“We Feel the Love of God from You…”

By Joni and Friends|Published On: April 4, 2020|Categories: Inspiration, International Family Retreats, Stories|

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 13:34-35

Even though you may be thousands of miles away, you encouraged a young family in Thailand with the love of Jesus at an International Family Retreat. Wi brought her 4-year-old son, Win, who has cerebral palsy, to Retreat, and they left feeling encouraged as Gospel seeds were planted in their hearts.

This precious family has to deal with the stigma of disability (and the belief in Karma is held highly) in their country. There are also the financial burdens of caring for their disabled son. Win’s father had to seek out additional jobs to cover his medical expenses and therapy treatments. They could never even dream of attending a spiritual, and much-needed Retreat like this…

Your steadfast prayers and faithfulness gave Wi, her son Win, and his grandmother, Leah, the opportunity to attend International Family Retreat! There, Wi and Win found community and experienced the love of Jesus! Wi shared, “Thank God and you for the great opportunity that we’ve been given. May God bless you all. I feel so happy when I see the volunteers and other families loving on my son.”

This unique experience is a time for families with children who have special-needs to be united with other families like them and receive the love and hope of Jesus Christ in a country that is primarily Buddhist. Win shared a special message to you, “Thank you very much for making this Retreat happen so that families like us have an opportunity to take rest. May God bless you and your ministry to us.”

Around the world, families impacted by disability face extraordinary challenges. In under-resourced countries, education and health services are extremely limited and families coping with disability are often excluded from local community life.

Joni and Friends offers hope and help to struggling families through International Family Retreats. In partnership with local churches, the Gospel message is demonstrated on a personal level as families experience Christ-centered encouragement and acceptance at an accessible family camp. What a joy to see families living with disability discover that they are valued and loved by God!

Friend, do not become weary in doing good as you continue to faithfully pray for and support these special-needs families worldwide. This encouraging message is for you! Jesus continues to use you for His Kingdom! You are part of this Gospel legacy!