Learning Thai

From Dr. Nantachai Mejudhon's doctoral thesis, Meekness: A New Approach to Christian Witness to the Thai People:

"Missionaries and Thai Christians should be characterized by preference for a non-assertive, polite, and humble type of personality (expressed through appearance, manners, and interpersonal approach), as well as preference for a relaxed and pleasant interaction. Reciprocity of kindness, particuarly the practice of gratitude, is a highly valued characteristic in Thai society...

"A meek approach is always equated with a sympathetic understanding of Buddhists, and with a senstivity to the cultural concepts of those to whom the Christians minister. Christians should seek to serve humbly and lovingly, should be able to show meekness in their lifestyles supported by the dynamic testimonies of their personal relationships with Jesus Christ. Thai meekness means that Christians shuld seek to relate to Buddhists as neighbors and equals, regarding their beliefs as worthy of serious consideration. Missionaries and Thai Christians should allow the Holy Spirit to convict themselves and through missionaries and Thai Christians he convicts the world. When missionaries and Thai Christians allow the Holy Spirit to convict Buddhists, a number of aggressive words and deeds will be absent from their Christian witness. When the Holy Spirit convicts anyone, he draws them closer to Christian communities and Christ in a powerful way."

It's tremendously comforting to remember that it is the Holy Spirit's (and not my) job to draw people into a relationship with Christ. At the same time, it's sobering to look around and see the number of people who have yet to encounter a genuine, meek, and attractive Christian witness.

-Tom