There continues to be much to share as God has done amazing things here lately.  I had quoted in the last entry Matthew 6:33, which says He will take care of us as we seek His kingdom and righteousness first.  And it’s been a great joy for us to see God’s faithful to His word with His hand upon us and many open doors for the gospel.

Long Neck Karen Children’s Home – Grace House

We are pleased to say that in December at the Long Neck Karen Children’s home, which we refer to as Grace House, something amazing took place.  Three of our girls received Christ and were baptized!  This is clearly wonderful and an answer to prayer.  And the smiles on their faces were completely priceless when they answered the question of where Jesus is with “In my heart.”

Mary, Canaan, and Esther at Grace House and at their baptism

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” – Romans 10:17 (NIV)

Of course, this is just the beginning of their life in Christ as they grow deeper with Him daily and abide in His love.  And as many know, a life of following Christ is not the same thing as an easy life.  And already these girls have experienced some of the other kids and villagers challenging their new faith.  One other girl at Grace House stated she was afraid to receive at this time because of what others might do or say.  With this in mind, we ask that you continue to pray for the kids, for wisdom and the overall relationship with the village.

We also had a great time with all the kids as we celebrated Christmas.  They had a wonderful dinner followed by treats, gifts, and games as we shared the meaning behind this great holiday.  They had even more fun with a New Year’s Eve party hosted by a Karen Bible school and CFEM, including a special performance by our kids!

Christmas Party – food, fun, and fellowship

New Year’s Eve Party – Traditional dance by our kids

Shan and Pa-O Ministry

In December we were asked by our local church to help lead a remarkable ministry to the Pa-O & Shan people groups.  I say remarkable simple because of how God is bringing in a harvest.  Since November, there have been 12 baptized with many more receiving Christ, including 12 in the past 2 weeks.  The seed that was initially planted started with a few family members who heard the gospel while working for Pastor Allan (who officiated our wedding).  From there, the gospel has spread to touch their family members and others, even in different villages hours away.

  Pa-O Baptism at Thammanikom Church

3 Pa-O girls that received Christ

More Pa-O and Shan receiving Christ last Sunday

 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” – James 4:8a (NASB)

 With all the new believers, there is also a great need for discipleship.  The new Pa-O and Shan believers speak the Shan language (which Tiff also speaks fluently), but are at varying levels, and few of them fully understand Thai.  Furthermore, many cannot read which requires most of the evangelism, follow-up and discipleship to be spoken and illustrated through pictures and videos (how for granted I’ve taken being able to read my Bible).  Given this, we ask for prayers for them as they hear the gospel, remember it and let it settle deep within their hearts.

PRAISE & PRAYER REQUESTS:

• Praise God for His harvest of the Shan and Pa-O and for Mary, Canaan, and Esther!
• Praise God for all our kids at Grace House!
• Praise God for all the wonderful prayer, support and partners with this ministry has received so far!
• Praise God as Tiff and I celebrated our two month anniversary!
• Continue to pray for all the Long Neck Karen children and villagers.
• Pray the Shan and Pa-O will also learn the fullness of the gospel and have favor in learning to read and speak Thai.
• Pray for full monthly support for all the ministry and personal living expenses.
• Please keep praying for my learning and understanding of Thai.

If you would like to partner with this ministry, please visit our Get Involved web page.  You can also follow us on facebook at Freedom Harvest Ministry.

Thank you again for all your prayers, friendships and support.