Confusion

     The time is flying by as it is already October. It feels like Mallory and I just left home. There have been so many experiences in this short time. Leaving Thailand was filled with many thoughts and feelings. We were excited to move on to new places and meet new people that would soon come into our path, but also a sense of sadness as we left. After being there only 5 short months I could already find my self not wanting to leave the people I now call friends. These feelings I knew would happen and this was not really what bothered me with our departure. 

       Being involved with missions in general, whether national or international, you quite often are asked the question “Did you feel a great darkness or lostness?” This is especially asked about countries that are massively under the influence of Buddhist, hindu, anthisum, etc and where Christianity is largely unknown. A good friend and mentor of mine used a word that, in my opinion is much more suitable CONFUSED. I think confused better describes these people and areas that so desperately need Christ. See, just like you and me there are people all over this speck we call earth, that with out Christ are broken, empty vessels just looking for filament. We can all be easily confused by the world and idols in our lives on where and how this filament comes from. That’s where the hope of the gospel comes in!

      During our time in Asia we have seen very clear pictures of faith in these idols in the way they ritually pray to them. We have seen them give gifts in hopes for luck and prosperity from Buddha or their ancestors. This has been very hard to watch as we know when they put their faith in these things, they will always long for fulfillment. Our latest conversation was with our hotel staff about her beliefs. It is the specific time of year where people burn money for their ancestors so that they can have a better afterlife. They also believe it will bring the family good luck and fortune. We noticed this happening and asked her about it. She explained to us about this ritual, but then said she does not herself believe in it. She said that she believed as long as she is a good person and helps others, this will bring her good fortune. She also said she prays to Buddha when she is stressed and needs help. We took the time to hear and learn about her beliefs and then we were able to share about Jesus. We pray that God would use our conversation to plant a seed in her heart and that she will come to know Him! Please continue to pray for the people of Asia that they will see beyond their ancestors and Buddhist culture and that God will open their hearts to the truth of the Gospel! 

    

       When observing these temples, even though we do not believe what they do, we want to respect them and their culture. We took our shoes off and either quietly walked around, stood in the back or sat down. Other people around us would bow and pray to Buddha. In this temple I wanted to sit and observe to see what they see. Ultimately I was just looking up at a fake idol made to look beautiful. It was so such a sad moment for me as everyone around me truly believes that this Idol is protecting them and bringing them good fortune. 

Two men burning money incense for their ancestors.