Monday, November 21, 2022

End of Year Newsletter 2022- Byers Returning to Thailand

 “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

Philippians 2:3 (ESV)


Greetings from SNOWY UTAH!

It is so fun to be writing this letter from this side of the pond. We hope this letter finds you well.

The Glory of Christ Among the Nations...

To say the least, living and working overseas these days has its unique challenges. Challenges with traveling due to different COVID policies that each country has, constant visa and work permit hassles, seasons of much packing and unpacking, saying many hellos and goodbyes all come in this package of living overseas. However, amid these challenges the posture and attitude of our hearts can remain constant. As we journey along in this changing world and culture, the humility we have in our hearts can shine bright. Doing nothing from selfish ambition and counting others more significant than ourselves not only is a peaceful way of living, but a way which reflects Christ to others, regardless of what nation we are in.

Home/USA Visit

We have been back to the US since the latter part of August. It has been great spending time with family, friends, introducing American football to the kids, and watching the leaves change color. However, there has been some frustration due to sickness which has cycled through our family, hindering us from getting to see some of our friends and partners in ministry.

Returning Back on November 30:

It’s hard to believe that we will be packing up and heading back to Thailand during the end of November. We are excited for what the Lord has for us during this 4th term of service. We plan to:

1.) Do more Biblical counseling training with Overseas Instruction in Counseling (OIC). The OIC training is a great way to help equip local believers to disciple one another with the power of the gospel.

2.) Bible Training with The Way Foundation. The Way Foundation is who we primarily work with in Thailand. They do various projects that help fulfill the mission of making disciples by way of kid’s ministries, wholistic community development projects, Bible teaching programs, and encouraging/providing trainings for Lahu pastors/evangelist so they can grow in ministry skills and understanding of what the Gospel is. It has been a blessing to be a part of the work and getting to know the individuals who make up The Way. Please lift this Foundation up before the Lord, that He would cause our hearts to burn for His glory alone!

3.) Continue to connect with Isaan communities. Why do we continue to strive to connect with the Isaan in Chiang Rai? Well, there is not a lot who stand as witnesses of his Grace among this unreached group; and that is why we continue. The idea is to continue to locate and engage Isaan communities with some of our Lahu colleagues, casting a vision for Lahu Christians to move across ethnic boundaries with the glory of the gospel of His grace for sinners.

We wish you all a HAPPY THANKSGIVING! We are thankful for you!

The Byers family

Jason, Jenn, Moriah, Isobel & Titus