Growing Vegetables and Faith

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6:9, NKJV.

Many Lua families are poor enough that they struggle at times to have enough food. And while occasional hunger is unpleasant, change is even more unpleasant to the Lua.

When missionaries Brooks Harrell and Doug Ringer tried to introduce the idea of growing vegetables in Monie Pruke, they expected it to be difficult for the people to accept. The Lua are accustomed to foraging in the forest for food.

Over twenty people attended the initial meeting to discuss the idea. They seemed almost enthusiastic about the concept until it came time to commit their land and time to the project. Only one person in the village, Jaikam, who was the only Christian in the village at that time, agreed to allow his land to be used for the project.

“At times it is frustrating,” said Brooks. “You know that adopting simple agricultural changes will result in a better life for the Lua, but they are afraid to change. And I know how much better their lives will be if they follow Jesus instead of the animistic worship that they know, but again they fear change.”

When you plant a crop you know that it takes time between sowing and harvest. In the same way, Brooks and Doug know that it will take time between sowing the Gospel among the Lua and seeing a harvest of souls for Jesus.

The encouragement is seeing the first fruits like Jaikam, who hear the message with an open heart and find that God is faithful and true. The village is watching to see what evil will befall Jaikam, and others like him who dare to change.

God knew that the village was watching. That very year when the rice came in, bugs devoured everyone’s field except Jaikam’s. God is clearly showing the people of Monie Pruke that He is greater than the changes and spirits that they fear.

Pray that:

God will bless Jaikam to confirm the goodness of His Gospel in Monie Pruke.

The Lua will become more open to change so they can better their lives physically and spiritually.

God will continue to encourage workers like Doug and Brooks as they do the difficult and slow work of sowing the Gospel seed among the hill tribes of Northern Thailand.

Pacific Rim is a region of the International Mission Board, SBC.