"Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!"

Today, Randy and I went to the party store to find stuff to make a piñata for the Children's Christmas party at church this weekend. While we were there, I was able to find Christmas plates and napkins! My favorite find of the day was snow fluff. I was so excited to get home with it and decorate the tree. I have been trying to think of something to add just the right finishing touch to the tree and that was it! While the children were in Thai class and the "babies" were playing in their room, I made it look like it had snowed on our Christmas tree. The children were absolutely thrilled and so was I to see the reaction on their faces. They have been "down-in-the-dumps" about not having snow for Christmas. This was what they needed to uplift their spirits. Needless to say, so was I! I also bought spray snow and sprayed the cabinet door windows. You can almost "feel" the cold when you walk into the room. NOW, I think our living room is ready for Christmas. Thank you, Lord, for the little blessings You send our way JUST when we need them!

Of course, there is no snow on the bottom of the tree as I was afraid William would try to eat it!

"All I Want For Christmas Is ..."

"... a Christmas tree with ornaments!" That is what I told Randy several weeks ago. And, I got it!!! Early, of course, and it obviously has made it "feel" more like Christmas really is this month. This year, I already have in mind what I would like to get the children for Christmas. Since the Christmas holiday is not officially celebrated in Thailand, the children don't see all kinds of advertisements on the television about "Christmas toy gift ideas." That's been kind of nice because they haven't been selfishly saying, "I want that" or "I HAVE to have one of those!". Although this Christmas will be very different for us, we rejoice in the fact that we have the CHRIST of Christmas living in our hearts. The sad truth this Christmas is all around us - people who don't have the joy of knowing Christ as their personal Saviour. So, the real question shouldn't be "What do I want for Christmas?". Rather, it should be, "What does HE want from me for Christmas?" The only person who can answer that question is you. Only you know what Christ wants from you. Maybe it is to change something in your life or some bad habit. Maybe it is greater service for Him. Maybe it is a greater love for the unsaved. Or for someone, maybe it is your heart. Whatever the case may be, He wants something from us. Not just because it is Christmas, but because He IS the King of Kings and we should celebrate His birth every day.

"It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas!"

The Ashcraft house has the look of Christmas in one room with the heat of summer! It's looking like Christmas and feeling like the 4th of July! I have never cared much for the cold unless there was snow on the ground. However, this year, I have a new appreciation for the cold winter air. I would love to feel it! It's hard to get into the Christmas spirit when the temperatures are around 90 degrees outside.

Tomorrow is the King's birthday in Thailand which means it is Father's Day here. Everything is so decorated in honor of him and there will be a huge celebration tomorrow. Most everything that is decorated does look like Christmas. They have lights strung everywhere! There will be a river parade and fireworks tomorrow night.

As I was shopping for our Christmas tree, it was amazing to see all the holiday decorations everywhere! Christmas trees that decorate the outside and inside of the malls, taller than I have ever seen. And, wouldn't you know it, it was the one time I didn't have my camera with me! I will definitely have to go back.

I found a quote today from Nate Saint who was the missionary pilot for Jim Elliot. Two weeks before he was martyred by the Auca Indians, he said, "As we have a high old time this Christmas may we who know Christ hear the cry of the damned as they hurdle headlong into the Christless night without ever a chance. May we be moved with compassion as our Lord was. May we shed tears of repentance for these we have failed to bring out of darkness. Beyond the smiling scenes of Bethlehem may we see the crushing agony of Golgotha." I think many times we get so caught up in the festivities of the season that we honestly don't think about the Easter to come. Yes, Christmas is a time to be enjoyed but it is also the perfect time to be able to share the "Reason for the Season." God did love us and continues to do so, but our job, be it single lady, wife, Mother, business woman, housewife, or missionary, is to share that love with everyone we come in contact with. We need others to see there is something different about us. That person getting in line in front of us or pushing us out of the way to get to something we would like to purchase, or the one that is just obviously in a hurry, is like us - one breath away from eternity. Does their eternity hold the same blessings as mine? IF I show them one act of true Christian love and smile, will they remember that and wonder why I was so kind? You never know what may turn a person's attention to the true meaning of Christmas - to the babe in the manger who lies in the shadow of a cross.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

As our Thanksgiving Day comes to an end on this side of the world, many of you are just starting your special day. This day has brought back memories of many different Thanksgivings and many colder ones, as well! I missed having the boys around from our Children's Home and all the extra people that came over to our house just because they had been exposed to our "Special Day." Oh how we enjoyed the extra company! As I made deviled eggs this morning, I remembered all the times I had made many more dozens only to watch the boys devour them in a short amount of time! This Thanksgiving, we spent our day with other missionary families and had a wonderful time! The children had so much fun being able to play with other children their ages.

I have been reading a book over the last few weeks entitled Thanksgiving: The Pilgrims' First Year in America. I have learned many things about the Pilgrims that came to America that I never knew. It has made me even more thankful for how God provided for our move to Thailand. First of all, it was a fairly easy journey for us, even with 5 children, compared to what the Pilgrims had to endure. When we arrived, we had friends to greet us and a place to stay our first night. We had food to eat, clothes and shoes to wear, school books for the children, and toys for them to play with. We were able to buy dishes and only a few pieces of furniture because most of the furniture we needed was provided in our rental house. We were able to buy pillows and sheets. We had a computer and a phone to communicate with our loved ones on the other side of the world to let them know we had made it safely. All of these things sometimes seem so commonplace to have and I think we take them for granted many times. All of these important things to us were not readily available to the Pilgrims. They suffered through many things during their first year in a land which would one day be known as America. Yet, they endured their suffering and pushed on. Not one Pilgrim returned to England when given the chance. Through hard work, cold weather, and many other hardships, they continued to trust in God, knowing that He had led them to do what they were doing. Many of the Pilgrims died along th way. Their desire for freedom of religion and worshipping God the way they felt was best drove them to do what was needed for survival. My difficult times over the last few months haven't come close to the difficult times the Pilgrims suffered through. My desire, to see people here gain their "freedom of religion" and worship the One True God is what pushes me forward. When I experience these times, I have to refocus my attention on what is truly important, pick myself up, and move forward. God is teaching me to trust more deeply in Him. "I'm just clay in the Potter's hands." I must be willing to allow Him to mold me into what He would have me be.

This Thanksgiving, I am thankful for many things - my salvation, my family, my freedom. I am thankful for what God has done for me and what He has given to me. Most of all, I am thankful that He has chosen me to serve Him in the place He has put me. I am thankful that He knows what the future holds and I don't have to worry about it. I am thankful that He hasn't given up on me and that He continues to teach me. I am thankful to know that whatever He has for me is something I can handle as long as I keep my eyes on Him. I am thankful for the difficult times because that is when my faith grows. I am thankful for the mountain tops where I can look down into the valleys He has brought me through. I am thankful that my God supplies ALL my needs!

Hebrews 13:15 - "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name."

Difficult Days

Ever had a difficult day? Ever had a day where it seemed no matter how hard you tried, nothing turned out right? Ever had a day where it seemed that everything you touched turned into straw instead of gold? Me, too! So, I thought I would share my devotion from yesterday that helped me today.

