There is a section of land between the borders of Mae Sot, Thailand and Myawaddy, Burma referred to as “No Man’s Land”. It is land along the river that divides these two countries. Since no country governs this land, there are no laws. Literally nothing is illegal and it is disturbing to see some of things they have for sale there. We were not even allowed to go down into No Man’s Land because it was too dangerous.
The first time they took us there, I was so frustrated. I don’t like seeing so much brokenness and not being able to go love on the precious children who see things they shouldn’t at such a young age. We went here once or twice a week, and I didn’t understand why we couldn’t do anything else besides walk along the border and pray.
The last time we went there we decided to bring coloring pages and cookies for the children. Their faces lit up with excitement. Since we couldn’t go to them, we tried to get them to come to us. We also brought a guitar and worshipped our Father.
At first I didn’t feel like just being there and praying made a difference. God told me otherwise. His presence is in us. We carry Him with us wherever we go. By praying and worshipping Him in a place, we invite Him there.
He begins to soften hearts and open doors.
A year ago, no one from Outpour was even down at the border. This past week three people from the long-term staff got to go into No Man’s Land. His presence in us makes a difference. They are now planning how to expand ministry there, how to meet the needs of the people that live there.
Sometimes it’s hard to come into a place for a month and not get to see the fruit of your labor. We aren’t going to get to see first hand what God does with the open doors into No Man’s Land. We helped to lay that foundation of things to come though and I trust that our prayer walks were not wasted. They have a purpose, and God will reveal that purpose in His timing.
I’m learning more and more how none of this is about me. If God decides to show me the fruit that came out this month then that’s awesome, but if He doesn’t that’s okay too. Sometimes I think it’s a blessing not to see it, because then I will think I had something to do with it and give some glory to myself. I don’t need the recognition; it’s not about me.
It’s about Kingdom expansion.
It’s about people coming to know the love of Jesus.
It’s about God receiving all the glory.
I didn’t do anything.
Jesus in me did everything.
