From 8 to 13 April 2026, our team of seven youths and four leaders travelled to Nong Bua Lam Phu (NBLP), Thailand for a mission trip organised for youths born in 2007. What unfolded was far more than a series of planned activities; it became a shared journey of faith, humility and discovery.
The team partnered with the NBLP Methodist Church to run a two-day youth camp, visit villagers and participate in Sunday service. At the heart of the trip was a simple yet powerful message: that we are loved first by God, and that He is near and approachable.
A CAMP GROUNDED IN LOVE
The youth camp centred on the theme Rooted in Christ, with trip leader Daryl Tay delivering three messages based on the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1–10. Through Zacchaeus’ encounter with Jesus, the youths were reminded that God sees them, calls them by name and invites them into a life transformed by His love.
Beyond the messages, relationships were built through icebreakers, mass games, station activities and a skit.
On the first night, many youths stepped forward in faith and responded to an altar call. This was followed by a thought-provoking small group Alpha session to discuss the basics of the Christian faith. Many youths shared openly about the challenges they face in living out their faith, including judgement and opposition from peers.
As team member Gwen Koh reflected, “The mini Alpha session was very meaningful, as the Thai youths’ responses reflected their faith and gratitude towards God’s unchanging love.”
The second day of camp brought more joy and a powerful time of testimony. Five youths stepped forward during an open mic session to share how God had touched their lives, stories marked by perseverance, hardship and quiet faith.
“I was blessed to see how God was able to show His presence even through the toughest challenges in the youths’ lives,” shared team member Caleb Halim.
Though it was a bittersweet end to the camp, it was filled with gratitude for the friendships formed and for the time spent growing in God together.
SERVING BEYOND THE CAMP
Following the camp, the team partnered with the church to cook and distribute chicken cutlet and rice to villagers. We also learnt to say “God loves you” and “God bless you” in Thai, offering not just food but also warmth and encouragement.
On the last day, we participated in the local Sunday service, worshipping alongside the Thai congregation. Several members shared their testimonies, including team member Gwen Koh. One testimony that stood out was from a church member who shared how she overcame Stage 4 cancer through God’s miraculous healing.
The trip concluded with participation in Songkran, Thailand’s New Year water festival. As a deeply cherished cultural practice, the splashing of water has been embraced by Christians in Thailand with renewed meaning, symbolising how Jesus has washed away our sins and made us new in Him.
A PERSONAL TURNING POINT
For me, the trip became an unexpected moment of conviction. I had set out with a desire to serve, but beneath that was a longing for praise and approval from peers and the Thai community.
This surfaced when I prepared to teach in the Children’s Ministry, hoping to be seen as a good speaker. However, a sudden schedule change meant I did not have the opportunity to share. God used that moment to reveal that my service had become performative, prompting me to reflect on where my heart truly lay.
The answer came through the testimonies of two Thai youths. One faced opposition at home, often quarrelling with her parents and being prevented from attending church. Another pleaded with his parents to allow him to attend the youth camp, despite living hours away and facing resistance.
For both, leaving the faith would have been easier than staying, yet they chose to remain faithful. Their examples reminded me what it truly means to love and serve without putting myself first.
As expressed in our Zacchaeus skit, “We keep giving from the overflow of love that God has first shown us.” As 1 John 4:19 says, “We love because He first loved us.”
RETURNING HOME WITH THANKSGIVING
As we returned home, we carried more than memories. We thank God for His work in the lives of the Thai youths, whose perseverance and sincerity left a deep impression on us.
We are also grateful for the local church and their hospitality in welcoming us, patiently answering our questions and preparing many delicious meals. Above all, we thank God for the privilege of serving in the mission field and for the way He used it to transform our hearts.
PRAYER REQUESTS
For the youths:
Protection for those facing opposition
That their peers and families will come to know Christ and that broken relationships will be restored
God’s guidance as they grow in their faith
For the pastors and local team:
Provision of funds and resources to sustain the church and its ministries
Healing for one pastor with a spinal nerve injury
Strength for their spiritual, emotional and physical needs
For the Thai community:
Softened hearts and openness to God
Stronger bonds within the community so families, youths and church members can support one another in love
(Photos courtesy of missions trippers)
Read also: Siem Reap: Serving in Uncertain Times, Trusting a Certain God
