Meridith

almost the end of another week

November 13, 2008November 13, 2008 Meridith3 Comments

Hello friends,

It’s almost Friday; I’m about to go to sleep which means I’ll wake in a few hours and begin another day! So, I’ve decided I’m going to begin blogging about some of the every day happenings of my life here at GES, just to give you a better glance of my life these days!

Also, here again is the link to my pictures, which I am continually updating! We just celebrated the Thai Buddhist holiday “Loy Kathrong” (I don’t know if that’s spelled correctly!), and have some fun pictures from that! http://picasaweb.google.com/meridith.johnson

This is a short update, but check out this video from today. We’re learning songs for our Christmas Program, and when Grade 3 began singing through this song, I was about to cry it was so sweet! Anyway, they figured out my plot and began waving at the camera, but enjoy my sweet Grade 3 students singing about loving God!

November 11 update

November 12, 2008November 12, 2008 Meridith1 Comment

Friends and family,

Greetings from Thailand, sawatdeeka! I can’t believe how much time has passed since I last updated you all. Part of my delay has been because of how busy things have been, but the other part is due to some recent discouragement and just feeling quite burned out. So to sum up the past few weeks:

On October 18th, we began our two week “October Break”, which marked the end of our first semester, and also now marks the half way point of our time here in Thailand. I traveled with several friends to Cambodia, and we spent some good time on a deserted Island.. which was much needed! It was a good time for reflection on the past 5 months, and time to pray about the coming months as well. After about 10 days in Cambodia, we returned to Thailand, and my housemate Bridget and I traveled up north to Chiang Mai, which is the second largest city in Thailand. We had a great time on motorbikes, and exploring the city, but I really started missing the kids by the second week of break!

Upon returning to GES, I was hit hard with sickness. Strangely, it all began back on the day we left for vacation, and I’m STILL in the process of recovering. Being sick has been part of my discouragement lately, but thankfully I’m now starting to feel better.

Last week, our first week back, we immediately hit the ground running getting ready for “Overnight camp”, which we left for last Thursday, November 6. I went with the older kids (6th Grade-12th Grade) away to a camp that was about an hour away. I also was in charge of worship for the weekend, which was also an interesting experience. Honestly, in the 130 kids that were there, probably 15 are Christians, so I guess I just didn’t know how to approach leading worship for them. We DO have chapels every week, but I’m involved with the younger kids for that time, so I rarely join the older kids for chapel. Anyway, all in all, camp went well… minus several kids getting sent home for alcohol and guys/girls in each other’s rooms. I hope it was an experience that later in life they will look back on and remember, even if it didn’t impact them at the time.

Something I’ve been thinking about lately is just morality in general, and what drives people to understand and know right vs. wrong. I can’t motivate these kids to make good choices based on “doing good because you believe in God and are a Christian”, because they aren’t Christians, and don’t believe in God. They go to the temple every morning or evening and pray to Buddha. Some of them could care less about making good choices. But I do believe in every person, there is an ability for people to know what is right and what is wrong based on basic human instinct. In most movies, you see good and evil, and when you view these films, it’s easy to see and desire for the characters to choose right over doing what is wrong. Anyway, it’s definitely had me thinking quite a bit recently.

I know discouragement is a natural part of any job you do, at any time in life, but I know right now it’s an attack on the work we are doing here in Thailand. We are touching lives here and making a huge difference, and because of that, I know Satan is threatened. We have 6 weeks until our Christmas Break, and in that time I will plan and put together TWO Christmas Programs, and be busy as ever! Pray that I won’t continue feeling so stressed, overwhelmed and discouraged. Other than the stressful, looming programs over my plate of responsibilities, I’m still really enjoying being blessed to teach Music here at GES, and I count it a privilege to teach them about who God is through those songs.

As of right now, I’m really missing American things… and the comfort of being “home”.. as in the States. I know it’s just a season, so hopefully it will be over soon, as it makes being here more difficult mentally and in other ways.

