I feel this year I relate to Mary more then ever. I find myself in Bethlehem. I have all these things God has asked of me and I am in a land I am not used to. People are bustling around with errands to make and things to do and I am watching them move around me so very fast. I know the future has something great ahead. I know that something big is coming. I am a part of what is about to happen, but for now I must ponder them in my heart and share them when God appoints the time.
Bethlehem is sleeping. They don’t know He is coming. They bustle about while the angels rejoice in the heavens for His glory and share with the few who know.
I am used to hearing the sometimes small numbers of those who are blessed to know God in other countries, but it is different seeing it face-to-face. As I walk around Thailand I am faced with the reality that 90% of the people here are Buddhist/Hindu. There are shrines outside of houses and I watch the people bow before giant cement statues of Buddha that are painted gold. The beauty of the temples is stolen by the vulgarity I feel looking at such a misuse of the talents God has placed in us to pour into this world. The beauty made to reflect Him. The beauty engrained in us for our enjoyment and to worship our Beautiful Creator who is beauty Himself.
Christmas in Bangkok looks like an excuse for sales as foreigners pour into the shops in giant fancy malls spending on gifts. The lights are beautiful and holiday songs play on the speakers and it makes my heart feel at home for a moment. Then I look around. I see giant penguins and winter wonderlands, but no Jesus. I see sale signs and a Santa display, but no Jesus.
I am a Mary carrying Jesus and few around me know. Everyone around me has access to His safety, glory, and majesty. He is there with open arms with freedom, love, joy, peace and only good and wonderful gifts. Gifts that last for eternity, but everyone is missing it. Jesus has been born! He gave Himself so they could have all of Him. All the time. My heart breaks this Christmas. Pray for those this Christmas who may have heard Jesus’ story, but never gotten to know who He is. Thank Him that you know Him. Pray for freedom for His people around the world. That is why He came was it not?
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Also I am still fundraising to remain on this 11-month missions trip. If you would like to gift me for Christmas please consider making a donation so I can continue to share God’s love with the world.
God Bless
