Joyful Noise Encore

Today was our second day at the school in Nakhon Pathom. In the morning we conducted the same lessons, games, songs, and activities with 75

fourth through sixth graders that we had with the younger grades yesterday. After being lunch guests of the school staff, we were able to spend time with all 160+ students (grades 1 through 6) out in the school courtyard, where we sang songs and played games. Again the enthusiasm of the children and staff were overwhelming, as they were gracious hosts.

Putting the day in perspective is a bit of a challenge.  Not sure what to share first.  We arrived at Thakam School about an hour early in the midst of a downpour.  On the way we were prepping for songs we would be sharing on a big screen for the whole student body to watch and participate in.  We took the extra time to strategize and determine how we would use the time allotted to us after the lunch hour.  The classroom activities went really well.  Having the first day jitters out of the way our performance anxiety was pretty much gone.

 The post lunch program started with Tok, from Lutheran Hour Ministries Staff, doing a masterful job of engaging and entertaining the children.  Following Tok we sang Deep and Wide, Oil in my Lamp, The Hokey Pokey and then the chicken dance for which we performed an encore.  Following the ceremonial thank-yous we were in a bit of a scrum. The entire team was swarmed by the children.  Imagine this, the lower grade kids were recruiting all the help they could find to try and lift up Greg, affectionately now referred to as the "soft squirrel". More on that later.  we were all surrounded by children hugging us and wanting to touch us.  That eventually evolved in to an autograph session.  Who woulda thunk?  Wow, we really didn't see that coming. They truly touched our hearts!

For many of these children, this was the first time in their lives that they've ever had contact with Christians. It is very important to any mission, that a positive first impression is made, for all Christians. This way a relationship of trust and understanding  can be established for future Christians, who will come along in their lives, to possibly share The Good News of Jesus Christ.

Today the love of Jesus did shine through all of us, which was made evident by the response of the children. Many of them will go home and tell their family of what they had experienced with us "Christians". It was also evident since the school staff asked not "if", but when could we return. Praise The Lord for His blessings so far, and may He keep His hand upon us as we continue on through Thailand.
 

              -Reed & Brian


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