Here are some things you can be in prayer about for me:

1. Planning and preparation for the Christmas programs
2. Regular teaching/ planning
3. Leading worship for our upcoming Church retreat (November 21-23)
4. Getting through the holiday season without missing home too much 😦
5. Continue to be a light to all the students at GES through actions and words

Please also be in prayer as I constantly have the future in mind. God has given me the grace to be here in Thailand for now, but the more time that passes, I have realized the depth of my passion for worship, and to pursue worship ministry. I will be beginning an online Master’s degree in Teaching starting in January, through Liberty University, which I’m looking forward to, but I’m not quite sure that will determine my future.

I miss you all, and would love to hear from YOU!

With love from Thailand,
Meridith Rae

https://somehowbeautiful.wordpress.com
meridith.johnson@gmail.com
1.541.255.2159

October break

October 16, 2008October 16, 2008 Meridith1 Comment

The stress of report cards and grading is over. This week has been MUCH more relaxed, and right now my Grade 4 Music class and myself are enjoying “The Sound of Music”. Very educational. Definitely.

So October break is just a matter of days away, and I can’t wait! The strange thing is that when we return, it will be November, which is just weird! Things here are just as warm as ever, though I’ve noticed it’s getting slightly cooler, either that or just the humidity hasn’t been quite as awful as it normally can be. It’s still a pleasant, and sometimes unbearable, 85-100 degrees F. I still just can’t get over the fact that this has been the “longest summer ever”, since back in the states things are really cooling down.

I should also mention that once I return from October break, we will be half way done with the school year, which also means half way done with my time here in Thailand! It’s strange to think… the time has really been going by quickly. But, just like during any race, the point where you turn around and retrace your steps back to the finish-line are often the most difficult, and mentally the most exhausting. Keep myself, and all my fellow teachers in your prayers.

So, for our much anticipated break, myself and 3 of my friends will be flying out on Saturday to Cambodia (as I’ve talked about MANY times in my blog!). We will spend about 10 days relaxing on the beach, going to remote islands, hiking, exploring, singing (I’m bringing my guitar, OF COURSE!), and having a good old time! We’ll be going to a remote island called “Bamboo Island” where we will have our own bungalows for about $15 USD a night. We’ll get to go on boat rides around the island to watch the sunset, and during that they catch fish that are then cooked up for dinner at night! I’m so excited!!! (Can you tell??). It’s been a long few weeks, and it will be so nice to relax, sleep, and really think through the last 5 months of my life here in Thailand. After our trip, a few of us will head up north to Chiang Mai (the second largest city in Thailand). We’ll do some sight seeing, rent motorbikes, hike around, and CHILL!

Anyway, my lack of sleep is definitely catching up with me this week! It’s been taking me longer and longer to fall asleep at night which means that I’m definitely dragging now. Pray that I can get rest over the break! I really need it!

Anyway, when we come back, I am in full swing to start us on learning songs for the Christmas Programs (yes, I said programS) that I am in charge of. There is one program for the younger, then one for 4th through 12th. But anyway, this blog is about VACATION, not stressing about school, which I tend to do WAY too much!

Alright, well I will be out of touch for the next couple weeks, as I’m not going to bring my distraction of facebook and my labtop with me. Pray for safety during our flights, train rides, bus rides etc… It should be a very restful time that God has given to us!

Blessings and peace,
Meridith Rae

Spiritual Warfare and PE

October 3, 2008October 4, 2008 Meridith1 Comment

What happened today in gym class will forever be imprinted in my memory. I’m still in shock thinking about the situation.

At GES, this is the first year we have began to have Korean students enrolled at our school. From the beginning of the year, there were many problems right off the bat. I have two Korean students in my 7th grade PE and History classes, so I’ve tried to build good, trusting relationships with Airy and June. At the beginning of the school year, we had several problems with Airy in classes. There were a couple situations with her male English and male Science teachers, so we began to pray for her, as it was clear there was something going on deeper down that we might not ever know about.

She had episodes where she would throw herself on the ground, scream and cry, and just throw fits and yell loudly in Korean. Of course we would try to be understanding, but it’s hard when there’s a serious lack of communication in the entire situation, on both parties. GES is GLOBAL ENGLISH school, we are NOT an International School, so most of our students are Thai. But, the reality was and is that she was thousands of miles away from home, and away from her parents, so it’s no wonder she acts the way she does.

