Thai Sky

White, paper lanterns burst with firelight as they float Bang Saen’s darkening sky – Loi Krathong Festival has begun. The ocean tide washes over our feet as we watch the festival lights illuminate the faces of those who believe their sins disappear with the release of their 50 Baht ($1) lanterns. You can buy a lantern right here on the beach and light the fuse on the bottom of the cylindrical contraption. Pumping it up and down helps fill the lantern with air, enabling it to take flight. The display is breathtaking. I can barely take my eyes off the sky all night. I am tempted to send one up but, because of its religious significance, decide against it.

Matthew 5:14-16 comes to mind as I watch the dark sky become lighter: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Since arriving in Thailand, I’ve felt an urgency to tell everyone about Jesus’ love. Can’t we let everyone in on this message of eternal freedom? Paper lanterns make for extraordinary photographs, but they don’t come close to the greatness of my Saviour. In a world that can be overwhelmingly evil, God calls us to shine brightly, dispelling any ugliness darkness can create. Our lights cannot be hidden or extinguished. We shine for the glory of God.

Pray that the church in Thailand shines bright in the darkness, and that many more Thai people will come to know Jesus as the Savior who frees us from sin. Pray that our TREK team will work effectively with the long-term missionaries to communicate the truth of the Gospel.

By Sarah Jean Rhoads
Sarah is a team leader on a TREK team in Thailand