This month the A-Team is working with a ministry in the northern part of the country in Changlun, Kedah, Malaysia. It was started by a husband and wife, Thomas and Sharmila, who live their lives to serve the Lord and follow where He leads them. They have three children- Zach (10), Mesha (8), and Felicia (3).
It kind of reminds me of being in India again since they are from Indian descent. I was impressed when they started telling me about their lives and ministry and want to share their story with you. It is truly one of faith.
They were doing ministry in another part of the country until last year when God called them up north where there are few Christian ministries. This was a hard decision for them as it would require them to leave their friends, family, children's school, and everything they were comfortable with. Despite all this, they obeyed and moved, starting LOGO (LOver’s of GOd) Ministries out of their home.
When looking for houses they found the perfect one for their ministry because it had space to hold classes. They heard the price and knew they couldn’t afford it. But God told them that was the house for them. Every month they’ve seen the rent money come in as He provides for them.
They give this house back to the Lord by opening it up to the community, offering free English lessons and tutoring for the children, as well as giving snacks to those who come. Pastor Thomas even provides free transportation in his little car, taking multiple trips to pick up and then bring everyone home.
We are working with them to teach English classes, lead children’s programs, and preach in churches.
They don’t have monthly supporters or a steady flow of income. Sometimes they run out of money and then they pray even harder for God to provide. He always does. When their children want something- new clothes, toys, etc- their parents tell them to pray for it. They’ve seen Him come through again and again, sometimes even providing the exact colors and sizes they wanted. They’re raising their children to have faith that can move the mountains.
People in the community question why they do this because they think it’s strange. Why would someone open their home, use their money, time and resources, when they barely have anything themselves? When asked this question, Thomas and Sharmila see it as an open door- they tell the person asking about the love of Christ.
Telling someone about the love of Christ normally wouldn't be a big deal- that's what ministries do. However, in this case it is a big risk. There's a high Muslim population in this part of the country. It is a tough place for a Christian ministry to be because if they're caught sharing their faith with a Muslim they’ll be thrown in prison with no trial. Thomas and Sharmila don’t live in fear of what could happen to them. They live out their faith in a radical way and let God provide.
I’m honored to be a part of this ministry and feel blessed to be working with Thomas and Sharmila. They’ve opened up their house to us, clearing out the small space that they have and making us feel at home.
Just hearing their story challenged my faith and I hope it challenges you as well. They live by faith- the kind of faith Jesus said can move the mountains.