Airy left Thailand for over a month, and none of us really knew what was going on with her. Every time I spoke with June, or the other Korean students, I told them to tell her I missed her, and hoped she was well. (There are about 6-8 others who are all somehow related to each other).

Anyway, Airy showed up at classes again about 3 weeks ago, but she seemed more relaxed that before. Of course, I could never count on her to attend History, or even PE. Last week, she just up and left PE because she “felt bad”, and didn’t think to tell me, her teacher. She’s always very defiant with me, and never ever seems to think the rules apply to her in any way, shape, or form. I have to confess I definitely lack a compassionate heart and understanding for her right now.

Every Thursday from 2:10-3:10 Grade 7 PE class joins Grade 5 PE class for usually a game of Dodge Ball or something Dodge Ball related. So today was a bit different because it started raining pretty hard just around 2 PM, so both Miss Shaela and I gathered in the Gym for PE. Today we decided to start out with some “team building ” activities where they would be forced to work together and decide how to acomplish the goal we set before them.

Anyway, things were seemingly going really well. Airy was her typical self, not wanting to participate in any of our activities, so I worked with her a bit on understanding what we were asking. Not more than a few minutes later, I walked over and came to see that she was literally STRANGLING one of our new students in Grade 5, Tanna, and shouting “SAY YOU’RE SORRY!” over and over again. I was just in shock, and finally asked her over and over again to let go of him. Tanna just stood there looking like he was about to cry because he just had NO idea what was going on.

Miss Shaela took charge of the situation and invited Tanna to come outside of the gym with her, and also asked Airy to come with her. Airy made it clear that she was not going to go outside. By this time there was a crowd of students listening and watching as the situation unfolded.

I then began to distract all the students as Miss Shaela continued to help solve the problem. They finally walked out of the gym, and I continued acting like it wasn’t a big deal, so that none of the kids would be worried about the situation. I then had all the kids sit in a circle, and as we were settling into our spots, Airy bursts into the gym yelling histarically in Korean and walking up to several students specifically and acting as if she was going to physicially hit them. June then started yelling at her, and then at all the students warning them to be careful.

I tried to ask June what she was saying, but he acted pretty upset as well, and bursted out of the gym (I didn’t know at the time, but he had gone upstairs to get some of the other Korean girls- her cousins, to help in the situation). At this point Shaela and I were in shock, but knew there was a chance that harm could come to our students. Shaela had to hold Airy physically with all her strength to force her out of the gym, and all the while Airy was still shouting in Korean. On the way out of the gym, the entire rack of shoes was knocked over, and Airy had begun to PUNCH Shaela with all her might. (Mind you, Airy is pretty small, and I don’t think this was her actual physical strength at this point).

It left the students in shock. Me as well. We called our Administrator, and the other girls also came downstairs. Airy had just completely lost it, and was still throwing a fit outside in the rain. Shaela came back to the gym fighting tears as it was just a shocking experience overall.

I know there is some demonic presence in her life, and it’s hard for all of us teachers to know what to do. Lisa, who is a missionary here in Thailand, has really helped in the situation, really has encouraged us to continue to pray for her, and be understanding.

It’s a good wake up to remember that we are in a battle here on earth, and people do live with demonic presences in their lives and hearts. Obviously it’s a difficult situation to witness, but I know something good will come out of all of this.

Ephesians 6:11-13

Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Family and Friends

September 28, 2008 Meridith1 Comment

Family and Friends,

I honestly have to comment one more time on how QUICKLY time is passing! Maybe that’s part of growing old, I’m not sure. But time here in Thailand is going by faster than ever. I’m nearing my 4 month mark (in one week!) and I know the next weeks as we wrap up our first semester will also go quickly.

Today was a great Sunday, but unlike most of you back home, my afternoon was spent tanning (and burning) by the poolside. It was a nice, relaxing way to begin the week, that’s for sure.

This weekend, on Friday and Saturday, we had meetings for our “Professional Development” days, which were full of plenty of teacher stuff, and meetings. GES has been trying to become accredited by the “MOE” or “Ministry of Education” which is the national education head of Thailand, for the past several years, and hopefully this year we will complete and pass all their requirements. Anyway, for each grade, we have to put binders together proving in some way or another that we are meeting all the requirements for education here in Thailand. Unfortunately, the task of putting the FIRST “Music” bider together goes to… muah. This weekend, even though the only thing currently in my binder are all the printed standards, I felt I got some better ideas of how to prove I’m meeting the standards. (You have to admit, it’s hard to prove I’m teaching the students how to “appreciate music” and learn how to read music, but I’ve got some great ideas from my dear friend Heidi, who has been teaching for almost 10 years, and is a PRO!).

