So I turned 49 this month. It’s strange because that number just does not fit the way I feel. In some ways, I still feel like I’m 25; but my body is definitely feeling the truth of the years. Even so, I wouldn’t trade the experiences and life I’ve lived. I don’t wish I was 25 years old again. There is a lot to be said about having been on the earth for almost half a decade.
Life brought us here to Thailand to serve with ZOE International. And when I see our ZOE children and the joy they have and the healing that is happening in their lives, I count myself blessed to be able to be a part of what God is doing here.
During their summer break, our ZOE children had the opportunity to participate in Bible Camp and lots of life giving, fun and healing activities.
This past week, Simpson was able to support our ZOE team on 5 different outreaches, presenting Human Trafficking Awareness and the good news of Jesus.
Students interact at different booths and games. Each booth reinforces a concept they’ve been taught to keep them safe from traffickers.
One of our ZOE Team starting off one of our outreaches. These school children had such a great time.
**ZOE does not show faces of children who have been trafficked.**
Also earlier this month, ZOE Thailand received an award from the Prime Minister of Thailand for being an Outstanding Organization in the Prevention and Combating of Human Trafficking. This is a testament to the wonderful staff we work alongside who continue to give themselves to the work of ending human trafficking and restoring the lives of those we’ve rescued.
Some of our amazing ZOE Staff along with ZOE Founder and CEO, Michael Hart were present to receive the award from Thailand Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha.
It’s been a busy month. Full disclosure … there have been and continue to be many hard things that we are working through. But even amidst the grief and loss, tears, pain of heart, physical hardships and the refining work of God in our lives … we have so much hope. Because when we look to God and see how He loves us, how tenderly He cares for us and know the truth of His constant presence, we are filled with the knowledge that He has our whole lives (past, present, future) in His hands. He promises us in Jeremiah 29:11, He knows the plans He has for us, plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future.
I see this hope for our ZOE children, every single one of them. I see it for our staff and our fellow missionaries. This promise is for each of you dear friends as well. Be encouraged with that today and everyday.
When I think about the next maybe 40 or so years I may have left on this earth, I am looking forward to all that is ahead. I feel more than ever this urgency to be completely spent for God and His work. We desire so much to be poured out for God.. to hold nothing back.
Thank you for partnering with ZOE International and us in this work we are so passionate about. Your support and prayers are vital.
