Thursday kids club - Day 17

Today we got to sleep in! It was really good, because last night I stayed up really late skyping with my parents. It was good talking with them and catching up on the goings on at home. The morning came really early. Breakfast was my usual: lime juice and banana pancake. We piled in the bus and headed out about a half hour later than usual. At Rahabs I spent the morning writing some of my blog and reading Psalms. I read out where the kids watch tv. Just like the day before it only took a few minutes and I had a whole crowd around me. 

This time I decided to try drawing a picture. They really got into it and helped me draw this picture:

After I showed them how a couple of the boys really got into it. They drew these on their own while I held the iPad:

 

 

It was lots of fun seeing them find joy in a simple whiteboard application. 

Every day this week I have eaten at the same table with several of the boy disciples. Rat Ti is thirteen and we sit next to each other. His english wasn't great, but we shared smiles and laughs. The simple ministry of being present with people is worth far more than we consciously think. I found myself touched over and over by the questions, care, and concern for me that the local staff and disciples had. Wanting to know how I was feeling, if I liked the food, and other really trivial stuff about my experience in Cambodia. They especially wanted to know if I had been here before, so I got to share with several my childhood story of living in Vietnam. As I said before, many of the families in Svay Pak are Vietnamese so the staff actually speak some Vietnamese too. I made a few special friendships by sharing some Vietnamese words back and forth during Volleyball and goodbyes.

Our kids club today was on neighbors are forgiving. Kelsay taught the lesson of Zacheus during the story time and I taught them Deep and Wide in the singing time. We sang the Grow song again too, and they loved it all over again. I noticed today how consistent the disciples are in their ministry. 4 days into kids club and there was no waning in the energy or joy. I have that kinda energy when I'm directing my youth rally, or at summer camp, but thinking about doing that almost every day of the week, all year round! I was totally impressed. 

Psalm 79:1-13 NIV

O God, the nations have invaded your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple, they have reduced Jerusalem to rubble. [2] They have left the dead bodies of your servants as food for the birds of the sky, the flesh of your own people for the animals of the wild. [3] They have poured out blood like water all around Jerusalem, and there is no one to bury the dead. [4] We are objects of contempt to our neighbors, of scorn and derision to those around us. [5] How long, Lord? Will you be angry forever? How long will your jealousy burn like fire? [6] Pour out your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge you, on the kingdoms that do not call on your name; [7] for they have devoured Jacob and devastated his homeland. [8] Do not hold against us the sins of past generations; may your mercy come quickly to meet us, for we are in desperate need. [9] Help us, God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake. [10] Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Before our eyes, make known among the nations that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants. [11] May the groans of the prisoners come before you; with your strong arm preserve those condemned to die. [12] Pay back into the laps of our neighbors seven times the contempt they have hurled at you, Lord. [13] Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you forever; from generation to generation we will proclaim your praise.

This is one of the Psalms I read sitting out amongst the children. I felt the meaning really rising from the situation facing Cambodia. This idea that evil has invaded God's temple, in the new covenant the church is the temple of the living God. People are God's sacred space, and here in Cambodia their lives are not respected. Girls are abused, trafficked, sold, enslaved, and murdered by Cambodian men and foreigners taking advantage of the broken laws here. I can only imagine the questions the church here is asking, the questions of God that the disciples are asking...Why oh God would you allow this? Will you be angry with my country forever? Will you not restore us again, will you not help us for the glory of your name? Like the psalmist asks, they plead with God to hear the groans of the prisoners. I met some crazy strong servants of Jesus here and I would love to come back and see generation after generation that are proclaiming like this one is the praise of YHWH God! 

There wasn't the regular group of volleyball players again so I joined in playing soccer and just never quite. I ran around and kicked at the ball (hitting it some of the time) mostly enjoying fun times with the kids and some of the adults from the village. Physical exercise really is good for your spirit too. I found that the days I worked harder physically I felt better spiritually. 

May the peace of God guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus!

Wednesday kids club - Day 16

Waking up I was very sore, which means I'm working hard. This morning I hung out in the main entrance where we eat food. They have a tv out there with cartoons on while the kids are waiting for activities to start. Most of the kids come in from the community in the afternoon, but some of the kids live right next door and go to school all day at Rahabs house. So there's always kids coming and going throughout the day. For most of the morning I sat and visited with one of the disciples, she is really on fire for God. Knows her Bible and had some great questions for me about: how did you come to know God? What is the church like in America? The days here are like one big devotional! It's like having VBS every day! The disciples have a leader devotional in the morning, they spend time praying, and leading a kids bible club. 

