Maithili Johnson - The World Race 2008

Ukraine Ministry

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ukraine Ministry

Instead of sending the teams to ministry locations, this month we were able to choose what ministry we wanted individually. I chose to go to Kiev along with four of my lovely squad members. Jen C, Sara, Kara, Krystle and I all boarded a train for Kiev, and after a surprisingly restful journey we arrived.

As things are always changing on the world race, our first week, very unexpectedly turned out to be a bit more of a restful week with a wonderful missionary couple, the Nelsons. Richard Nelson is a dentist and is here in Ukraine with his wife serving the people with dentistry. We were able to attend one of their clinics with the dental van from YWAM. The five of us put on a children's program for all of the kids who were waiting to see the dentist.

This week consisted of many different and varied ministry opportunities, but the Lord really blessed us with what we needed most, rest. Vicki Nelson has the gift of hospitality; we were very blessed and spoiled for the time we spent at her house.

The following week we made our way out to a camp that was being built for orphans. Jenny and Andrew, our ministry contacts, have been in Ukraine for over 10 years ministering to street kids, orphans. They are two very talented and blessed people. It was our pleasure to stay with them for the next week and a half to do construction work on the camp.

We spackled, sanded, painted, hammered, drilled, measured, etc. My personal favorite was working with the miter saw, but I also used to the circular saw. We had a great time. Truly I think our most favorite of all, was babysitting their beautiful 9 month old daughter, who is SO smart! We all loved her.

Our time at the camp was the perfect place to end our world race. I could not have asked for a better ministry for our last month.

A Rainy Day Hide Away

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Rainy Day Hide Away

A cabin, in a camp, is a perfect rainy day hide away. One of the days we were at the camp was quite a rainy day which found all five of us girls huddled in one of the small cabins. It had been a cold morning to wake up to and we were all feeling a bit tired, so instead of trenching out in the rain we gathered together and watched a movie on Jen's computer. It was so cold that we were nearly sitting on top of one another to conserve heat. We all felt like were back in junior high camp...it was a great moment.

I Will Never Forget

Mon, 25 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I Will Never Forget...

Upon returning home there are some very important lessons that the Lord has taught me over the course of this year. So I thought I would write out a few of them.

I will never forget:

That the Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ, is the one and only true God. There is no other. Everything else in the world is just a set of rules that the devil has masqueraded as religion to keep people in bondage.

The Lord is good in every way, at all times, in every occurrence.

The Lord always brings life. We must stop attributing bad circumstances as the work of the Lord to punish or refine. The thief (devil) comes only to steal from you, kill you, and destroy you. But Jesus Christ comes to give you LIFE, life ABUNDANT! (John 10:10)

The Lord loves me (and you) and has adopted me as His child! (Romans 8:15-17) God loves me with a powerful love! He loves me with the same love with which the Father loves the Son. (John 17:23) That is powerful love!

Jesus Christ is the only sure foundation, the only truth for me to stand upon. He is dependable in every way and in every circumstance. Whether driving through Zimbabwe with a very unreliable company or dealing with spiritual oppression in Thailand, He is my safety.

Much of the time the very thing that sucks in life is the very thing that the Lord is using to refine me. So just suck it up and deal with it. And by "dealing with it" I don't mean complaining and asking "why me?" I mean start worshiping the Lord and thanking him that he has not left me alone, but cares enough for me to work on my character in order to bring me closer to himself.

Love is not a fuzzy feeling that we get when we like a person, rather love is choosing to put another person's best above yourself and your own convenience. (1 Corth 13:4-7)

A Romanian Moment

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Romanian Moment

Just the other day I took a walk with my dear friend Dre on the road that goes over the hills behind the house. I was hoping to have some time alone with her to chat, but a very chatty girl named Maria saw us walk by and came to join us, also bringing her friend Catalina. Quickly I realized that Dre and I were not going to have our chat, rather we were going to spend our time trying to figure out what Maria was talking to us about.

We walked past the homestead that had the big mean dogs and continued on to the lakes. Soon we came upon the weeping willows that line the lake side. At this point, had Maria not been there, I would have just walked by as any other day, but Maria insisted that we all take a turn swinging from the branches of the weeping willow. This is something I had always wanted to do since I was a child! I felt a little sheepish as I approached the tree, all its branches floating in the wind covered in small green leaves. I took an extra large bundle of branches knowing that at 25 years I carry quite a few more pounds than my 10 year old friend. I took a step back, nearly held my breath as I lifted my feet off the ground. And as simple as that, in just a few seconds, I was a little girl again, swinging from the branches of a tree.

