In Thailand, His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej is viewed as the “Father of the Nation.” His birthday, December 5, is also observed as Thailand’s National Day and the national Father’s Day. This past year, the King of Thailand celebrated his 88th birthday. Having ruled Thailand since 1946, he is the world’s longest-serving current head of state, and he is the longest-reigning monarch in the storied history of the Kingdom of Siam.

For decades, the King of Thailand has worked tirelessly, traveling from one end of the country to the other to survey development projects and help the poor and sick. He is often seen in pictures poring over maps or blueprints while in the field, visiting frail grandmothers or passing out blankets and medicine with his wife, Her Majesty the Queen Sirikit Kitiyakara. Because of his devoted service for the betterment of all Thai people, the King has truly become the symbol of unity and social harmony in Thailand.

To commemorate of the King’s 88th birthday, a mass bike ride was organized throughout Thailand. “Bike for Dad,” a 29-kilometer procession of adults and kids on bicycles, was held in all 77 provinces across the country. More than 100,000 people participated in the event in Bangkok alone, and nearly 10,000 Thai citizens living in 66 cities around the world also registered to participate in local rides.

Our school teachers and staff in Ubon Ratchathani also participated by riding in the event and helping to pass out water bottles donated by AFM. It was a surreal experience to ride our bikes down the main streets of the city, which are usually jammed with traffic.

Pedaling alongside me, my friend Pi Nong commented, “The city would never close the roads like this for anyone but the King.” It’s not hard to see that the people of Thailand really love their King.

“Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure” (Prov. 20:28 NIV).

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