Agnes Lid

Thank you for inviting me to this first ever Global Coffee Chat and for a chance to share. Let me first say that I like coffee. I like it strong, without sugar, but sometimes with milk. Coffee is part of my daily morning routine!

I have been with Wycliffe full time since 2013, but my journey started many years prior. Before becoming director of Wycliffe Norway in 2013, I served 6 years on the Wycliffe Norway board. While being director, I have also served on the Alliance board for 10 years.

My desire is to follow where God leads me. My foundational “yes” to Him has led me to take on responsibilities I never imagined, and which were not on my horizon. More recently, I was asked by the Alliance Board to take on interim leadership while the Board is searching for a new Executive Director. That is the role I now hold, while also leading Wycliffe Norway. I am honored but also humbled. I truly need God’s help to carry these responsibilities. It is a privilege to serve the Lord!

My words of encouragement to you today are words from Scripture that have spoken to me. Look at Jesus’ words in John 15. He calls us friends and co-workers. He says he has chosen us to bear lasting fruit for God’s kingdom. But he also says that, apart from him, we can do nothing. That sets things in perspective!

Furthermore, in Romans 12, we are urged to make ourselves available to God – and consider that a spiritual service. We are also told that we are a body where no part can say to another that they are not needed. That should challenge us to collaborate and partner well. Only when body parts are synchronized will the movements of the body be optimal. As Alliance organizations we are different in size, strength, and scope of ministry. But everyone has gifts to contribute. Whether we identify as an organization or a church, we are part of God’s global church – and I hope we will grow in understanding of how God is at work in the bible translation movement and how we can work well together. May God bless each one of you!