Today was a special day with extra flurry of activity! Nick Vujic came and spoke. Nick has no arms or legs. He was born that way and his testimony is profound. Like Paul in Romans 1:16, Nick is not ashamed of the gospel of Christ! He talked to the kids, staff, and community gathered here, let them ask questions, and gave everyone who wanted one a hug. The joy he had was contagious! See his story here: 

Our team was blessed to be here when he came to visit. We got a special audience in the office with him, got to take a group picture, and we got to pray for him and his team. He is married and has a 3 month old baby, and so we prayed for his family especially because of all the traveling he has planned. We prayed for the spread of the gospel, and for special dream of his about getting millions to donate just $1 a month to a fund that would be used to generate economic growth, stop human trafficking, and relieve poverty in places like Cambodia. 

Our afternoon was amazing. I got to ride with the van to pick up the children at the riverside, brick factories, and other neighborhoods about 5 minutes away from here. We bring usually two van loads of about 20-30 each trip. Lots of the kids do live within walking distance, but these kids we pick up are even more poor than the kids living next to Rahabs house. I went on both trips. The first time I had kids all over me, sitting on my lap, petting my arm hair, and hitting the back of my head or shoulders. It was a really full van. The second trip out after dropping off the first group I got out of the van and walked with Janel and two of the disciples. We passed so many kids, parents, and grandparents. It is hard to imagine parents being complicit, or worse the perpetrators themselves, of trafficking their own kids. Now it is was obvious not all of the kids were being trafficked, but they were and are at an extremely high risk. Not only is trafficking a problem but simple sanitization does not exist, very little children are naked in the street running around on uneven brick infested ground that is perilous for even shoed people. Standing water, no refrigeration for food, animals running loose, and bad drinking water - it's not just the trafficking piece that moves you to compassion here, but the overwhelming poverty and apathy to it that hurts deep. 

Why would God allow this here? Why would he allow it on the planet period?  Listen:

Psalm 75:1-10 NIV

We praise you, God, we praise you, for your Name is near; people tell of your wonderful deeds. [2] You say, “I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge with equity. [3] When the earth and all its people quake, it is I who hold its pillars firm. [4] To the arrogant I say, ‘Boast no more,’ and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horns. [5] Do not lift your horns against heaven; do not speak so defiantly. ’ ” [6] No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt themselves. [7] It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another. [8] In the hand of the Lord is a cup full of foaming wine mixed with spices; he pours it out, and all the wicked of the earth drink it down to its very dregs. [9] As for me, I will declare this forever; I will sing praise to the God of Jacob, [10] who says, “I will cut off the horns of all the wicked, but the horns of the righteous will be lifted up.”

I have observed in my missions here that even in the darkest corners of the world there are people lifting up praise. These are the people who are joyful, because they have hope! And they don't shy away from singing about Jesus and God! Our mission is not to "fix the world" ourselves, or compel God to "act", no! God is in charge, he appoints the time to act and judge. Our job is to declare forever the faithfulness of God's justice and forgiveness found in Jesus Christ! 

Today's Kids club was a blast. We taught the lesson of the Good Samaritan, teaching that neighbors are bold. I taught them some songs with hand motions: Jesus Loves Me and The Growing song. Many of them knew Jesus loves me already but the hand motions were new. Read your bible and pray ever day and you'll grow, grow, grow was new for them, but they picked it up really quick and loved it. I led several songs during the closing time, and we enjoyed singing Peel Banana together too. Kids are awesome and don't require you to have everything perfect or smooth, just put a big smile on and invite them to join you. 

Volleyball was more relaxed today after kids club and I got a chance to play with a few more of the staff since the volleyball team was traveling. Several of the disciples now know I speak a little Vietnamese and so we share a few words back and forth: how are you? I'm fine thank you. Sorry. See you tomorrow...etc simple but fun, they laugh like crazy.

Grace and peace!

Tuesday kids club - Day 15

Morning started early again. Monday I toured the facility with a small group while classes were led and taught by others in the team. I learned a lot about Agape's work here in Phnom Penh, their dreams for the future, and some of the problems they face. Troy was able to tell me about all the changes that have been made from garbage dumps to gardens, brothels to safe houses - the transformation is amazing, and yet there are still a lot of evil present in this small community. On our tour and walk I prayed, one of the more powerful prayer walks I have been on. 

Tuesday morning was different, this time I went with Troy to the soccer field and got roped into playing a pick up game with the kids. These boys are amazing! I am not very good at soccer but I had a blast and worked hard. I played and watched for an hour and a half. It was really hot. 

I wish I had pictures to show you, but you'll have to understand my word pictures since I don't carry a camera on me during this part of the trip. Before lunch a small group of us went back out to the soccer field to pick up garbage. We picked up over 5 bags of garbage over two days. This is not the same concept as "dirty" fields in the states. Imagine this, every kid buys a drink, candy, or water bottle and bring them to the soccer field. After consuming they just tossing them all on the ground, half eaten sometimes. Almost every day they come and play outside, and the trash never gets cleaned up! You can see where plastic bags or cups have become part of the ground because of being smashed in to the grass and ground. Often a team will come in and help clean up a section of their land, and so we decided to help with the main part of the soccer and volleyball fields. It looks a lot better, seems like a surface ministry - just picking up garbage big woop - but we did it for the leaders, the disciples, and as an example to the village. We are the spark that can help get their fire back burning brighter. 