"Learn to appreciate difficult days. Be stimulated by the challenges you encounter along your way. As you journey through rough terrain with Me, gain confidence from your knowledge that together we can handle anything. This knowledge is comprised of three parts: your relationship with Me, promises in the Bible, and past experiences of coping successfully during hard times.

Look back on your life, and see how I have helped you through difficult days. If you are tempted to think, "Yes, but that was then, and this is now," remember who I AM! Although you and your circumstances may change dramatically, I remain the same throughout time and eternity. This is the basis of your confidence. In My Presence you live and move and have your being."
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young - November 8th entry

Through difficult days, we should repeat the words of Psalm 50:15 - "And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me."

Another Visit From Family

What a blessing to have had my parents come for a two-week visit! For those of you who know my parents, you know how difficult this is. My Daddy owns a funeral home and is the director so it is very hard for him to get away. While they were here, we celebrated his birthday. What a fun time we had!

During that time, many parts of Bangkok were experiencing flooding and we thought we were not going to be able to visit the temples we wanted to take them to see. By the end of the time, however, the flooding had gone down and we were able to go!

We were also able to take them several hours out of the city down south to a place called Cha'am. They enjoyed being able to see more of the country than just the big city. Cha'am is on the east coast of Thailand next to the Gulf of Siam. Of course, since we were at the beach, we had to have a meal of crabs and shrimp!

The children had an especially fun time, starting with the fact that they didn't even know their grandparents were coming! It was so much fun to watch their faces while they were playing when they looked up and saw their grandparents walk out of the bedroom the morning after they arrived. The highlight for them was getting to have Christmas early.

After having made several trips to Mexico, Thailand was very different for my parents. Seeing the temples and the monks walking around amid lost people who aren't aware there is a Saviour, my Daddy commented, "This makes you want to go to Israel and visit the Holy Land!" Yes, it makes one very sad to be in a culture where they don't believe in the One True God. How exciting it would be to visit the place where Jesus was born, lived, died, and resurrected!

If it wasn't for my parents' love for missionaries, I don't believe I would be where I am today. My parents have always been involved with missions in every church they have been in. They housed missionaries in their home many times. They allowed my brother and I to stay up late at night even though there would be school the next day so that we could hear their stories. We learned many things about many countries, and from a little girl, I wanted to be a pastor's wife or a missionary's wife. My mother, many times, allowed missionary wives to do their laundry at her house. I believe that my mother's willingness to help in an area that was never known about was rewarded through me while we were traveling in the States on deputation and furloughs. I have always been offered a place to wash clothes or at the last minute, found a roll of quarters in a missionary basket I was given, in order to wash clothes at a motel when needed. God watches out for us in every area, no matter how insignificant it may seem to others. Thank you, Daddy and Mom, for allowing me to have the influence of other missionaries in my life. God has used you both in a tremendous way through my life. Who knows how He will also use my children?!

My Medley of Praise to God

My heart is overflowing with emotion as I have just finished cleaning my house! Surprised? This week, I found a CD of Spanish music and while I cleaned, I played it. I had to stop and start as my eyes would fill with tears. I reflected back on things in my life as well as looked forward to what may lie ahead. Besides the Spanish music, songs in English went through my mind as well as one song in Thai!!! Let me back up a little. This week, our family took a trip to Hat Yai in southern Thailand. We saw many new things like monkeys jumping in trees for example. Of course, the children loved that!!! For me, seeing the city from the top of a hill was breathtaking! And yet, behind us, was a giant standing Buddha overlooking it. God has placed a huge burden in our lives for the people of Thailand.

Needless to say, when we returned home, the house needed cleaning! We have friends coming to visit for a few days, so I took advantage of Randy having all the children except William at his English class, and cleaned - while singing in three languages! My mother gave me some advice when I first started singing in church. She said, "Don't ever sing something unless you really mean it." I thought about that every time I would sing and I still think about it now. Right before my church took a missions trip to Mexico, I sang the song "Whatever It Takes." I had already surrendered my life to full-time service for God but this song was my way of renewing my promise to God. "For whatever it takes to draw closer to You, Lord, That's what I'll be willing to do ... Take the dearest things to me ... Let the disappointments come ... lonely days ... take my houses and lands, change my dreams and my plans for I'm placing my whole life in Your hands. And if you call me today to a land far away, Lord, I'll go and Your will obey." During that missions trip is when I met Randy! And, as you know, we served God in Mexico and then God changed our land! I know my mother is probably crying her eyes out while reading this, but I want her to know how much her advice meant to me and how much more it made me sing for Christ and not the approval of man.

While singing along with the Spanish CD, God brought things to mind and many emotions flooded my soul. One of the first songs that played said, "What would have come of me if You hadn't touched me? Where would I be today if You hadn't pardoned me? ... If it wasn't for Your grace and love." That hit me like a wall of bricks. That was one of those moments I had to stop and thank God for many things. It is still only by the grace of God that I am where I am, doing what I am doing. I thank the Lord that I grew up in a Christian country with Christian parents and adults to help guide me through life. It if wasn't for the grace of God, I could have been born somewhere else without much of a chance of hearing of His matchless grace. As another song I heard said, "My life depends on You ... like the rain needs clouds, like the river needs the sea ... You're my daily bread, You're the reason for every dream in me." As a teenager, I dreamed of one day visiting the country of Thailand, and not only has God fulfilled my dream but given me more than I ever dreamed of!

A resounding message in many songs was God loves me! Yes, I know this. But I think many times, we need to be reminded of that simple truth. We get so wrapped up in our lives and what we are doing that we forget the simple fact that God truly does love us. "He tells me He loves me when I hear the rain. He tells me He loves me with a sunset. He tells me without words using the waves of the sea. He tells me in the morning with my first breath. He tells me that He loves me and wants to spend time with me ... He tells me He loves me when I see the cross, with His arms outstretched demonstrating how much. He says it with the wounds of his hands and feet. He tells me He loves me over and over again." GOD LOVES ME!!!!!!!!

The second message I kept hearing was that I can see God everywhere if I just open my eyes. Not just in creation and nature, but in the little things. I can see Him in the good and the bad. He is there for me always, faithful and true. I only have to reach out. "I see You in the moments of pain, I see You in the night ... I see You in my dreams. I see Your hand guiding me. You're always there ... I feel Your hand over me. I feel Your love ... I see You in the desert and in affliction, I see You in the valley ... I see You in every step I take, I see You in my plans. I see Your hand guiding me." I can most definitely say that I wouldn't be where I am if it wasn't for God's leading in my life. How peaceful it is to live in the center of His will! For this reason, I serve Him. He loved me first and I desire to be like Him and serve Him to show my gratefulness for all He has done for me. I don't want to give only part of my life. I want to do His will and not mine although that may seem difficult at times. What I do for Him that is difficult doesn't even come close to the "difficult" He went through for me. One of my daddy's favorite songs is "It's My Desire." As the song says, "It's my desire to live for Jesus. It's my desire to live for Him. Though oft I've failed and brought Him much shame, it's my desire to live for Him." Another song I pondered tonight says, "By His love, I live. Of His love, I sing. With Jesus I will walk. Because He loved me, I will follow Him."

