Bus travel - Day 2

Today began really early. Last night I got a quick shower in the hotel before going to sleep. I only woke up once in the night, but slept really well. Feeling good and ready to sight see on the bus ride to Battambang. 

Our breakfast this morning was banana bread and watermelon. Just one of the many reminders of what my childhood was like here. So many déjà vu moments like the heat wave at the airport, the crowds of people, the shops along the road, the smells...etc I half expected to see Mr. Bao standing there in his white hat - not a lot has changed that I've observed so far. Nicer cars maybe, roads outside the city seem a little better but still the sights and sounds remind me of Vietnam and the trips we made here nearly 7 years ago. 

Janel and I on the bus. Taking in all the sights. Very new to her and even seeing some new things myself. She really loves the ornate buildings at the various temples. Called wats, they seem to be everywhere. I remember visiting several before. Maybe I'll post a few pictures later of them. For now seeing all of the different temples today really made me connect with one of the Psalms I read on the bus. 

Psalm 27:1-14 NIV

The Lord is my light and my salvation---whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life---of whom shall I be afraid? [2] When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall. [3] Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident. [4] One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. [5] For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. [6] Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord. [7] Hear my voice when I call, Lord; be merciful to me and answer me. [8] My heart says of you, “Seek his face! ” Your face, Lord, I will seek. [9] Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, God my Savior. [10] Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me. [11] Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. [12] Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations. [13] I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. [14] Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.

Here is the view back of the bus. You can see some of our team and many other locals who are traveling from the Capitol (Phnom Penh) to Battambang. 

Countryside. Lots of shacks, cows, and jungle brush. 

Still in travel mode. Today our team prayers were still for safety and protection over our baggage, bodies, and especially stomachs. I want to thank you for your prayers too. 

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