The Last Shangri-La
God so loves the world that He continually places His love for this world in us, and those who hear the call are determined to bring this good news to the ends of the earth. If you’re looking at your globe or a world map, some nations are easily overlooked. However, God’s representatives determined to expand His kingdom find such places.
Bhutan is often referred to as the last Shangri-La, a term used to refer to any earthly paradise. It is primarily a mythical land in the Himalayas, a perfectly happy place that is not affected by the woes and worries of the rest of the world. The philosophy of Gross National Happiness guides the Bhutanese government. It is an index that measures the well-being and happiness of the country’s citizens. The nation’s constitution also mentions the philosophy. Thus, the country aims to achieve happiness for all its citizens instead of just material wealth (World Atlas).
This philosophy doesn’t invite intrusions into their established form of life. Just a few months ago, People to People Ministries was contacted to begin our child sponsorship in Bhutan. We are beyond excited to have this opportunity to sow into the lives of the children in one of the world’s least-evangelized nations.
Operation World describes Bhutan’s response toward Christians
Christians are denied religious freedom and are persecuted in various ways. Church buildings are forbidden in all but a few cases; most fellowships must meet in homes. Bhutanese people, who become Christian, face the loss of their citizenship and of other benefits – such as free education, health care, employment, and access to electricity and water. In some instances, harassment and beatings occur. Despite these, groups of believers are forming and increasingly spreading across the breadth of the country.
Christians are only 2.1% of the population of 779,900. Pray these people will come to know the true source of their well-being and that they will see that true happiness is only found through Jesus. Pray for the representatives to be strengthened and encouraged as they face so many challenges.
If you would be interested in sponsoring a Bhutanese child, please contact People to People Ministries. You may call (405)787-7110 or email ptpinfo@iphc.org.
A New Year is Here
One of Jesus’ most comforting names, Emmanuel, literally translated means “with us is God.” This Christmas, as we celebrate, let us remember that this day continues to be the defining moment in history when God decided to walk among us. It was time for Him to be seen, heard, felt, witnessed, experienced, known, misunderstood, challenged, etc. His presence was a necessary element to His plan of redemption! My prayer for us in 2022 is the realization that regardless of where we live and whatever chapter of our lives we’re in, we know our assignment is to bring His presence into this world.
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Debra Crook