We continued our walk, Maria led us away from the big mean dogs on the road way..."they bite" she says. We scampered up the hills, and got a beautiful view of the valley. Then as we came down the other side Maria and her friend picked wild flowers for us. Whites, pinks and yellows...all the beautiful colors of the Romanian hill sides were now gathered in to a bouquet that we held. It was a beautiful day and a beautiful walk with an unexpected friend.

Teachable Moments

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Teachable Moments

Jesus is always up to something in my life. I am never left alone. And that is a darn good thing. Lately Jesus has been talking to me about how everything in this life is truly all about him. The reason I am here is him. The reason this world was created is him. The reason I am loved is him. Its all about Jesus. And that truly is the best news.

I used to live my life focused on attaining certain goals...nursing degree, marriage, children, ministry calling, etc. Not that these ideas have been tossed away, rather they are no longer considered goals, rather they are blessings, bonuses. My goal in life now is Jesus Christ alone. He is my Lord and my love. I live my life now with heaven in sight, because that is my inheritance and when my real life begins at Jesus' side.

Now please know that as I proclaim this...I am not perfect at it. Rather I still have many moments when I need to have a reminder that my goal is heaven and not anything on this earth. I think the important point though, is that in those moments, by Gods grace and his reminder, I am able to change my focus instead of being blindly set on things here on earth...even good things here on earth. Praise the Lord!

VBS Kids Time!

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

VBS Kids Time!

The last week we were able to put on a four day kids program for all the little ones here in the village. As it was Easter time we focused on the Easter story and Holy Week. All the children came together with bright smiles on their faces eager to start playing games and singing songs.

Each day I gave a short lesson on Jesus and why he came into Jerusalem, why he died on the cross and why he rose back to life. The Kids listened intently learning about Jesus' love for them. Then we broke up into groups and played games and did crafts.

Each day the children had so much fun, smiling and laughing as they came together learning about the Lord. I love children and how they are so joyful. I am so thankful to have had an opportunity to teach the kids and play games with them. Praise the Lord for the simple joys in life, like the smile of a child.

Church Planting

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Church Planting

So we are church planting, something that I have never seen as my forte. Throughout this trip I have realized how incredibly important evangelism is. Most of the time I have been the girl who stays in the nursery or works with the children's church, but the Lord has been calling me out. A passion for evangelism is being birthed...not that I want to be the person on the street corner shouting "Jesus loves you" all day long, but now instead of running from it, I know that I want it to be a part of my life and ministry.

Recently I have been reading a book by Bill Johnson called Face to Face with God. I loved reading his books because they always challenge me and draw me out of my comfort zones. Anyhow, I had just been reading a section about several well known revivalists and how they encountered the anointing of God. Needless to say, I was fired up again, desiring so strongly to experience the presence of God and preach about his character.

Well, that desire was soon satisfied when our pastor asked who wanted to give the message the next day when we planted a church...I said I would. I went to prepare, but instead of writing out a message I felt the Lord just calling me to worship, and so that's what I did. The next day on the drive to the village, the Lord was teaching me about being an empty vessel and just allowing him to speak through me.

When it came time to speak, I wasn't anxious, the few notes that I had written down never came out, I just open my mouth and listened as the Lord spoke an amazing message of his love to the people. It was great! Praise the Lord! God is so good and continues to teach me and grow me in MANY different ways this year.

Ministry Update

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ministry Update

This past month my team and three members of team Gracers spent time in Malawi planting churches. I had never planted a church before, so I didn't really know what to expect. Pretty much our team, along with 6 amazing African Pastors who were also our translators, drove into some remote African villages where there was already a local Pastor contact. We would start our "program" which consisted of loud African praise music, dancing, about two testimonies and a gospel presentation. The people would generally flock over to our area to see what was going on, then we would split them up into different groups, give the gospel again and an alter call. I was always amazed to see that the majority of people would raise their hands to receive Christ. I was also amazed to see that no matter where we went the majority of people already knew who Jesus Christ is...even in the very remote villages! It seems to me that what is really needed around here is discipleship...hence planting churches.

