Transcript:
Ngalik Bible Translation Video
Speaker 1 We never would have dreamed that this could be a part of our lives.
Speaker 1 Oh.
Speaker 1 The project started 60 years ago with Ed and Shirley Maxey. They were missionaries who went into Selima village in a remote region of Indonesia. The Maxeys learned their language and created a written form of it. They taught people literacy and began translating the Bible. It was very thrilling for Shirley to see them complete the New Testament, but she wasn't able to finish the Old Testament.
Speaker 1 The work was passed on to their son and daughter-in-law, Buzz and Myrna Maxey, who continued the translation. Altogether, the project took 60 years to complete, and we were able to be a part of that, which was a huge blessing.
We had been planning to spend time in Arizona working with Wycliffe Bible Translators, and then an email arrived from Myrna Maxey. She said she had been working alongside some national translators, and they had walked three or more days through the jungle to bring their translated work to her.
Speaker 1 They all sat on the kitchen floor and asked the question, “Who’s going to type this?” When I read that, something leaped in my heart. I wrote to Myrna right away and asked, “Could we type this here?” She responded immediately and said, “Absolutely—and let’s make it a whole church project.”
Speaker 1 In the bulletin, there was a mention of a possible project for keyboarders. I thought, this is something I can use my skill set for. At the time, I was working—but a couple of weeks later, I got laid off and went into early retirement. And I thought, “Do I get to do this?” Here we are on this side of the ocean, about to do something that will impact the other side of the ocean. I want to be a part of this.
As you can see behind me, there is a group of people busy typing. I’ve had the privilege of working with this great group and many others who have been actively participating in typing God’s Word in another language.
Speaker 2 Buzz and Myrna came to our church as a young married couple on their way to the mission field.
We’ve followed their ministry ever since. To now be involved in translating the Bible for the people they serve is pretty special.
Speaker 2 When I first started, I used my own computer at home for a while.
Speaker 3 Later, I was able to get ten computers free of charge from where I worked.
Speaker 1 Ray was our computer guy. Whenever we had technical issues, he was right there to help us.
We also wondered how we would get the material to us. As it turned out—just the way God works—a group of men from our church were going overseas. I found the leader and asked, “Would you be able to bring back a manuscript for us?”
Speaker 4 We didn’t realize what we were getting into. Buzz and Myrna had just built a new house in Papua and asked for help. They needed work done on their vehicle, which Hank handled since he’s a mechanic. They also needed a solar system.
Speaker 5 But by the end, we realized it was more than just a work trip—it was about bringing back original manuscripts of Scripture.
Speaker 4 These manuscripts were handwritten—about eight books of the Old Testament. It was a stack of paper this big and weighed over 40 pounds.
I felt it—it was an honor to be part of bringing back a portion of the Word of God. It was the most precious document I’ve ever handled.
Speaker 5 And when you think about the impact it would have later—it's incredible.
Speaker 1 We always started our day with prayer. That was important. We saw so many answers to prayer in the lives of those involved.
One memorable moment was Heather’s mom, who lived in a retirement center. She would pray all day on Mondays while we were working—praying for us, for one another, and for specific needs.
Speaker 3 That kind of community—it almost became like a small group.
Speaker 1 We had over 30 volunteers. God provided in every way, time and time again.
Speaker 7 The dedication of the Garlic Bible took place in two different locations. It was really the culmination of about 50 years of work.
Speaker 1 Watching the celebration and dedication service was very emotional.
Speaker 3 Heather and I wish we could have been there, but we weren’t able to go.
Speaker 1 When they brought out the boxes of Bibles, the people began wailing—a deep, guttural expression of joy. These Bibles will transcend generations, as they are read, shared, and passed on to children.
Speaker 7 Along the way, so much transformation happens. Even small portions of Scripture being translated and taught begin to change people. It shapes and transforms culture. It brings literacy.
The entire process brings both cultural and spiritual transformation—the holistic message of Jesus Christ.
Speaker 1 Missions is everywhere. There are many ways to be involved—starting with your local church.
Speaker 2 Many hands made this possible. I’m grateful to have been one of them.
Speaker 8 My gift is helping and serving. I’m not academic, but I like working with my hands.
Speaker 4 Finances can be an issue—but not for God.
Speaker 3 Take that first step. Go for it.
Speaker 1 God uses us no matter what. If you simply say, “I’m available,” He will open doors in amazing ways.
Speaker 2 Don’t count yourself out. Never say, “I couldn’t do it.” Many of us involved were retired.
Speaker 3 We’re still available.