Stay with me! I'm almost done "singing!" An English song that came to mind was "Can The World See Jesus In Me?". This is another desire I have - that the Thai people will see the love of God in our lives and will then be drawn to Christ. God has placed our family here for a reason - to tell them that He loves them! "Are you walking in the footsteps of the One that you call Lord? Are you living each day by His Holy Word? Surrenedered completely, are you His through and through? Can the world see Jesus, see Jesus in you? Can the world see Jesus in you? Can they see His love in the things that you do? Are you living the life, are you faithful, are you true? Can the world see Jesus, see Jesus in you?"

The song I want to leave with you, is the Thai song that I am learning. When I first heard the song, it sounded beautiful. However, I had no idea of the depth of meaning it held. It has been translated into English! Yay!!! I pray that just as I, your desire is to serve God to the best of your ability. No matter what happens, we should continually show the love of Christ. "Let me walk each day in the love of the Lord. Through each night I'll rest in the arms of His love. And each step I take in the path that He leads. Till I know and feel the full depth of His love. Overflowing with warmth in the arms of His love. His joy has no end, you can't hold it in. God loves you! Let my life be a stream of His love. Let the Light of the World shine through me. Tell the story of love throughout all of the world. That's the story of Christ in my life!"

Thank you God for loving me!!!

Perpetually In His Care

Yesterday, my devotional started off like this:

"I AM PERPETULLY WITH YOU, taking care of you. That is the most important fact of your existence. I am not limited by time or space; My Presence with you is a forever-promise. You need not fear the future, for I am already there ... Your future is in My hands; I release it to you day by day, moment by moment. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow." What a reminder to wake up to!!! He is "perpetually" with me! What an uplifting and comforting thought. I admit, I have succumbed to the feelings of "aloneness" and "does anyone even remember I exist outside my family?" Yes, I am a missionary's wife but I am also human. Just because I am a "missionary's wife" does not make me more spiritual although it probably should. My daily life consists of taking care of my husband and children, homeschooling the children, and being the secretary for my missionary husband. Many times I have thought, "Shouldn't I be out sowing the seed and reaping the harvest?" It seems when I go through these selfish times that God reminds me that my mission field for now is in my home. I, along with my husband, am training my children to go out into the world. I have five little lives in which I can have a huge impact. I can't do this alone. I can't have selfish times. I must remember my Creator and Saviour and allow Him to have full control of my life every day. This is difficult for me many times. I have to remind myself every day that God is in control of my life and I am doing what He wants me to do, where He wants me to do it. No, I may not have many of the comforts that I had in the U.S. or in Mexico, but He has given me different things to meet my needs - and some new comforts! I just need to reach out to Him more and allow Him to fulfill my life and my joy. I need to rest in the promise I have that He is PERPETUALLY with me and I need to let go and let Him lead me. My future is revealed to me daily as I follow Him. My goal: strive to PERPETUALLY follow as He PERPETUALLY leads. I can't be distracted by what is to come tomorrow, next month, or next year. Every day that God gives me is a gift in which I should use to honor and glorify Him. How can I do that if I am fretting about the future and feeling sorry for myself? I must spend my energy living in the will of God for my life for that day. God wants us to live each day to it's fullest in His will. Only He knows what tomorrow will bring and only He can prepare me for it.

Autumn???

As I was looking for a new template for my blog today, I couldn't believe how many were decorated in fall colors! Autumn is still so far away - or so it seems for me. I looked up online when the first day of autumn is this year and it is September 23rd! Yep, this month! It's hard to believe it is already fall in the United States. It's still hot here!!! The leaves are still as green as green can be. Mangos are still growing on the tree outside my window. It is rainy season for us. This is one of those times that I miss being in the States. No fall decorations here in the malls! For the first time in my married life, I am not decorating my house for fall. I miss the smell of cinnamon and spices. I miss the changing colors of leaves on the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. I miss the feel of winter setting in. I would enjoy that today! As I sit here in the quietness of my room, the windows open and the fan blowing, I can hear the sound of frogs and geckos. Through the stillness of this evening, my mind wanders back to playing in mounds of leaves with my brother, raking leaves with my Daddy, and making pumpkin pies with my Mother. These are the sweet memories that God has given me.

In the United States, we generally refer to this time of year as "fall." The word "autumn" is normally used only in science. However, did you know that many years ago this season was referred to as "harvest?" People stopped using the term "harvest" as they moved from working the land to living in towns. It is now only used when talking about the actual activity of reaping. I can't help but think of the verse Galatians 6:9, "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." I have to admit, I have had my days of weariness but God has always sent something special to me during those times to lift my spirit. But something much greater than this gives me the will-power to press on - the word "harvest" as I see it. I see a great harvest everyday. I am surrounded by this great harvest. Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 9:37, "The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few." The harvest is still plenteous and the laborers are still few. The spiritual harvest is vast. Many have not come to the true knowledge of God and salvation. Harvest time is when critical decisions are made. Only God knows the exact moment when someone is ready for "harvest" and only He can give the increase. Harvest is the most labor-intensive activity of the growing season. We are living in the harvest time. There isn't much time left! The Lord will soon return and the harvest will end. Pray for us as God continues preparing us for the hard work ahead. We are working hard now learning the language, people, and customs of this beautiful country. We are anxiously awaiting the day when without an interpreter we can work one-on-one with the precious souls here as they become "white already to harvest."

A Visit From Family

It has been a few weeks since I posted, but we have been busy having fun!!! Randy's Mom and Aunt were able to come and visit for two weeks! As I type, Randy has taken them to the airport and they should be boarding their plane sometime within the next hour. We hated to see them go, but as I told Cynthia last night, "If they don't go, they can't come back!" They are already planning another trip.

It was such a surprise for the children. We didn't let them know that Mama and Aunt Mary were coming. Lee overheard Randy telling someone that his Mama was coming but missed the part about Aunt Mary so he was still surprised. What fun we had watching their faces that Wednesday morning as they came downstairs as saw Mama and Aunt Mary sitting in our dining room! I was going to post the video I took, but apparently, my camera didn't record when I pushed the button! I was so sad when I realized this morning that the video didn't work. :(

While they were here, we were able to take them to some of our new favorite restaurants, went sightseeing, visited a temple and the Grand Palace, and, of course, we went shopping!!!

Also, William turned one year old! It is amazing how fast the time flies. Just one year ago, my mother-in-law was with us for his birth - in Mexico! This year, she had to fly half-way around the world to be here for his 1st birthday!

Please pray for them as they have a long flight ahead of them. And then, there will be jet lag as they get adjusted back to their time zone. We are now counting down to the next visit from family in the States. My parents are coming for two weeks in October and my Daddy will be here for his birthday! We are hoping to keep this visit a surprise from the children also but it is going to be hard considering how long it is until their visit.

God bless you all and thank you for your prayers.