I was thinking about how important and inspirational having a guest speaker is at a church, and how short term missions is very similar. Long term is always lauded as more effective, but there is truth in the need for short term missions to be that igniter. Consider this Psalm:

Psalm 70:1-5 NIV

Hasten, O God, to save me; come quickly, Lord, to help me. [2] May those who want to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. [3] May those who say to me, “Aha! Aha!” turn back because of their shame. [4] But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who long for your saving help always say, “The Lord is great!” [5] But as for me, I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; Lord, do not delay.

Do you ever pray with urgency? Needs are real here, life is actually hard, people really need God...but we do too! Like the Apostle John, I pray "come Lord Jesus, come!" Come quickly to turn around the injustice and poverty I see. Come quickly to solve the stress, depression, and apathy. Come quickly to mend broken families, lives and hearts. Come quickly to make things new. For now I will live as Jesus did, I will declare, "The Lord is great!" For it is God who delivers the slaves, the trafficking victims, and heals countries. He restores by sending out His messengers: you and me! Short term or long term, burning coals or igniting sparks: 

Hebrews 1:7 NIV

In speaking of the angels he says, “He makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire.”

Angel means messenger, and in some cases I believe I have met angels in my short experience of global missions. Experiences with people that were such a God send! But my main emphasis in bringing up this verse was to say: we are His servants and we are called flames of fire. How are we burning people? Bonfire? Or city limits marshmallow roaster with one piece of wood? Set fire to the rain - to quote a contemporary music artist. 

To finish about my day. Kids club was again in the afternoon. Kelsay, a communication major on our team, taught the bible story about Elijah and the widow in Zerephath. We taught the kids that neighbors are giving. After kids club we went to the volleyball courts and played some intense volleyball. I even joined the coach and Janel for several drills. I ended up being the setter for that piece. I'm still in need of some serious training but that's okay, I have fun and try to keep up her! That's a huge part of life: finding common joy.

May the joy of The Lord fill you up with strength and courage in Jesus Name!

Rahab's House kids club - Day 14

Today was the first time we arrived in Svay Pak. Day 1 of the kids club where we are leading a VBS. The kids are awesome here. Rahab's house is a ministry by Agape International Missions to reach out to a very poor neighborhood (or village really) in the outskirts of Phnom Penh. They help at risk or rescued kids that are predominately Vietnamese, but have lived here there whole life. The Svay Pak community has a lot of Vietnamese families in it, but they speak Khemer mostly because all the schools don't teach Vietnamese. Rahab's house has a school in it for many of the kids in the community, the building is a flurry of activity from 8am on until late afternoon. 

There are some AIM directors here working with Don and Bridget Brewster that are Americans, but they have a very large local staff too. The Pastors wife is the main cook, Rattanak is one of the youth pastors, and there are probably 20 disciples (young leaders, who help with kids club). Rattanak is an awesome leader, he teaches the kids really, really well. Lots of energy, he speaks English, Khemer, and some Vietnamese. I am enjoying working with him and hearing his heart for these kids and people here. 

At kids club I taught the first days lesson. I taught about Abraham and the 3 visitors. We are teaching the kids about being neighbors who are Friendly, Give, who are Bold, Forgive, and who Welcome others. The lesson was fun to do with Rattanak translating. He is really good and puts his own voices and style into teaching which is lots of fun to work with. 

After kids club we went out and played volleyball with many of the helpers (disciples) and a volleyball club that practices at the same field. Janel was really excited about playing. There were two groups, one with all the "good" players and the other one just for fun. Janel and I played with the volleyball coach and several of the good volleyball players. Rattanak also played with us. 

Long day of fun and getting to the heart of our ministry time here. Simply visiting, saying hello, and praying is a huge part of showing the people here the love of Jesus. 

Psalm 67:1-7 NIV

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us--- [2] so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. [3] May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you. [4] May the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you rule the peoples with equity and guide the nations of the earth. [5] May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you. [6] The land yields its harvest; God, our God, blesses us. [7] May God bless us still, so that all the ends of the earth will fear him.

Receive God's blessing this week and make known to your friends what God has done! 

New Life Fellowship - Day 13

Sunday morning, truly every day is the day The Lord has made, but this Sunday was one I felt that more so.  Worship with NLF Phnom Penh was awesome.  I had worshiped there once before in 2007.  Coming back was amazing, it felt good and strange. Almost deja vu....ish. This time they even had headsets for english speakers with a translator (like what you see in the U.N. I felt very special.  Many of my team was feeling very ill.  Most have recovered but a couple are still down with stomach issues, prayers are definitely a request. 

