Recently, we went up into the mountains to Jen’s village. Here we are in their tribal dress. It was a joy to witness a wedding there and spend time with friends who are like family to us. Here are some recent highlights from our lives and ministry:
• Rebuilding a Member’s House — A dear sister in our church hadn’t told us for about two years that part of her house was unlivable. After some of the members and I went to look at it, we decided we wanted to help tear it down and rebuild it. Seeing the church come together to support her and her family was good. After a few months, the house was finished. P’Pay (church member and house owner) asked us to make a sign and hang it on the house. The sign said in Thai, “Count Your Blessings.” I’ll never forget her tears of joy as we were singing praises that day. It was hot and crowded, but it was such a precious moment. It’s a joy to be the church.
• Missing Judah — Celebrating His One-Year Birthday — Our fourth child, Judah, was born Sept. 2, 2022. Even though he lived only five hours, he changed our lives forever. We celebrated his birthday together as a family. A sweet family from our church came over that night and sang hymns with us. It was the same songs we sang at Judah’s funeral. We are thankful for God’s grace and comfort during this time. The kids won’t forget him either, and we look forward to the day we can see him again.
• Church Attending a Wedding Together — A couple who has been regularly attending our church recently got married. Being with our people and celebrating God’s good gift of marriage is always special!
• Going to a School with Orphans — We visited a school with some orphans to stock up on some snacks before we went to the school. From what I could understand, it’s like a boarding school, and 80% of the kids are orphans. It was a very hot day, but getting to know these kids was worth it. We ate together, shared stories and played games. We hope to go back to visit them soon as a church.
The highlight for me was when each group formed a line in front of their leader, then we were given the opportunity to talk to each of them individually and give them a “blessing.” One little girl stood out to me because she was crying when I got to her. I could see sorrow in her eyes. I started to share the good news of the hope in Jesus with her. It was easy to fall in love with these kids. I really hope to go back and see them soon.
• Baby John? — Will that be his name? That’s what we keep calling him. He is due around Christmas time. Brittney was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, so she has been having to watch her diet. She’s doing great, and baby J#5 seems to be doing well. We are excited to see him! Joy says she can’t wait to kiss him.
• Visit From the Missions Office — We enjoyed some company all the way from Arkansas. John and Holly Meriweather (our regional director and his wife) came with Ted Thomas to visit us and see and learn more about the ministry here. The highlight was taking them to the location we plan to move to next year to start a new church.
• Sharing the Gospel — I (Brandon) started physical therapy again recently. (Some of you know I have battled with chronic back pain for years. Nothing new or alarming.) Instead of driving myself, I have been taking taxis whenever I can to talk to the drivers. Recently, I witnessed to a man around my age. I was so excited he asked for a Bible when he dropped me off at my house. He also got our church contact information. He seemed to be in awe about our Creator when we were talking. I told him he could know more about Him because He has made Himself known through His Word.
Please join us in praying for the following: Brittney and the baby, Jay (new intern for the church plant) and Tee (from the village of the new church plant), as we plan to move to an area that has very few Christians and churches and for unity and growth among North Bangkok Church members.
Join us in praising the Lord for leading us to a new area and people to go with us. We also praise God for being with us in our times of suffering and being everything we need. May many more come to know His grace and goodness.
