Great Expectations and the Waiting Game

Sunday camp was a little different than the previous day. We started off with a worship service and invited the kids to come as well as invite their parents. Pastor Rojena had invited members of his church to join us, so we knew we would have at least a couple dozen come including ourselves. However beyond that some of the team was a little concerned since the response to the gospel invitations have been surface at best.

We were delightfully surprised that not only most if not all of the kids come, but I think a couple parents came as well. I am sad to say that there didn't seem to be any indications that anyone made a profession of faith, but again, seeds were sown. We will continue to pray that the Lord of the Harvest will reap what only He can cause to grow. God loves the Isaan much more than we do, and desires that this people group come to a saving knowledge of Him.

After having lunch, we finished the Hope video then completed another round of ESL exercises. Later in the afternoon we had special guest speakers. They were three successful business men who came to speak to the kids about getting a good education and learning as much English as possible. The average Thai native is only required to complete school through the 9th grade, and although many may go on to 12th grade, a small percentage go on to higher education. The reality is that as far as the job market goes, a 12th grade education offers little more that a 9th grade education. These men strongly encouraged a higher education, and it seemed to be well received.

So, since there were not any public decisions for Christ, did we waste our time? I would say mostly definitely not. We, in only a couple of days, saw some changed lives. These kids showed up shy and not very trusting of the farang. They came here mostly out of curiosity; however, when they left, they left with a copy of God's word, the knowledge that God loved them so much that He sent his one and only Son to die for their sins. They also left with the knowledge that these strangers from another country traveled thousands of mile to come express their love for them – to these they gave testimony of. We made some friends. They were really awesome to be around. I would love to have any of them in my home. These kids, I know, would respond to the love of Christ that they saw in us.

We will pray that God will give us more opportunity to stay connected. We each gave out email addresses. I pray that I will have some new pen pals. I am confident that God will honor our efforts in sharing the gospel and to flesh out His love for them. That is His promise. Tomorrow and Tuesday we go into the High School for some English with over 500 students. Please pray for an opportunity to share to present itself. So far, we have been given much leeway. Thank you for your continued prayers.