If you know anything about history, you are probably familiar with the Cambodian Civil war and following genocide that occurred in the 1970’s which devastated and wiped out entire generations. Millions were killed, children were left without families, and as a result the Khmer population today is very young. Less than 4% of the population is over the age of sixty-five. During the war dead bodies were dumped in mass graves. The graves are called ‘killing fields’ and are located in various places around the country. Today, the people of Cambodia are still hurting from the years of destruction.
But do not fear, because in the year of the Lord’s favor they will rise out of the ashes. God will:
“…bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” Isaiah 61:3
Can’t you see her crown of beauty?!
This month we are in Kampong Cham, Cambodia partnering with a YWAM (Youth With A Mission) base called University of The Nations. The ministry is lead by Maricel and her two staff members, Kim and Regina. We can physically see the fruit of the Spirit that is growing through this ministry. Please saturate this ministry and the staff with your prayers for blessings, protection, direction, and wisdom from above to continue ministering in this city. We have the honor of participating in:
Village Ministry
Teaching English
Prison Ministry
Volunteering one Sunday at a local church
Everyday when we walk into the village the children run to us with open arms. This must be the feeling that parents get when he or she walks in from a long day of work to be welcomed with open arms by their son or daughter. The children in the village are overjoyed to receive physical affectionate love. One little boy is so hungry for attention that he will cling to you will all of his might. If your arms are full he will literally climb up you as if you were a tree. His grip is so tight that he can accidentally choke us. We have seen that few parents are affectionately nurturing to their children. We have seen unsupervised infants casually playing with knives and toddlers playing with fire. Older children tend to the needs of little children. Everyday, because of your prayers and financial support, God gives us the opportunity to buy bath and food supplies to bathe and feed the children. When we walk over to the village well, the children begin dropping their clothes like hot cakes because they know its time to get clean! We introduced tooth brushing this week and many were very excited to have their teeth cleaned. Next, we sing Bible songs, tell stories, and perform skits. Thanks to the wonderful staff here at UON, translation is provided and we sing songs in English and then sing in Khmer. Families of the children listen, watch, and are becoming more open to questions and talking with us. Some of the families in the villages are even believers!
Everyday my teammates and I teach English classes. Samie, teach English? I know, crazy. Our students range in ages from about 7 years-old to adults. Luckily, my class consists of just a few college students. My students are so sweet and I love them dearly. I use the white board, books, and flash cards, in addition to charades, pictures, and laughter in my daily lesson plan. Some of my students are Christians while others are not. I am able to use examples about God and the Bible to teach English and share the gospel.
We have been invited to lead one Sunday at a local church. More to come about the church service. Please be in prayer for every heart in church that Sunday and for God to move in spite of the language barriers.
I am absolutely loving every minute of my time here in Cambodia. More to come soon!
Prayer request: Pray for open hearts of the Khmer people to know and see clearly the presence of God. Please that my team and I will continue to unmistakably hear from The Lord, will be willing to obey, and follow His will for our lives. Pray for more growth, more change, and more of God in our lives as we learn to die to ourselves. Pray that the Holy Spirit will empower us to bear fruits of His spirit. Please pray against the attacks from the enemy. Please continue to be praying for the health of my team. And please pray for my fundraising. Prayer warriors, you are awesome! Thank you.
