Another year has been begun, with the work of the Lord continuing forward as strong as ever! Our family will celebrate our 10th year in Thailand this coming May. Looking back through these past 10 years, we can see God’s hand of grace and faithfulness in every challenge and victory we have faced. What a joy it is to be where God has called us, to work alongside some of the greatest Christians and missionaries, and to serve the amazing people of Thailand.
We enjoyed celebrating Children’s Day with our church family on Sunday, January 14. Each child who came received a free toy and ice cream. This is always a fun Sunday that brings families together to do something extra for the kids. Please pray for the children who come every week. We have about 35-40 children (ages 5-12) who are excited about Jesus and church. These young ones are the future of Christianity in Thailand!
Several of our faithful church members have recently stepped up to the challenge of helping in Sunday school classes and Junior Church. As we work with our church folks, this could be one of the most precious things to see. What a privilege to watch a Christian grow in God and be excited about serving in the Lord’s work. One lady, Pi Fatima, has been coming to International Baptist Church of Hua Hin for two years now. When Pi Fatima was asked to consider helping with the children, she didn’t hesitate to answer, “Yes!” Her willingness and sweet spirit bring a lot of excitement and love to the children’s ministries.
We appreciate our church members and are especially thankful for those who drive over an hour one way each Sunday from the city of Phetchaburi. We took a Saturday to visit most of the folks who live there. Instead of helping them, they were a blessing to us. At each house we visited, we were spoiled with fresh fruit, cold juices or coffee, and, of course, wonderful fellowship. Would you pray for the need in this city? There are over 700,000 people in Phetchaburi and not one Bible-preaching church. We are praying for the Lord to call several young men in the church to step up to this great challenge.
Oh, in case you were wondering, soul winning works in Thailand. People are seeking the truth. They are open and willing to listen to the Gospel, and they are converting in Jesus’ name. We will continue to keep the main thing—the Gospel—the main thing. It is our prayer that we will have decades more to serve Him here in this needy country. We will work to teach, train, and send forth nationals to do the same, as we trust you will be doing the same in your Jerusalem!
Missy and I are actively soul winning and visiting, and we count it a joy and great responsibility to represent you in Thailand. Thank you for your faithful support and prayers! “We’ll work till Jesus comes. We’ll work till Jesus comes. We’ll work till Jesus comes, and we’ll be gathered home.”
For Him,
Tim Shook
