Bangkok, Thailand: The Thai Nazarene arm of Global Nazarene Publications is celebrating the completion of a translation project involving The Peace maker.
Lisa Lehman, Nazarene Missionary to Thailand since 2001, gives the following report.
The Peacemaker, written by Ken Sande, is a text that has been helpful for believers and churches around the world. Full of scripture, it presents Biblical principles of peacemaking which have been used to reconcile relationships at all levels from friends and family members, to communities and even some nations. It presents scripture rather than culture as the norm for Christ followers. It applies the scripture in practical ways that empowers both individuals and even churches to choose Christ-like responses in their relationships.
About 3 years ago, God laid this text on my heart as something that was needed for Thai people. Then I tested it out by presenting some of the principles of forgiveness when I was asked by Thai Nazarenes to present an interactive lesson on that theme at a youth camp with the Oikos Church of the Nazarene.
Our Thai DS, Sawat Hahom, as well as a local church board member who is also a Thai lawyer, both observed the presentation. They commented to me that these concepts are definitely needed by Thai people. Shortly after that God led me to a Thai translator who was available and willing to begin the work.
Now after a long journey and much prayer, sweat and tears, the Thai version of Ken Sande’s The Peacemaker, has just come off the press!
The director of the Thailand Bible Society has also endorsed The Peacemaker text and began teaching these principles earlier this past year. Our Nazarenes, Thailand Bible Society and OMF all share the same passion of God’s heart to proclaim Christ as the Prince of Peace who Thai believers can choose to follow and become Christ-like peacemakers.
*** Short follow-up on the story.
In the first week since publication, over 50 Thai readers from both Thailand and Cambodia have been showing interest in the ebook version, which is also being made available. An additional 60 copies of the paperback version were sold in the first week as well. One Nazarene pastor gave the book as a gift to a few police who had invited him to share on the topic of reconciliation. Pray for God to use this text and Thai believers throughout SE Asia to share His heart of reconciliation far and wide.
Submission: Lisa Lehman
