“You’re the first Christian I’ve ever met.” These were the words of a new Thai friend when I told him I was a Christian. This is what mission work looks like in a country classified as “unreached” and less than one percent Christian. It’s one thing to know the statistics; it’s another thing to realize that in most situations in Bangkok, we may be the only Christians in the room. The words of the Apostle Paul ring as true today as they did then:
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15
To reach those who have never heard the good news of Jesus is why the Lord sent us to Bangkok, Thailand. In a city of more than 10 million people, with many grand temples throughout the city and spirit houses on every corner, many worship idols who have no power and offer no hope. Many have never heard the name of Jesus, let alone had a clear presentation of the gospel. Although we knew idolatry would be rampant, the ubiquity of it was still surprising. Taxi dashboards are makeshift altars, trees are worshipped, spirit houses—which Thais believe house good spirits who protect the home or business from evil spirits— are everywhere and jewelry is worn to honor spirits who are believed to offer protection. As we serve here, our prayer is that eyes would be opened to a God who loves them unconditionally and gives His grace freely. As Thai people hear and believe in the good news of Jesus Christ, we believe they will come to know the true and living God. We also pray for Thai Christians to be strengthened and emboldened by the gospel!
While Thailand is very different from our life in Florida, we have been able to get into a routine quickly, find a church, and get plugged in at school. We are thankful for God’s grace over our transition and are so privileged to have been sent out by First Church to be a part of a team of more than 50 mission partners representing over 40 countries. May the faithful preaching of the gospel result in many more people hearing and believing—in Southwest Florida and around the world. We could not do what we are doing without you! Thank you so much for your love, support, and prayers.
The Kims send a monthly newsletter on the first Friday of each month. If you don’t receive it and would like to, please email aguynamedsu@gmail.com.
by Missionaries Su and Christina Kim
