2015 Cabinet Cambodia Mission: Transforming Love, Fellowship and Hope

Monday, 18 November, Rev. Denise Smartt Sears wrote:

Today we moved at a much slower pace, it was still about 91 degs F but our outdoor exposure was limited. Our visit to the District Superintendent’s home was a great reminder of what the church is. A community, a place for sisters and brothers to live, learn and love God and one another. When we entered the pastors were engaged in bible study, while younger children were in a classroom (nursery school setting). Living room area is where they hold worship, some instruments were alongside the wall, and upstairs is where they live. There was a room for men, the women and another room for the DS and his family. The laundry was hanging outside to dry, the house was “full” of god, love and fellowship. Their attitudes were just as full – they expressed gratitude, love of God, love of each other. There was a genuine openness.

My mind reflected on these words: “But you are a chose race, a royal priesthood a holy nation, God’s own people in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into the marvelous light. Once you were no people, but now you are God’s people. Once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (1 Peter 2:9-10) Let your light so shine before others, so they may see your good works, and glorify your God in heaven (Matt. 5:16).  This is my prayer.

Tuesday November 17, Ross Williams wrote:

Today started with breakfast at the hotel. Around a large table we chatted about Sam’s moving recollections and reflections of his time and service under the Khmer Rouge. Hearing the stories first-hand was a sat yet valuable experience. I imagine some of us, like me, are anxious about what we will see and feel as we tour the Killing Fields later today.

We next met with the staff of GBGM who operate the only such office in Cambodia (photos). Their mission work appears to be immensely rewarding but also very challenging as they must raise much of their own financial support. It was a wonderful morning filled with praise to God in the form of Songs, devotion led by Rev. Tim Riss and spirit-filled connections.

The group went on to tour the Tuol Sleng detention center, which is now the genocide museum. My own emotions ranged from anger, disgust and a profound sadness. The museum is an important reminder of the presence of evil in the world. May the Cambodian people continue to embrace the light of Christ to prevent any such human catastrophe for occurring again.