The Transforming Power of God's Grace

We resumed teaching at Siloam Bible Institute (SBI) shortly after returning from the UK. The students were happy to have us back, which helped us quickly settle into teaching. Sarah noticed that one of the students, called *Sky, was not her usual bubbly self. Sarah had discussions with Sky and spent time praying for her. Around mid-February, it was decided she should return home to rest and be with her family. Sarah continues to be in regular contact with Sky and has had the opportunity to speak with her father and mother. Academically, Sky is one of the stronger students, so even though she missed the last month of the teaching year, she will move up to the next level when all the students return in mid-May. Please keep Sky's physical and mental health in your prayers.

To make up for the teaching time lost whilst helping with the flood clean-up in October last year. SBI decided to extend the teaching year by 2 weeks. As protocol at the end of the teaching year, we prepared and administered end-of-year tests to see if the pre-class students were ready to move up to the next level. We had 2 students who returned from last year, repeat the pre-class; although they are still not the strongest in English skills, it has been amazing to see these 2 students flourish in their confidence, abilities, and growth with the Lord. They are due to take the presentation part of the test again at the start of the new semester in mid-May. Please pray that they will be emboldened by God, not nervous or anxious when they retake the test.

We are deeply honoured to teach the SBI students, but even more so when we hear how God's transforming Grace has turned these students' lives around. Both Paul and Sarah had opportunities to listen to some of their testimonies. As their English abilities improve, it is marvellous to get to the stage of having these discussions.

At the end of February, in one of Sarah's lessons, during personal critical thinking discussions around the 3 Hebrew boys in the book of Daniel, the question of “What miracle(s) has God done in your life?” was asked. One student called Htoo Lee, confidently shared his testimony of the transforming power of God's Grace in his life from taking drugs, drinking, having a rebellious nature, saved from prison, the forgiveness and compassion he received from his godly parents, giving his life to the Lord and the amazing grace of God that gives second chances.

Sarah's eyes welled up with tears of joy, not just at Htoo Lee's ability to share his incredible testimony so clearly in English; but also, the encouraging reminder of how God's Grace can rewrite our story and because of the transformation that God has done in our lives our past does not define our future. Htoo Lee is studying at SBI because, in the future, by God's Grace, he wants to become an Evangelist. 'Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him'. Psalm 34:8

We attended the SBI's annual graduation ceremony, which is always a remarkable time to celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of the students' successful completion of their BA Theology in either English or Karen. Both valedictorians (in English and Karen) delivered an inspiring message, which encouraged their peers and everyone who attended – “With the Lord's Hand upon us, fearlessly go strive forward”.

We are thankful we once again had the opportunity to participate in the 21st annual 'Run 4 Relief' hosted by the Christian NGO Free Burma Rangers (FBR). FBR work on the ground with communities and continues to bring awareness of the world's longest and tragic conflict, still raging in Burma. Remembering the thousands of communities in the Karen, Karenni, Kachin, Shan and Chin states of Burma that are forced to flee from their homes in fear of the Burma Army. This year was the biggest turnout in the 21 years it has been organised in Thailand; we joined together to show that those who have the freedom to run have not forgotten those who have no choice but to run.

Thank God:

- For the SBI students who recently graduated.

- For all the SBI students – growth in the Lord and themselves.

- For the brilliant teaching time we have had with the SBI pre-class students.

Please Pray:

- For God's protection over all the SBI students during their summer holiday (mid-March to mid-May).

- For the recent SBI graduates, God's guidance for the next steps of their journey.

- For TKBC's upcoming 70th annual conference in the south of Thailand. Pray especially for those who may attend, who do not yet know the Lord.

- As we prepare for home assignment, travelling to visit churches and family.

We look forward to seeing some of you soon, during our upcoming home assignment. In the meantime, be encouraged, God's grace is not something we can earn; it does not leave us as we are. It has the incredible power to rewrite our stories, bringing hope, healing, and transformation. Grace not only transforms us as individuals; it also gives us the deep desire to extend it to those around us. Becoming agents of change in our communities and society.

For from his fullness, we have all received, grace upon grace. John 1:16

Lots of Love

God Bless

Paul & Sarah

*The name Sky is a pseudonym for privacy.