Lighting the Way
November 25, 2024
I am writing to you from Mawlamyine, a place that feels both familiar and new as I settle into this next chapter of ministry. After the loss of my dear George and these past years of prayer and reflection, I felt God leading me back here, not to rest, but to continue the work He has set before me. This time, my focus is on reaching the Mon people, a community with a rich culture but little knowledge of the gospel.
Returning to Mawlamyine
Coming back to Mawlamyine has been bittersweet. This town holds memories of earlier days in our mission work, but now I walk these streets without George by my side. Yet, I know I am not truly alone. God’s presence is my constant companion, and He has given me renewed strength for this new ministry.
The Mon people, also known as the Peguan, have long been on my heart. They are a resilient and resourceful people with a deep respect for their traditions. However, they remain largely unreached by the gospel. I believe God has brought me here to plant seeds of faith among them, just as George and I did with the Karen people.
The Mon people, also known as the Peguan, have long been on my heart. They are a resilient and resourceful people with a deep respect for their traditions. However, they remain largely unreached by the gospel. I believe God has brought me here to plant seeds of faith among them, just as George and I did with the Karen people.
Beginning the Work
The first steps in any new mission are always the hardest. Learning the Mon language is no small task, but I am committed to it, knowing how important it is to communicate the love of Christ in a way that resonates with their hearts. I have also begun building relationships with the people, listening to their stories, and finding ways to serve them practically.
I have started small gatherings where I share Bible stories and teach about God’s love. Some listen with curiosity, while others remain cautious. It is slow work, but I trust that the Holy Spirit is already at work in ways I cannot yet see.
I have started small gatherings where I share Bible stories and teach about God’s love. Some listen with curiosity, while others remain cautious. It is slow work, but I trust that the Holy Spirit is already at work in ways I cannot yet see.
Encouragement in Challenges
This new mission comes with its own set of challenges. The Mon people have a strong cultural identity rooted in centuries-old beliefs, and it will take time to build trust and understanding. Yet, I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s words in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Each small breakthrough—a kind word, a thoughtful question, a willingness to listen—feels like a glimpse of the harvest to come.
Each small breakthrough—a kind word, a thoughtful question, a willingness to listen—feels like a glimpse of the harvest to come.
Grateful for Your Partnership
Your prayers and support are what sustain me in this work. Knowing that there are brothers and sisters lifting me up before the Lord gives me courage and hope, even on the hardest days.
As I labor here in Mawlamyine, I am reminded that this mission is not mine alone—it is ours. Together, we are part of God’s great plan to bring His light to the nations.
Thank you for walking alongside me in this journey. May we continue to trust in His faithfulness as we press on toward the work He has called us to.
As I labor here in Mawlamyine, I am reminded that this mission is not mine alone—it is ours. Together, we are part of God’s great plan to bring His light to the nations.
Thank you for walking alongside me in this journey. May we continue to trust in His faithfulness as we press on toward the work He has called us to.