Who Will Go?

Throughout the world, God continues to stir the hearts of men and women to share his Good News.  Those who hear His question, “Whom shall I send? And Who will go for us?"  And answer with a resounding, “Here I am. Send me!”  Isaiah 6:8

Joseph and Abumisheu (Abu) are one such couple: passionate to share Jesus with their people group and train them as disciples in the Word. Not just believers - but disciples, followers of Jesus. March found us travelling from India to Northern Thailand to reconnect and spend a week in fellowship and ministry.  It was our first trip back since 2019, due to travel restrictions and extra costs during and post-Covid.

We were the first missionaries of any nationality to visit Joseph's home village.  What a joy to worship with believers from the Akha people group. 

The Akha people live in China, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar (formerly Burma). One of the six tribes recognized by the Thai government as a hill tribe or mountain people group, they originated in Yunnan province of Southwest China several centuries ago.

The differences between us are impossible to ignore. Our ethnicity, language, physical appearance, dress, and food are completely different. Yet even when everything is different - the Spirit of God joins our hearts. 

There is one body and one Spirit ... one Lord, one faith ... one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Ephesians 4:4-6 ESV

Just across the border in Myanmar is a Children’s Home where up to 20 village children live so they can attend the state school. The pastor and his wife who run this home take care of all the children’s needs, and teach them about Jesus and the Bible. During school breaks they return to their villages to spend time with their families.  

A few of the children came across the border to
 share lunch at KFC – a huge treat for them. 
Never underestimate the thrill of choosing your own soda flavor.

Did I mention the coffee?

The village of  Doi Chang is nestled in the hills of  Chiang Rai district, perfect coffee growing country. Many Akha families have coffee farms, where the parents grow and harvest the beans, while the younger generation open coffee shops onsite or in towns and cities throughout Thailand.  Eco Lodges built on the coffee farms are popular with tourists during high season.  

Abu introduced us to many of her friends and their delicious brews - yes, it was a highly caffeinated week!  

We spent a few days on the gulf of Thailand enjoying the ocean and returned to India ready for the next season of ministry.

May you embrace all that God has for you during this season of life whatever it looks like, lean into Him, commit your ways to him, trust His plan.  

The Journey Continues ~ Gary and Pat

Akha food is fresh and delicious with a lot of
homegrown organic vegetables in richly flavored broths.