Maybe this post can be a reflection for us, God's people in urban areas where it is very easy to obtain the Bible.

Having heard the name Taliabu, perhaps only a few of us know where the island is, or not at all, or maybe we know it from the news about the explosion of a speedboat that took the life of a public figure in the country some time ago. Taliabu itself is a division of the Sula Islands, North Maluku. The life far from the capital city makes Taliabu an almost isolated island. Transport access to the island only relies on ships. The ships that enter the island are also limited with schedules that must adjust to sea conditions. In fact, in some areas in Taliabu, electricity will only be available in 2022. If we compare it with the technological advancements that have developed rapidly in big cities, then it feels like Taliabu has gone back several years. So, let alone thinking of buying a Bible, they have difficulties in their daily life. But in the midst of these limitations, a longing for God's word grows.

In late November to early December, precisely during the Advent Season, the Indonesian Bible Institute (LAI) finally answered the wait of God's people for the presence of the Good News in Taliabu. Through the Satu Dalam Kasih (SDK) programme, God's people in urban areas can share His love with their brothers and sisters in Taliabu. 10,171 copies of Bibles (including Study Bibles and Bibles for the elderly) and 2,910 copies of Bible Comics for children were distributed. The presence of God's word from afar certainly brought smiles, prayers of gratitude and unspoken hope to God's people there.

Taliabu may be far from our daily maps, but the longing prayers of our brothers and sisters can be heard so that God's word is closer to them. And through this story, God reminds us to re-value His word, a gift that we should never take for granted but is of all-time value. [zvp]