It was a very challenging month as most of our days were very long filled with "programs," driving long distances, getting stuck in the African mud (a lot), then returning to spend the night in our tents. We went to about four different villages, which means that we picked up and moved camp five different times before we were done for the month. We were all spent by the end of our ministry time. I think I reached the end of my rope when I was sitting on the floor of Pastor Harvey's house, having just returned from our long ministry tour and I got shocked by the electrical outlet when trying to plug in my computer. I nearly cried. I was so done.

Among all the hard times during this month, the Lord really sustained me and allowed for me to learn a lot. One of the things that I learned was how much I love to teach. I really like teaching God's word, it is a passion inside of me that I have to let out. I also learned that evangelism is not so hard as I originally thought. The Lord taught me about being an empty vessel and just allowing him to move through me. He defiantly used every last drop of me...but you know I really wouldn't have it any other way. The Lord is so faithful, he never left me without.

An Oversight in travelling to Malawi

Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An Oversight in travelling to Malawi

Let me share with you one of our most recent travel experiences and why we should have taken the plane. We boarded the bus at 9:30 am to make our way to Malawi...such began this journey through misery. Things were going quite well, until about two thirds of the way to the South Africa/ Zimbabwe boarder when the tire of our luggage trailer nearly fell off. The frame was bent to about a 60 degree angle. So we waited on the side of the road for about 2 hours while that got fixed.

Ok, on the road again. We got to the boarder to enter Zimbabwe, what a fiasco! It was late at night, dark, crowded, paper work for our vehicle took hours! As we waited in a traffic jam, three of our bags were stolen out of our trailer. Finally we made our way through only to realize down the road the missing bags. We were able to drive most of the night with out issue, but as the sun dawned we came across a police check point where the Prime Minister's car had rolled over. The police was not happy with us, apparently our driver had been speeding, and told us rather forcefully to return to South Africa.

This actually turned into a God moment as through lots of prayer and a couple hour wait in our car, Krystal felt in her heart that we should go offer to pray from the Prime Minister and the situation. We did so and God softened the heart of the Police Officer and we were allowed to pass through. Praise the Lord! He works in great ways!

But...we were then stopped at every police check point from there to the boarder! Each time we waited anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour!!! There were maybe 15 -20 check points. Ugh!!! Finally we made it to the Mozambique boarder and praise God we made it before the boarder closed. Here we were blessed with another hour and a half to two hour wait as what Jen dubbed as "the slowest man on earth" made out all of our visas.

By the time we got our passports back, our van being on the other side of the barrier, the police officer tried to tell us that "the boarder is closed, you go sleep over there." Calming the furry mounting in some of us, Tara, one of our gifted communicators talked with the police officer while we just walked across to the van disregarding what the Police officer said. Praise the Lord there was no issue.

Now that we were in Mozambique we were able to drive one of the bumpiest roads all night. Pretty much the driver would drive fast, fast, fast, then suddenly brake hard, then we would drive over a really rough gravelly patch of road...repeat all night long. I tried sleeping but such instances caused me to come out of my drowsy half -sleeping state thinking that we were out of control crashing into the ditch on the side of the road. After waking up in such a confusion about five times, I decided that trying to sleep was not worth the anxiety it caused.

We reached the Mozambique boarder about 1am, where we waited/slept in the can until it opened at six. Crossing into Malawi was quite a bit better, aside from getting to unpack our trailer and wait for the customs officer who was going to be there "just now." For those who don't know "just now" is an African phrase that means in a little while. We went through all of our luggage, then repacked and where on our way again. Our driver said it would only be about 4 hours until we reached our destination.

1,2,3,4...5,6,7,8,9 hours later we were pulling into Lilongwe were we met up with Pastor Harvey. Unpack, repack into his little van, a van that had some issues...issues such as when we were driving to the hostel the sliding door fell off the top hinges. That's right, the door just fell off! Sigh...what do you do? After 58 hours in a van, all you can do is laugh...laugh a lot and laugh hard. Praise God we made it safely and I got to sleep in a bed that night. God is good, He is good every moment, even if you are stuck in a van in very questionable circumstances for 58 hours of your life. J

Quick tip on travelling in Africa: always pack lots of water, lots of food, and pray hard!!!

Women's Retreat

Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Women's Retreat

Upon returning to Swaziland all the Joy girls we quickly recruited to help out with preparations for the women's retreat that we were putting on. We made cards, signs, bracelets and all sorts of other things to bless the women with. Midway through the week we left for Manzini where the retreat was to take place. More preparations were done and then the women arrived.

