I wish I had a single story where I learned a profound lesson to share with you this month, but I don’t. I have many simple stories that are difficult to recall, all of which taught and reminded me of many little truths, so let’s get started!
This month I learned:
Sharing the gospel is much easier when you share your own experiences with God, rather than other people’s lives, even if it’s scripture. I learned this when we went door-to-door invitating others to church and evangelizing.
Bartering can save you a lot of money, but it’s not worth it if it takes down someone else’s self-worth. I learned this when buying a painting from a sweet woman in the market.
If you only learn one phrase in another language, it should be “Thank You”. I learned this from my mom teaching me good manners, and am reminded of it daily when others smile and giggle at me attempting to say “Orkun”.
God’s will for us is to love Him, love our neighbors, rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances. I learned this from reading scripture. I like to read Harry Potter books, from my teammate Drew who encouraged me to check them out (as well as a few folks back in the states).
I love to play soccer, even if I’m amazingly mediocre at it. I learned this from epic Friday night games with our hosts.
I was reminded:
To not take myself too seriously by dancing and singing in front of 40 little kids every morning and afternoon.
Of the vastness of God when I looked up at the night sky and noticed that the moon is like a small earth. This holds even more weight for me since I’m literally halfway around the world from most of you who will read this.
God loves us like little children. Sometimes we’re dirty, sticky, and always begging for an airplane ride, and yet the Lord can’t help but give us a massive swooping hug. I learned this by spending a month with a whole bunch of crazy little kids.
The hardest things to say are sometimes the best things to say. I learned this from tough team sessions with a bunch of guys who are human just like me.
This past month was one filled with an abundance of joy, smiles, and laughter. Our team grew even closer and shared many memorable moments at BCI International School and in Siem Reap. BCI has become somewhat of a second home. I haven’t felt anything except welcome at BCI. All of the students, teachers, and other missionaries have become new friends, and I hope so badly to make another visit to Cambodia someday. The culture is wild and the people are incredibly friendly, regardless of where you go. I encourage everyone to make a trip there and truly submerge yourself in the culture, you wont regret it! Thanks for reading!
We have just reached Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, a country rich in culture and cuisines. Please be praying for us as we make our way across this amazing country. I hear the folks here are amazing and we can’t wait for this incredible experience. We will be in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia. A city on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. Please pray that we find new contacts, make new friends, and live in a manner that others see Jesus in us. Thank you for your prayers! God Bless!