Trusting In God Even When You Don't Understand

This was the theme of the Ladies Retreat that I went to last weekend with the church we are going to here in Bangkok. I was asked to be one of the speakers and was told the theme and immediately I thought, this should be easy! Seems like I have had to do a lot of trusting and not much understanding. My second thought was, maybe I haven't really learned whatever lesson God wants me to learn since I am still doing a lot of this! I got my lesson ready and when we got to the motel, I went to my room to go over what I had prepared. Then I realized that with such a hectic morning, I hadn't done my devotions. So, I pulled out my book and went to the date for that day and this is what jumped off the page at me: "When things seem to be going all wrong, stop and affirm your trust in Me. Calmly bring these matters to Me, and leave them in My capable hands. Then, simply do the next thing. Stay in touch with Me through thankful, trusting prayers, resting in My sovereign control. Rejoice in Me - exult in the God of your salvation!" The lesson I was going to teach went out the window and God gave me a different one. I meditated on Proverbs 3:5&6 and the fact that the verse says "Trust in the Lord" with an understood "all the time". Not just when things are going good or when I can handle things but trust all the time in the Lord. If my trust is in the Lord, "I can do all things" because He will enable me to do what He wants. This is something we all know but I believe there are times in our lives when we have to be reminded of these seemingly "easy" things. The devil knows what can distract us from our walk with the Lord. Just as we always need to be in a mind of prayer, we always need to have an unquestionable trust. He will do the understanding for us. I made a list of all the "bad" things that have happened in my life. There were many on the list and I shared most of them with the ladies. I told them, "I am not telling you this so that you feel sorry for me, but all of us have problems, and what I thank God for is the fact that my circumstances haven't been worse than this. I thank God for teaching me something through each situation that He put into my life." Many times I have asked God, "Why me?" or "Why now?". Isaiah 55:8 says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord." How true! There are things that have happened in my life that I wouldn't have chosen but the lessons I have learned and the knowledge I have gained have allowed me to help others through some of the same situations or just helped me deal with other problems that came along later in my life. Some of the reasons I may never know. One thing I know for sure, my faith in God has increased. No matter what I may be going through in my life right now, God is there and He will help me IF I trust in Him. I have learned that if I ask "Why NOT me?" and "Why NOT now?" I will have a clearer judgement on issues and even though I may not have the understanding, it reminds me that God knows what I am going through and that there is a purpose to what I am facing. Life is not always easy but having the understanding that HE does the understanding, makes it so much easier!

Ashcraft Children

The children have had a wonderful idea of having their own blog! To see what we have created, you can go to http://www.ashcraftchildren.blogspot.com/. Please subscribe to their blog to keep up with what goes on in their world "through their eyes."

Last History Lesson

As our History month of July came to an end, our last history lesson was about Uncle Sam, the bald eagle, and our national flower. I didn't know we had a national flower! It happens to be the rose. President Ronald Reagan declared the rose our national flower on November 20, 1986.

The bald eagle has been our national symbol since June 20, 1782. Did you know it is only found on the North American continent? Also, you can find them in every state except Hawaii but about 80% of them are found in Alaska! And as we all know, bald eagles aren't bald. So, why do we call them bald? An old English word "balde" means white. Something I found quite interesting about eagles is that they can only lift 4 pounds of weight! When the bald eagle was chosen as our national symbol, there were quite a few people who didn't like the idea because they said the bald eagle was a bird of bad moral character because they steal a lot of their food instead of catching it on their own. Believe it or not, one of them was Benjamin Franklin. So, what was the bird he suggested instead? The turkey!!! Can you imagine our Great Seal having a turkey instead of an eagle?! Ultimately, the bald eagle was chosen because of it symbolized freedom and independence. By the way, another who disagreed with having the bald eagle as our national symbol was John James Audobon.

(The children had a great time making bald eagles. They made the body out of their footprint and the wings are their handprints. Naturally, Caleb had to get involved because he loves tracing his foot!)

Uncle Sam has been a symbol of the USA since the World War I "I Want You" Army poster. Actually, Uncle Sam "was born" most likely during the War of 1812. There isn't an exact origin, so to speak, but most believe he came about as the result of the initials U.S. A man named Samuel Wilson was the inspector for meat purchased by the government. There are several different story beginnings but they all end with the fact that there were barrels of meat sent to the soldiers during the War of 1812 marked with the initials U.S. Someone asked what the initials meant and the facetious reply was "Uncle Sam Wilson, our meat inspector." A resolution was passed by Congress in 1961 recognizing Samuel Wilson as the inspiration for "Uncle Sam." Interestingly enough, many of the portrayals of Uncle Sam strongly resemble Samuel Wilson. However, Uncle Sam hasn't been the only symbol of American government. Before him was "Brother Jonathan." British loyalists used this term to describe the Revolutionary Patriots. Jonathan Trumbull was the governor of Connecticut in the 1700's. When George Washington was faced with a difficult decision, it is recorded that he would say, "Let us consult Brother Jonathan." Brother Jonathan and Uncle Sam were used interchangeably for a while. At the beginning of the Civili War, Brother Jonathan was predominately used, but by the end of the War, Uncle Sam emerged the more popular and Brother Jonathan has basically become a forgotten symbol.

The last day of the month of July was a wonderful day for us. Some friends of ours from South Carolina came to visit!!! They have family that live in India, so our friends flew to Bangkok to meet up with family that was flying in from India. Although we only had a few hours together, we had a great time! The kids all received a bag with games, puzzles, and toys and we were given Kool-aid, taco seasoning, more school supplies, and various other little things we had asked for. We thank the Lord for His many blessings, but most of all this week, fellowship with special friends and good Christian fellowship!

Liberty Enlightening the World

Did you know the title of this blog entry is the actual name of the Statue of Liberty? We had a fun time over three days learning about the Statue of Liberty. There is so much symbolism in all of her. I asked all three of the children what they learned about the Statue of Liberty. Andrew said, "She is on an island in the water somewhere. Cynthia is as tall as her nose and I am as tall as the middle of her mouth if you cut my head off!" Cynthia could remember that she has seven points on her crown. She said, "The Statue of Liberty has one foot raised to make it look like she is walking and her foot is 25 feet long. Her book says "July 4, 1776." And she has a flashlight (torch!). She represents freedom for our country." Lee said, "The Statue of Liberty stands on an island off of New York. Andrew, without his head, is as tall as the center of her mouth, Cynthia is as tall as her nose, and Caleb is the size of how wide her eye is. She was made in France to represent freedom. The broken chains under her raised foot stand for the slaves being freed. The seven points on her crown stand for the 7 continents and there are 25 windows that stand for all the natural gemstones found on the earth. She was finished ten years late."

