Our team was made up of 16 women, ranging from 19 years old to 52, from both the United States and Canada. For some, it was their first time out of the country. For all, it was the first time to Thailand.
We spent the days out in Bangkok – meeting people, going to new places, learning about the culture, and meeting with local ministries like Rahab and Nightlight, two organizations who reach out to the trafficked. Whether it was a team outreach in a different Red Light District or a few in the morning where a few gathered at Starbucks and talked with the barristas there, our time had purpose.
Most nights the team went to Pat Pong, and once familiar with the area, split into groups. Some prayer walked; others sat at an outdoor bar and did children's ministry. Others went into bars with Connie and I to talk with the dancers. Some of the team members had brought friendship bracelets with them. We divided them between all of us and everywhere we went we offered the bracelets to whoever we saw… and as we tied it onto their wrists, prayed for them, telling them that Jesus loved them.
(Photos by Connie Rock)
There are so many stories from that week. I'm so thankful for the team. They were incredible! A week later and we're still keeping in touch… some are planning to return in October. Btw… do YOU want to go to Thailand in October? If so, click here and apply. I'd love for you to come with us!
But there's one story I want to share specifically, something that happened to a member of the team the first night we went into the bars of Pat Pong. It was a standard night in the bars- loud music, smoke, people watching the girls' dance. We sat off to the side and smiled at them, pointing at our Cokes and at them if our eyes caught. That's the signal for, "When you get a break, please come over here and I will buy you a Coke". Then the girl will sit with you and talk.
So a break came, and a girl came to sit with Lexie. For the next 30 minutes, they were immersed in conversation. Talking about their lives, laughing… sharing what they could over the loud music and the language barrier. Lexie gave her a bracelet and left that night with the girl… we'll call her "My"…on her heart.
The next day, the team went to Rahab ministries to meet with the directors, learn about the ministry, and spend time with the women. Some of them were even able to make jewelry with them. As we walked in, Lexie's jaw dropped. In the corner was My.
My walked up to Lexie and said, "I no more go go dancer!"
It can be overwhelming, seeing and hearing so much desperation, being so aware of the vast number of people who need help. But like the story of the child and the starfish… it's about making a difference to "that one" at a time.
