The sound of a conch-shell horn punctuates the rhythm of the drums floating through our window on night air heavy with incense. The neighbors are hosting some type of religious event that has been going on for a couple of days and seems to be building to a crescendo. In addition to the drums there are cymbals and bells or chimes as well as an instrument that sounds like a marimba. The rhythm gradually increases in tempo and volume to a fever pitch, and then stops briefly only to start again.

Most Thais do not practice pure Buddhism. Our neighbor’s shrine boasts about 10 statues, none of which appears to be of Buddha. We have exchanged greetings with them a few times, but we have not had opportunity to get to really know them. I have no idea which religion they claim, though they are obviously very devout. They clean their shrine and lay out fresh offerings every day, and they burn incense twice a day.

Today as I passed by their house and noted the elaborate decorations and numerous offerings, I wondered again, What is this all about? What are they hoping to accomplish? Perhaps 25-30 people were in attendance at this event. Several meals were served. There was obviously some drinking as well, judging from the collection of bottles at the curb.

Though we are still terribly handicapped by our inability to speak Thai, we are participating with our Thai team in the start of an in-depth study of the culture. We are hoping to gain new insights that will enable us (when we can speak the language) to speak directly to the hearts of these people. Please pray for us as we study Thai myths and stories that we will be protected from the power of the enemy and will understand how best to help Thai people see the beauty of the Gospel.

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