new vision

we met someone who knew someone who believed strongly in the value of the good work being done by someone in a small village in northern thailand. each connection, we are certain, was ordained in another sphere. brother lek is the kind-hearted, english-speaking son of the someone last mentioned: pastor chet sirikiatkit, a joyfully hard-working servant of God, who shepherds a small church in baan khai with the tireless support of his kind wife. we travelled with lek and his fiance, jum, up to baan khai, where we were immersed in the grace of his parent's hospitality.
they quickly and affectionately adopted us as their own children, insisting that we call them ohpa and oha, their laho tribes' names for dad and mom. we were glad to do so, for even despite the language barrier, we felt very much at home with them. lek and jum were exceptional translators, to our benefit and delight.

oha spared no energy or expense in preparing superb laho and thai dishes for us, serving us their own home-grown black chicken, bamboo, sugar cane, rice, and a variety of herbs and spices, along with a host of delicious local specialties. the laho words we spoke most frequently all related to the preparation, consumption, enjoyment, and completion of meals - "meh ja. bv uh ja!" we spent a lot of time laughing, eating, talking, gesturing, and praying together. did i mention laughing? yeah...much laughing.
we were also introduced to the great work they are doing - the great burden they have - for the poor and orphaned children of the region. drugs, alcohol, HIV, and a variety of other things have broken families apart, leaving many children destitute and without hope. lek's parents are earnestly, generously sharing what little resources they have to begin to meet this need. they have taken a great and courageous stride of faith in starting this orphanage, and have a broad vision for it to be a self-sustaining entity at some point in the future.
they were very hesitant to share the needs of this place with us, not wanting to "put a burden on your shoulders," but tracy and i were overwhelmed with the appropriateness and goodness of this pursuit, and feel compelled and eager to come up under this burden with them; to share it with them. there are countless needs and opportunities for service and partnership in mission around the world, but we are particularly moved by the personal goals and sacrifices made by these servants, and feel strongly led to contribute our resources to their work. we are committed, in prayer and in material resource, to this partnership. we also joyfully invite all who feel similarly led to join us in this. ohpa and oha extend their generous welcome to you as well!
"dachimahe - you are welcome!"