The only thing stopping me from hiding under my bed and staying in Bangkok is…well, I guess a lot of things: visas, finances, an organization known as Adventure in Missions…but if not for those minor roadblocks I'd be staying put.
I adore Thailand.
Not just because of the deliciously spicy papaya salads. Not just because of the amazingly perfect weather (hot, sunny days and cool afternoon rainstorms). And not just because of the millions of smiles that acknowledge you as you traverse the maze of crowded city streets.
I adore Thailand because of each person I had the pleasure of meeting this month. Each with their own powerful story of God's work in his or her life. Each person more welcoming and hospitable than the last. Each leaving their own impression on my heart. Allow me introduce you to just a few…
Michael and Kay Killar, Samaritan Creations
This couple took us under their wing after the Lord placed it on our hearts to move closer into the heart of Bangkok. As a mother and father of three children all under the age of 8, it is nothing short of a miracle that they found time to help us – six strangers. We had the privilege of living at their ministry site, attending church with them, cooking and sharing meals, and praying together.
Michael and Kay started their ministry eight years ago. They were about to start a family and had very little financial support, but had a huge heart for women in the sex industry in Bangkok. Today they house seven women (many with children) who have committed to leaving their life in the bar behind. The women are provided with a safe place to call home, schooling for their children, and jobs creating beautiful handmade jewelry. Their entire ministry runs off of the profits from jewelry sales. They have some exciting new business ideas in the works too…
Samaritan Creations is a ministry focused on discipleship and community. (sound familiar, World Race?) Women are welcomed with open arms into the family while they learn about the love of Christ and the good news of the gospel. The women begin each day with a Bible Study, learn Mandarin each Tuesday night, share daily meals together, and support one another as they begin their walk with the Lord. I feel so lucky to have called Samaritan Creations home for the last few weeks. [Thank you, MIke and Kay for the work you are doing in Bangkok and for letting us be a part of it!]
Celeste McGee, Dton Naam (dtonnaam.org)
Celeste arrived in Thailand officially in 2009 after finishing her Master's in Counseling in the United States. Having spent time in Thailand working with women coming out of the sex industry, she knew it was only a matter of time before the Lord brought her back`. Only when she returned this time, ladyboys were on her heart. Ladyboys are biologically men. They have, for various social, religious, and financial reasons, been living their lives as women.
Celeste has an amazing vision to bring healing to this often marginalized group of people. Her ministry seeks to provide education, job training, counseling services, and support groups for ladyboys coming out of a life in the bar scene. While Celeste is an incredible businesswoman, she is definitely not all business. She values relationship and conversation. She genuinely seeks to know the stories of the men and women she meets in the bars. It is clear from working with her that she is a woman who believes God will heal the hearts of the men and women here in Bangkok.
With her beautifully warm heart and incredible work ethic, she is a catalyst for change in this city. It has been an honor to work alongside her helping her in whatever ways we could. [Thank you, thank you, thank you Celeste for opening your heart and "home" to us this month. much love to you and Becca!]
As you can see, Thailand is full of God's love.
So, as much as I would love to be hiding under my bed as my team hauls their packs to the bus terminal headed to Kampong Speu, I know that God is waiting for me on the other side. He is just waiting to show off all the beautiful people, scenery, and ministries hard at work just across the border.
I'm all packed up and ready to go…bring on month 10!
