Where in the World?

March 1-8

Where in Russia can you ride an Asian elephant?

Actually, nowhere. March was a month of learning and adventure for the Watson family. This year marks 20 years of ministry, 15 years of marriage, and 10 years with WorldVenture in Russia for the Watsons. We celebrated by joining 150 WorldVenture missionaries and staff for the WorldVenture Leadership Development conference in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

We heard deeply encouraging devotionals and teachings from Hans Finzel on the life of Joseph. We were reminded that Joseph suffered and he knew how to “get over it – and get on with it.” We looked at some of his battles that have been so similar to some of ours: discouragement, failure, temptation, and bitterness. We were encouraged to continue the race, fight the good fight, and win, as Joseph won. We also spent time in workshops to help us sharpen our ministry skills and spiritual development.

T.J. and Hannah were involved in a special mission kids camp and short-term ministry. They memorized Scripture together (in English) with other WorldVenture MK’s and learned about Thailand, Buddhism, and God’s plan for them. They visited a Buddhist temple, a Thai orphanage where they passed out candy and toys, and spent time learning from God’s Word. They made some new friends and enjoyed fellowship with other MK’s. A huge thanks to the team from Bethany Church in Illinois for their ministry to our kids!

One full day we spent at an elephant camp. We rode elephants, took a bamboo ride up the river, rode in an ox cart, and visited an orchid and butterfly farm. Sadly, the darker side of Thai cuisine had already taken its toll on Tim and he spent the day in the hotel room with a bottle of Gatorade. Otherwise, it was a perfect day….