The lesson was brought by an American who was doing a workshop over the weekend and then heading out to the villages outside Phnom Penh.  The sermon was kinda his conclusion to the events of Saturday.  In it he talked about Community and the very necessary need we have for community and also how that can be a positive and negative force in our faith.  

After church we spent the afternoon at a pizza place called "Divine Pizza & Ribs" very good place. Troy's friend Joe, who we met in Battambang, manages the place. After lunch we spent some time planning about our VBS we are putting on Monday thru Friday. Agape International Missions has a house called Rahab's house just outside of Phnom Penh and they host kids club every weekday for the village children from 2pm - 3:30pm. We are joined this week by a team from William Jessup University, a Christian college that Troy actually taught at before coming to Eugene. Joe Womack, our president, was the Vice President at William Jessup first too. Their team leaders actually came o Cambodia with Troy several years ago, so it's pretty cool having an extra 9 or so volunteers to help with the controlled chaos that is called Kids club. 

This psalm rang true to my feelings today - 

Psalm 62:1-2,5,10-12 NIV

Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. [2] Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. [5] Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. [10] Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them. [11] One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: “Power belongs to you, God, [12] and with you, Lord, is unfailing love”; and, “You reward everyone according to what they have done.”

I found myself pouring not just my voice into worship at NLF but my heart. I rested in knowing that God's love is enough, that He is everything. I found myself for the first time this trip completely forgetting where I was, what I was doing and just being completely in the presence of God. I realized that the rest I need so desperately is not from the heat here in Cambodia, or the homework at college, or even the drama in ministry - no what I need is rest from my worrying mind. I need rest from being my own boss. I found rest Sunday in God, "truly he is my rock and my salvation...my fortress...my hope comes from him."

The Lord bless you and keep you, The Lord make his make his face shine upon you and be gracious toward you! 

Agape Restoration Ministries - Day 12

Saturday morning we had a group devotional after breakfast. The last couple mornings I have been eating a pancake with banana every morning. It is actually really tasty. At the devo this morning Jason shared a Psalm with us and we sang a few worship songs. Singing together is great, I really love worship that is wholistic, realizing that I'm singing but also going out later in the day and serving other people.

About 10am we arrived at an Agape International Missions safe house. The directors were very nice and gave a tour of their facility. Again we aren't allowed pictures or to tell details, but I will tell you that the smiling faces of the girls were a big sign of hope that is so desperately needed here. After visiting the killing fields the day before, we were in a sort of depression as a team, but visiting and playing games with the rescued girls was awesome! Their joy was expressed through dance, song, smiles, and energy. We spent about 2 concentrated hours with the girls and staff. We made visors, flower leis, and played a matching game. 

A change of scenery in the afternoon, we took a break and enjoyed some baked goods. We ate cupcakes at Phnom Penhs famous Bloom cafe. It was a good rest after a long morning. While some rested in Bloom enjoying the free wifi, good food, and fun drinks; several of us walked to a local bookstore. This team has several education majors on it, so they got into looking at the funny children's books. In the evening several of us went to the night market just a block from our hotel. I bought some fake Oakley sunglasses and a few other trinkets. 

Psalm 60:1-12 NIV

You have rejected us, God, and burst upon us; you have been angry---now restore us! [2] You have shaken the land and torn it open; mend its fractures, for it is quaking. [3] You have shown your people desperate times; you have given us wine that makes us stagger. [4] But for those who fear you, you have raised a banner to be unfurled against the bow. [5] Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered. [6] God has spoken from his sanctuary: “In triumph I will parcel out Shechem and measure off the Valley of Sukkoth. [7] Gilead is mine, and Manasseh is mine; Ephraim is my helmet, Judah is my scepter. [8] Moab is my washbasin, on Edom I toss my sandal; over Philistia I shout in triumph. ” [9] Who will bring me to the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? [10] Is it not you, God, you who have now rejected us and no longer go out with our armies? [11] Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. [12] With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.

You might read this Psalm and just keep on reading - not a bad thing, but just cause it seems to not relate due to all the wacky names doesn't mean you can disregard it. Pause with me on Psalm 60. Realize that Cambodia is a very forsaken place, that very bad things have happened here. Like God not going out with Israel to battle, Cambodia feels as if God has given it over to destructive forces and evil people. Just as in the days of Israel there is a remnant, a people who "fear The Lord" and trust Him. God has not forsaken them, He has not forsaken the people of Cambodia, He has not forsaken us. "Human help" doesn't cut it, we need God, and with Him we "will gain the victory"! Gain the victory in your life and pray that the Cambodians can do the same. 

May the grace of the Lord Jesus, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you!

Killing Fields - Day 11

Today I woke up and we had breakfast at our hotels little restaurant outside on the sidewalk near the street. Our hotel is very simple and right downtown Phnom Penh. The sounds, sights, and smells of the city surround us even in our rooms. 

After breakfast we traveled out to S-21, or better known as "The Killing Station".  Our tour guide was a lady who as a child escaped from the Khemer Rouge into Vietnam. Her father, sister, and brother were all killed before she and her mother escaped. Very powerful personal testimony. 