Anyway, I do feel I haven’t had much of a weekend, since this morning we left early for church, and just returned about an hour ago. Speaking of church, I’ve been leading worship more often, and from the people I’ve talked to, the seem VERY thankful to have me. I was also approached today by our pastor and asked to lead worship at our church retreat in November. It’s been such a blessing for ME to use my gift and serve others. It’s something I can’t even begin to explain, especially with my LACK of getting to do so last year.

I’m not sure what else to report on at the moment. We have about 20 days until we leave for our October Break trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. There are 5 of us going, and we’re all looking forward to relaxing along the beaches of both countries. (Here’s a visual aid to help those of you who aren’t familiar with SE Asia).Well, I’m about to call a good friend for a phone appointment, but I hope everything is well back on the home front. Maybe I’ll discuss this in another blog, but it’s been quite interesting and left many of us somewhat in shock hearing about the economic crisis back in the States. It’s definitely a good time to remember that our hope and trust should be in the LORD, not in money and investments.

Please continue to pray for me, and my fellow teachers as things get very busy over the next three weeks. I’m doing well spiritually, and in many other aspects, but the culture shock does continue to get to me as I am in fact a foreigner here in Thailand, and the ways of their culture will never fully make sense to me. Pray in general for strength, to do my job well, and to be able to relax from time to time.

Blessings.
Meridith Rae Johnson

why

September 17, 2008September 20, 2008 MeridithLeave a comment

This weekend as I rode through the mountains of western Thailand rain forests on my motorbike, I was reminded why I wanted to come to Thailand. Yes, I love being able to teach and serve at GES, but this weekend while up in the mountains and waterfalls, I encountered God in a very real and tangible way.

I knew coming here that because I was going by myself, there would be potential to feel really alone, and to feel like I didn’t really connect with anyone. I sill prayed for good friends, and people to confide in and a community to be apart of. BUT, because of the potential for loneliness, my prayer was that this year would be a year of being on a journey with just God and I. God answered that prayer, ten fold and I was thrown into a wonderful community of caring believers, and have made some great friends. The only “problem” is that I continually find myself surrounded by people, and we are constantly making plans, and constantly keeping ourself so busy. The past year wasn’t at all a social year for me, so having this many great people in my life that I spend almost 24/7 with is slightly overwhelming at times.

Anyway, this weekend reminded me of my hope and prayer when I left for this strange, far away place. My prayer was to draw closer to the LORD, seek his heart, serve his people, and discover what his will is for my future. The scenes were breathtaking this weekend, I can hardly put it into words. I encounter the LORD in creation, almost as much as I encounter him worshiping to music. It’s just another way I worship him, and find rest in his presence; because his creation was everywhere around me. It’s much easier to “be still” and know he is God when you allow and create space for silence and reflection.

So now we’re at it again. Another week that is (thankfully) flying by. It’s already Wednesday. Crazy how time flies. Things are good, don’t get me wrong, but it would be nice to have a break. Looks like we’ll be headed full-steam until the end of the semester, which is thankfully only 30 days away.

Oh, and along with the hiking, I also ran a 10k on Sunday as well. It actually went pretty well, though I haven’t really been training for it. Running here in the city can be a bit of a challenge, but thankfully there is a park nearby that I often run at. Not only that, but it’s been so hot and humid, it’s difficult to build up the stamina to run. This weekend, since it was up in the mountains it was much easier to breath (never mind that the entire first half of the run was UP HILL).

Anyway, I title this blog “why” because it was a good reminder of why I want to be here, and why I need to be here. This has been such an adventure already, and will continue to be. It’s amazing to see that God has created this world and us for his pleasure, and as we see his creation, no matter WHERE it is, we can see him… all around he world.

