Can you believe Spring is here already. Thailand is located in the sub-tropics, but Spring is still very noticeable. Our trees drop their leaves and grow new ones all in one months’ time. Renewal before your eyes…God’s creation is a beauty to behold.
Floods and Landslides … Last August we got a call from our Evangelism Team that Hua Malagat and Mae Gobee villages had terrible flash floods and landslides. It was a mess; lives were lost and houses were destroyed as the flooding reshaped the villages.
Light Shines Brightest in The Darkness … The beauty of God’s Kingdom is so evident in disaster situations. The horror of the night the waters brought destruction is gone. New houses have been built, the villages are back to normal and we will soon be constructing a church at Mae Gobee Village. Hua Maelagat Village has rebounded and had a massive boost this past month when our Youth and Staff came to conduct an outreach.
Youth Group Brings Hope and Healing … Trucks were loaded with supplies and hearts were bursting with excitement as our youth and staff made the seven-hour drive to Hua Malagat Village. A predominantly Buddhist village where only 4 of the 46 households are Christian believers.
The Love Of God In Action … For three days our team selflessly served the people of Hua Maelagat. Buildings were painted, every person 60 years old and older received a visit, prayers and a special gift. Beauty clinics provided haircuts and hair dye for everyone (yes, even rural villagers like to cover the gray!) Our team repaired motorcycles and gave free oil changes and the girls brought supplies for the ladies of the village to make jewelry. Making jewelry was a first for us…they loved it. They sat and laughed and fellowshipped together while stringing up necklaces and such. All the ladies were sporting their new necklaces and hairdos. All of this mixed with heartwarming Gospel messages and testimonies from our youth and staff. The entire village of almost 300 people turned out in full.
Never Seen Anything Like It … The handful of Christians responded, “We have never seen anything like this…they used to oppose us, now they have opened their hearts to the Gospel and are coming to the meetings.” Religious differences disappeared and everyone eagerly responded to the outreach of love from our youth.
The Highest Compliment … The Buddhist families said they wanted to send their children to our Bible School. They had never seen teenagers like this. Drugs had damaged so many of their youth. They were amazed to see teenagers serving selflessly with smiles on their faces and the love of God in their hearts. Reminds me of the words of Francis of Assisi. “Preach the Gospel at all times and if necessary use words.”
Thank you for your part in this ministry… You make it possible for us to give these wonderful reports month after month. We are truly humbled to represent you in foreign missions. Thank you for your trust and confidence. Together we are making a massive difference in the lives of thousands of people.
God Bless You Richly…
Charlie & Cathy