Sometimes it amazes me how English is so valued around the world. It bridges cultural gaps in a beautiful way. We spent our 6th month of the race in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The 9 men on our squad split off and had their own “MANistry” month. Since I have 2 men on my team, us 4 ladies were combined with another team of 4 ladies. So for a one month special, the PFOT and One Accord ladies were joined together to form team “Phnomenal”. If that weren’t enough of a powerhouse, we were blessed with one more addition, Sarah Miller. Sarah was a part of a short term trip to experience and test the waters of the race. This is to expose people who are either too young or just not yet sure about whether or not they want to do the World Race. Sarah was a blessing and integral part of our team last month! She was a breath of fresh air to help carry us past the halfway mark on the race. Thank you, Sarah!
We lived in a “lake house” that was a combination of an English school, family community living space, and church meeting place. Okay, so the lake was really just due to a lot of rain and low grounds, but why not have a little fun with it?! Anyway, we had a lot of flexibility to make the ministry what we wanted. So ministry for me looked like prayer walking, taking students on walks to give them one on one attention and English conversation, playing games, playing soccer, leading Bible studies, teaching guitar, and playing drums for the church band! That’s right! I got to be a drummer for 3 weeks! We also visited a village each Saturday to play games with the kids, pray for people, share the gospel, and wash hair. I really enjoyed spending time with the students. There are some pretty awesome teenagers who are committed to following Christ. Many of their families do not know that they have decided to follow Christ. They have counted the cost in ways I may never know. As I had conversations with some who believed, they asked if my family believed. I told them yes, and they would smile and say, “you are so lucky!” Oh, perspective!
This month also presented some intense challenges. We decided to take a little road trip to a beach about 4 hours away. The bungalow where we were staying was too far of a walking distance so we decided to rent mopeds. This was a small town with very little traffic and a straight shot to the beach and restaurants where we would likely eat. Unfortunately, our second day on our trip, two of our ladies who went on an island excursion; but on their way back, they lost control and got in an accident. One of them got some pretty good road rash on her leg, and the other’s foot and leg were very seriously injured. Not exactly how you want your mini vacation on the World Race, or any vacation, to go. Both of the girls, both named Katie, are on my team. Katie C., with the road rash, has healed and been able to continue on; but Katie L. has had multiple operations and was taken to Bangkok for better treatment. After spending a month in the Bangkok hospital, she has flown back to America to recover. She has 3 – 6 months of recovery ahead of her. Please keep her in your prayers. The event was traumatic so please also keep Katie C. and those of us who have been walking this out with them in your prayers. We have seen nothing but the Lord’s faithfulness through the entire situation.
Just as in life, not every day or month on the race is all rosy and sweet, filled with fun adventures. However, every day is an opportunity to worship and praise God who is nothing but good and faithful. Choosing to press into this knowledge of His character in times like we experienced is what creates the deeper intimacy that I am always searching for. Though the story of this month had a bit of a sad ending, I rejoice in something greater. It is also challenging and inspiring to know that Katie L., though facing her current circumstance, has also continued rejoicing in something greater. Rejoice with us!
Go here to check out pictures from our time in Cambodia!
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