October 19, 2008
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Cambodia
I was going to upload pics from the Seoul orphange olympics, but those are going to have to wait because xanga somehow lost a bunch that I had uploaded before leaving on my trip. So instead, here is a short update on my travels. I've been staying in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, for a few days and will be flying to Bangkok tomorrow. I've visited a bunch of orphanages all around the country. I'll update with pictures and information about the orphanages after I get back to Korea. First, here is an update on the spiritual state of the country...
I visited Phnom Penh in the summer of 2004 during a study abroad trip. Hard to believe its only been 4 years. The country, particularly the city of Phnom Penh, has changed a lot. Roads are paved. Gas stations have state-of-the-art mini marts and bright lights. I see a lot of decent cars on the road (not a ton, but still a lot more than before). New buildings and restaurants are all over the place and two tall buildings (40stories+) are under construction. This place has improved like crazy. And people are open to the Gospel as well. Churches are growing and outreach opportunities are being met with a lot of success, especially compared to the other Southeast Asian countries. This country feels like Myanmar in reverse. I believe this country is finally finding healing from the horrible killing fields/Pol Pot regime from back in the 70's. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Killing_Fields. Most adults still have nightmares from that time, including the pastor I am living with who heads 7 orphanages. Studies show that most of the country is still dealing with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), and for good reason. The testimonies I hear from the people I've been meeting are all movie worthy. Their stories are so sad and heavy, each too long to share in this update. But the spirit of poverty and the spirit of fear are both lifting. While child labor and sex trade are still happening, the foreign influence has been working on it. I see signs everywhere with government phone numbers and warnings against both those things. The spirit of idolatry in the country is still present (idols and Buddhist temples everywhere), but I sense cracks in Satan's walls. I'm excited for what the next decade has in store for this country. The churches and orphanages are all growing, but money is a big need. These orphanages are support run, but funds are still tight and there is always the need to expand. The kids are precious, of course. Here is the website of the ministry I have been traveling with... http://www.nho.org.kh/. I can vouch for them, pictures to come. So while Myanmar is a country that really needs strong prayer against idolatry and poverty before the Gospel can spread, Cambodia, whil still fighting idolatry, really needs prayer for more workers and more funding as God's kingdom is already beginning to expand here. Pray also for the workers here to be faithful, trained well, and effective. Thanks!
God bless!