Again, I am so proud of what they learned! We really enjoyed measuring their heights and comparing them to measurements of the Statue of Liberty. I don't think they will ever foget the measurement of Andrew "without his head" being as tall as her mouth! I think this helped put into perspective for them how tall she really is! Did you know she sways 3 inches when the wind blows 50 mph? The Statue of Liberty was the idea of a Frenchman in 1865, at the end of the Civil War and almost 100 years after American won it's independence. At a party, several Frenchmen were discussing the "two sisters" of France and America. They had great admiration for America's success in gaining their independence and establishing their government and abolishing slavery. They talked about the close ties between the two countries and their love of liberty. The host of the party, Edouard Laboulaye posed the question, "Wouldn't it be wonderful if people in France gave the United States a great monument as a lasting memorial to independence and thereby showed that the French government was also dedicated to the idea of human liberty?" And with that, the idea was planted in the mind of Bartholdi, a sculptor. In 1871, he visited the U.S. and was amazed with the view as he sailed into New York Harbor. He decided that would be the perfect spot for the statue because that was "where people get their first view of the New World." Because of funding problems, the Statue of Liberty was finished 10 years later than desired. The French wanted it to be a gift for the 100 year celebration of independence of the U.S. The man who designed the Eiffel Tower is the same man who designed the actual structure under the "clothing" of the Statue of Liberty. As Lee remembered, the Statue was built in France and then taken apart and shipped to the U.S. in 350 pieces! It took four months to put her together. In 1889, a 1/4 scale replica of the Statue of Liberty was presented to the French people as a gift, which still stands close to the Eiffel Tower. In 1916, the Statue was closed for about a week when Germans blew up some dynamite close by which popped out some of the bolts in the Statue's right arm. After she was re-opened, the arm was made "off-limits" to tourists. Emma Lazaurs wrote a poem to help raise money for the construction of the base where the Statue of Liberty was placed. She said (as most of us memorized in school), "Give me your tired, you poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore, Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!" I have recited these words many times and thought what a great object in our history to represent what we as Americans have - freedom which came at such a great cost. While studying for this lesson, I couldn't help but think what a great object we as Christians also possess - the cross, which also came at such great cost. The cross is God's way of saying, "Give me your tired and poor souls, yearning to be free of sin and guilt, the refuse in your life, Give yourself to me, I lift the Light of the World to show the way!" Tears sting my eyes as I so desire to be able to share the Light of the World with the many lost souls that pass by me each day but yet I cannot because of the language barrier. Please pray for us as we continue to learn more language, culture and customs, and more of what they believe in order to be able to share with them more effectively.

Don't forget where your freedoms came from - your American freedom and your Christian freedom. History is HIS story and He has placed you where you are to honor and glorify Him.

A Busy But Blessed Week!

This past week we were extremely busy but God blessed richly. Our Liberty Bell lesson got postponed a few days for one thing or another but we finally squeezed it in! This is what Cynthia wrote that she learned:

"Things about the Liberty Bell

It waid 1 ton.

It whas brot from eengland.

It probablee whasn't rung on July 4, 1776 because the steeple whas rottun and they thot it woud foll.

It whas rung for lots of difrent things."

Of course, her spelling wasn't perfect but it was interesting to see what she remembered on her own several days later. Here is what Lee wrote that he learned.

"It is twelv feet long and 3 feet tall. It allwais wasn't called Liberty Bell but people who wanted the slaves free started calling it that and it just stuck. It was not made in America. It was made in England."

Andrew said, "All I can remember is that it broke and they tried to fix it and it broke again and now it doesn't do anything." Funny the things that children remember! As with everything I have studied, I also learned a few things. I knew that part of Leviticus 25:10 is quoted on the bell, but the part before what is quoted says "And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year." How appropriate, seeing as how the State House Bell, as it was originally named, was made in order to honor the 50th year of Pennsylvania's original Constitution. It was taken throughout the United States after the Civil War in hopes of uniting the people. As Lee said, the name "Liberty Bell" came from abolitionists when they began to use pictures of the bell to promote freeing the slaves. The Liberty Bell has been "rung" several times even after it's last crack that practically rendered it useless. A special mallet was made and a microphone was placed near the bell in order for people to hear it "ring" on special occasions. As Cynthia remembered, many historians believe the Liberty Bell was most likely not rung on July 4, 1776. One reason is because the Declaration of Independence was sent to the printer on that day and secondly, because the steeple was so rotten that people feared the bell would fall if it was rung. Lastly, the Liberty Bell was "attacked" by a man with a hammer in 2002 who succeeded to put several dents in the rim of the bell. He was put in jail. After several days, the dents were malleted out enough to where they can no longer be seen. These precious symbols of our freedom will soon be forgotten and maybe destroyed if our children are not taught to respect them. They may only be "things" but they remind us of the great cost of our freedom.

The next thing on our agenda for the week was an American/Thai wedding. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to help the bride and her family (from TN) decorate the chapel where the wedding was held. At last notice, Cynthia was asked to be a Jr. bridesmaid! She was thrilled to participate. After the wedding while pictures were being taken, it was funny to watch people pull at least one of our children into pictures with them. It made me realize how much our children are "fitting in" with the people here. What a blessing to see them making friends among the Thai people.

Last but not least, the "topper" of the last week and a half was Andrew accepting Jesus as his Saviour!!! He had been asking lots of questions lately about salvation and usually he would talk about it for a few minutes but then his mind would wander. Over the last week or so, we have had several bad thunderstorms. He had been scared several nights in a row of the storms so we talked about how God would take care of us, that the thunder can't hurt you, and that we are to trust in God for everything. After he went to bed this particular night, he talked to Lee about it. He told Lee he was scared. Lee told him that if Jesus was His Saviour, he would take his fear away. Andrew told Lee he had never asked Jesus to come into his heart and when could he. Lee said he could ask anytime. So, right then, Andrew prayed, asking Jesus to forgive his sins and save him. Lee was overjoyed the next morning to tell us what had happened. Randy started asking Andrew questions. He asked, "What will happen tonight if you get scared again?" Andrew replied, "I won't because I asked Jesus to save me." Randy said, "Well, what if Jesus isn't in your heart anymore?" to which Andrew replied, "He won't ever leave so He will always be there!" What a blessing to know that your children understand salvation and have asked Jesus to save them!!! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on us.

The Great Seal of the United States

Since Randy and I had to make a visa run to the Cambodian border this week, we had to postpone school classes with the children on Thursday. So, instead of doing our lesson on the Great Seal of the United States on Thursday, we did our class tonight after supper. I thought it would be interesting this time to let Lee tell you what he learned in our class. So, as he talks, I will type!

"Today I learned that E Pluribus Unam means "Out of many, one." You see this on the Great Seal. I also learned that there are 13 stripes, 13 stars, 13 arrows, and 13 leaves on the olive branch. That represents the 13 states there were in 1776. On July 4th, 1776, which was Independence Day, the Continental Congress decided we needed a Great Seal. It took six years to design the Great Seal and 14 men helped to design it. The eagle holds the olive branch and arrows in it's talons. The arrows stand for war and the olive branch stands for peace. The eagle looks toward the olive branch showing we have peace toward all countries. The back of the Great Seal has an unfinished pyramid. On the bottom of the pyramid, it has roman numerals that mean 1776. That was the year the United States became a country. Above the pyramid, is the Eye of Providence. I am glad my Mommy taught me all this because now I know more about my country. Did you know you can see both sides of the Great Seal on the back of the dollar bill? Did you know they use the Great Seal more than 2,000 times every year? Since my Mommy taught me this, one day I want to teach it to my kids. Then they will learn to love and respect their country more." Again, this is what Lee said in his own words. I was amazed at what he remembered! As I talked about the Great Seal and taught them what each thing represented, they each colored a sheet I fixed with both sides of the Great Seal.

Of course, Caleb had to get in the picture, too! :)

I want to thank the Lord for the opportunity and great privilege I have to teach my children at home. I am able to teach them things that they would or would not learn at school. I love the fact that they are so excited about learning about their country. Since we don't live in America, I think that makes them appreciate their country more and want to learn more about it. Next week, we are going to learn about the Liberty Bell. Maybe I will let another one of the children share with you what they learn!

