An Easter Story

Our host in Cambodia this month, Vuthy, has a story that inspires me and strengthens my faith so deeply. Vuthy grew up in Toch Village in a Buddhist family. When he got older, he moved to the city to work as a tuktuk driver. While driving, he met a group of missionaries who shared the Gospel with him, and he gave his life to follow Jesus, making him the first Christian in his family. Ten years ago, God called him to move back to his village to share the Gospel there. He was nervous about the move, knowing that he would be the only Christian in the village and that he would have no solid community of believers. Despite these concerns, he followed God’s calling. 

Vuthy has lived here in Toch Village with his family ever since, and he began many ministries such as a church, a school, a soccer ministry, home visits, and so much more. Over the past 10 years, he has seen 50 people in Toch Village come to know the Lord (including some of his family members!) out of about 2,000 people in the village. The work that the Lord is doing through Vuthy in this village amazes me each day. 

It hit me this morning as Vuthy stood alone on the stage with his guitar singing the song “I Have Decided”. 

“Though none go with me, I still will follow.

Though none go with me, I still will follow.

No turning back, no turning back.” 

Vuthy’s life is inspiring, to say the least. He saw that following Jesus was worth losing every comfort he had ever known in this world. He was bold enough to share his faith with his family, knowing how likely it was that they would think he was crazy. He stepped back into his village, knowing it would be lonely but knowing that sharing the Gospel was worth any worldly hardship. Though none came with him to begin the work, he came. He followed with obedience. He left every worldly comfort. No turning back.  

This Easter morning looked far different than any other in my life. There was no big church building, no fancy decorations, no slideshow during worship, no skits, no big band, not even the knowledge that today was “Easter”. It was just a small building, me and 15 others, worshipping as Vuthy stood alone on stage proclaiming that following Jesus is enough in the middle of this unreached village. In the midst of the unbelief, we worship. We follow. Though none go with us.  

This Easter morning was different. But it was the most unforgettable one I have ever had. I will always be amazed at how God is at work teaching His people. I will always be amazed at how fortunate I am to be here in this village worshipping the Lord and how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to partner with His Kingdom work. 

This life is short; do not spend it turning back to the comforts. Spend it looking forward to the promises.

 

Oh and here’s a picture of me with a chick on my head. I named him Peep!