...and the greatest is love.

As I begin this update to you, my wonderful family in the US, all I want to say is thanks be to God. I continually sit in awe of Him as he orchestrates a story that is so much bigger than my own. He is the beginning and the end, and even though my heart is breaking for those who are suffering in this world, I know that He is holding them in his hands.

Working amidst issues like human trafficking and the exploitation of women & children is a difficult task. There are many emotions one faces in response to these issues: repulsion, anger, sadness, inadequacy, and hopelessness…even hardness of heart in an effort to stay distanced from the pain of others.
All of these emotions are normal reactions to issues of this magnitude. The challenge becomes holding onto faith, hope, and love. These fly in the face of evil, and allow us to fight back. I am beyond thankful that I have seen generous quantities of all three as I have been in Cambodia. The LOVE that is being poured out is beyond words. I have been astounded at the FAITH of those with nothing on earth, but with eternal joy. And I see that through the work being done here, there truly is HOPE for the future of this country.The following is an update on my past week. Of course, it already feels like a lifetime that I’ve been here – just as once I arrive back in the states, it will feel like no time at all. Time is an odd thing, isn't it?

I find myself continually surprised at how easily I settle into life in other countries. It must be the Lord, but I have eaten everything set in front of me (loving every bite!!) and have not been sick. I have legs marked up and down with mosquito bites, and no malaria. I have spent hours upon hours on a moto and have remained safe. Thank you for your prayers, as I know that is what keeps me going.

The first time I came to Cambodia, I never thought I’d be able to live here long term. But through the Lord’s grace, I am loving every minute! I find myself craving rice & noodle soup for breakfast, and happily eating pickled fish. Somehow, longer term doesn’t seem completely out of the question…..

I had planned to stay here in Phnom Penh for the first week of my journey, but of course, everything has been different than expected….in wonderful ways! I spent one day here in the city before heading south to the Svay Rieng provence (see map), to visit some of the Kone Kmeng projects, take photos, and listen to stories. I have been so blessed to be an observer, to simply sit at the feet of my new friends and listen. For those unfamiliar with Kone Kmeng, visit their website: http://www.kone-kmeng.org/ – they do wonderful work with the church throughout Cambodia.

The stories I heard were widely varied, but all contained a similar message: the redemptive love of Christ. I spoke with a dear lady who was unable to get out of bed for years due to a combination of HIV symptoms & depression. The Lord has completely turned her life around, she is no longer symptomatic and is able to maintain a job to support herself! Another woman fell from her bike last August, and because of lack of medical care, she no longer has use of her arm – but still is praising Jesus with her whole life!

From Svay Rieng, I returned to Phnom Penh for a short evening before heading out again, this time to a village in the Tekao provence, where I spent the weekend totally immersed in village life. It took less than two days for me to feel like I had a whole village of old friends, despite the language barrier! What amazing people!!

After a full weekend of photos, food, more travel, laughing and playing with children, celebrating with the church in Charoung Sdoa, and many hours on the moto, we were headed back to Phnom Penh (aka MORE moto hours…do you see a trend here?). Besides taking me on a literal adventure, Paneth also took me on a culinary adventure – stopping frequently at roadside stands to sample whatever they were offering. I have to admit, my perspective of Khmer food is totally changed – I can’t get enough!

This week has already been chock full of meetings, interviews, and the second annual Kone Kmeng conference. I have much to say about that….but it is for another day.