Grandmother Nid is a 75-year-old widow in Thailand, where less than 2 percent of the population is Christian. In the midst of this Buddhist culture, a fledgling Lutheran church body has taken root: Thailand Concordia Lutheran Church (TCLC).
Grandmother Nid, as her church family calls her, is the newest member of the TCLC, which numbers about 600 people in 10 congregations and 4 preaching stations. Rev. Niran Temakun shared this inspiring story of Grandmother Nid’s journey to faith in Christ:
“Earlier in her life, Grandmother Nid was married to a Muslim man, but her husband has passed away,” Rev. Temakun said. “Since then, she has lived as a widow, carrying the responsibilities of family life on her own for many years. Now in her old age, she no longer has a profession or regular work. Like many elderly widows, she depends on the care and support of her children for her daily needs.
“Grandmother Nid began coming to our preaching station from the very beginning, when the station first opened. At that time, she was not yet a Christian, but she had a sincere love for gathering with the community. Week after week, she joined the worship services faithfully. Even before she believed, she showed a servant’s heart by helping prepare food for the members after worship. After each service, we would often share meals that she lovingly cooked for everyone.
“Through her regular presence in worship and her continual hearing of the Gospel, God was quietly at work in her heart. Over the course of about one year—the same length of time since the preaching station was established—she listened, learned and reflected deeply on what she heard. We thank God that, in His time, He opened her heart to receive His love and to place her faith in Jesus Christ.
“During this journey, we regularly used Martin Luther’s Small Catechism, which she heard and studied with us before worship each week. We also shared the ‘Jesus Never Fails,’ which helped clearly present the message of Jesus’ saving love. These materials played an important role in teaching her who Jesus is and what He has done for her.
“Now that she has come to faith, Grandmother Nid continues to study Luther’s Catechism as she prepares for confirmation. She also keeps a children’s Bible story book for her personal reading. These books are especially helpful for her because the language is simple and the print is easy to read, making them suitable and encouraging for an elderly believer. Through these resources, she continues to grow in faith, grounded in God’s Word and promises.”
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