Touring the rooms where people were tortured and held for months on end was very heavy. Blood stains were still seen, pictures from when the prison was captured by Vietnamese soldiers that found bodies dead. It is almost too much to type out. There were many survivors from S-21, most of the time they escaped when taken to the killing fields to be executed - but most did not come forward to tell their stories, or simply did not live very long after.

7 reported survivors were rescued and 2 of them are still living. The two men were actually at S-21 selling their books, paintings, and conducting special Q/A. Both men had smiling faces, so impressive that they can return, their mission - to tell the stories for the future generations. 

On the third floor of one of the buildings was an exhibit from Japan, Okinawa has a similar tragic story. Near the end of World War II the Japanese held out and would not surrender. Even after bombing so heavily the landscape was changed, the Japanese soldiers would rather commit suicide than surrender. The soldiers also forced the villagers to remain hidden, starving them to death, and in many instances "eliminating them" before the Americans came. If people tried to run out to surrender the Japanese imperial soldiers would fire on their own people. This resembles the tragic actions of the Khemer rouge, who rounded up people, not based on race but on class or education. Even later they made trumped up charges and would execute mindlessly. The brutality is now on record in both the S-21 museum and a special World Peace and Human Rights center in Okinawa, Japan. The point is that we cannot forget the horrendous crimes committed, we must remember so as to not allow this to happen again!

Lunch was a good break from the intensity. We went to a great Mexican restaurant, and it actually was real Mexican taste. The chips were made from hand made flour tortillas and it was air conditioned in the restaurant! They even had fritos pie!!!

After lunch we drove out to the killing fields. There we saw depressions in the ground where the mass graves had been and were uncovered. In the center of the area was a tower full of skulls that were found there. Around the building was a pathway to walk and read about the killing fields. At several spots there was a sign about the clothing that was collected. It said "the victims clothes have been cleaned and stored here to keep on." This powerful phrase, "to keep on", means so much! I think they might mean to translate it "keep on remembering" the loss, but I actually think the simple "keep on" means that we have our memory of what happened, and we have to "keep on" living. Tragedy may come but we must push on and remember who we are and who we belong to.

Seeing what the Khemer Rouge did to its people and seeing also what the current government allows makes me remember a Psalm I memorized part of:

Psalm 58:1-11 NIV

Do you rulers indeed speak justly? Do you judge people with equity? [2] No, in your heart you devise injustice, and your hands mete out violence on the earth. [3] Even from birth the wicked go astray; from the womb they are wayward, spreading lies. [4] Their venom is like the venom of a snake, like that of a cobra that has stopped its ears, [5] that will not heed the tune of the charmer, however skillful the enchanter may be. [6] Break the teeth in their mouths, O God; Lord, tear out the fangs of those lions! [7] Let them vanish like water that flows away; when they draw the bow, let their arrows fall short. [8] May they be like a slug that melts away as it moves along, like a stillborn child that never sees the sun. [9] Before your pots can feel the heat of the thorns---whether they be green or dry---the wicked will be swept away. [10] The righteous will be glad when they are avenged, when they dip their feet in the blood of the wicked. [11] Then people will say, “Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth.”

May the God of peace bring you peace through the Name of Jesus and the in dwelling of the Holy Spirit!

Bus Ride to Phnom Penh - Day 10

This couple days have been full. I am writing about yesterday because I ended up taking a good mental break on the long bus ride by watching movies. Then while we toured the killing fields in Phnom Penh I did not spend much time writing either, really trying to soak in the experience.

Thursday morning was really fun. We visited with our friends the Stocks and saw their bakery under construction, it will be beautiful once it's done. After taking a tour with them we went to Lucky Mall and got snacks for our bus ride and chatted more with Matthew and Melissa. 

At the mall I got some snacks from my childhood. These jello type snacks which I will take a picture of and hope to post later. I also found some soft milk candies that resemble ones I had in Taiwan growing up, very tasty. 

We really enjoyed our little hotel in Siem Reap and said our good byes, packed our luggage in a bus and headed for the main bus station. Our big bus was really fun and nice. As I already mentioned we watched movies on it and had ver slow wifi. The bus ride from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh was 7 hours including a couple restroom stops. 

One stop we actually got off for 30 min and had lunch. Janel and I shared some French fries and fried rice. 

Arriving in Phnom Penh means we really start our main mission piece. For now most of what we have done is informational. We have visited historic sights, seen bad guy places where trafficking happens, and met some really cool NGO's doing things ranging from care for trafficked people, local restaurants, and fair trade products. Here in Phnom Penh we will spend our last week working a VBS for a kids club. So now is the time to ramp up your prayers. We will be spending several hours each day with the kids. Pray for strength. 