Continue to pray for strength. Some days are such a headache, and the duties of being a teacher far stretch me thin. I’m still wondering and praying about the future. I don’t feel any special calling to be a teacher, but it just seems like that’s all I will do with my life (not to say it’s not a noble calling, I personally just don’t feel called to it). My desire is to serve the church with my gifts in worship, and I just don’t know what that looks like yet. At this point I’m praying about Liberty University’s online MAT degree, which I can begin to work towards starting this January. The program will give me a lot of mobility, as I don’t know yet what the “next step” in my life will be. Anyway, God knows, and I know in the right time I’ll feel a peace about what is next.

I’ll leave you all with lyrics of an amazing song by Phil Wickham, “Beautiful” which I had stuck in my head all weekend as we drove around on our motorbikes in the mountains and jungle of Thailand. Our God is everywhere, and if we will only look, we can see his face and his beauty all around us. All creation declares the glory of God..

I see your face in every sunrise
The colors of the morning are inside your eyes
The world awakens in the light of the day
I look up to the sky and say… You’re Beautiful

I see your pow’r in the moonlit night
Where planets are in motion and galaxies are bright
We are amazed in the light of the stars
Its all proclaiming who you are… You’re beautiful

I see you there hanging on a tree
You bled and then you died and then you rose again for me
Now you are setting on your heavenly throne
Soon you will be coming home… You’re Beautiful

When we arrive at eternity’s shore
Where death is just a memory and tears are no more
We’ll enter in as the wedding bells ring
Your bride will come together and we’ll sing… You’re Beautiful

pictures and short update

September 4, 2008 Meridith3 Comments

Tomorrow is the big Talent Show I’ve been organizing.. which is why if you’ve tried to call or email, you may not have gotten a response. I’ve been so stressed about it, but after our practice today, I’m feeling much better about everything. Basically I’m the “Director” in charge of EVERYTHING, but the nice things is that the students themselves have prepared the acts, so I don’t have to worry about that! I’ll post pictures when it’s all said and done!

To get away from the stress, a few of us went to see “Mamma Mia!” last night… it was AWESOME! Okay, if you hate musicals, you may not enjoy it as much, but by the end of the movie I was ready to DANCE! It was so cute, and reminded me of all the songs my parents used to sing to us back in the day :).

OH, and in Nonthaburi, and every other city near the river are preparing for a potential flood! September will be one of the rainiest months in Thailand, as well as into October, and apparently some of the cities north of us have had some flooding, so everyone is gearing up, and stocking up on food. We all have been buying water, and non-perishable food items to keep in our rooms upstairs, and as soon as it looks like it will flood, we’ll have to move all our furniture upstairs, and then be trapped in our house if it in fact DOES flood. Of course, if we know in advance, we would evacuate up north to Chiang Mai, but it’s difficult to predict when or if it in fact will flood. BUT, if we are trapped, I have lots of nuts, small soy milk boxes, peanut butter, and cereal. Such a great selection, I KNOW! 🙂

Good news, we have 43 days until October break! I can’t wait! I’ll be flying to Cambodia, then taking an overnight train to Vietnam with several friends. Should be a great relaxing break, and I’m excited to sight see around the both countries! (I’m not sure if I already talked about October break, but it’s quite possible I did, because we are all looking forward to it!!)

Anyway, I’m praying a lot about what the future will bring, even though I know I have plenty of time to decide. All the schools in Thailand are beginning to expect much more out of foreigners who want to come to teach, so if I do stay, I will for sure need to begin pursuing a teaching certificate, or MAT degree this January. Decisions, decisions.

Here’s a video I’ve made with my pictures up until this point.. for your viewing pleasure:

Thank you all for your thoughts, prayers, letters and emails! May God bless you all!

what i miss the most

August 24, 2008August 24, 2008 Meridith3 Comments

Let’s be honest here. Is that okay? Well, I am making it okay, especially because this is MY blog after all.

I don’t miss “home” per se, but there are many things, comfort things, that I miss about the United States of America. The things that are “normal” here in Thailand aren’t really “normal” to me, and that makes sense. I didn’t grow up here, and I’m certainly not completely understanding of all those things after being here only 3 months.

I miss my car, and being able to go anywhere anytime I want.
I miss huge salads from Red Robin.
I miss being able to speak in English when I go somewhere and have people understand me.
I miss not feeling like I stick out wherever I go.
I miss not sweating all the time, everywhere you go.
I miss my hair being normal.
I miss Sarah being around to cut my hair.
I miss being in the same time zone as everyone.

