What a difference a transformation makes …

“Bula! … bula!” is what I often heard from a friendly villager who would wave as they strolled by on the beach during my visit to the island of Viti Levu, Fiji several years ago.

I love Fiji! I’ve never seen more crystal clear ocean waters than I have there.

But what is often touted about this remote place in the South Pacific is the friendliness of the people. In fact, Fiji is marketed in travel circles as “the friendliest people on earth.” Quite a claim! I found the claim to be true. People from the village would come over to the resort where I stayed to perform native dances; they would stop by on the beach and ask how your vacation was going; even the gardeners and caretakers would engage you in friendly conversation.

The friendliness is an even greater claim when you consider that Fijians were the original headhunters.

No, not the kind who find you a job, the kind who would have you over for dinner … to have you for dinner! One of the trinkets I brought back from the island was an intricately hand-carved wooden implement about 12 inches long that replicated the eating utinsils of long ago Fiji. That is, back when the island natives were eating their enemies!

Why would I want something like that as a reminder of my time in Fiji? Because it reminds me of the radical change among the people of that island. How do you go from devouring your enemies (literally) to having a reputation of being the friendliest people on earth?

Jesus Christ made the difference.

About half the population of Fiji is Christian, with the other half largely composed of Indian ancestry. The work of missionaries, and the building of the kingdom of God in this island nation has resulted in a transformation of lives. Now you will often find a resort built next to a traditional Fijian village so the villagers can work at the resort and provide the services — and hospitality — extended to people who visit there from around the world.

Now, as you enjoy the pristine beaches of Fiji, you will hear the locals calling out “bula!” What does “bula” mean? Bula is heard everywhere in Fiji. It is universally used to say hello, or welcome, and is even exclaimed if you sneeze. It means “life” and is a way of wishing good health and fortune to the recipient.

Only Jesus Christ can make such a profound difference in the lives of people. And just think, if He can transform headhunters into friendly villagers — change the desire to murder and eat an adversary to serve and befriend anyone — then just imagine what more He can do in your life!

“Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples,” John 13:35.

Scotty