We met a guy from Holland, mid 30's. I believe this was a divine moment, as he almost seemed excited to tell us his feelings about Nana Plaza. He was very honest about his thoughts. He actually said he felt "ashamed" as he walked into Nana Plaza. When we questioned why, he responded, "it was over the top." Here is a man from Amsterdam who has experienced the red-light district before, yet says he feels shame.
 
He began talking about a video he saw, called "HOLLY", a documentary of a young girl, who was trafficked for sex. It literally broke his heart (in my opinion another sign of God's pursuit for his salvation). He was really moved by the fact that there are girls being bought against their will. I asked him what he thought about me telling him of a young girl who was in Nana Plaza just the night before, who was not there on her own will, and was given up by her very own family, to try to sell her virginity. Moment of truth.
 
He was in Thailand, as he was meeting up with a former girlfriend, and had not seen her for five years. He did believe in marriage, and in fact, was wanting to see if there were any "sparks" left.
 
In the beginning of the conversation, he said he didn't believe in God, but was more of a "science guy." Yet after the long conversation, he said he would like to experience an encounter with God.
 
It says a lot...the shame, the desire for marriage, something more than sex, the love for justice (or dislike for injustice) the words spoken out loud (to an enemy who wants to devour him) God is pursuing “Simon”.
 
Our obedience to love our "neighbor", not to judge them, the constant prayers that God will pour out His perfect will. I know God is in pursuit of ”Simon”. This just shows that one person, one moment in time, God can change lives. The desire to get off the fence.

Written by: Krista A.

(the above conversation took place May 10th/11th)