I’m sure I could extend this list longer. Some things have begun to ware on me, but I know those things will pass. Don’t get me wrong, I love being here in Thailand, but sometimes I just wish I could know what the future holds. I could see myself staying here for longer than just one year, but then again I could see myself coming back to the States.

I’m not the best at trusting, and for that I must confess that I have depended too much upon myself. I know when I begin feeling overwhelmed that at that very moment I need to stop, and begin to pray. For I know at that moment I’m relying on myself and my own strength.

The hardest is not knowing. For a while I did so well at not worrying about the future and taking life one moment at a time, but right now I’m worrying, and asking many questions that I should leave up to the LORD.

Pray for me. Pray for all of us teachers. Thailand is a place where it is easy to get discouraged, and I myself have been dealing with that lately.

God is good, and God is so faithful. I know this to be true. That doesn’t stop me from wanting to bawl my eyes out right now…. I’m not even sure why.

Thanks for listening friends, again, please pray for us. Everyday we give and give to students who do not know the LORD, and that alone can be quite taxing, and can seem very energy-consuming.

This song has been a blessing to me, pray these words of truth wherever you are today.

“Desert Song” by Hillsong

Verse:
This is my prayer in the desert
And all that’s within me feels dry
This is my prayer in the hunger in me
My God is the God who provides

And this is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved
of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames

Chorus:
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here

Verse:
And this is my prayer in the battle
And triumph is still on it’s way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I’ll stand

Bridge:
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

End:
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I’m filled to be empited again
The seed I’ve recieved I will sow

“Does Sorrow lay his hand upon your shoulder,
and walk with you in silence on life’s way,
While Joy your bright companion once, grown colder,
Becomes to you more distant day by day?
Run not from the companionship of Sorrow,
He is the messenger of God to thee;
And you will thank Him in His great tomorrow —
For what you do not know now, you then will see;
He is God’s angel, clothed in veils of night,
With whom “we walk by faith” and “not by sight”.”

2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV

apologies

August 18, 2008 Meridith2 Comments

Apologies dear readers for my silence as of late. The weeks continue to slip by, I still can’t believe it’s AUGUST! Not only that, but the 18th of August. Time surely does fly by, that’s for sure. Schools back in the states are starting up and summer back home is quickly fading. It’s also weird to think that weather back home will turn to fall in about a months time, and here it may only cool down to the 80’s during November and December.

School, and everything related to school is as busy as ever. My current project will be the first annual GES Talent Show! This will be September 5th, and right now I’m in the process of auditioning groups, and working with students on putting some acts together. I’m nervous about it… I’m just hoping everything will come together for the big day.

I’m getting more involved with my church, CCC (http://www.cccthailand.org). I’m helping with the youth group, and have enjoyed getting the youth pastors, Paul and Joni. Yesterday, we had our big youth kick of night, and I along with my friend Jonathan lead worship for the kids. There were about 60 kids that showed up, and overall the night was a big success. Most of the students are apart of the International school: ISB (International School of Bangkok) which is one of the top schools in all of Bangkok. It just so happens to be located right in Nichada, the International community (the church is also located in Nichada). So, it’s a very interesting mix of students that come to the youth events. Some aren’t really even Christians, or interested in Christianity, they just like hanging out and having a good time. The families in this community are EXTREMELY wealthy and work for companies like Chevron, Nike, and some work at various Embassies here in Thailand. And when they say “international” it really is international! There are people from EVERYWHERE! Anyway, I’ll be helping out with the Jr. High girls house group beginning next month, so that will be a great way to invest in some of their lives. I will also be leading worship pretty often now for the main services at CCC. I’m excited to get to do some teaching about what worship really is.. through action. The church, as I have described, has an interesting mix of people, and every year there is a huge turn over rate with the dynamic of the church, so starting a fresh new year will be good.

