Experiencing Life

So, I have really begun to see what life is like here in...Southeast Asia. The people are very relaxed and kind (at least openly), and there is a great deal of change that is taking place here, due to the recently rising numbers of tourists. There is plenty for me to enjoy here, and there is still a lot for me to see because things are just so different here than anywhere else I have ever been.

God has blessed me with the opportunity to be here among these people, and I am very thankful for that. Just the other day, I met a local girl, about my age, who was a believer. It is very hard for her here because most people do not like the fact that she has become a Christian, but her faith has not waivered. Not only that, but we saw her at a local cafe, and she was there witnessing to a friend. It was just so encouraging to see someone that was her age, in this difficult part of the world, really living out her faith like she believed that what Jesus taught was true. It was nothing complicated. She simply believes in Jesus Christ, and she proves it with her life. She was doing what came natural, which was using opportunities and relationships around her to tell people about Christ because she really loves them, and she loves God.

I was just encouraged to see her because there are not many Christians here, and many of them are afraid for it to be made known, and for good reason. I know God will continue to show me many more things during my time here, but I am glad I can just share some small parts of those experiences with everyone back home. God is doing good things, even in places where we wonder how it could be possible.

I have also been working with some kids and doing some maintenace work, and I seem to have picked up a rash from either a child or some plant life, so I am obviously enjoying itching over most of my body. The good thing is that it could definitely be worse if I were actually sick, so I am at least thankful to God for the blessing of being in good health right now. And, I have also moved into a new house for the next couple of weeks, and I have to admit that it is quite a step up from the last place. I have a nice toilet, an internet connection, and even some air-conditioning in one of the bedrooms. It's funny that I would move in here now because I had actually just gotten pretty well adjusted to the other place, but I will be back there soon enough, and I am thankful for this current blessing.

I am fully enjoying it here, but I also miss everyone at home.

Settling In

Well, I've now been here in the city for a few days. I've gotten to know the team (they've been really encouraging), and I'm beginning to be able to find my way around on a bicycle or a motorbike.

God has definitely given me grace so far because I have become well adjusted to the more difficult aspects of living here, despite my initial concerns. I have been doing a lot, and I have gotten the chance to meet many of the local people. I feel extremely encouraged about the people that are here doing work, and I am blessed to be a part of it. It's great to be able to have some fellowship with expatriate believers in a place that is so far away from home.

I know there is so much said about persecution in certain areas of the world...I even heard that 15 christians were recently arrested in a nearby province...but I have to say that it is not something that you daily live in fear of. I just can't help but think that this is not something that only "super-Christians" with some special calling do, but it is something that any/all believers could do. Sure, there are difficulties, frustrations, and problems, but they are definitely not more than we can handle when we are relying on God. He gives us strength, not just to put up with the conditions in which He has put us, but to flourish and enjoy it to the fullest.
I cannot say that I am someone who has always just had a perfect attitude about all of this...I have many of the same concerns as everyone else, but I've gone forward anyway...and I can promise that God is good when you follow Him, even if you're a little unsure about it at first. I have asked Him to give me joy in all circumstances, and He has absolutely delivered. I have not only had to endure or try to enjoy difficulties...there are many things that have been fun, exciting, and enjoyable.
I have had great fellowship with other believers, gotten the chance to feel a few moments of air conditioning, play some games, eat a hamburger, and even watch some local people sing karaoke...all this amongst serving God to the best of my abilities. I just want it to be known that God knows what we need, and He will offer reprieve where we need it.

So, at the moment, my tasks will be to become more comfortable with the area, language, and culture, to interview some people and look for opportunities, to take up some carpentry projects, and to serve where I am needed. There is much to be done! God bless

Finally Here

So, I have finally made it to Laos. I spent last night here in my new bed. My new residence is a single, concrete room that is right among the Lao people. I have a little bathroom with a squattie and a little rubber tube for a shower. It's going to be tough, but I am definitely excited. I will be doing a lot of different things, so I will let you all know what is going on once I get started. God has me here for a purpose, and I look forward to seeing what He is going to use me for and show me. Please be praying for me. I miss everyone, and I will do my best to let you know what is happening.

Almost There!

Well I am now sitting in the Bangkok airport...and I have been for the past 8 hours or so. I will be departing for my last flight in about 3 hours. The trip has actually gone pretty well so far, though it has been very long and tiring. I still can't believe I'm actually here! God has given me a fairly positive attitude in all of this so far, so I am thankful for that. I just pray that I will rely on God's sustaining presence, and I will take advantage of all the opportunities He sets before me. I am here to learn, so pray that I will remember that. I am excited of what is ahead of me. Thank you all for your support!