Bible stops a bullet
We all read our Bibles in our own way. Many still prefer to read it in printed form. Others read it digitally. You Version (bible.com) is the most common online platform to read the Bible.
Over 3 000 versions in over 2 000 different languages are found on this app. It is estimated that between 5 and 7 billion Bibles have been printed. According to the Guinness World Records book, it is by far the best-selling book ever.
I would add that this book has had the greatest impact on people’s lives. This book has transformed people’s lives. This book has saved people’s lives and helped them live life differently.
In 1899, a man realised that people needed God’s Word and in 1809 they began to place Bibles. This was the beginning of the Gideons organization. I also received a little red Bible from the Gideons organization at the start of my army service.
Today, there are more than 269 500 Gideons in more than 200 countries. These men give their time and money providing others the chance to learn about the love of God by distributing Bibles all over the world and in this way, making a difference in people’s lives.
Frederick Peil, an English butcher who joined the army in 1917 to fight in the First World War, was hospitalised a few times after being wounded during the war.
However, it is well-know that he always carried a small Bible in his top pocket. One day, while under attack by the Germans, a bullet from a German machine gun hit him. Right on his shirt’s left pocket with his little Bible.
The bullet was stopped by the Bible and most likely saved Frederick’s life. Literally! Today, the Bible with the bullet can still be seen in a museum in Cumbria, England.
I wonder what would’ve happened if the writers of the Bible had not fulfilled their calling to record what they saw and heard. I wonder what would’ve happened if the men who started the Gideons had not heeded the burning desire in their hearts to get the Word of God to others.
Peter couldn’t stop himself. 13 This is the post to which I’ve been assigned—keeping you alert with frequent reminders—and I’m sticking to it as long as I live.
He had many challenges to deal with, of which one was that he could not write elegantly, but his limitations did not prevent him from fulfilling his purpose. And till this day he has had a huge impact on billions of people’s lives.
Sometimes I wonder how many people miss the bus, because they don’t always live their calling. How many people crash into the walls of life because they forgot to turn on their light?
We should all be serious about our calling. Let us make sure what our gifts are and where the Father wants us to use them in life. May we live in such a way in the world that many others are spared life’s bullets.
Scripture
2 Peter 1:12-15
Reflection
What is your calling?
What are your talents?
Where do you have to stop life’s bullets?
Prayer
Father, thank you for my talents. Thank you, I know I’m called to make a difference in the lives of others. Give me strength and wisdom to live it every moment of life. Amen.