Think we’re done with translation? Think again. We’re still about translating — but translation in the 21^st century may look different than it did 100 years ago.

So what does it really take to translate the Word of God in a way that’s easier to understand? What type of translators are we looking for today?

Maybe you’re not a linguist, and grammar and syntax don’t perk up your ears. But do you have skills in engineering, medicine, agriculture, business or social work? Are you an engineer, graphic designer or teacher? Your faith, lived out in your profession and relationships, helps those around you understand God’s Word. To put it another way, your life as a disciple of Christ translates God’s Word to those who may have never read the Bible.

Is it for everyone? Here are some qualities needed by these “translators of a different sort.” (Hint: They’re the same ones evident in the linguistic translators we celebrate today.)

• A heart for God (Matthew 22:27)
• A heart for people (Matthew 22:39)
• A heart for God’s glory to be made known among all peoples (Psalm 67:1-5)
• A heart for disciple-making (Matthew 28:19-20)
• A deep love for the Word of God (Isaiah 66:5)
• A life which demonstrates self-denial (John 12:24, Gal. 2:20)
• A strong passion to live and love like Jesus (1 John2:6)
• A willingness to dwell, to be incarnational into the new culture (John 1:14)       

Are you up to the task? Here are some present-day opportunities for translators of a different sort:

• An AMGA single pitch certified rock climber in Africa
• An engineer for a company in Africa
• English teachers in Asia, Africa, the Balkans, Italy
• Agriculturalist in Senegal
• Language students in France
• Relief workers in Asia
• Teachers for international schools
• Medical personnel and community health workers
• Entrepreneurs