Thursday, June 21 - Impressions from Pastor Aaron

Pastor Aaron here...

It is Friday morning, our last full day before we leave for home. Today we will be returning to the poor community of Mahatai to finish some painting we began last week but were unable to finish.

Here are some different impressions I've had while here.

Thai People
Perhaps the greatest blessing of the trip has been interacting with the people of Thailand, both Christian and non-Christian alike. I think the entire team would agree that the Lord has brought us to a greater love and concern for these people than we previously had.

Based on what I've observed, I would characterize the majority of Thai's as being very Buddhist, and very secular/worldly at the same time. As America has its church on every corner, Thailand has its temples. Most homes have "spirit houses" placed out front for protection from spirits and evil. Even in the highly westernized areas of downtown Bangkok, you will find many, many Thai bowing to honor the golden Buddhas placed at shrines throughout the city. Seeing families, young children and all, bowing repeatedly to honor an idol is very disturbing and very sad. The need for the gospel is great.

It also seems that much of the secularism and worldliness that pervades our own country is prevalent here. As many of you know, prostitution in Bangkok is big business. Cross-dressing men are a common sight. Boyfriends and girlfriends live together. People live solely for themselves and whatever pleasures they can find. Again, the need for the gospel is great.

We have had the joy of meeting a number of Thai Christians - and despite cultural and language differences - the spirit of God working among them is clearly the same spirit at work among Christians everywhere. The Thai church has been meeting here for about 5 months now. Although small in number, their worship in song is powerful, their prayers fervent, and their love for the Lord palpable. They are praying for a pastor.

The Missionaries
Another great joy has been getting to know the various full-time MTW missionaries. As I've watched the daily sacrifices and challenges that they face because of their love for the Lord, I've been reminded that God himself truly is our ultimate treasure - a treasure so great that to give up everything in order to have him is really no sacrifice at all.

The missionaries are very deliberate in their evangelism and interactions with Thai nationals. They are indeed always prepared to give an answer for the hope they have in Christ. Every ministry that they are involved in, from teaching English to mercy ministry in the Mahatai slum, is done with the goal of sharing the gospel and establishing a church in the Reformed, Covenantal, Presbyterian tradition. The church now exists in seed form - and we pray it will grow as more Thai's come to know the Lord.

We praise God for the 7 teenagers who recently became Christians. It is possible that these young people will be the foundation for a strong church as they mature in age and faith.

Perhaps one day we will have the joy of sending missionaries from our own church to join this work here.

Our Short-Term Team
Everyone has really been great. We've had long days, lot's of hard work, lot's of rice, lot's of heat, and everyone is still going strong. I think each of us has a much better understanding of life on the mission field.

Our ministry and work has varied greatly. We've poured concrete, painted, made various crafts, played soccer and basketball, preached, taught Sunday School, prayed, and helped at an outreach event. As we've worked and played with the Thai people, the MTW missionaries have been able to make more personal contacts and invite a number of people to church.

It is clear that working alongside of the Thai's is one of the best ways to show them the love of Christ and reach them with the gospel. Generally, guys here don't sit down over a cup of coffee to discuss spiritual matters. But, if you sweat alongside them mixing concrete, doors are opened. Through our work here a number of men in the Mahatai slum have come to the MTW ministry center for the first time, helping us paint.

We continue to be thankful for your prayers and support. We are all looking forward to this last day of ministry - and then being home with our families.