Little Feet

      She sat on her legs with her small bare feet poking out behind her. In her hands she held a cup with sticks of incense; she shook it between moments of meditation. Her mother sat beside her on the maroon carpet, silently modeling the worship of generations past. Giant statues of gold stood tall in front of them, candles burning; fragrant clouds of incense engulf both the figures and the hearts of those worshiping. Even in this place of darkness, when it seems as if satan has won, Jesus reigns. 
      Before Jesus came, our predecessors had many rules which guided their worship. Only those called by God himself could be in his presence. Animals were sacrificed nearly every day so that we might be sinless in God's eyes, but this cleanse only lasted until the next sin was committed. Because Jesus came, we have life and are seen as holy because of his sacrifice. We can approach the throne of Christ and praise His name without fear. 
      In Thailand, to be Buddhist is to be Thai. Ritual and tradition; incense and flowers; essentially chains and shackles. They must work hard so that they can go to paradise, but even eternal life is not sure. What a burden they must carry each day, trying to please the many gods they serve. There is no hope in sight; their gods are never fully pleased. 
      Please pray for Thailand. The people here are hurting and broken. Pray that God would soften their hearts to hear His truth. Pray that the Spirit would be active in those who trust in Him. Pray that chains would be broken and eyes would be opened to Christ and His relentless love. Christ is here and he is moving; do not forget about these little feet. 
     "but Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.'" Matthew 19:14