Reflection on Required Reading- "Bruchko" chapters 1-2 by Calvin Griffith

After reading the first couple chapters of "Bruchko," I am blown away by the things this man faced. First of all, his conversion story is an awsome one. Basically, God spoke to him directly through scripture and saved him. I must say, I am impressed with this kid's dedication. At age 14 he was reading the Bible daily, even learning Greek to understand it better, and here I sit, my Dad is a seminary professor and I have the unique option of attending seminary FOR FREE if I so desire, and yet I don't feel like taking the time to learn Greek and study scripture. Now, I'm not saying that it is my duty to attend seminary simply because the option is there for me to do so, but this kid's dedication to finding out the truth about God did convict to a little bit. Additionally, the way this guy faced up to death and torture and rejection and all other sorts of things with complete reliance on God to get him through is rediculous. In the Spring, I am going to be studying abroad in Costa Rica, a very civilized country. Yet, I could not help thinking what if I were thrust into a similar situation during my travels, how would I handle it? Bruce Olson was abducted by rebel forces, held for 9 months, tortured, interrogate, and nearly executed, and yet he took it all with faith in the Lord. He did not fight back or seek to escape, rather he took his captivity as an opportunity to witness to his captors and affect change in their lives. That is absurd and amazing. I am quite sure my only thoughts would be evil against such men and I know I would be looking for any chance to escape or fight back against them. Bruce Olson achieved exactly what Jesus meant when He said "Turn the other cheek." He allowed himself to be completely at the mercy of other men, and he was able to do this because he did not fear man, he feard God. With that kind of faith, we really can move mountains.