Southeast Asia Mission Trip Reflection

Written by Justin Yee

I want to begin by thanking everyone that prayed for our recent trip. We had an amazing time! We saw God work in us as well as in the people we encountered and met. 

Although we came to serve and bless, I believe that we were served and blessed by those there in equal or greater reciprocity. It was encouraging, edifying, and convicting to see the faithfulness and obedience of Christians who persevere through hardship, persecution, and suffering. We were able to meet with pastors and their families who have been, and are still being, persecuted for their faith and almost killed. We were able to meet Christian refugees who had to flee from their homes and come to a new country that does not recognize them or offer them any social services. We were able to meet faithful Christians from the West who have chosen to give up many of the comforts of living in the West to take part in the work God is doing there. It was humbling and a blessing to be welcomed with their hospitality, kindness, and love. 

One of the ways that God worked in the group is that He made 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 reality for us. What was so amazing was that none of us really knew what each person would bring to the table. And yet, each member of the group brought giftings and experiences that were unique to them. And that allowed the group to work in unity and really flourish during this trip. It was a blessing for me to be a part of this group and see the giftings God gave them shine forth.

Helena Pearce led the leadership lessons for Kingdom Refugee Care. She did an amazing job in engaging the students and helping them begin the process of developing into leaders. Her lessons for KRC were the first lessons for the leadership academy that KRC is starting. Helena also looked out for each one of us with motherly affection.

Gracie Helms absolutely crushed the Gospel presentation and testimony sharing at the Ruth Education Centre. Her ability to draw the students in and teach in a clear and engaging manner ultimately bore fruit in the students’ willingness to stand in front of everyone and explain the Gospel and share their own testimonies. Her experience as an IV leader was evident and her passion for ministry was a blessing to everyone. 

John Kline did a wonderful job with loving and ministering to all the little kids that we encountered. From babysitting the Weiner and Susman kids to helping out at the schools and house church we visited, John was loved by the kids. He bailed out our group multiple times in leading games and helping the kids have a fun time. John also demonstrated the heart of Christ with humility and submission on multiple occasions.

Daniel Manila was as good of a co-leader as I could ask for. If I was to ever lead a mission trip again, I would want Daniel to be my co-leader. Daniel helped me carry the admin and logistical load. There were times where he stepped in at just the right time without me needing me to ask him. That was huge. Daniel (& Helena) also did a great job carrying a lot of the mental load of asking really good questions when we were visiting ministry leaders. I could not have done it without his leadership and assertiveness. 

As for myself, God has been leading me to Southeast Asia for some time now since the previous mission trip during summer 2026. He continued to affirm that during my week there. And God, with fatherly care, has so graciously and gently walked with me through this process. I am excited to say that when I graduate seminary at the end of 2026, I’ll be (God-willing) heading off to pastor out there.  

I hope that if you are interested in hearing more, that you would reach out to each member. God is at work, and I hope you will consider going the next time Waypoint has a mission trip there.