Psalm 56:1-13 NIV

Be merciful to me, my God, for my enemies are in hot pursuit; all day long they press their attack. [2] My adversaries pursue me all day long; in their pride many are attacking me. [3] When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. [4] In God, whose word I praise---in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? [5] All day long they twist my words; all their schemes are for my ruin. [6] They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps, hoping to take my life. [7] Because of their wickedness do not let them escape; in your anger, God, bring the nations down. [8] Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll---are they not in your record? [9] Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me. [10] In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise--- [11] in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? [12] I am under vows to you, my God; I will present my thank offerings to you. [13] For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.

The one thing I did not rest from on the last two days was God's word. The word in whom I trust. The reality is that in this country where so much death has happened I am reminded of my own death, the death I died with Jesus, the burial in water, and the resurrection by the power of Jesus at the cross to new life, life in the light of God. I get to go home at the end of this trip to a comfortable, happy, and hopeful place - but no matter where I am, happy or desolate, America or Cambodia, I get to walk in the light of Jesus! 

I'm pressing on the upward way

New heights I'm gaining every day

Still praying as I onward bound

Lord plant my feet in higher ground!

May The Lord lift your hearts this week as you walk in the Sonlight! 

Angkor Wat - Day 9

Last night was fun with seeing the cultural show, we all were exhausted.  Some of us are still getting over the tummy bug and others are just beginning the painful cycle.  All in all this morning came way to early, as most do.  I don't know about you but I usually like routines, however our 7 am routine definitely would have been something I broke if not for the exciting adventures I knew lay ahead!

Breakfast in our little Boutique hotel is lovely, of course it is so small that we have to stagger our eating times.  My roomate, Christian, and I chose the 7am slot (the earliest).  It was nice we got done right about the time the second and third waves were beginning to show up.  I had a bran cereal of sorts with raisans today and yesterday morning for breakfast. 

After that we rode on our bus to the Angkor Wat complex.  In Siem Reap there are hundreds of temples (or locally known as "wats")  Angkor Wat is the biggest temple and surrounding it are several others that are large and well known.  We saw 5 temples today.  I don't remember all the names, 3 in the morning before lunch and 2 afterwards.  The 3 in the morning were very fun.  We started with taking lots of group pictures which I hope to get from others in the group eventually.  Our guide spoke pretty good english and enjoyed showing us all the great picture spots and funny pictures.  The second temple in Angkor Thom (which means big city, there were two temples in this ancient city) was new to me.  When I came before to Siem Reap the temple was under thorough restoration, we walked around it and saw the giant reclining buddha, but this time we were actually able to climb up to the top story.  This was a more ancient temple than most, with more Hindu orginal architecture, contrast to the buddhist tendencies that dominate many of the others. 

Our last stop before lunch was the tree infested temple, famous for its part in Tomb Raider.  This temple gives a very good look into what it might have been like to discover these temples all over grown and falling down.  Reminds me of Indian Jones ride from Disneyland! The trees literally grow right out of the ruins.

Lunch was fun, I finally had my fresh coconut! Very refreshing, unfortunately Janel didn't like hers, so fortunately I got two coconuts for lunch!

The second part of the day was primarily spent at Angkor Wat, the largest temple.  Roughly 65 meters tall at the highest point, it is the tallest building in Siem Reap from ground up.  This temple was built they believe somewhere in the 12th-13th centuries A.D. The stone and surrounding environment create a stunning view.  On top you look out and see the treeline stretching for miles and realize the size of the Wat, incredible workmanship.  Troubling reasons though - filled with misleading legends, perverted rituals, and oppressive leaders.  The fall of man into sin was terrible, and man's depravity is evident even at these awesome wonders of the ancient world.  Reminding me that even awesome things can be used for evil.  Take the internet that allows me to upload these blogs - it is also a doorway and instrument into a very dark and evil place of pornography.  Good and evil exist in the same place and the challenge for us is to stay in the light, for there our evil is in full view because of the light of Christ.  Jesus gives us the power to identify and overcome, but that is only possible when we walk in the light, confessing our sins, and putting our trust and confidence in the right person - Jesus Christ!

Enough preaching right?  Sorry I've been a little cooped up inside myself with the whole Hindu and Buddhist stuff.  I love Jesus can you tell?

Seems like a good time for a Psalm:

Psalm 46:1-11 NIV

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. [2] Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, [3] though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. [4] There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. [5] God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. [6] Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. [7] The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. [8] Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth. [9] He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. [10] He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” [11] The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

To finish out our time at Angkor Wat complex, Janel and I rode an elephant for about 20 minutes.  The ride took us to the top of one a small mountain that has a Wat on it.  This is the popular spot to watch the sunset. Three of the other team also took an elephant ride up to the top and together we all walked down.  There was a storm coming (in fact it rained on us heavily at dinner) so we didn't have a chance to see the sunset.  It was nice and cool though, compared to earlier in the day.  At the bottom we rode a tuk tuk home since the bus took everyone else home before the elephants.  All in all a lovely day. 