We got all the ladies moved into the room where they would be staying, which was a large dorm style room. It was an ok room, but not really nice. The bathroom was leaking water, so the floor was all wet in there, but at least it was a building with a roof, right? Well, Jesus had other plans. That night while we ate dinner, it started to rain, and then the electricity went off in our building, among other things. So the staff at the conference center decided to move the women into another building. This time they moved into nice rooms each with two proper beds, a sink and a closet for their things. So that was a supernatural upgrade from Jesus for his girls!!! The Lord truly does work in mysterious ways.

The whole conference went so well. The women were able to open up and share their stories of hurt and pain, but they all share their faith in God. In Swazi culture, it's not really appropriate to share your pain in life, but praise God that didn't hold these women back. Not only did they share but they came around one another and prayed, loved and supported one another, just at the body of Christ is meant to do. It was beautiful to see what the Lord did for these women.

Moments to Remember

Wed, 4 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Moments to Remember

One of the things I love about Swaziland is the children. They are just so ready to be loved! As soon as your drive up there they are at the door looking for that special person who will hold their hand or pick them up and just love on them. I have never met a bunch of children quite like these ones before...they are so precious!

One such afternoon as I was sitting with my friend Nozipho and her friends, they were chattering on half in English and half in Siswati about different things when they thought it would be a great idea to braid mine and Katie's hair (another world racer). So suddenly they are telling and motioning to me to sit down. Before my hinny even got down I had about 6 little hands swarming in my hair combing, parting braiding and more. Unfortunately, my hair (soft and straight) is much different from what they are used to (super curly and rough). So the braids where not staying. One, at this point might just give up and try something different, but these determined children decided it would be better to try smaller amounts of hair and pull harder. Ouch! Alas, my hair would not cooperate and they gave up, placing my blonde strands back into the clip where they started. One of the many moments that I will cherish with these precious children.

Returning to Ministry

Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Returning to Ministry

I find that after a time away from ministry, it can be quite struggle to get back into it. I had a hard time leaving the Betor house, as it was like leaving family again, but the Lord had something in store for me upon return. As I moped about thinking about all the things I was now without, the team told me that I was chosen, being a nurse, to accompany a small boy to the hospital that had been bitten by a snake. Then I saw the pictures. I was sitting around thinking about all the things I didn't have anymore and here was a child who just wanted to keep his arms. Wow... I think I was nearly in tears praying for him that night; praying that he would be spared and that he would be restored to health.

The next day I went with the boy and his mom to meet up with a couple who specializes in snakes and from there we all went to the doctor. As it turns out the little boy was bitten two times, once on each arm, by a Mozambique Spitting Cobra. The bites were not treated appropriately with anti-venom despite the fact that he was taken to three different clinics/hospitals.

Now two months later, the damage from the venom complete, he has a raging infection in both his arms. Thankfully the doctors did say that things looked hopeful and that his arms could be saved. He will likely need skin grafts and a whole lot of physical therapy.

It was amazing to see how God's hand was so specific in leading our team members to this child's house, then getting in contact with the snake specialists who have taken up his cause, and giving us the ability to get the child to the doctor. The Lord truly saved his life.

ExpectationsUgh!

Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Expectations...Ugh!

This first half of February the girls from team Joy, for various different reasons, were able to go back to South Africa and stay at the Betor House. This is a ministry house where many missionaries come and stay to rest and get supplies. They also have different ministries that they are involved in there as well.

During our stay we met two wonderful couples and a Canadian who love the Lord and we became just like family for the two weeks. We ate dinner together every night worshiped together every Sunday evening. It was a small taste of Heaven.

While I originally went to accompany Jessie to the doctor to advocate for her health, it became clear quite quickly that the Lord was up to something in my heart...again.

One of the things that I have had to do recently was to lay down my expectations of this trip. It's not that I had bad or ungodly expectations...it just that they were not being met. Some of my expectations were that I would enjoy every moment of this trip; that is would be a "joy ride;" that I would completely love and get along really well with all my team mates; and that I would love all the traveling and countries.

What I have found in my experience is that, the world race has been a hard trip sometimes like the "valley of the shadow of death" but in that I have found the comfort of God's rod and staff as he has guided me through and protected me. I also now know through more experience that God is almighty and will not leave you in the dark. You can choose to stay in the dark but the light of Christ is always shinning and leading you out into his amazing grace.