Haaaa. Another week ahead of us. Like I said, time has been passing so quickly, and the weekends even quicker! I’m enjoying my time here still, like I’ve said many of times, to many of you, I’m so blessed to be apart of what God is doing in Thailand now. It’s a great place to live, seriously! I’ve been a little homesick, but it’s quite funny to me, because I only get homesick during the weekends (usually) and it’s almost always when we are on our way out to Nichada for church. I don’t know why… the place only reminds me of Southern California! Maybe it’s just the west coast I miss, and not really anything in particular.. I don’t know!

Physically I’m doing great. I’ve had few issues at all with my stomach, and I’m just feeling great! I’ve been training to run a half-marathon, which I’m not sure I will actually be ready for, or able to run since it’s not here in Bangkok. Either way, I’ll be running a race at some point during my time in Thailand, I just don’t know when yet! I joined a gym not too far from here in one of the bigger malls. It’s nice to get away several evenings each week to work up a good sweat… My friend Heidi and I take a class called “Body Jam” and it’s the highlight of my week! Learning dances.. and all they speak is Thai, so you kind of stand in the back and try to follow what they are doing. It’s great.. good music, and the moves are so “sexeeey” -as they say! (Everything that ends in an “i” or “y” is automatically pronounced “eeee”.. FYI).

Spiritually, the LORD has been doing so much in my heart, it’s hard to even put it into words. I know this experience will go with me whatever comes after my time here, and I feel so blessed to be experiencing everything I’ve been able to so far. I’m still learning to trust him fully. I’m still learning to follow in faith.

On a closing note, in about two months we have our long awaited “October Break” which marks the end of our first semester. I’ve already purchased a plane ticket to Cambodia, and I will be traveling with several other teachers around Cambodia and Vietnam for about 8 days, then returning to Bangkok and heading down south (not too far) to a few beaches here in Thailand. All of us are looking forward to the break.. even if it is two months away! Should be exciting.. another group is headed to Nepal to hike some of the trails beneath Everest! CRAZY!

Hope you all are doing well, please do email me when you get the chance! I love hearing from you all. And of course you can phone me anytime as well (local 541 number!).

Blessings and His Grace to you all,
Meridith Rae

meridith.johnson@gmail.com
541.255.2159

Here are a few pictures from our holiday last week (the Queen’s Birthday/Mother’s Day). We went shopping downtown at MBK, then to a small, quaint French place for dinner; “Le Cafe Siam”.

miracles and the holy spirit

August 6, 2008August 6, 2008 Meridith6 Comments

Jesus Christ performed many miracles while here on earth. Let me say that again, JESUS CHRIST PERFORMED MANY MIRACLES WHILE HERE ON EARTH.

Are we numb to the idea that the Son of God, while present and with us here, worked MIRACLES?

My suspicion is that if he were to be here, living among us today and performing miracles, we would seriously question who he was getting his power from, and perhaps even think there was a demonic presence in him. That’s what we do today when anyone claims they’ve seen or experienced a miracle. One of the “joys” of living after the ‘Age of Reason’ I suppose. We as humans have become so logical that we can’t even accept that it’s a miracle that we wake each morning.

We as Christians have also become so logical that we doubt even the truest of intentions and heart when we pray to see revival… which will also bring about miracles.

Though true, in Matthew 24 we are warned that false prophets will perform many signs and wonders. Every situation should be approached with a logical/intellectual mindset, we should also be aware that miracles were the “staple” if you will during Pentacost.

“But you will receive POWER when the Holy Spirit comes upon you….” it says in Acts chapter 1. Power? YES, POWER. POWER FROM GOD!

*I’ve been thinking about this after some friends and I had a long taxi ride back to GES the other day… if y’all are reading, thanks for the conversation, it’s really had be thinking the past several days…*

After the Holy Spirit comes, in Acts 2, the first thing was there was a thundering sound that filled the room, and each of them began to speak in other languages. <If you are a Baptist you tend to skip over some of Acts 2, or simply have another interpretation that doesn’t address the issue of tongues.> The other languages were for the purpose to proving the Holy Spirit’s power, but also so that the people in the room from other areas could all understand one another.

Peter then commands order in the room, and makes it clear that no one in the room was intoxicated. In verse 17 it says, “In the last days, God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on my servants- men and women alike- and they will prophesy'”. (Perhaps there was a need to say men AND women because of the culture at the time). “‘And I will cause wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below- blood and fire and clouds of smoke…. But everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved'”.

