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John* and his wife and children serve in Southeast Asia with TMS Global. John was asked to speak to a class of first-year English students at a local university, to share about American culture and to encourage the students to learn English.

As John drove to the class, he prayed that God would direct his words. John wasn’t sure whether or not he would be able to talk about his faith since he was visiting a Muslim school, but he prayed that God would give him the opportunity to share. God brought to John’s mind the story of the Good Samaritan.

John arrived at the class and found 40 students waiting to hear him speak. They were thrilled to have an American in class. John talked for 15 minutes, telling the students about the US and North American culture. The students then asked John questions for the next 45 minutes.

At one point, a student asked, “Can you tell us a story?” John said, “Even though I prayed for an opportunity to share with the students, it still took me by surprise!”

John told the students the story of the Good Samaritan in the local language. Then he told them how his friends and neighbors in Southeast Asia go above and beyond to help others, just like the Good Samaritan. The students loved the story.

Another student asked John what his life motto was. John answered, "This is what Isa (the Son) said, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your neighbor as yourself.’" (Luke 10:27, NIV) The students applauded John’s answer.

“These students were likely hearing the words of Jesus for the very first time,” said John. “They responded with wonder and celebration. The story of Jesus is a story worth sharing! It renewed my own wonder at the words of Jesus, and it gave me a renewed motivation to fully learn the local language to communicate the story well.”

The teacher of the class was impressed with John’s presentation and has invited him back to speak several times. "Our team has plans to start an ecotourism business,” said John. “Part of that vision may include teaching English. Helping others learn the English language will provide open doors into many communities. We want to be able to build relationships with people and share the love and message of Isa.”

Next steps:

• Join our team in Southeast Asia!
  
• Pray for John, his family, and the team as they share the love and message of Jesus in Southeast Asia.

*Name changed for security