Love, The Best Gift! February 14, 2012

  And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.  But the greatest of these is love. 1 Cor. 13:13

Yesterday I was reminded that Valentine’s Day was coming, I thought, “I did’nt know that Valentine’s Day was celebrated in Thailand”.

We all need Love,  its life to our body and soul, not the fluffy stuff, true love. Love that places others before yourself, love that turns the other cheek when you’re stung by betrayal  from a friend or relative, love that tells you the truth and refuses to allow you to believe the lie, love that is consistent even when you are not,  love that sits with you through the good, bad and ugly of yourself, love that pays your way though you did’nt know it, love that listens - Love, it is the best gift.

Yesterday I said good-bye to a friend that I had not known long, but made a huge impact on me with her caring spirit, love and kindness for others.  I hope to see you again in Uganda, I love you Sarah. Today I received heart shaped cookies with red candies on top from my new friends, Max and Jane – what a surprise and wonderful expression of Love. Also, today I met a young woman who though I did not know, I could touch her pain, it was almost visible to me. I could feel the fragile nature of her very presence.  I was able to spend some time in prayer for her asking the Lord to protect and watch over her and reveal more of himself and his love for her to her.

As I go through my days here in Thailand, I am reminded that God, our Father, loves us so very much.  Regardless of our circumstances or our viewpoints, he loves us without limitation.  A week or so ago, I was speaking with a friend in America and he said to me that God loves Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, leader of Iran. Yet, another reminder that God loves all of his creation no matter our religious beliefs or even if we reject Him. That tells me that I am to love also, no matter the difficulty, without boundaries.  Jn. 13:26, tells us that we have been given a new command,  Love one another. This is a statement, not a request.

Our love given freely can break the cycles of abuse, close the doors of rejection, provide an opportunity where nothing existed, give hope, offer healing, and save a life.

So start spreading your love around everyday, don’t hold it in. Your words, thoughts and actions matter. Let God’s expression come through you, its in you waiting to be released. Love, the best Gift!

We Always Have Hope February 8, 2012

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to tag along with a group to meet a family living in a nearby refugee camp. The actual process to meet them was truly orchestrated by God’s favor.

The purpose of the group’s trip was to interview refugees to obtain a better understanding of their daily lives and how others can serve their needs.

We met with a family consisting of four generations currently living in the camps. Over three years ago some of their family members were legally relocated to the US. The group delivered photos from their family members in the US and arranged a phone call during our visit.

As the family shared, we learned that some had been in the camps for nearly 20 years while others were born there. They fled their native Burma after their villages were destroyed and family members killed. They had nowhere else to go, the refugee camp served as a safe place.

They described life in the camps as difficult, but they always have hope that they too will relocate to the US and join their family.

We had hoped that we could go into the camp, but it was not possible. Viewing the conditions and listening to the recount of their lives was difficult to put it mildly. One of our interpreters, who has lived in this particular camp said to me, “I think it is God’s will for you not to go into the camp because it is much worse than what you see and hear right now.” I know that she is right!

Please keep this and other families in your prayers.  With the current state of affairs in Burma, the closure of all refugee camps in the near future is on the horizon.  We need God’s provision, protection and wisdom for the refugees and God’s sovereign authority over the political authorities and governmental officials in Burma.

If you would like to donate to Antoinette during her journey, please send donations to Paypal via email: alabasterboxdesigns@yahoo.com, Chase Bank, Quick Pay, Acct. No. 973756802 or Women Identity Purpose, http://womenidentitypurpose.yolasite.com

Blessings,

Antoinette

A Christmas Carol December 24, 2011

I must say that spending the Christmas season in Thailand has been so beautiful. Coming from America, my view of Christmas over the past years has been approached with trepidation due to so much commercialization. However, in Thailand I have been overwhelmed by the Christ focus and sincerity of seeking God during this time.

Last Saturday night I went caroling with a local Burmese church. While I cannot speak Burmese, I can intercede, so that is what I did. I cannot express to you the joy I experienced and amazing spirits of the people I was with. Some of the church members are those that I teach and children from Life Impact, while others I met for the first time. We sang and ate snacks to and from the various locations while riding in the back of a Sung Tow (a pick-up truck of sorts with seats and an overhead cover).

