A Year of Learning

A main goal for my team and me this first year was to be learners.  Here are a few of the most important things we have learned (or been reminded of) this year. 

Abiding in God finding strength in Him.  "'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Prayer and seeking God first, in all seasons, for all decisions.  While this is not a new idea, it was reinforced over the past year time and time again.  Anytime we started making decisions too quickly or getting our priorities mixed up, God would bring us back with a gentle reminder.

Relationships before task, even if that means the project takes longer.  Whether it is cleaning the house or going to the market.  Relationships are built by time together and strengthened by working things out together.

Idea ownership.  If I want an idea to succeed, Thais need to be on board and have ownership.  If it's their idea to begin with, even better.  Learning this has taught us to be creative with making suggestions and how important it is to have Thai partners with the same heart for the ministry God has called us to.

The benefit of language learning.  All the time put into learning language has been well worth it.  Being able to speak Thai is rewarding and opens up the possibility to communicate with so many more people.  Words mean more to people in their mother tongue than in a Western language, even if they can understand English.  I look forward to continuing to improve my language in the coming year.

The value of being on a team.   To begin with, it's biblical.  On top of that, it's encouraging, helps us stay focused on why God has us here, and gives us an opportunity to model a loving community and healthy church body.

The impact and influence living a Christ-centered life.  In the first year, everyone on my team has had days where they have wondered what good we are doing here.  However, one Thai believer shared, "Just you being here is encouraging and reminds us of the importance of the task God has given us."  Another new believer shared in her testimony, "I believed in Jesus because I saw the life of the Christians at BJD."

Praise God for a great first year!