I think that I can speak for the entire team when I say that yesterday's baptisms will be a day that none of us will ever forget.
12 new believers in the emerging church in Chachoengsao (there are a # of spellings of the town's name) were baptised in the local river. It was humbling to see these people who already have so little say, "I give it all up, I am willing to face persecution to follow Jesus." Because of the public space where the baptisms occur, there is no hiding out either. Their neighbors, coworkers and employers know that they have decided to put aside Buddhism and follow Christ. It was a convicting moment for quite a few of us. How many of us would publicly decalre our faith in front of our bosses, neighbors and coworkers knowing that there would most likely be negative consequences? How many of us would raise our hands in worship at the side of the main road into our neighborhood? Yikes, that's a tough set of questions.
Quite a few non believers came out to see the baptisms. Some came because their friends asked them. Some came to see the Farangs (foreigners) and some came because they knew there would be a free meal. Whatever the case EVERYONE heard the gospel. Pi Naat (Westwood contributed to her bible schooling) preached the gospel hard... TWICE, just incase people didn't get it the first time.
One man stepped forward to dedicate his life to Christ. SO Exciting!
We arrived back in Bang Saen last night. We have pretty comfy rooms and the team was happy to get a great night's sleep. We are off this morning to do laundry, rest or whatever. This afternoon we are teaching Sunday School and participating in the evening service.
As a team we have been blessed by good health, high spirits and gentle words to each other. Please pray that this continues and that we can continue to share the gospel with Thais. Pray that we will have servant hearts and that we will look for areas we can serve the long term missionaries and the Thais.
Rhea- for the team
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
I have been so excited to hear the stories that you are sharing through this blog. I check regularly for more updates. I realize how much of an impact these experiences of yours must be having on your team if I am feeling impacted back here at home. It sounds like you are doing wonderful work and we look forward to hearing so much more when you return. Keep it up! You are making a difference in so many lives.
Wow... I am glad (just as your trip is coming to an end) that I finally was able to get your blog name. It sounds like you have all been having such an amazing time and God is definitely working through you in the lives of the Thai people, that is so awesome!! We will definitely be praying with you and your team as you begin to get ready for the trip home and cant wait to hear more stories and see the pictures!!
Post a Comment