 

The first location was deep in the woods to about 8 homes made of bamboo – no electricity or running water (it was only 7 pm, but we could barely see in front of us). We parked on the side of a dirt road and were led down a path by men with flashlights to the first homes where we would carol. After singing and sharing the gospel at the first home, the lady who lived there (who was drunk) tried to give us money. We explained that we were here to bring the joy of Jesus which is celebrated at this time through Christmas and gave her a gift for her home. I thought it quite interesting that this lady, who in my American eyes had very little, wanted to give us money. She later followed us to all of the other homes in her area, as did many of her neighbors.

As we pulled up alongside the highway to our second location, I could see several homes just beyond the trees.  After singing, presenting the gospel and giving out gifts to families and children, we went to the home of a very young family (mother, father and baby).  As we approached the home, I could see the father holding and intently looking at the child, the mother in the background.  My thoughts went immediately to Jesus’ birth and for some reason I looked to the sky to see it blanketed with stars. 

 

Our third location was in town at two homes that sat side by side.  As we sang and ministered, the Lord allowed me to see His spirit descending upon the first home. The Lord began to speak that the Kingdom of God had come to this home today.  I was reminded that as Cornelius received Christ in his heart, his entire household was saved.  The Lord impressed on me that the three men before us had open hearts to him and that not only would those of this home be saved, but would also receive the Holy Spirit. And, those who came under that roof with open hearts would also receive.

I try not to take these experiences for granted and really feel the moments of each day.  My days are filled with so much that it is hard to always remember everything.  But, this is one Saturday night that I will not soon forget.

God Bless You,

Antoinette

Merry Christmas December 24, 2011

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year! Click here for a Christmas greeting.  http://youtu.be/EOeWefVJVzQ

Sweet December December 3, 2011

December 1st marked Sweet December, a traditional day celebrated by Burmese and Karen Christians. This day marks the turning of our attention to Jesus Christ in preparation for the celebration of his birth.  As it was told to me, this is a time to reflect and give ourselves completely to the Lord. Of course, no celebration is complete without food and plenty of it. On Thursday the interpreter for our jewelry class brought a number of dishes for our lunch.  She explained that the tradition begins at midnight with prayer giving thanks for Jesus’ sacrifice for us followed later by a meal.

That evening I was able to fellowship with a group of missionaries from the Phillipines that have a school and house Burmese and Karen boys and girls. They brought Adobo - a chicken and rice dish and Senigal soup made with spare ribs and vegetables (not sure of spellings) and in the words of Joy an “experiment cake” that was delicious (it reminded me of Pineapple Upsidedown Cake). I made broccolli and cornbread (which they had never had).  It was great sharing all around.

Fellowship at my apartment with women from Elpis

In addition, this time is the start of caroling season performed by children from many of the local churches.  What a wonderful treat.  Last night the girls from Faith Haus came to sing about Jesus to me and my neighbors.  It was so uplifting.  One of my neighbors called out from her window and asked the children if they could continue singing and she ran down to hear them sing a few more songs then she sang a song to us. http://youtu.be/oN842x-knbY

What a beautiful tradition.  I think I’ll take this one back to America.

Merry Christmas,

 

Antoinette

My Super Models October 4, 2011

Beautiful!

Beautiful is only one word I use to describe the women that I am blessed to work with in Thailand. These ladies care for children at our safe homes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; teaching, encouraging and demonstrating the word of God. Isaiah 52:7 states, How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, Who proclaims peace, Who brings glad tidings of good things, Who proclaims salvation, Who says to Zion, “ Your God reigns!” I am constantly learning from these ladies. Their resilience and strength encourage me daily.

Pan Hsu Wai and Yin Yin Aye

Last week marked a milestone for the participants of Life Impact’s Jewelry Design Program. The ladies produced some of their first designs so I wanted them to have a little fun. We treated them to a makeover and photo shoot. The results were transformative. I learned that none of the ladies had ever worn make-up and absolutely had never taken pictures where they were the primary focus. I started the morning applying very subtle touches of make-up which was amazing. The slightest touch of color on their faces enhanced their natural beauty exponentially. The ladies were very shy and not only did they not want to look at themselves in the mirror, but were very apprehensive about wearing their own designs and posing for the camera.

