08/19/24 – Da Nang, Vietnam
How can I describe Vietnam in just a few words? I couldn’t.
(this blog does not contain details from church, ministry, and relationships for the sake of safety)
While Vietnam was the hardest country for me during my race, I learned a lot from the church here and enjoyed my time so much.
In Vietnam you’re not allowed to preach the gospel and convert people openly unless it is sanctioned by government approved events. Prime examples would be fellowship of christian athletes, and regulated church buildings.
If you were caught preaching the gospel to Vietnamese people and trying to convert them, it could lead to reviling, accusations, police notification, and removal from the country. The church here had to navigate these barriers and find ways to be witnesses and lights for Christ despite this dark land.
Moving from a strict government, the Vietnamese people are very apathetic and care only about their own choices. They are superstitious of religion and want to make money and move into less righteous ways of living. Temples and idolatry are also very common here.
But I saw the Church do something.
The church in Vietnam pursued prayer like nobody’s business. They prayed like they actually believe in the authority and Lordship of Christ. They pray and believe Jesus can actually save souls and move in the country, and He is. The church is devoted to meeting together to share meals and read. They could easily give up and try less because of all their restrictions. But no, they honor the government, they pursue wisdom, and they deeply love one another and the world around them.
Vietnam had some of the best food, culture, and sight seeing ever. I am so grateful for the friends I have made here and the lessons God has taught me.
2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
Thank you for reading and praying for me, soon I will have an update from Chiang Mai, Thailand!
To give: https://adventuresinmissions.servicereef.com/events/adventures-in-missions-3/jan-2024-world-race-expedition-11-months/participants/noah-weinstein
Praying over you! Thank you for loving Jesus and sharing our family’s love for Jesus with us back at “home”. It warms my heart and encourages me to love Jesus more (and to pray with more joy and assurance!)
Love you, bother!
Thank you for the post. I understand better what you had to navigate through in being a witness for Christianity.