Shalom everyone,
I’m currently still trying to settle down in Bangkok, where I’ve been called to serve as a tentmaker for the next 6 to 8 months. The journey so far has been challenging, especially in terms of visa issues, finances, and finding stable accommodation. But if the Lord has truly called me here, I must fully trust in Him and allow this to be a season where my faith grows stronger.
My current tourist visa will expire on 19 October 2007, and I plan to take a short trip to Cambodia or Laos around 16 or 17 October to renew it at the border.
A Closed Door at the Synagogue
I’ve been trying to connect with the local Jewish community here in Thailand. I had a long email exchange with Rabbi Yosef, the Chief Rabbi of Thailand, but unfortunately, I haven’t been able to reach him by phone or in person. He’s not ready to open the doors of the synagogue for me to attend Shabbat services (which take place on Friday evenings here).
While this was disheartening, Rabbi Ovadyah from Jerusalem encouraged me not to give up. He reminded me that often, those called to prophetic work are rejected repeatedly before they are embraced. He believes that God has called me for a significant purpose here, but first, I must learn and be refined.
Last night, I waited nearly four hours to meet with Rabbi Chan, a Chinese Jew. We had a brief but meaningful 30-minute discussion. Although his schedule is tight due to business and family responsibilities, he expressed interest in teaching me more about Judaism. Again, both Rabbi Ovadyah and Chief Rabbi Feld had told me the same words: “Don’t give up.”
Life in Bangkok
Currently, I’m renting a small room at a guesthouse on Rama 9 Road, which costs 135 Baht (about RM14+) per night. My housemate, Brother Charles from Myanmar, has offered to take me to visit the Lost Tribes of Israel, particularly the Bnei Menashe, located in the border areas of Myanmar.
The Bnei Menashe face many challenges in returning to Israel. Political, religious, and bureaucratic obstacles keep them from fully integrating. Despite their deep-rooted belief that they are descendants of Israel, many are treated as outsiders in the Land they call home.
The Challenge of Return
The situation for the Bnei Menashe, and other returning 10-Tribers, is complex. The Israeli government often resists efforts by deeply religious Jews, especially those connected to the Torah commandment of settling the Land. Some key points of opposition include:
- Hostility toward religious Jews committed to possessing and developing the Land.
- Vicious opposition to Jewish settlers in so-called "occupied territories."
- Bureaucratic and legal restrictions on Aliyah (immigration) for non-mainstream or Zionistic 10-Tribers.
- Temporary visas, no access to social systems, and no legal employment rights.
- Their children struggle to integrate, and families remain perpetual outsiders.
Many believe these issues stem from a misunderstanding of God’s will for His people. According to Ezekiel 37, God desires to make One Nation out of the Two Houses of Israel, Judah and Joseph (or Ephraim).
Working with Kol HaTor
I’m now working closely with the Kol HaTor Project in Jerusalem (www.kolhator.org.il). This ministry is dedicated to proclaiming the prophesied restoration of the Two Houses of Israel, Judah and 10-Israel. Our mission is to promote peace and reconciliation between these two groups in preparation for the coming of the Mashiach and the establishment of His Kingdom.
Kol HaTor encourages theological tolerance and unity for the sake of peace, without compromising the distinct religious identities of Judah and 10-Israel. Our work focuses not only on spiritual matters but also on the practical aspects of the Kingdom of God: governance, immigration, economy, education, and more. We believe that God's Kingdom is meant to be a real, functioning society, not just a spiritual dream of Heaven.
More updates will follow soon. Thank you all for your prayers and support. Please continue to walk this journey with me.
Blessings and Shalom,
Pastor Boaz Kok
