Hamme's in Thailand

We have received an e-mail from missionary friends in Thailand and thought their e-mail worth reposting on the blog. Sarah first met them while in Guyana, South America and I have met them numerous times while in the States. They are a great family whom we are privileged to know. We ask that you pray for them and their children as they seek to minister Christ at this time.
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Dear Friends,

We are very grateful for the large amount of inquiries as to our well-being since the catastrophic events stemming from the mega-earthquake that hit south of Sumatra on Dec. 26. Since we live in N. Thailand, we were quite far from where the killer tsunami waves that hit the coastal area in the South. We did feel the earthquake where we live (Esther did) even though we were well over a 1,000 miles from the epicenter.

We do have some close friends living in the area that was hit. They were not adversely affected personally from the earthquake, but have been maxed out since in endeavoring to help in whatever way possible, whether helping out in the local hospital, keeping folks in tents in their yard, you name it. It is very taxing to work in a situation like this, to see and smell death on a large scale, to deal with those who are desperate to find their loved ones, etc. Please pray not only for those who have been injured or who have suffered personal loss from this calamity, but also for those faithful servants who are trying to minister to the needs of those who have been traumatized. It is extremely exhausting work.

Esther was able to go south with a team of counselors last week to assist in whatever way possible. She saw firsthand hundreds of "wrapped" bodies laid out amidst a sea of dry ice. The smell of death was horrendous. Her appetite is still greatly curtailed 4 days later. She also was able to sit and listen to one of her friends, who is from that area, who was severely stressed from the many things she had seen and experienced. Those with Esther said that she was ready and willing to do whatever. I (Ron) got to listen to many of her experiences on our shared 8 hour drive home from Bangkok two days ago. As for Esther, she is not really ready to talk with those who have a million questions for her. A situation like this is hard enough to digest, let alone try to explain to those who were far removed from the scene.

We appreciate much your prayers on our behalf. We are fine, although it seems that Esther has come down with a bad case of tonsillitis since her trip south. She still can smell the odors she experienced from time to time. Please be in prayer that God would be glorified through all of this, and that many would come to know Christ. There is no need to send funds to us as there has already been an overwhelming response for those in S. Thailand. You may want to look into ways that you may be of assistance to those in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India. Please choose carefully as to how you give so that any funds you give will be properly designated. Search out a reputable organization that is equipped to handle such a relief effort.

And finally, praise God for the gift of life that you presently experience.

Heavenly related,

Ron & Denise, Esther & Charity