Here’s a thought for you… If the Bible is true, every person is special and unique and created for a purpose. That is an awesome thought to meditate on. I remember when I discovered Jesus and received Him as my Lord and Savior. I felt so unworthy as I was deep into a dark and sinful life. One verse grabbed me and would not let me go. “For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10
I didn’t have a problem about God creating me, but the part about “created to do good works” really shook me up. I remember confessing to God that I had never really done much good. My life was filled with a lot of bad stuff. My rap sheet was long. I prayed a prayer from my heart. “God, I give my life to You… If You can get anything good out of me, I am Yours.” That day changed my life forever.
Our Youth are Finding Purpose Through Service… Every year, Jeremy and Sonya take our 12th grade seniors on an outreach to a remote village. This year it was Waymata Village; a predominantly Buddhist village. When Jeremy told me where he planned to go, I told him you can’t drive into that village… you must trek in. Jeremy assured me that they had cut roads in and it was now accessible. Off they went, a 6-hour drive to get there. The roads were rough… The kids loved it.
Tents Were Pitched and the Work Began… Visitors were rare in this remote location. It was previously only accessible by helicopter. Our seniors began meeting and greeting the locals. The girls set up shop giving shampoos and haircuts. The village ladies never experienced this; they loved the attention. The guys set up shop fixing motorcycles, changing oil and doing basic maintenance. Friends were being made quickly. The villagers joined our seniors doing some construction upgrades for the village school. In the evening, every house in the village got a visit, a gift and prayer over their household and anyone who was sick or in need.
News Spread Quickly… Nearby villagers came to see and take part. The second day was all about sharing the Gospel. Skits, games, songs and preaching were well received. Our seniors demonstrated the love of God through service, then became Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God, sharing the life changing message of God’s love for man.
Lives Were Changed… Not only were the villagers touched, but our seniors will never be the same. They made the long journey back to the dormitory flying high and very excited. We teach our students to have a heart for service to others; To give the best of what they have to help others. There is something about selflessly serving others that taps into that purpose God created us for. Our kids are experiencing that and their lives are changing.
Without our partners none of this would be possible. Thank you for your part in the ministry here in Thailand.
God Bless You Richly
The Milbrodt Family