Yin Yin Aye and SoSo

There was a lot of nervous laughter, especially, when others commented on the results of their makeover. We had a great morning and it gave me an opportunity to see yet another side of their personalities. The Burmese (or Thai) culture traditionally does not focus on physical beauty, so it was very unsettling for the ladies to receive so much attention. I am
proud of what they are accomplishing by participating in the program and considering the possibilities of starting their own small businesses.

The program consists of three six week instructional sessions and an eight week internship session. Upon completion, each participant will be awarded a Certificate of Completion, as well as a Jewelry Design Kit equipped with the tools and materials to get them started in their new businesses. One requirement for completion of the program is to teach basic jewelry design techniques to at least two members of their community. I hope, in addition to breaking a cycle of poverty, the education will help spur further growth in their community and change mindsets about the possibilities for their futures.

Pan Hsu Wai and Antoinette

Please join me in celebrating these women and their bright future. Keep them in your prayers as you journey through your day. I continue to encourage them with God’s promise that his thoughts toward them are good and not evil and that he has a hope and a future for them and desires to prosper them because of his great love for them (paraphrased, Jeremiah 29:11).  And, a big thank you to Courtney O’Connor, our fabulous photographer, your words of encouragement during devotions and the photo shoot were inspirational.

If you would like to donate, please see the varying donation options. Thank You.

Blessings,

Antoinette

Another Thailand Moment… September 18, 2011

So, this morning I got up to fix a little breakfast and walked outside of my room only to find that I was locked in the house.

How does one get locked inside of their home you ask?  Well, in Thailand many of the houses do not have deadbolt locks or any locks for that matter, so in some instances a padlock is used to lock the door when you are away. Imagine my surprise when I tried to open the door and heard the resistance of the padlock.  I ran to look out the window to see if my scooter was in the driveway – it was. Yet, somehow my housemates thought I was not home and put the padlock on the door.

Eventually, I sent a text informing them I was locked in and one of them came to unlock the door.  I am grateful that I was not in a rush to get out today!

Do you think this happens in other parts of the world? Please share.

A Bright Spot to A Rainy Day! September 12, 2011

After yesterday’s downpour, it was nice to have a Bright Spot to my day, her name, Khiang War Hnin (pronounced Ky wa nee).  I kept her last night as her parents celebrated their one year anniversary.  Thank you God that you allowed their plans to go forward despite the weather - they deserve it!

Good Morning! or Ming La Ba in Burmese

So this morning I got all kinds of wonderful hugs and kisses and we loved on Jesus.  She loves to sing and lift her hands to God.  We lift both our hands and say ‘Thank You Jesus, We Love You’.  She gets such a kicked out of it – it really cracks her up.

Thank You Jesus! I love you!

Khiang War Hnin also loves to look at herself in the mirror.  Its quite a show watching her check herself out.  She purses her little red lips together and leans into the mirror with her head lifted.  She waves at herself.  All the while just laughing and enjoying seeing her reflection.  Khiang War Hnin is one of the joys that I have the opportunity to experience while I’m here, she is such a blessing.  THANK YOU JESUS, WE LOVE YOU!

It’s Official: Life Impact Jewelry Design Program September 12, 2011

Last week marked the beginning of the first jewelry design program hosted by The Alabaster Box for Life Impact.  The ladies were excited to get started and ready to learn.

Pan Hsu Wai constructing her interpretation of the color wheel.

Yin Yin Aye contemplating what to include in her color wheel.

The ladies first assignment was to learn about color. Each student had to construct their own interpretation of a color wheel. And, little did they know – give a presentation of why they chose the colors, patterns, textures and order for the color wheel. I am sure this was a first to give a presentation, but they were EXCELLENT!

Thang Hine Pae, our spirited Interpreter.

I am so very excited about the many possibilities for these ladies.  And, I know that God will meet them at each point.  Please keep these ladies, Life Impact and I in your prayers.

Blessings,

Antoinette

 

Its Raining, Its Pouring! September 12, 2011

Well, its the rainy season in Thailand.  I’ve been told that its almost over.  Last night the rain began and remained heavy through the night and this morning.  My ride to work was VERY WET and several areas were already overrun with water.  By Noon the area around our office was flooded and the water continued to rise.

In front of our office at Life Impact

We finally had to move our bikes to higher ground!

Everyone made it home safely.  But, it is still raining.   Please keep us in your prayers!