Holidays

I think of all the holidays, the 4th of July is my second most favorite. It is also one of those holidays that I really miss being in the U.S.A. This year, I have taken advantage of the fact that the children are still in school to teach them important things about our country's heritage and it's flag. Since we finally have a school room, I have decorated the room with a 4th of July theme. I have learned many things by doing research for different topics that I want to cover. Thursday, we talked about the 13-star flag that Betsy Ross made. Did you know that George Washington wanted a 6-point star on the flag? The reason it is a 5-point star is because Betsy Ross showed him that she could fold a piece of material a certain way and make 1 cut to have a 5-point star! He chose the 5-point star over his design because of how easy it would be to make the stars. Yesterday, we talked about Ft. McHenry, Frances Scott Key, and the "Star Spangled Banner." With the access of internet, the children were able to see Ft. McHenry and paintings of what the fighting on September 13-14, 1812, might have looked like. Also, we found audio of "You're a Grand Old Flag," "Star Spangled Banner," and several other patriotic songs. We learned where the phrase "Old Glory" for the flag came from. One of the ironic things of the "Old Glory" flag was that it was sent to England for safe keeping during the Civil War. The many facts we have learned together have been incredible. I thank the Lord for the opportunity to be able to teach my children the REAL history of the United States. So many never hear the details and facts surrounding the Biblical foundation of America. Our leaders were great men! We talked about the feelings the lawyer, Frances Scott Key, who wrote the "Star Spangled Banner", must have had. Before daylight, the fighting stopped and there was a mysterious silence. Key and the other men waiting with him didn't know what was going on. Then, "by the dawn's early light," they saw the beautiful flag blowing in the breeze which Gen. Armistead had asked for (a flag so big that "the British would have no trouble seeing it from a distance.") The flag measured 30' by 42'! I can't imagine the joy and relief he and the other men must have felt. I read every line of the "Star Spangled Banner" to the children and we talked about what every line meant. This song will no longer just be words to them - at least not for Lee. Tears came to my eyes as I saw tears come into his as he realized what the flag meant to Francis Scott Key. As I finished the class and the other kids left to play, he and I continued to talk about it. We discussed the fact that when you hear the song sung, yes, it makes us proud to be Americans. However, when you read the words following the punctuation and not the line breaks of the music, they give you the greater picture. Lee even caught in the 4th verse where the word "Power" is capitalized!!! He said, "Since he capitalized this word, that means he was talking about God!" What a blessing to watch your children learn and realize things for themselves. I could go on and on about what he and I learned together while "learning" the "Star Spangled Banner" but I am going to leave you with the words to read to yourself. Don't "sing" as you go along. Really stop and pay attention to the words and capture the feeling of wonder and awe that Francis Scott Key had as he waited to see his country's beloved flag. May we never forget the sacrifice that was made so that we may be blessed to call ourselves AMERICANS.

Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light

What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,

O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?

And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.

Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

On the shore, dimly seen through the mists of the deep,

Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream:

'Tis the star-spangled banner! Oh long may it wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

And where is that band who so valiantly swore

That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion,

A home and a country should leave us no more!

Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' polution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave:

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand

Between their loved home and the war's desolation!

Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land

Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

I Am Loved!!!

This past week, Randy and I celebrated our thirteenth wedding anniversary! Thirteen years ago, I would never have imagined in my wildest dreams that I would have been celebrating in Bangkok, Thailand. I have had people ask me all kinds of questions while being a missionary's wife. Of all the questions I have been asked, I think the most surprising question (which I have received many times) was, "If you had known all that was going to happen in your life, would you still have married Randy?" I have no doubt in my mind that God's will for my life was to marry Randy Ashcraft. There were too many "coincidences" to point me to the realization that Randy was the one for me. So, to answer the ever-surprising question, I give a resounding YES!!! Sure, we have had our disagreements and valleys, but doesn't every couple? God has been with us every second of the journey of our married life. Everything that has happened has been for a reason. Sometimes we discovered the reasons and some we will never know until eternity. However, as my devotions began the other day, "I have loved you with an everlasting love." God loves me more than I can imagine! He planned my life just as He desired. A dream I always had as a young child and teenager was to one day be able to visit Thailand. When Randy and I got married, I somewhat put the idea in the back of my mind, believing it would most likely not happen. And look what a change of events God has brought about in our lives! Not only did He allow me to visit this beautiful country, He has given me the opportunity to live here and share His Gospel with the unbelieving - to one day be able to share the knowledge of the "unknown God" as Paul did in Athens. God chose me to walk with Him down paths I wouldn't have dreamed and honestly, probably not chosen. My life has been unique because I have a unique God. God's plans for me are good. My future lies in heaven where I will one day relax from the "running" of this life. Although I do not know what lies before me in the future, I am excited to know that not only do I have a God that knows all and will lead the way but I have a loving husband who will walk alongside me as we fulfill God's plan for our lives together. Please pray for us as we continue our journey.

I love you with all my heart, Randy. I am so glad that God chose to put us together and give us five beautiful children.

2553???

Did you know the year is 2553 in Thailand!!! What??? How can that be? I was really confused. Well, confused would be an understatement. It was more like "Where has time gone?" So, really, how could it be 2553? And on top of that, it isn't A.D. It is B.E. Randy had noticed several days ago on paperwork that he was filling out that in the place for year there was 25___, like our American paperwork normally has 20____. So, we asked our teacher during class because we noticed her calendar. According to the symbols for the numbers that she had just taught us, the calendar said the year was 2553!!! She said the year really is 2553 because Lord Buddha was born 543 years before Christ! That is also the reason they use the letters B.E. It stands for "Buddhist Era." I sat there speechless. I didn't know what to think. Here I was in a country that even their calendar is based on Buddha and not Christ! Something I had not even thought about. I guess even the year is another thing we take for granted being from "one nation under God." The thought blew me away. And yet, she had just said the name "Christ." How much does she know of Christ? Just His name? Randy has made mention of the Bible and Jesus and stories from the Bible while talking about cultural issues with her. She has never given any indication to whether she knew or didn't know about the Bible and Jesus. Please pray for us that God may use even the little things like this to open a door to talk with the Thai people about Christ.

Another Year

Another year, another birthday! Thank you, Lord, for another year. Another year that was full of surprises. Another year that brought about moving from one place to another. Another year that brought another baby into our lives. Another year of ups and downs. BUT best of all, another year that God was with me! This time last year, I was pregnant, living in Mexico and getting ready for a big move. Little did I know ALL that would happen in one year's time! God protected and watched over me through an emergency cesarean that brought our little miracle, William, into this big world. God sent special people along the way to help with the packing while I was recuperating. God gave me special things all through the traveling to help with the children and my sanity! He let me know in His own special way that I was where He wanted me to be. I knew things would be hectic but I also knew He would be with me. Each day, God sends me something - whether through His Word or another person or just the thoughts He gives me through the day. Today, that special "something" came in the form of a birthday card. I want to share it with you because it was so special to me. Every person who reads this can apply it to their own life. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." God's purpose for me today included many things but the most important one was serving Him where He has placed me. So throughout my 36-hour birthday (as it starts on one side of the world and stretches to the other!), maybe another one of God's purposes for me today is to share these thoughts with you. God bless each one of you!

