Can you imagine a place where you had to be cautions of the words you say in public like Jesus, the “M” word (Missionary), or bible? Could you imagine having to pray in public places with your eyes open to be sure not to offend the person sitting next to you?
Well that has been my life the last three weeks. I have a completely new respect for international missionaries and others who choose to serve Jesus in a closed country. I have had the honor of spending my time at Rivertime Resort serving with my team doing various jobs like chopping down trees and other manual labor job. We have also done sports ministry, playing soccer with the church members and with the villagers from he surrounding areas. Lao people love soccer so I had to pick up really fast if I didn’t want to get left behind. I am actually progressively getting better and its exciting because before the world race I have literally never played soccer a day in my life nor do I know people who play soccer so it has been a painful journey.
I have also had the unique opportunity in spending a couple of days at a Laos drug rehabilitation center where we were able to live with 10-15 men who are recovering from drug and alcohol addictions. Worshiping and praying with those brothers were one of the most unique experiences I have had thus far. We were able to spend time with them hearing their stories and where God had brought them (also where they plan to go). It’s so good to see how God is just as good in Laos as he is in the United States. All the guys were between 18- late twenties and were on the road to recovering physically and spiritually.
Leaving Laos was way harder then I imagined it would be. We became so close with the manager of the resort and his family. They completely opened up their home and life to us for the month. Their love and hospitality was so contagious and makes me want to give more because of how much they blessed our team. Although our time in Laos was short it was very impactful to meet Americans who are on the frontline serving on behalf of the kingdom. I pray that no matter where I end up in life I would have even half the courage and strength that our host has. Laos was great to me and I cant wait to come back and visit one day.
