This was my first trip to Cambodia and I am thrilled to see how the young generation is coming to Christ!
“Cambodia.” What comes to mind when hearing this name? Perhaps genocide, ancient temples, Buddhism, poverty, corruption, high-profile Hollywood adoptions, or the Ho Chi Minh trail are some of the possibilities. For some, nothing comes to mind because they have no knowledge about this small, Southeast Asian nation that often escapes the world’s attention.
Amazingly, in 1975—1979 all Christian leaders and 90% of all Christians in Cambodia died in the genocide by the Khmer Rouge. Between 1979 and 1990 the church grew in the refugee camps to less than 1,000 people. In 1994 the church numbered around 5,000 with churches in every province… in 2000 there were 40,000 Christians and in 2008 there numbered 250,000 Christians with over 5,000 churches. Today, the number of churches and Christians continues to grow!
Rescuing Girls from Sex-trafficking! Sex slavery and trafficking of humans is a big problem in Cambodia. While I was there, I met with two separate organizations that are diligently working to rescue girls that are forced as slaves to work as prostitutes. I heard powerful testimonies from those who have been rescued and was totally impressed with the quality of aftercare they were provided. These organizations I met with are not just talking about it – they are really doing it! We are praying about how PMI can be more involved to help them rescue more young girls.
Cambodian Youth Church! I met a dynamic young pastor in Phnom Penh that started a church for college-age youth. I preached there on a Sunday morning and was thrilled to see so many young Cambodians who are on fire for Jesus! Pastor Bora’s vision to win the lost to Christ and impact his generation is awesome and inspiring.
400 Believers Gather! I was thrilled to participate in a Believer’s conference with Caleb Wehrli, Shad Wehrli and Wayne Crook. We had a tremendous time together as we encouraged, inspired and challenged the people to live the life that Jesus came to give them. I ministered on the subject of “The Rewards of Living a Life of Excellence.”