April 2008

CBC television (a Canadian network) recently ran a story in follow up to the tsunami rebuilding work in Southern Thailand. They profiled a number of Christian groups working in the area including the Mennonite Brethren. The story suggested that the beauty and cultural history of Thai Buddhism are now being eroded by Christianity - a foreign belief system. More than that, the story implied that conversions are being bought or manipulated by unscrupulous missionaries in exchange for rebuilding work. One of our workers, Rob Griffioen, made a clear statement that our compassionate aid in the name of Christ is never done to manipulate conversions. He went on to state that biblical conversion is an experience of someone's free will response to Christ's offer of forgiveness and freedom.

The viewer responses on the CBC website have been highly critical of their seemingly biased reporting. However, we should not be surprised at this kind of critical media approach. It serves as a reminder that our motives are always being evaluated by the world around us.

Some of our partner churches in North Africa recently experienced a highly critical media campaign in their national papers. They too have experienced conversion to the way of Jesus. Their motives, patriotism and character are being maligned in the media. I am reminded of the words of Peter to the developing churches of the first century when he said, "If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? (1 Peter 4:14-17)

Why should it be any different for us in North America?

Ministry Highlights

- Team 2000 in Chonburi, Thailand reports that after a lengthy process, their application to start a legal charitable foundation has been approved. Among other things, the foundation will allow their orphanage, the Abundant Life Home, to receive many more HIV+ orphans.
- MB Mission Country Team Leaders have just finished a week of meetings together- what an incredible time of training, strategy and fellowship! Praise God for this experienced and dedicated team comprised of individuals passionate about transforming lives in mission.

Items for Prayer

- Pray for Jose & Esperanza Prada, Colombian missionaries in Peru, who have been visiting churches in North America and sharing stories of their work in Lima.
- A number of believers interested in baptism have begun meeting together for Sunday School at the RETO church plant in Guadalajara, Mexico. Pray that these individuals would be challenged and encouraged to take this important step of commitment.
- MB Mission will host two Celebrate Mission Nights this month. Pray that those who attend would be encouraged and challenged by stories from around the world of lives being transformed.

Until all have heard,

Randy Friesen