Timor Island may appear diminutive on the map when compared to its counterparts like Java or Sumatra. However, upon venturing into its vast expanse, one quickly realizes its considerable size. Situated on the western side of the island, Timor is an integral part of Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province, while the eastern and northern regions belong to the independent nation of Timor Leste, which gained sovereignty in 1999.
A week prior to my arrival in Timor, a casual jest escaped my lips: "Are there still villages devoid of electricity? Surely even remote areas have minimarkets by now."
Little did I know of the realities that awaited me in the remote villages. Hailing from the densely populated island of Java, I had grown accustomed to the comforts of modern infrastructure—paved village roads, readily available minimarkets serving as symbols of economic advancement, and electricity that, though not as potent as its urban counterpart, still coursed through the veins of every resident.
With this urban-dweller mindset, I finally set foot on Timorese soil. However, my preconceived notions soon dissipated. Departing from Kupang, the capital of East Nusa Tenggara, our journey meandered eastward along the Trans-Timor road, a well-paved path. This route, if continued without detour, would lead us to Atambua, a bustling city near the border between Indonesia and Timor Leste. Alas, our expedition fell short that day, concluding after a mere two-hour drive as we arrived in the Takari Sub-District of Kupang Regency.
In that fleeting encounter with Oesusu, my perspective underwent a seismic shift. The absence of electricity hung in the air, casting a shadow over daily life in the village. No longer was it a mere inconvenience, but rather a poignant struggle endured by the resilient denizens of Oesusu.
Life in Oesusu revolved around nature's cadence, with the ebb and flow of sunlight dictating their daily routines. Minimarkets were but a distant dream, and the hum of electronic devices remained elusive. Here, time seemed suspended, and the village seemed locked in a perpetual state of longing for the opportunities that electricity could unlock.
As we ventured into the heart of Oesusu Village, it became apparent that geographical remoteness is no hindrance to the human spirit. Our journey, though challenging, was driven by a collective desire to shed light on the struggles faced by this community living without electricity.
"Are you still up for it? We have about six kilometers to go," asked Pak Eben, a village representative who led us to the residents whose homes had never experienced the blessing of electrification.
We nodded with determination. The smooth two-hour ride thus far filled us with confidence that the remaining distance could be covered swiftly.
In the initial minutes, houses with electric cables hanging above the road remained in sight. However, as we reached a river, the landscape transformed dramatically. Houses disappeared from view, and the forest enveloped us on both sides. Fortunately, the absence of rain ensured a sturdy road surface for our rubber wheels to traverse. With each passing kilometer, the road twisted and turned, revealing the rugged nature of our path.
While we waited for all the villagers to assemble, the village elders graciously served us coconuts freshly plucked from nearby trees. Betel nut and areca nut, symbolic of the eastern culture, were also offered. It touched our hearts to witness the collective presence of the entire community within the hall—a diverse gathering spanning generations, from the youngest toddlers to the wise elders, all seated in a circle, attentively listening to our stories.
"Mama-mama, father-father, ade-ade, everyone, in this Paket Terang (Light Package), there are solar lamps and spiritual books..." As this sentence was uttered, an unmistakable surge of enthusiasm radiated from the residents, especially the children whose eyes lit up at the sight of books adorned with vibrant cartoon covers.
With our limited grasp of the local language, Pastor Fredy played a pivotal role in conveying the message to the villagers. In their native tongue, he emphasized that the true essence of the Light Package lay not in the solar lamps, but in the eternal illumination of God's word.
"This lamp may not accompany you to the fields," the Pastor continued, evoking laughter from the crowd. "Yet, we utilize this light to read God's word every night."
Our presence in Hamlet IV of Oesusu Village marked the inaugural step toward realizing the smooth execution of Project Terang's mission. We aimed to remind Christians across Indonesia that, even in this supposedly modern era, our fellow brothers and sisters still lack access to basic rights.
Mama Yohana, one of the villagers present in the hall, shared that electricity had never graced their village. Activities ceased once darkness descended, leaving little to do but retreat to their homes or slumber.
Now, having traversed the arduous terrain leading to Oesusu Village, Hamlet IV, I comprehended the profound impact of their limited access to electricity. Village officials reiterated that this geographical obstacle posed the greatest challenge to infrastructure development plans.
Hence, the initiation of Project Terang's mission services brought immeasurable joy to the hearts of Oesusu's residents. The Light Packages they received served as a poignant reminder that, even in the remotest corners, their fellow believers remembered them. Guided by the Holy Spirit, this bond of brotherhood would inspire them to deepen their faith through the contemplation and study of God's word at their family altars.
Dear friends of ODB, Oesusu Village, Hamlet IV, represents just one of many remote villages and Christian families in our nation benefitting from the Project Terang mission services. This ministry, fueled entirely by the generous donations of Our Daily Bread viewers and readers in Indonesia, stands as a testament to the power of collective support.
We urge you to continue your unwavering support and offer prayers, so that through the Project Terang mission, the true Light of God's Word may radiate and bless every family it touches. Together, let us illuminate lives and kindle hope in the darkest of corners.