I have found that love does not come cheaply. It's not an emotion. It is a choice that you make. Also that relationships are meant to be worked on and a lot of times the most difficult relationships that you have are the ones that God is using in the greatest ways to make YOU a better person.

I have also found that God is good, no matter anything else in all of creation, God is good and He loves you! Even when you mess things up a thousand times, He is still good and longs to see you restored to him. Praise God for his amazing love and grace!

So at this point in the race, having laid down these expectations, I feel a peace...and I praise God for it! I have come to love and appreciate my team and the experiences that we are living through together.

Raise Up!

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Twenty-four orphans were found in the bush of Mozambique following the devastation of Cyclone Flavio in 2006 by a man named Eric. He took responsibility for them. He would now care for them and protect them. However, Eric did not have the means to provide much else.

Once Jaco and Maria discovered Eric and these children, they knew God was calling them to help. With little more than their own personal support, the Rudolph's set about the task of living out God's call.

Currently the children sleep in large revival style tents on grass mats with blankets. At this time, a building is being constructed to offer more suitable living conditions. In order to prepare the children for this transition, several of our team mates feel called to return to Mozambique for the month of March. This preparation will consist of, among other things, the Raise UP! Project.

Raise UP!

And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.

-Isaiah 58:12

Raise UP! is a respect and incentive program coupled with discipleship. The goal is to establish routine in order to teach respect for themselves, others, their belongings, and environment. The goal is that through these children, we may set the foundations of this generation firmly in the Lord and His Truth, so that they can raise their children to repair and restore the breaches of their nation.

The respect incentive portion of the program will focus on scheduled rewards for adhering to established guidelines. Each child will be given a box, which they can personalize. The first week will focus on each child receiving all the incentive items which include: toothbrush, soap, washcloth, small toys, etc.

After the initial one-month course, additional materials will be sent via e-mail, complete with scheduled rewards to be given by orphanage staff.

Teaching the children to care for their boxes and contents will help them to form good habits of taking ownership and responsibility. With guidance, these habits will overflow into all areas of their lives.

Our vision is to invest in this generation. We are asking for your help to Raise UP! a foundation for these children. Below is a list of supplies and costs needed to obtain them.

Supplies:

Box $10 per child

Incentive Items $20 per child

Teaching Materials $200

Rewards $200

Miscellaneous $100

Total $1,220

Click here to give to this Project. Please write "World Race Ministry - Mozambique" in the space provided in order to make sure your gift is designated to this ministry.

A Taste of the Lord's Kingdom

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Taste of the Lord's Kingdom

This past month I was able to minister to the people of Swaziland along side of my parents. What an amazing experience. I have two of the most wonderful parents you could ever ask for, people who love the Lord with all their heart and minister His truth on a daily basis.

My parents came to Africa on the Vision Trip along with about nine other people. They came along side the July World Race squad while we were in Nsoko working with the orphans and the care points. We went out to the people to conduct health assessments hoping that the end results will enable us to provide a greater assistance to the community.

Another activity we did was to wash the feet of a bunch of kids, give them new shoes and pray over them. I think this was when I realized how blessed I was to have my parents at my side ministering with me. I especially loved being able to patch up the wounds of one little girl with my mom; I had the right foot and she took the left. It was great.

I just have to think that such a moment was a small piece of Kingdom; to minister the Lord's love and healing to his people as a family. Isn't that what the Lord intended for us to do in the first place? I believe so, and I was so blessed to be able to do just that in Africa. Lord bless my family and thank you for them! Amen!

Support Brian and Stacy!

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Support Brian and Stacy here:

http://www.adventures.org/give

Select: "The World Race"

Type: "For Brian Alonzo"

Moving the Orphans

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Moving the Orphans

Over the past two weeks we have been moving some beautiful children to a new site for the orphanage. The purpose of moving them is so they can get power to the site for far less money than the previous site. The kids have just been staying in tents since the cyclone hit about two years ago. As we were packing them up, they were so excited about moving.
They gathered up their stuff as fast as possible with huge smiles on their faces and ran with arm loads to the truck. As I looked on, I saw what to me would be arm loads of junk or garbage, but to them it was their precious possessions; old worn out toys, pieces of brightly colored boxes, scraps of paper...their precious possessions.

I catch myself in these moments wishing with all my heart that I could make thing better for them, to give them a proper house and a family who loves them. But I must trust that the Lord will meet these needs for them, and do what I can in the moment...the best thing I can do...love them.

