This book reveals Gene Anderson, a Spirit-led champion, as he related to people through God’s perspective. Genuine and approachable—with determination and incredible mental and physical tenacity—he unreservedly embraced both awesome adventures and heartbreaking difficulties with zeal and grace.

During the 1952 year-end meeting of the Burma Seventh-day Adventist Union in Rangoon, the chairman stated, “We have had workers in lower Burma for years, but never have we sent anyone to upper Burma.” He continued with, “Is there someone here who feels a burden to take our message to this remote region?”

Gene immediately rose to his feet. “I am willing to go,” he said, “if this meets with the committee’s approval, and if the Lord wills it.” Sitting beside Gene was Elder Robert Pierson, division president, who responded to him, “Brother Anderson, you have before you the greatest challenge open to anyone in the Southern Asia Division today!”

Some have described Gene Anderson as fatherless, homeless, and penniless in his foundational years. Outwardly, this seemed to be an accurate analysis, but it did not recognize the character qualities of this remarkable man. Instead of being bound by his early misfortunes, he consistently followed the promptings of the Holy Spirit and sought the wisdom of godly mentors. His daily appointments with God were the source of his strength for each day’s work.

“Gene Anderson: Trailblazer to Tedim draws us into the Andersons’ incredibly challenging life as pioneers in Burma. At the same time, Donna Faye reveals their personal and home life, reminding us that missionaries are ordinary people with an extraordinary God who just might use us, too, for the frontiers of unreached people groups that still remain.”

— Scott Griswold, former missionary to Cambodia and Thailand, directs Reach the World Next Door with ASAP Ministries