On the elephant together! 

Tonight was full of food, or at least I was very full!  We had another dinner with the Stocks at a very good western style food place.  The pizza was good and the burgers tasted great.  The owner had a pool table nearby so several of us played some pool, even got the bus driver to play along too!

The night is nearing bed time and I will sign off.

Grace, Mercy, and Peace.

Siem Reap tour - Day 8

Today we met Don and Bridget Brewster. They are a great couple working hard in the after care of trafficked girls. Primarily they work out of Phnom Penh but they also have part of their ministry AIM here in Siem Reap. (For now I will just refer to Don, but Bridget was very cool too and shared specifically about the ministry here in Siem Reap and oriented us to some of the staff). Don has been here 8 years and is a director for Agape International Mission.  Here is their website check it out:

http://agapewebsite.org/

Don took us on a tour of Siem Reap, but this wasn't a normal tour like I'm used to, instead Don drove us by brothels, hostess bars, and Karaoke clubs. These are really bad places where often 10s to 100s of girls and under age girls are trafficked or used. These places look normal or just like regular bars or night clubs, but they are full of corruption and pure evil. After listening to Don today I have a better handle on the evilness of Sodom and Gomorrah, and of the people in Noah's day who's every thought was evil! Ever wanted the Bible to come to life, the horrors seem pretty real to me right now, but so does the hope and life found in Jesus!

I was so encouraged by Don's testimony about the real solution to the problem of trafficking: Christ. I can't count on two hands how many times he said that "there are many good things, but nothing like the transforming power of Christ! 

This place is a Karaoke club that is pure evil. Don says they could be forcing up to 500 girls. It's a tough thing to see and this is only the beginning. 

I cannot do justice on this blog to what I saw and heard. My girlfriend, who is also on the trip, has been blogging as well. She is going to be posting soon some pictures and thoughts on Don's tour. So I will point you to her for more info: 

http://janelfetterelli.blogspot.com/

After the tour of the city and several heart wrenching hours of raw information - we went to the Silk Worm farm and saw how silk is made. It was cool to see something again that I remember seeing as a child. I don't think we ever came to this specific farm but the process was familiar. I learned the Silk from worms here is yellow naturally because of the heat and the Silk from worms in China is white because of the cooler less tropical climate. 

Dinner tonight was at a cultural show. We had a good buffet and ate a lot of mangos! They had on stage a cultural and traditional dance. The dance was similar to what I have seen in other places. After dinner we walked over to a super market and got ice cream. It is such a shock to see so much ice cream and for it to taste so good - since when I was younger the best you got was a drumstick or little individual ice cream from New Zealand. Matthew and Melissa Stock met us at the ice cream place. 

So much to see, so much to share...so little time! 

Psalm 43:1-5 NIV

Vindicate me, my God, and plead my cause against an unfaithful nation. Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked. [2] You are God my stronghold. Why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy? [3] Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. [4] Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God. [5] Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

The events of today put a bit of a rain cloud on our team. It's tough to be told and shown evil and have it so close, yet not be able to defeat it. This Psalm reminds me to get my happy on and be filled with hope. 

Grace, mercy, and peace! 

Boat Ride - Day 7

Lots of writing today! Yesterday was very inspiring and thought provoking. Today I had a long time to reflect on that. Right now I am in the hotel room in Siem Riep after a nice dinner with Matthew and Melissa Stock who helped arrange for us to stay here nearby their home. We will be visiting some cool places tomorrow and learning some new things about trafficking. We will meet Don Bruster (guessing on the last name) who works here full time. 

The boat! Where to begin? Hmm well 8:10 we were loading on the boat. We said our good byes to Sambath and Chan Tou. Our team gave Sambath money as a gift for his bathroom. His new house he bought only had a hole in the ground for a toilet. So we thought it would be nice to gift him money for a new toilet. To say thank you for translating and taking care of us. It was like having our own personal tour guide too. 

I sat at the back of the boat near the motor. It was very loud. I wore some white headphones pictured on Janel. 

We made one stop on this 8 hour boat ride and right as we were loading up to leave the stop the rain came down. And it poured like crazy. Multiple times during our ride we would hang a tarp down and get in the sauna, at least that's what it felt like for us. The rain was a blessing after being so hot and icky, the overcast skies really kept it cooler. 

It was so loud I spent the whole time either lip reading, waving at children we passed, or typing on my iPad. It was good except for the sheer noise that the motor made. Jason got on top and helped with the tarps and ended up staying up the and he got soaked! 

If you can't tell, in the next picture it is raining like crazy!!!

So much more to share and yet I am so sleepy. Listen to the words of this psalm, which has in it some great water imagery. 

Psalm 42:1-11 NIV

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. [2] My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? [3] My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me all day long, “Where is your God?” [4] These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go to the house of God under the protection of the Mighty One with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng. [5] Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. [6] My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon---from Mount Mizar. [7] Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me. [8] By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me---a prayer to the God of my life. [9] I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?” [10] My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?” [11] Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace!

