Hey everyone! Just wanted to send out a quick blog to say we made it here safe! We ending up going to Qatar instead of United Arab Emirates. Welcome to the Race.
We’re currently in Bangkok until the 18th, when we head out for ministry. We’re in the 10/40 window, living in the balance of an incredible need for the gospel, and a society where it’s tricky to talk about.
Here in Bangkok, it’s currently 9am (11 hours different from the East Coast), and it’s almost 100 degrees with 80% humidity – in other words, I feel like I’m swimming in the air, haha.
Debrief will be exciting – lots of worship sessions, visits from AIM staff, and jumping for joy at the fact there are 7-11’s, Dunkin Donuts, and STARBUCKS. A giant iced coffee from 7-11 is about 60 American cents… and when we’re sleeping in this heat, on a cement floor, cheap, iced coffee is the dream.
After debrief, we’ll be splitting into NEW teams (just for this month), because all our men are spending the month together, without all us girls. Here on the Race, it’s called MANistry month. They’ll be doing man things like riding goats, jumping off waterfalls, finding caves, grunting, and whatever else it is men do, haha. They’ll also be building into each other as men, and doing incredible ministry. As for the girls, we’ll split up into two other cities, one in Northern Thailand and one in Southern Thailand, and we’re TOLD we will either be working in the Red Light Districts, going into bars and ministering to the prostitutes there, or working with girls rescued from sex trafficking, or whatever. We’ll find out in a few days!
Thanks for your prayers!
Steph,
We’re praying for you as I think this will be one of the tougher ministries you will be involved in. Your heart will break for these women and young girls at the hopelesness in their eyes. God will use you guys mightily!! Remember when you are nervous “he has not given you a spirit of fear, but one of love power and a sound mind”!! Remember he goes before you!
Love, Susan
STEPH!!! I am soo excited for you!! This is going to be an swesome month for you–I know it. And did you realize how close we are now????? There’s only a one hour difference.. I can almost FEEL you near me.. haha I love you so much! Praying for you, love.
Rach
Praying for you girls & the lives you will touch as you go into Thailand! Enjoy your [hot, sweaty, coffee-ful] debrief!
Love you girl.
Dear Father, protect Your women as they minister to the hardened and hurting that You love so much. Soften their hearts to run to You. May they find freedom in this world and in eternity. In the Name of Jesus. AMEN