Medicine in the Bush

Sat, 24 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Medicine in the Bush

Coming into this orphanage and seeing all the children, as a nurse I can not help but see a cuts and scrapes as well. Since our plans to move the orphanage had been delayed by some unforeseen circumstances, I had the opportunity, with Jen, one of the other nurses, to put together a short health clinic for the children.

We did a short teaching on hand washing, body washing, teeth brushing and basic first aid. Then we had all the children demonstrate the skills. So they all brushed their teeth, took a bath (which is not an easy task in the bush because you have to walk about 1 km to pump water from the well and carry it back) and then the three of us nurses were able to bandage up all their cuts and scrapes. I love being a nurse and I love taking care of the children whenever I can. Thank you Lord for making me a nurse.

Oxford Doors

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Oxford Doors

Ashley and I had the wonderful and unexpected opportunity to travel out to Oxford. We were able to see the city and tour two of the thirty-eight colleges that make up Oxford University. Along the way were found many interesting doors and made it one of the themes of our trip. So here are the pictures, I hope you enjoy them.

Les Miserables in London

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Les Miserables in London

I was able to attend this wonderful theater show in London, however, this showing affected me much more so than ever before. Having just come from Southeast Asia and being exposed to all the women trapped in prostitution, the storyline of the main female character (I can't recall her name at this moment) who is driven to prostitution really saddened me. I just sat there thinking how everyone else in the theater would walk out commenting on what a good show it was that they had just seen and continue on with life. Yet I had just come from a place where prostitution was reality and very much a part of everyday life. The best part of the play; however, is that it shows so beautifully the redemptive power of Christ and His amazing grace. Jesus truly is the only answer.

Do You Want To Look Ridiculous?

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Do You Want To Look Ridiculous?

Just in case you were wondering, we were so fortunate to find out how one can go about doing so. First you pack your bag as though you were going to Africa in the heat of their summer. Next get on a plane heading for London in the dead of the winter. Once you have arrived, put on all the colorful summer clothes you have to stay as warm as you possibly can. Ready...GO...Now that is how you can attain a ridiculous look.

Who Is My God?

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Who Is My God?

During this month's ministry we have been so blessed to learn about another major religion that is becoming very popular in the world today. In learning about that religion and how to reach out to that people group, we are also learning what makes Christianity so unique among the religions of the world. It is so amazing to me that every time I learn about another religion and I hear their laws, rules and expectations I become more and more thankful that I am a Christian as well as more and more sure that I serve the one and only true God. So with that in mind I want to share a little about my God...keeping in mind He is and infinite God so this blog will not contain all of who He is.

The Lord, "I AM" as it says in Exodus Chapter 3 verse 14, is all mighty and powerful! So powerful that He is able to become a man and reveal himself to us as the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God; so powerful that He is able to come down to earth and even descend into hell. So powerful that death cannot keep a hold of Him and was raised up from the dead, out of hell and went up to heaven.

My Lord is personal. While some gods are considered to stay in heaven and not come down to the lowly earth, my God not only came to earth but became human, lived among humans, had human family and friends, had a job as a carpenter, He spent time with children, went to the synagogue or church and he even lead a small group of twelve guys who were far from perfect.

The word of my Lord is valid and defends itself of the accusations that have come against it throughout time.

My Lord is love itself, the greatest evidence of this being the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ His Son.

He is the Truth. Every word or revelation that comes from the Lord is completely truthful and can be trusted. It is not within his character or nature to lie.

He is unchangeable; there is no new revelation that cannot be supported by the Scripture, the word that the Lord has already given to us.

I am so thankful that the Lord was so gracious to choose me to be his! Thank you Lord Jesus for choosing and desiring me to be part of your family and saving me! Lord I am so grateful for who you are and how great you are! Praise to the Lord God most high! Amen

Ministry Update

Sun, 7 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ministry Update

As a result of the riots in the Thailand Airports, we were rerouted to London, England! Praise God! We get to stay here for the month of December. We will be working with a certain ministry in London, specifics can not be given at this time. But, it sounds like a very exciting opportunity. And what is best of all, is that it is COLD here!!! I love the cold weather, bundling up in a warm coat and drinking a hot tea, what could be better to do in December? God is good and he has blessed me with the best Christmas present I ever could have asked for, thank you Jesus!

