Today is Saturday and I’m sitting on my bed in Thailand. It’s moments like these that I never want to forget. The feeling of awe that I’m on the other side of the world from home and as much as I miss it, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
In so many ways, it feels like an average Saturday. I got to sleep in this morning, just like I would being at home. I’m trying to decide what my day is going to look like. Will I lounge around the house? Or maybe head out to the mall and window shop? Eventually I have to eat, so will a sandwich from SevenEleven suffice or maybe some noodles from across the street?
Then it hits me, like a train. It’s moments like these that I miss home the most. I miss being able to walk into my kitchen and watch my mom make breakfast. I miss being able to text my friends and make evening plans, maybe watch a movie or go out around town? And I’m reminded all over again that I’m greatful to have something so beautiful like my home, friends and family that makes missing them so hard.
This month, our team is partnered with a ministry in Bangkok that rescues women and children from the sex industry in Thailand. This past week we’ve had an opportunity to meet and encourage the rescued women within the ministry. Various women have opened their hearts and shared their stories of redemption through Christ; I can’t help but to count my blessings.
So yes, it’s moments like these on a lazy Saturday morning in Bangkok that I never want to take for granted. To never take lightly the power in sharing a smile with a stranger knowing that I carry the authority of Christ and can willingly invite anybody into freedom. I remind my heart that when I miss home the most, He is taking care of them much better than I ever could.
So when you randomly think of me, say a little prayer. More importantly say a powerful prayer for the ministry here in Bangkok and the women we encounter, whether at the bar or during the week as we work alongside them. Pray that our lives will always turn them back to Jesus and the greater plans He has for their lives. Last but not least, pray for our ministry host, Mike and Kay, that the Lord would renew their strength as they bravely lead these women.
From one vulnerable heart to another,
Diane
