Timing is everything! It has been a little over two weeks since I have resided in Cambodia, and we have participated in a solid week and a half of ministry here. My team and I are working this month at the Youth Development Center (YDC) and already LOVING all of the opportunities we have to serve in Kampong Cham. Ironically, God is expanding my understanding of gratitude this month; so while everyone back home is preparing for Thanksgiving, here are some of the new things I am learning to be thankful for.
I am thankful for the opportunity to grow up in a loving, Christian home.
Every morning at YDC, we participate in team worship and prayer before leaving for the nearby villages. My team and I visit two slums throughout the week, alternating visits every other morning. One of these villages is called “42 Houses.” This village has won all our hearts as we bathe, sing songs, and feed 30+ children three times a week. In a week’s time we have come to love and care for children that already recognize us and the love we offer from Christ.
Observing these children’s daily lives and family dynamics has allowed me to recognize the full value of growing up in an environment of love and care. For most of these children, we offer the only love and attention they will receive that day. Because of the Holy Spirit working through us, I know we are making a difference in the lives of these children, whom I pray will one day be able to bestow on their children the blessing of a Christian legacy. Lord, please remain with these children and extend grace to their families. I pray they are able to receive and acknowledge your love in their lives on a daily basis.
I am thankful for the opportunity I had to gain an education.
Beginning in the afternoon, over fifty local kids and young adults come through the YDC to practice and learn English. My team and I are stepping into our new titles as “teacher,” as we each teach an hour class regarding the subjects of grammar, music, math and problem solving skills, or self-expression. I have personally loved educating my students and am grateful to share with my class of young adults’ math concepts and skills I was blessed to learn at a young age. It gives me joy knowing I am able to pass on to them things I learned; the education continues, and prayerfully will grow as many of them also aspire to be teachers one day.
Teaching my class has made me more grateful for the opportunity I have had to learn and gain an education. Not only did my education teach me basic skill sets, but it expanded my life to numerous future possibilities. It encouraged me to dream and understand all my options so I could choose what I wanted to do, where I wanted to travel, and cultures I wanted to experience. I am thankful that gaining an education was an “easy” opportunity for me, unlike the challenges many children and families make here to gain these skills. Lord, be with them as they learn. I ask that you would expand their knowledge, assist them as they learn a second language, and pursue their aspirations to one day change this country.
During my time here I often find myself asking God “why?” Why was I born in the United States? Why did my family choose to love me, and not neglect me? Why was it so easy for me to gain an education? Although I may not know the reasons why I have been so blessed, I want to thank God for these opportunities. Up until now I took many of these blessing for granted. Moving forward, I want to be appreciative for the opportunities I have; this may be work, traveling, or loving my children the way my parents loved me. Many people I know have been immensely blessed; I encourage you this thanksgiving season to be thankful for the many opportunities you have had and reflect on how God has brought you were you are today.
