6 minute read
A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER: ANSWERING GOD’S CALL
by Beverly Lee Siew Lian, Member of the Music and Worship Committee at Fairfield Methodist Church. She is an educator of 40 years and loves interacting with children and youth.
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A Different December
In December 2024, I embarked on a solo mission trip to teach English in Chiang Mai, Thailand, during my annual school holidays. This decision came after sensing a deep call from God. I had previously spent Decembers sightseeing with friends. However, in 2024, I felt compelled to dedicate my time to serving and sharing the gospel with young students abroad—something I had never done on my own before. It was my first solo mission trip, and I found it daunting to face the unknown without the company of a church group.
As an educator of over 40 years, recently retired from fulltime teaching in an all-boys independent secondary school in Singapore, I reached out to the Methodist Missions Society (MMS). They offered me the opportunity to teach English to 10- and 11-year-old Thai children at Vineyard Methodist School. It was both an exciting and intimidating prospect, but I trusted God to guide me every step of the way. I hoped that through teaching, I could not only improve their English skills but also create opportunities for spiritual conversations.
Facing Fears
As the trip drew closer, I battled a strong sense of trepidation. The thought of teaching children who spoke little English was intimidating. I worried about connecting with them and whether my lessons would be effective. I had no idea how they would respond or if my attempts to share the gospel through simple stories and teachings would bear fruit. Despite my anxieties, I reminded myself that God had called me to this mission, and I trusted Him to equip me.
Romans 15:13 was a constant assurance: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This verse reminded me that all would be well under His care.
Preparation for the Journey
Preparing my lessons was both challenging and rewarding. Teaching English to primary school children in a foreign context was new to me. I had to align my lessons with the school’s curriculum, meaning I couldn’t simply introduce my own topics. My lessons needed to be simple, engaging, and interactive to spark the students’ curiosity.
To ensure my content was age-appropriate and suitable for their language level, I used a variety of resources. These included PowerPoint slides, individual whiteboards for group activities, and sensory materials like scents and food samples to teach vocabulary related to smell, taste, and sight. I also incorporated biblical stories and values, weaving in subtle lessons about God’s creation, love, and redemption. Through prayer, I sought God’s wisdom in my teaching, trusting Him to touch the students’ hearts.
A Warm Response from the Students
To my surprise, the students responded with enthusiasm and openness. Their eagerness to learn English was heart-warming, and despite the language barrier, we found ways to communicate through gestures, pictures, and encouragement.
What stood out was their engagement with the biblical stories I shared. The students listened intently, and some asked questions about the lessons of creation and redemption. It was clear that God was working in their hearts, and I felt immensely blessed to be a vessel of His love and truth.
A Gracious Reception from the School
The staff and principal of Vineyard Methodist School welcomed me warmly from the moment I arrived. The principal’s kindness and support were evident—on several days, she even drove me to and from school despite her busy schedule. The school’s environment was both warm and hospitable, reflecting a deep commitment to the students’ education and well-being.
The highlight was the Christmas outreach to parents, staff, and students who were pre-believers. The large-scale concert included a sermon by the pastor of Shineforth Methodist Church, narrating God’s creation and His redemptive plan in sending Jesus as our Saviour.
I saw Him working through me— not just in the lessons I taught but also in the relationships I built with the students and staff.
God’s Presence Throughout the Journey
Throughout my three weeks in Chiang Mai, I experienced God’s undeniable presence. In moments of doubt or fear, He provided peace and strength. I saw Him working through me—not just in the lessons I taught but also in the relationships I built with the students and staff.
Collaborating with local teachers reminded me that mission work isn’t about individual efforts but about building relationships and working together for God’s Kingdom. This trip was about more than teaching English; it was about witnessing God’s love and grace in a place where it was most needed. I returned with a heart full of gratitude, knowing I had been part of something far greater than myself.
Conclusion
This mission trip was a life-changing experience that deepened my faith and trust in God. I came home with a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger commitment to serve others. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach, share the gospel, and experience God’s presence in such a meaningful way.
I encourage others to step out in faith and answer God’s call. It is in doing His work that we find true fulfilment and joy.
About MITE
MMS Missions Internship Training and Exposure (MITE) is a programme designed to send believers to the mission fields for 1 to 6 months. It is an opportunity to give your best to God! To find out more, visit https://www.mms.org.sg/mite or email mms@methodist.org.sg.
