is definitely not something people see every day. For this reason, many doors have been opened for questions to arise. We have been invited to lead worship, preach in churches, and even speak about our ministry on the most popular radio station in the city!
Even better than establishing connections between us and the local people, adopting the Quechua culture has often served as a bridge directly between them and God. If anyone asks questions, we ultimately point them back to the word of God. We share the Good News with them in their native language for the first time and invite them into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. I have been amazed at the faith of the people as they gather together and ask for prayer when they hear about the love and grace of God in words they can understand for the first time.
“Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this, so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law. When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ. When I am with those who are weak, I share their weaknesses, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.” (1 Corinthians 9:19-23 NLT)