I think I should give a little summary of our time in Pattaya, Thailand, so here it is. We spent our last week in Pattaya going to the bars with the Tamar Center, helping at English class and volunteering much of our time at the Mercy Center with all the little kiddos. We were able to enjoy an amazing Thanksgiving dinner at the Mercy Center after which we got to do all the dishes. We were able to make some really good friends at the Mercy Center and had some hard goodbyes.

Overall, it was a good month. Of all of Asia, Thailand was most likable...it say this because I have come to the conclusion that I really just don't like Asia. We had some unexpected days in Bangkok due to the riots and the airports shutting down. These days, I thought were actually a gift to relax and recharge. Praise the Lord for them. I spent much of my time running at the University or just sitting by their little ponds talking with God. I also was able to drink a coconut everyday! J Then we found out that we were going to London...and life to an unexpected turn for the GREAT!

A Day in St Albans

Sun, 7 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A Day in St Albans

I was able to take a day and tour around St Albans, all by myself! Praise the Lord a day just with Jesus is what I have been needing for a long time. So here are a few pictures to share with you from my wonderful day.

A delightful Latte to start the day

St. Albans Cathedral, a beautiful site. I was able to tour the inside while a choir practiced their music, it was wonderful.

This was the origional 1700s box to collect money for the poor

The pond in the park behind the Cathedral, such a beautiful sight and a wonderful walk in the park.

The St. Albans market, this guy was playing and the children were dancing around.

These guys were playing Christmas music while I sat out side a cafe

It seemed as though everyone at the market was eating one of these pastrys, so i got one and it was quite tasty.

The sunset over St. Albans as I walked back to the train.

I was a wonderful day. I hope that you are all blessed with such a wonderful day with the Lord as well.

Flight Delay to Africa

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

If you've been reading the headlines on cnn.com, you should have heard about the recent protests at the Bangkok Airport. I mention this only to bring understanding and ease any worries that family and friends of the July 08 World Racers may have.

WE ARE ALL OK

We are actually located very far from the protest and would be completely unaffected by the chaos if it were not for our scheduled flight to South Africa. As a result of the protests the Airport has been closed and all outgoing flights have been canceled. As of right now the airlines have no information about when we might expect to get on a flight to our next destination. In the meantime we will remain in Bangkok, once again, very far from the protests. I will keep you updated as we receive more information from our airline. Keep the squad and the city of Bangkok in your prayers.

Ali's Thanksgiving Blog

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Here are some pictures gathered by my wonderful team mate and friend Ali Page....this is actually her blog that I copied...from our thanksgiving dinner at the Mercy Center with all the orphans. It was a wonderful time and the food was SO good. A wonderful man actually packed some turkeys in his bags and flew them down here to thailand from the states. Praise the Lord for turkey! We had the delightful task of washing all the dishes, by hand, afterward. :D It was our pleasure to do so. Happy Thanksgiving!

We had an awesome early Thanksgiving at The Mercy Center Orphanage, where about 25 children live. My team helped prepare, serve, eat and clean for this feast! A total of about 200 people attended from a local church here in Pattaya, Thailand!

Grandma, how many potatoes do you think I peeled? Are you proud? Team 3-Alive (the other 2 were in Bangkok)

World Race woman unite!

We ate everything we would have at home! Even pumpkin pie!

Turkey Coma!

Dishes Dishes Dishes

Their Faces

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

These are the faces of the children that are growing up in the slums of Thailand. These are the children who are born into such poverty that all they will know for a home is a patched up shack with a dirt floor. They play in the dirt and garbage that surrounds their living place. Their parents are likely caught up in alcohol or gambling, with no knowledge or desire to learn about how to live a responsible life.

The slum ministry goes out to the slums once a week to do a children's program, tell them about Jesus, and give them a good meal.

These are the faces of the women that work 12 hours a day, 29 days a month selling themselves in the bars in order to make enough money to support their families. Most of these women came from one of the provinces and have kids back home in that province who they are supporting. They may be able to see their families every few months, if they are able to put aside enough money to make the journey. Its unlikely. Most of the women that I talked with don't want to work in the bars, but see no other choice.

Tamar Center volunteers go out to the bars three times a week to invite the women to their free English classes and to genuinely love on them. Tamar Center offers jobs and training to these women who want to get out of the bars.