Sunday reflections - Day 6.2

Today on the boat ride I am finishing the journaling for yesterday, Sunday. I will pick back up at HBI. After church we visited for a little while, pretty soon tables were set up and we sat down to eat lunch. The locals sat at round tables put us at the big long one in the middle. I asked our friend Sambath if it would be okay for us to sit among the other people and children. He said I could sit where ever I felt comfortable. So I went and found a table full of boys and sat with them. One little boy spoke some English, his parents were out at a village church since he is a student at Hope (HBI). One of the older boys sisters came over and also ate lunch at my table. She spoke pretty good English and enjoyed talking with me. Her name was Vimol. We had a special potato stew with baguette bread. It was the first time she had eaten it. So we enjoyed a new experience together, there was some rice and fish that was local Khemer style too. I actually kinda miss the food over here. 

After lunch most of the people left while we were on a tour of HBI and Sambath's house. He lives at HBI right now but has purchased a small house just down the road. We walked to it and when we were standing outside talking to some of his neighbors we started singing our songs with the kids. I've got peace like river and Hallelujah Praise The Lord. The kids followed us as we did the motions and giggled so hard! It was awesome and spontaneous joy even in the dreadful noon day heat. 

This is their water system. It starts in a little pond. And then is pumped up to a tower. 

There is a filtration built into the tower. From there it is distributed throughout the compound. 

These are smaller water filtration systems that HBI gives out to village house churches. The first village we went to had one actually! 

Two of the ladies from church that spoke a little English stayed with us all day, they enjoy learning English by talking with us. One was Borah's wife (he translated for us along with Sambath out in the villages). The other was Chharik Chan (you pronounce it like cherri). They both came with us to the second temple climb we did here in Battambang, called Battambang Mountain. It is older than the last one we visited. Similar history as Angkor Wat. 

We had a blast climbing around the ancient ruins and visiting with Sambath, Chherrik, and Borah's wife. At the top we prayed again over Cambodia. Prayer is powerful, but there is something about actually being at a high place and seeing the Hindu architecture and the Buddha statues - idolatry has a face, and it makes your prayers that much more relevant and impactful when we are standing right there amongst it praying out against it. We prayed asking that just like we sing that truly God would Open the Eyes of the hearts here to see the truth about Jesus and the uselessness of idols. That God would become the God of this City, just like we sang in our team devotionals. 

Psalm 41:1-2,13 NIV

Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. [2] The Lord protects and preserves them---they are counted among the blessed in the land---he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. [13] Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen.

This Psalm seem to fit very good with my personal reflection of the past couple days. These often lament Psalms have some of the most profound elements of praise. I believe that is what I witnessed yesterday that in a place with a profound sense of poverty there can be profound praise. 

To end the recap of yesterday I want to share about in the afternoon we went to Raphas house again. Many of the same girls we saw on Saturday were there. This time we were able to buy some of the bags, wallets, purses, and elephants that the girls make. Our team spent over $1,200 there (as individuals buying gifts for friends and family). This money goes directly to the girls making the merchandise. They were so happy to see us excited about the things they have made. Again you can find out more and order your own gear at their online store: freedomforgirls.org. 

I was again struck by the confusion and longing in their eyes. How much love was there, not looks of poverty, not of hate, some maybe had what I thought looked like fear, but my only conclusion is confusion. 

"Oh God you are my God and I will ever serve you,

And I will seek you in the morning.

And I will learn to walk in your ways,

And step by step you'll lead me 

And I will follow you all of my days"

The grace of The Lord Jesus be with you as you follow him

Church! - Day 6

Today is Sunday! We had an awesome time worshipping with Hope Bible Institute and some of their neighbors. The children sang a special song that had correa graphed motions. We also sang Open the Eyes of my heart and Lord I lift your name on high for them. 

We were led in worship by several young people. The songs were some classics like: Humble yourself in the sight of The Lord, Give Thanks, and How Great Thou Art. 

The ladies also shared a special song.

Before the lesson we had communion. Pastor Sambath (our translator) read in English and Khemer I Corinthians 11:27-29. Just before the stage there was a table with Khemer on it, I asked what it said: "Do this in remembrance of me" sound familiar? 

I want to tell you about lunch, the tour of HBI, our hike, and the many conversations I've had. But I'll save that for writing during the boat ride tomorrow. 

Psalm 40:1-10 NIV

I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. [2] He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. [3] He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. [4] Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. [5] Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. [6] Sacrifice and offering you did not desire---but my ears you have opened---burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. [7] Then I said, “Here I am, I have come---it is written about me in the scroll. [8] I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.” [9] I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord, as you know. [10] I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and your saving help. I do not conceal your love and your faithfulness from the great assembly.

May these words fill you with hope as you praise the one true God, who saved us by His Son Jesus Christ, and who changes us through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.