"Just think ... You are not here by chance, but by God's choosing.

Just think ... His hand formed you and made you the person you are.

Just think ... He compares you to no on else - You are one of a kind.

Just think ... You lack nothing that His grace can't give you.

Just think ... He has allowed you to be here at this time in history

To fulfill His special purpose for this generation."

Who Am I That He Would Consider Me?

Several times last night, I awoke to an awesome thunderstorm and Andrew's words from the other day rang in my head, "Right, Mommy, the thunder shows God's power?" Even a child can recognize God in creation. When I got out of bed this morning, I could hear the sounds of birds outside. They are chirps that I had never heard until I came to Thailand. My devotions this morning reminded me to look for God everywhere. He is "richly present" in everything! The last line of my devotions read, "Search for deep treasure as you go through this day. You will find Me all along the way." So many times we overlook the "treasures" God puts in our path. He will always be with us no matter what may be going on around us. Through all things that happen, God strategically gives us things that remind us of Him IF we let them. These things may be trials or blessings. Both turn our thoughts toward Him. I read Psalm 8:3-5 which says, "When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour." I thought of all the new things I have seen that have amazed me while on this side of the world - flowers, fruits, and birds. And yet, to think that the same sun and moon I see can also be seen from the other side of the world! God's majesty is proclaimed everywhere!

Oriental Magpie Robin that we see everyday around our house.

Dragonfruit which has become one of my favorite fruits! It is very similar to kiwi.

As we left for church, I watched things along the way and pondered the thought that no matter how small or insignificant I feel, God sees me and I am important to Him. And the thought amazes me. Even with all the people that are in the world, God knows me and loves me. How awesome! This was definitely the message God was sending me today because one of the first songs that was sung in our church this morning was a song entitled "Who Am I?" The words go like this:Tears came to my eyes as I thought of how much God truly loves me! He knows me by name. He hears me when I call on Him and He is there to see me through the good times and hard times. No matter what I do or say, HE LOVES ME, whether I deserve it or not! I am His and He is mine. I am loved with an everlasting love. I am in awe of his majesty and creation. We are not promised tomorrow. My desire is that while I am here on earth, people with be able to see God through me. I pray that I will be another part of His creation that He can use that gives all honor, glory, and praise to Him.

I found this picture this morning and although I have never seen the movie from which the top picture was taken, I was astonished at the similarities to the reality picture of Bangkok on Wednesday. May 19, 2010 will be a day that will forever be remembered in Thai history. A day when Thai people destroyed part of a Thai city and killed Thai people. As protesting had gone on for weeks, we knew something was about to happen when the Prime Minister gave the protesters an ultimatum. There was an eerie feeling that hung in the air. Randy and I watched news updates after we heard that soldiers and armored vehicles had begun to move toward the city of Bangkok. Our day started somewhat normal. My devotional entry for the day said, "I want you to know how safe and secure you are in My Presence." The Bible verse with it was Psalms 29:11 - "The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace." I have never felt any fear while living here, even with all the protesting going on. But what a wonderful blessing to be reminded THAT morning of God's protection over us. We knew we couldn't go to class because the public transportation had shut down so we decided to go to the Lotus (like a Walmart) to stock up on some groceries and eat lunch. This Lotus is located in a mall that is some distance away from the protesting. We did most of our shopping and then went to a restaurant on the 4th floor that overlooks Bangkok. Out the window, we could see a little black smoke in the air over the area where the protesters had been burning tires. We were almost done eating when we began to see plumes of black smoke going up, one by one, in the distance. We finished and decided to run in one last store before leaving. As we left that last store, vendors were hurriedly closing their shops and people were rapidly moving out of the mall. We got stuck in a massive crowd of people trying to get across the road on the pedestrian overpass. As we looked both directions, vehicles were bumper to bumper. I have to admit, it was unnerving but I felt no fear or panic. Just a peace that swept over me that I was safe in God's hands as my devotional words kept ringing in my head. When we made it to the other side, Randy said that we should just walk for a ways and then get a taxi. When we finally got in a taxi, the driver in a few words was able to let us know there was a curfew. Randy commented to me that a night curfew couldn't be causing this kind of chaos. When we made it home, the news revealed that the Red Shirt leaders had surrendered and everyone thought there was going to finally be a peaceful end to the protesting. However, the protesters began burning buildings and working their way to this side of the city. In all, 39 buildings were set on fire. As malls were some of the buildings being set on fire, every mall decided to close, hence the mass of people were stuck in trying to get out of the mall. An announcement was made over the loudspeaker in the last store we were in, but since they do that often, we didn't think anything about it and since we don't understand the Thai language, we don't know what was actually said. After looking at the news and pictures this morning, it is hard to believe what this city went through on that day. Many people are comparing it to the World Trade Center experience in the U.S. However, the major difference is that the WTC experience brought people together. This series of events in Thailand seems to have brought more division among the people. Like as Paul waiting in Athens, my spirit has been stirred as I have seen Bangkok (and all of Thailand) "wholly given to idolatry." These people were praying for the sacred objects to protect them! I have the promise of safety from my Lord. In the safety of our home, I silently prayed that this madness would end as we watched events unfold before us on the television. Firefighters couldn't get into some of the areas to put fires out because the protesters would shoot at them or do things to keep them away. Central World Mall, the 2nd largest in Southeast Asia from what I have heard, burned for at least 9 hours before firefighters were able to get in and try to control the blaze. At 10 p.m., Prime Minister Abhisit went on TV to ask for cooperation from the people and promised heavy punishment to those involved. As Thursday morning dawned, it seemed everything was finally over. There was a calm stillness. Still, several more fires were set. It was unbelievable to watch people cheering and clapping as the Central World Mall collapsed! Other reports told of protesters booing and jeering firefighters as they brought other blazes under control. A lot of what I have seen makes no sense. But then I have to remember, this is a Godless people. My prayer is that eyes will be opened and that Thai people will embrace a loving, forgiving, peaceful, compassionate God. My desire is for Thai souls to accept Him. Please pray for the Thai people and the country of Thailand. As my devotional book read this morning, "I, the Creator of the Universe, am with you and for you. What more could you need?" Pray that we will let God be our All in All as we seek to serve Him in this country so desperately in need of Him.

