We are all a little bit FATTER

      No its not because of all the fantastic Thai food we eat. And not to worry we can still fit into our clothes. Actually it is in fulfillment of the branches dearest wish that we leave our Pioneer Meeting and 2 Day Assembly "Little fatties"
Spiritually fat that is ;)
     It was Such a wonderful program!!!

     The Pioneer Meeting began with the reminder of how very important this work is. Our work is related to the Abrahamic covenant because by means of our active participation it is proving to be a blessing to the nations.(Ro 11:13) Our ministry here is unique because many have moved to help in this far flung nation of Thailand. Our Pio Meeting was beautifully tailored to the need greaters who made up the bulk of the pioneers. Like Isaiah many have said, "Send me!" not knowing exactly where that will prove to be. Some got the "bug" from another need greater, others after viewing the yearbook ratio. Some question motives and ask, "Do you really have to go that far to serve Jehovah?" No. Why do we go? Because we Want to. :) And when many cannot can due to circumstances, we can.
     The branch repeatedly told us how they love us and appreciate what we are able to contribute. They acknowledged the different challenges we face here. Homesickness, the heat, the language, Visa issues, economic concerns. We were reminded how in this world the majority of people's pursuits are material whether they are working to afford their 1st home or their 5th. We, however, want to have plenty to do in the work of the Lord. (1 Cor 15:58) There are scores in the full time ministry who-like Paul- gave up many promising options to choose to put Kingdom interests first. We need to ask ourselves "Are normal pursuits crowding my ministry?" They then encouraged us to continue to be intensely occupied with our work even to Keep looking for new ways to expand where there is a greater need. Isn't that funny? We have all come here to serve where the need is great and yet we need to keep this mentality to be willing to go where they need even more help! :)
      We were lovingly reminded how to keep ourselves strong. Daily Bible reading is a must.  One question I loved was, "Do I find genuine joy in Daily Bible reading- is it recreational to me?" We want to develop our art of teaching.They gave us practical suggestions on how to help Buddhists using the brochure made for them, memorizing points in Thai to use informally.
       The brothers know that Satan will do everything he can to make it difficult for us to stay here.  We need to use our bigger network of friends here and at home, ask others how they are able to stay. The brother lovingly told us that Jehovah and Jesus are the same distance from us here as when we were at home. Jehovah is our home. He appreciates all we do no matter where we are and is "joyful over us with happy cries." It was a truly touching program.
But I saved the best for last...
THIS is for all of you who may be interested in serving abroad!! :)
      We were very overjoyed to hear this exciting news which was then repeated at the 2 day assembly. The talk was entitled: What Lies Ahead For Us As We Finish God's Work?
The brother began by reading Haggai 2:7 where it speaks of Jehovah rocking the nations so that all the desirable things come in. To get more out requires more rocking, more effort. We were then promised: We will see a tremendous increase in Thailand!
When Gilead began the target areas were Latin America. Then they used to wonder when the Soviet nations would open up-which happened in the 80's. Now there are big increases to come in Southeast Asia.
It's funny my friend Bianca wrote a while back (She's been in Nicaragua for years) that Thailand is the New South/Central America! And here we are hearing it again from the brothers. SO 1-20,000 ratio, a warm and fuzzy loving and supportive Branch, and Huge Promised increase?? Need I say more? I hope to see those of you who can come out here soon! :):)


Our New English CO! Jeremy and Bridget (Gilead grads from Canada)

And for all of us, no matter where we serve Jehovah (its all the same distance to him ;) we need to remember never to underestimate our contribution. Jehovah and the brothers appreciate it Very Much and are well aware of the challenges we face.

Ok so that's all I will share for now. I have Great service updates soon and perhaps will post about the Assembly as well. And then there was the big ole' "American extravaganza trip" with some dear friends that will find its way onto the blog soon I am sure. But we also have our upcoming CO visit this next week, Hooray!!!
Until then,
Love you all!!!
AMIEEE