God’s spirit is with us. Think about it. Not the “holy spirit” as we call it… but GOD’S SPIRIT. With us each moment of each day. And there is POWER in the name of the LORD. There is POWER in his spirit.

Something that I’ve been thinking a lot about is the difference between Christians here in the East, and Christians in the West. Here, there is already some element of animism to the religion. It’s a very mystical and spiritual experience.. life that is. Since their religion IS their life. In the States we tend to separate the “religious” and “life”. I’m not saying we as Christians should turn completely mystical in our “religion”, but there SHOULD be a huge element of that in our lives, especially since GOD’S SPIRIT dwells in us… in our bodies and hearts.

If God’s very spirit is in us, then we should be experiencing miracles every day. Or maybe we do, but we just don’t recognize it. In Galatians chapter 5, it talks quite a bit about God’s Spirit in us. The fruit of having his spirit is: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control. One of my favorite verses is verse 25, “Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Sprit’s leading in every part of our lives”. How many of us actually recognize when we have feelings (negative or positive) about a situation that it is the Holy Spirit? I’m not always thinking that, but maybe we should re-think our every day lives and remember that he dwells within us.

Back to miracles. In our taxi ride we discussed that miracles was one of the signs that you had the Holy Spirit. Across the board; everyone.

I’ve been experiencing a miracle in my own life, and I didn’t even realize it until recently. I’m drinking “Pepsi Max” right now. Seems normal, yea? Well, some would scold me for drinking pop (or as some call it, “soda”) but the average person who doesn’t know ME wouldn’t think twice.

For about five years I’ve suffered with IBS. If you don’t know what it is, Google it. I struggle with stomach pains all the time, especially while under stress. I’ve dealt with depression as another piece to the IBS puzzle as well. BUT.. today, I’m drinking Pepsi Max. For years, I couldn’t have any pop, or anything carbonated. I couldn’t have any dairy for about a year. I couldn’t ever drink coffee. I couldn’t ever have anything that was fried or had a lot of saturated fat.

But friends, over the past few months, I’ve been experiencing a miracle, and I was too blind to see it. I was too busy to see that God has been healing me. Now, I’m not in perfect health now, and my stomach does still act up occasionally, but going from my condition a couple of years ago to now, drinking CAFFEINE.. that my friend is nothing short of a miracle.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

There’s much more that could be said about the Holy Spirit, and it’s role in our lives. I think the Church of America often focuses much attention on JESUS, rather than God, “three in one”. Think about that.. it’s so true.

In 1 Corinthians 12, spiritual gifts are discussed. We all have a gift from God’s Spirit that is for the purpose of serving the body of Christ. In verse 7 it says, “A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other”. So, point number 1, we each have a gift. Point number 2, it isn’t to boast in our abilities, but rather to HELP ONE ANOTHER. Discernment of messages is a spiritual gift, but so is speaking in “unknown languages”. So working together, we can hear from God and discern what he is speaking to us. We shouldn’t shy away from this either, this is how God can speak to us today. But of course we know as a continuation of these thoughts and ideas, in chapter 13, everything should be done in love. Love is even greater than faith, and hope. “Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture! But when full understanding comes, these partial things will become useless… (12) Now I see things imperfectly as in a cloudy mrror, but when we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely just as God now knows me completely.” (1 Corinthians 13: 8-10, 12).

In John chapter 16, Jesus tells more about this gift that will be given to us. It says “And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgement”. Then it says “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me.” The purpose of the Holy Spirit is to guide us to truth, not to lead us astray, especially since he’s from God. Sometimes our discernment and skepticism tends to kick in well before we think something is from the Holy Spirit. Maybe what we’ve been taught is holding us back from communing fully with God? Maybe it’s holding us back from seeing more miracles? Maybe we are holding back the miraculous from happening every single day.

I’m not saying these things to judge the Church of North America, but if we would begin to release ourselves to experience God in a way that may not make logical sense to us, perhaps that’s when we will be released to fully serve God? We can’t see the full picture now, but soon, we will.

Walk in his spirit today, and each moment.

Remember that love is greater than anything else we can do or say.

May God’s Spirit guide you.

(Sorry, this was much longer than I intended it to be!)