The Gideons, a worldwide network of people who distribute Bibles, had been operating in the former Soviet Union less than a year. It didn't take them long to find opportunities to pass out copies of the Scriptures in Russian. Wherever they went, they were welcomed by people who were hungry for the Word of God.

In one town they were given permission to pass out New Testaments at an elementary school. The police chief accompanied them, so when they were driven past the assigned school they wondered if they were being taken in for questioning. After driving 6 or 7 kilometers, they pulled up in front of a different school and were told to hand out the Bibles. They distributed copies to every student and staff member.

Later, the leader of their group asked the chief of police, "Why did we switch schools?" He calmly replied, "Because my two children attend school here. I wanted to make sure they have Bibles."

God's Word is precious and valuable (Psalm 19:10), especially to those who have either limited or no access to it. This Russian official used his power to get copies of the Scriptures for his children—and maybe so he could read it too.

How precious is God's Word to you?  — David C. Egner