Chapter 20, My Liver Trembles Summary and Analysis

Richardson points out, though, that the conversions of two young men make little impact on the village as a whole. However, Hato, an elder in the village, makes a very public acceptance of God's peace child. Hato proclaims that the news of the gospel causes his liver to tremble, signifying his desire to make a decision.

Richardson describes the tradition of a peace child in the Sawi culture as "a time bomb through the ages." Within two weeks of Hato's conversion, his entire family accepts Christianity for themselves. The Richardsons begin to hold regular Bible studies with the new converts. Hato admits that Richardson's peace when his children fell into the river moved Hato to make his decision. Richardson's calm demonstrated his faith in God.