Behind all of that is the call of Jesus. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Every day we get a choice. We can serve ourselves, or we can serve someone else. Jesus tells us that when we serve others, we are serving Him. In the end, whatever reasons I had for going, what mattered is that I went. And once again I discovered something familiar. Whenever I go, I receive far more than I give.
Here is what stood out:
They cherish fellowship because it is costly
The Christians of Myanmar love being together. It is not something they treat lightly. Some women traveled five or six hours on crowded vehicles, passing military checkpoints, just to attend the gatherings. When they worship, they sing with energy and gratitude because they know how precious it is to stand side by side.They treasure the Word of God like a lifeline
We were able to give out hundreds of Bibles to believers who did not own one. Their reaction was pure joy. Even the teenagers were thrilled to receive a copy. We spent time at Bright Light Hope Orphanage, which exists because the civil conflict has left so many children without parents. The founder, Rev. Kyaw Thar Aung, spent ten years translating the New Testament from Burmese into the Mro (Muu) language spoken in Chin State. He passed away four months ago. His wife and daughters now run the orphanage. One daughter has continued her father’s work and is translating the Old Testament.
Their hospitality is generous and sincere.
Everywhere we went, we were welcomed into homes and churches with enthusiasm. Volunteers cooked every meal on site. They washed every dish by hand. More than two hundred people were served for four days. No paper plates. No shortcuts. They gave us the best seats and kept bringing food and tea.At one point I wondered whether I would treat strangers with the same warmth at home. Their material poverty seems to make more room for spiritual focus. In my comfortable life, that space can get crowded.
They believe prayer is real power
The most common request we heard was simple: “Will you pray for me?”
A young man brought his grandmother to the conference. Then he asked our translator if we could pray for him too. We stopped what we were doing and prayed on the spot. It was ordinary and holy at the same time. Travel does not change God, but it changes us
I could tell stories about unfamiliar airports and the small ways God helped at each step. But you do not need to get on a plane to serve Christ or grow in faith.
You can begin right where you are. You can sign up on the Frontlines International website and pray weekly for believers who live under pressure. You can speak to someone new at church. You can look for the person God puts in front of you and simply say yes.
Psalm 37:23 says: The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in His way.
The Lord established my steps to Myanmar. He may guide yours toward another country or toward another person nearby. The invitation remains the same.
Go; and get ready to receive far more than you expected.
