Three weeks after I got back into the country, I had my first contact with the Apal language group, and was convinced there was a real need. Shortly after that I began the process of language learning and then actual translation work. Bible translation is worth it because the trade language version is not clear. Several years ago I heard sermons by two trained preachers on the subject of the kingdom of God. When I heard the sermons, I didn't know whether to laugh or cry, but I decided at that point that we would definitely not use the English word kingdom in the Apal translation.
Bible translation is worth it because it touches people emotionally.
When you are like Christ, then the pain that I am experiencing will cease. A month after the checking session a young man came back and said that he just couldn't get that verse out of his head. It was impossible for him to imagine anyone caring that much about someone else becoming like Christ. This young man had read the scriptures in the trade language, but they were just words on paper. Sam, one of the village leaders, says that the trade language version is just like a big parable where you have to try to figure out the meaning, but the Apal translation is so clear that you don't need to have anyone explain it to you.