Awestruck

As I sit in the comfort and safety of my home, I remain awestruck as to what I have just seen. We have now lived in Bangkok for four weeks and have pretty much settled into a schedule and routine. When I look out over the balcony of my front and back porch, it is hard to believe that we live in a city, much less a city of 11 million people. The view around us seems like we are out in a country so to speak because we really can't see any high-rise buildings that would indicate that we live in Bangkok. As I have said before, when I see the pictures and videos of what is happening, it is unfathomable to believe it is all happening 5 and 1/2 miles from us! Today, Randy and I met some friends for lunch at a motel close to the rally site but far enough away that we weren't in any danger. After lunch, they took us to their room on the 24th floor of the building. As I walked into the room, the view in front of me was breathtaking. My heart sped up at the sight. The city of Bangkok, or at least a part of it, lay before me as far as the eye could see. My eyes filled with tears and my heart broke. I was reminded of how many people actually live in this city and why God has brought us to this dark place in the world. I have lived protected from the city by trees and other buildings. I sat down in a chair and while everyone else talked, my mind and heart raced. So many people that have never heard the precious name of Jesus! Through the window in a distance to the right, I could see black smoke rising. Just a short mile away, people were being injured and killed in the streets. I came to the conclusion that every missionary here should either live high above the city or at least frequently visit a high-rise building to look out over the vastness of buildings that contain precious souls. To be reminded of why God has brought us here. To have their heart broken every time they look out over Bangkok. I realized that every muscle in my body was rigid and I was gripping my chair as if I were going to fall through it if I didn't hold on. These people are calling on sacred objects to protect them and asking for help from Buddha. They don't know about the One True God who can save them from so much more than gunfire. I thought of all the times that I have gotten on the skytrain to go somewhere and the reality grips my soul when I think that Randy and I may have been the only ones on that skytrain who knew Christ as their Saviour. It is a bone-chilling fact. A verse came to my mind on our way home as my mind reeled with what I had seen and how God had used it to once again break my heart. Isaiah 9:2 says, "The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined." This city, this country is in a great darkness. They are living in the shadow of death. God is shining His light of love upon them through the missionaries He is calling and sending to this "Land of Smiles." Pray for us and pray for Thailand that this land will become of land of smiling faces that know Him as their Lord and Saviour. May it one day be said that these people have seen the Light.

Violence in Bangkok

Just a week ago, it seemed the protesters were going to go home and now we are on the verge of a civil war. An area of Bangkok has been declared a "live firing zone." The public transportation systems have been closed. Electricity, water, and phone use in areas has been shut down. As of the writing of this entry, over the last few days there have been 29 deaths and 221 injuries. The Red Shirts have called on the governent to stop using force and they would go to the negotiating table again. The life of one of their leaders hangs in the balance as he entered kidney failure this afternoon. During the day, there is absolutely nothing to indicate there is practically a war zone 5 and 1/2 miles from our house. Life continues as normal around here. But after it gets dark and everything is still and quiet, we can hear the intermittent gunfire and explosions from RPG's. We know we are in the center of God's will and we know there are many people praying for us. God has brought us here for a reason. Lost souls. I cringe at the sounds I hear at night just knowing these people more than likely have never heard the name of Jesus and they are not ready to enter an eternity without Him. My devotional book started the other day with this sentence : I AM A MIGHTY GOD! Isaiah 9:6 immediately came to my mind: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." My heart breaks for the people of Thailand who don't even know this precious truth! Governments rise and fall as to God's discretion. He was in control in the beginning. He was in control when He gave His only Son. He was in control when Jesus arose. He is in control now in the midst of the controversy in the country and He will still be in control when the problems are resolved. How truly thankful I am to know that I can rest in peace, knowing that whatever happens, it was ordained by God. One of the Red Shirt leaders called on the "sacred objects to protect the protesters." Before we moved over here, Randy and I both felt like something was going to happen in Thailand that would cause more openess to the Gospel. Maybe God has brought us here for such a time as this. We feel so inadequate since we don't know the language. However, we know that God is going to use us. Please pray for us that we will be sensitive to the people here and also to the Lord's direction in our lives. Please pray for the people of Thailand that they will be willing to open their minds and hearts to Christ.

One Week of Language School

Our first week of language school is completed! I am amazed at how much we were taught during the first week. 42 consonants and 24 vowels. I can now write my name in Thai, also! I am surprised at how much I remember when I am out and look at signs. Today, our teacher said the name of the consonants and the vowels so we could write them down. She also dictated consonant and vowel blends for us to write. That doesn't sound like it would be too difficult, but it is crazy how the blends go together! The vowels are a combination of symbols that can be above the consonant, below the consonant, to the left, to the right, or a combination of all these! Some vowels are one symbol while others are five symbols all around one consonant! Short and long vowels determine the tone of the consonant-vowel blend. There is so much to remember and still so much to learn! Please continue to pray for us. We were going to try to go every day but with the travel time and school with the children at home and still trying to get adjusted, we decided we would be better off to go only three days a week. It is better to go at a slower pace now and learn the basics well. The children have a tutor who comes to our house Monday through Friday for one hour in the evening so they are learning the Thai alphabet as well. They are doing a very good job!

We had our first "accident" this week as a glass top on a living room end table fell and broke into hundreds of pieces. As usual, it was a combination of things that caused this to happen. In the process, the floor got wet and Caleb slid and fell and cut the back of his leg on a piece of the glass. Randy looked at his leg and cleaned it. We praise the Lord that it wasn't a very deep cut, not even deep enough to need stitches. Of course, since we have just moved here, we didn't have any band-aids so Randy had to go to a pharmacy and buy some. I fortunately had brought some Neosporin with me! This most definitely could have been so much worse than it was. We thank God for watching over us at ALL times!

I also want to thank the Lord for bringing new American friends into our lives. We have been e-mailing several missionaries here over the last few months - getting information and asking questions before we left the U.S. One of the families, Matt & Courtney Jones, came to our house to meet us yesterday. What a blessing! They have four children that almost perfectly match the ages of our four oldest children. Cynthia was thrilled to have two girls to play with that were around her age. We are looking forward to spending more time with them in the future.

To all of you Mothers who read this, I hope you had a wonderful Mother's Day. It was so wonderful to be able to spend Mother's Day with my husband and children! Sunday was Mother's Day in the United States, while Mother's Day in Mexico was Monday. I have been asked by several people which Mother's Day I would celebrate. I found out that Mother's Day in Thailand is August 12th, which is the Queen's birthday. So, technically, I could celebrate three Mother's Days! God gave me a new insight this year - no matter where I am, what I am doing or whether my children are with me or not, every day is Mother's Day because He has given me five blessings to hold, love, and raise, and two who went to be with Him before they were born. I am truly blessed! I pray that I will be the right example for my children. Who knows, maybe one of the reasons that God brought our family to Thailand was that He is planning to use one of our children here in the future to make an impact on this country. My Mom has a magnet hanging in her office that reads: "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." - III John 1:3. For her, even though I am so far away, she knows that I am in the Lord's will and that I am right where He wants me. I can't imagine how hard it is for her for me to be so far away. Thank the Lord for technology that I can use Skype and actually see and talk to her at the same time!!! When the time comes for my children to leave home, I pray that they will follow His leading and go where He wants them to go and do what He wants them to do, while I wait to hear of how God is using them wherever they are.

Day One of Language School

We have just returned from our first day of language school. I am surprised I don't have a headache! I learned a lot today and I realize that although this is a hard language to learn, I will be able to learn it! God will get me through another language. I look at it as another way to praise Him and glorify Him. God's majesty is visible in so many ways - through flowers, animals, people and languages! I am in awe, again, as I today can pick out 9 consonants and 12 vowels in a language that yesterday was totally unrecognizable. Please pray for us. We have class every day Monday through Friday ffrom 2-4 p.m. An old hymn says, "Oh, for a thousand tongues to sing my Great Redeemer's praise." I think I will be satisfied with three!

These are only the consonants!!!