Monday evening our team was excited to attend the English language Bible study group at the Debrecen Baptist Church. Pastor Jon Good leads this monthly group, composed mainly of students from the nearby university as well as other friends and guests from the neighborhood.
Our Bible study Monday evening would be a new experience for many of the regular attendees. Since our team was in town, Pastor Jon asked Pastor Patty and me to lead the teaching time. It was a humbling and challenging experience to lead a Bible study for a group we’d never met, not knowing their level of Biblical literacy or their proficiency with the English language.
Some volunteers from our team helped make waffles for those who attended – a real treat! Waffles were served throughout the Bible study. Which normally wouldn’t have been a problem. But then, waffle batter also doesn’t normally explode.
As the group discussed the interactions of Mary, Martha, Lazarus, and Jesus, a sudden BOOM startled the room. Looking back to the waffle table, it appeared the batter (containing yeast) had built up substantial pressure inside the plastic container in which it was being stored. As the container was being opened, waffle batter shot out like a cannon onto the wall!
If there had been any awkwardness or unease in the room prior to that moment, it dissipated immediately with the ensuing laughter.
Laughter sounds the same in every language.
I’m not sure how many countries or languages were represented in that church room Monday evening (it was several), but the group instantly united in the common language of laughter. And a Bible study group that usually disbands after an hour or so lingered in fellowship late into the evening, sharing stories and greetings. Strangers became spiritually and personally connected. As it turns out, exploding waffle batter is a rather effective catalyst for bonding together a diverse group of people.
This was our team’s first opportunity to interact one-on-one with those we came to serve. I’m confident the memories will be lasting for all.
And I’m certain next month’s English language Bible study at the Debrecen Baptist Church will be very well attended by curious young faces wondering what kind of food might explode next!