At both training camp and launch we were often told to go into situations without expectations. For the past four months, I thought I had a pretty good grip on that idea and modeled it very well…but last month proved I still have areas to grow in that respect. I’m often asked:
What countries are you most excited for?
…All of them but if I had to pick Costa Rica, Thailand, and South Africa.
My excitement for Thailand dissipated when I found out we would be in Ubon, Thailand. The only thing I knew about Ubon at the moment was the fact that my favorite Thai restaurant back in the states was named Ubon. Heard someone on my team said it was the hottest and most unvisited region of Thailand. Ubon is 10+ hours away from Bangkok. We also heard we would be living in remote villages. Apart from doing ministry, I envisioned riding elephants, hugging tigers, beautiful scenery, and bopping around the country. I’m a pretty adventurous person so I looked forward to experiencing all that on the race. We were told we won’t get to do everything we want to do on the race so not to be disappointed. I’m pretty strong-willed so I thought where there’s a will, there’s a way!
In the two or so weeks spent in Thailand, my team an I had the opportunity to facilitate two 3-day English camps, participate in prayer walks around town, help to plan Christmas parties for several villages, sing Christmas carols and perform Christmas skits at two hospitals, and also teach English to university students. As you can see our days were quite filled! While it was very fulfilling, there was little to no time to really adventure out. Disappointed, I took all this to the Lord. And He gave me a reality check. I didn’t come on the World Race to feel comfortable or to please myself. I came to experience God, serve people, and share the good news of Christ. I met the most beautiful people in Thailand. I got to share the gospel to 300+ people in less than 3 weeks. I got to meet and hear the stories of missionaries who were called to Ubon. Yes, my time in Thailand was not all I had envisioned, but one thing I know is that God had me exactly where He wanted me to be. I’ve found myself coasting on the race and not being fully challenged. This month was definitely emotionally, spiritually, and physically challenging. The beauty in challenges is that it spurs growth. When you’re in the midst of it, it sure doesn’t feel beautiful. It’s rather uncomfortable. The Lord is continually pruning me, teaching me to let go of “Tayo ideas” and embrace all that He has for me, even if it’s not exactly what I envisioned for myself.
Isaiah 55:8-9
“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my wyas are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts are higher than your thoughts.”
Here’s a peak into my journal:
December 14, 2013
I am really just getting the sense that this is a race of endurance and perseverance. Living in Ubon Ratchachani village has really given me the sense that I am on the World Race. Past week has been physically, emotionally, and spiritually draining yet fulfilling….From 9 am to 3:30pm I am constantly on; teaching songs, bible skits, and English. Those kids are such darlings!….I still find it hard to believe that many of them have never heard of the gospel. For most this is their first time hearing about Jesus. Simply mind blowing! Papa, I’m realizing what a blessing and privilege to be chosen by you to be a part of this. I didn’t chose this but You chose me for this. Isaiah 52:10 “how beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring the good news” Yo, I’m that messenger. Is this real life?…
Want to see pictures from my time in Thailand? Check out my Travel with Tayo Thailand Facebook album.
With Love,
