By Russell Board
In February, a team with members from the US and Japan met in Myanmar for a week of intensive ministry. Led by Asia TEAMS Coordinator Mandy Lester, the group ranged in age from 15 to 80+, and displayed both the energy of youth and the wisdom of experience.
The medical segment of the team held a series of clinics on the IPHC ministry compound in the capital city of Yangon, as well as in a nearby village. Showing the compassion of Christ through individual attention and concern, the team offered assistance and dispensed medicines to patients ranging from infants to the elderly.
Several team members taught classes to the 100+ students of the Bible College, investing in the lives of young men and women who are being equipped to lead the church of tomorrow. Continental Director Russell Board was asked to deliver the keynote address to this year’s graduates, and encouraged them to move forward to possess the inheritance God has for them in Myanmar.
Another segment of the team focused on ministry to the 200+ kids in two children’s homes. Through games & songs, skits & crafts, Bible lessons & outdoor activities, the team members poured love and grace out of their hearts into the lives of the children. Tears were shed as the team heard stories of children orphaned by disaster or disease, abandoned by their parents, or fleeing from war zones. But all were encouraged to see the smiles and hear the laughter of the children as they were touched by the joy of the Lord.
Myanmar is entering a key time in its history, as the nation transitions from an oppressive military dictatorship toward a more open and free democracy. Rev. James Lian Sai, leader of the IPHC work in Myanmar, shared his vision to take advantage of the new freedom to open a private school based on Christian principles and perspective. Now is a strategic time to pray for this nation and to invest in training children and equipping leaders who can guide Myanmar into a bright future under the lordship of Christ.