We try our best to be storytellers and capture the experience of our teams as they venture into uncharted territory to aid those in desperate need. But sometimes our words fall short, unable to properly capture the incredible things the Lord is doing. Sometimes it's best simply to share the words of those we encounter.
We pray the following translated testimonies straight from the front lines will encourage you as much as they have encouraged us.
"I write a thanks letter to you because you love us so much. You love our people, and you raise your hand to give to us. We appreciate so much your love. Because you come to help us, God will bless you richly with all your families. Thank you!"
-Villagers from a pioneered area in Southeast Asia
"I have no parents. They both died by sickness. My father died first and then my mother. There is no hospital in my village. I have two younger sisters. It took me two hours to walk here. It was very hard, and I climbed lots of mountains. I have never seen white faces before. You are like a mother that visited us. This is the first time I heard the name of Jesus. I accepted Him into my heart. I like Him!"
-"Naomi" (8 year old girl)
"It took us 3 hours to walk here today. I have a wife and 3 children. I have seen Westerners from a distance, but today is the first time I have talked to them and seen them up close. You look a little funny and different from us. Today is the first time I have heard about Jesus, and I accepted Him in my heart today. He is my guide and my Lord.
-"Moe" (34 year old man)
"I have no father. He died when I was seven years old. I only see my mother once a year. I live in an orphanage and have peace there. I heard of Jesus and accepted Him into my heart today. I have never seen a Bible before today. We have not enough rice and food to eat. We only eat plain rice in the morning and evening. Pray for us. We never get to eat vegetables. You are like a mother who came back to us to take care of us. I'm so happy! I want to tell my teacher to have us come again and see you."
-"Gil" (14 year old boy)