We can not sit back and let these faces go unnoticed, they need your help! You can help them and you can get involved in their lives. They need you to get involved. You can help by supporting the Mercy Center, the Project Life Slum Outreach or Tamar Center here in Pattaya, Thailand (www.mercypattaya.com, www.projlife.com, www.tamarcards.com, www.tamarbakery.com). I CHALLENGE YOU to take a short term mission trip, or any kind for that matter. You think you don't have enough money, but you do. Your just not willing to sacrifice. You think you don't have enough time, but you do. Are these women and children not worth it to you? Are you willing to make a small sacrifice in order to save a life?

" 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' " Matt 25:37-40 NIV

Lessons from the Lord Part 1

Sun, 9 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lessons from the Lord Part 1

So as promised in my last blog, here is a bit of an update regarding the lessons that the Lord has been teaching my own heart.

First that I am so naive to the hurt and pain of the world. The more I travel, the more hurt I see. I see moms with their three children dirty and worn out standing on street corners begging for money. I see beggar on the street who have broken and or missing limbs. One I saw had terrible burn scarring over her whole face and she was missing an eye. This woman had about a 1-2 year old beautiful little girl with her on the side of the street. I hear stories about a nations history that tell of destruction and desecration, mass murders, women who are sold as sex slaves, people who are sold into slavery in general, and the list goes on.

What the Lord is showing me in this is that no matter the hurt and pain, Christ is the one and only true answer. Never before has John 10:10 been so applicable to life. "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." I am seeing the destruction of the enemy, but God is showing me the life and hope that he brings. God is showing me how he loves to restore and bring hope to those who have lost all hope. The Lord is showing me how he heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds.( Psalm 147:3) I see women who have been rescued from the bars and nights of slavery who now worship the Lord with passion. I see ministries flourishing under the blessing of the Lord seeing person upon person coming to salvation and life.

Though I see a world of hurt...I see a great and powerful God who is working diligently and relentlessly to rescue his people from the death that comes from sin.

Lessons from the Lord Part 2

Sun, 9 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lessons from the Lord Part 2

The Lord is also teaching me about rights and guarantees...and there are really only three that I can see. Those are: that the Lord is GOOD, all of the time and in EVERY way, He is good. Second, that I am dearly loved. This is a huge answer to one of my most frequent prayers...that I would know the love of the Lord. Third, that my salvation rests secure in Him.

Apart from these, I have no guarantees, or rights. No guarantee for a husband and family of my own, no guarantee for my family back home, no guarantee for a career, for my home in America, no guarantee that my US citizenship will protect me, no guarantee for money or future... These are all gifts and blessings from the Lord's amazing and generous grace!

How grateful I am now!!! What thankfulness do I now have for my Lord and savior who has saved me and blessed me beyond all measure! Lord I praise you and I thank you that you love me and desire good for me! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!

Pattaya News

Sun, 9 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This is a blog from Lisa Smith, one of my team mates...

Welcome to Pattaya, Thailand, a beautiful city situated on the Gulf of Thailand. However, it isn't the beaches or the sights that bring people to Pattaya. Every year nearly 2 million people travel to Pattaya as sex tourists (yes, the name means exactly what it implies). In this city of 70,000 more than 20,000 men and women are working in the bars as prostitutes.

My team and I have been completely heartbroken as we walk the streets of this city. I have never seen anything like this is my life! Everywhere you look, you see foreign men with young, pretty Thai girls. The sexual perversion is so openly displayed here. It's disgusting, heartbreaking, appalling, and infuriating all at the same time.

Monday night was our first night in the bars. As I strolled down Walking Street (a most popular street of bars), I was so overwhelmed. Everywhere you look there are women and lady boys (the name given to transgender prostitutes in Thailand) covering themselves with layer after layer of makeup- a mask they wear so easily to cover their brokenness and emptiness.

A man enters the bar where I am seated and the girls are instantly flirtatious, vying for his attention, but in a moment of unrestrained honesty I catch a glimpse of one of the girls' eyes and all I see is sadness and shame. In that moment I want so badly to grab her by the hand, to lead her out of that bar, off of that street, and into the glorious freedom that only comes through Christ. However, in an instant her look of desperation has disappeared, replaced once again by this confident provocativeness. She quickly returns to this dance she feels she must dance. But I know the truth. I have seen a glimpse of what lies beneath the faade. This is why we come. We will continue to come to the bars and we will proclaim freedom and hope to any who are ready to listen.

Take a look at this video to see the pain in Pattaya and how the Lord is working in our hearts.