Once of the last things we did in Cambodia was worship at a Khmer church, and it was a really great experience. It has been a great time to visit Cambodia, b/c the church is on the verge of exploding.
The country is 95% Buddhist, but that doesn’t give an adequate picture of how the church is growing. Before the Khmer Rouge in the 70’s there were only 2,000 Christians in the entire country. After the killing fields, only 200 were left, and most met up in the refugee camps on the Thai border. Approximately 1/2 moved elsewhere, but many more returned to rebuild Cambodia. There are now 250,000 Christians!! How amazing is that!
The church we were at was planted by Khmer Christians who survived and were converted by the pastor in the refugee camps. These people’s passion for their country was a privilege for us to experience. This little church, all national run, had about 50-60 people, and has planted 25 churches in the villages. They have also built a daycare/school that is comprised 80% of Vietnamese refugees who are not allowed to attend Cambodian schools.
We met many people who just give and give to their neighbor’s, and their generosity and community is what is building their church. It makes me wonder what would happen if the same were true in the States. Are we known for how we give, and live out the commands of the gospel, or are we known for what we are against? or for our stellar programming? I have to constantly question myself, do I really love my neighbor? If I did, how would I live? Would I be as irritated when homeless people knock on my door at home asking for food at Wendy’s, or a ride to Chester b/c they missed the bus?
One of the most unique things in the service, was that at the end, they asked anyone who needed prayer to stand, and they had the rest of us (khmer & US) to lay on hands and pray for them. I was able to pray with people seeking student visa’s, relief from depression and trauma, peace, enough to provide for their family and etc. it was very humbling. I prayed with many women, and Meade prayed with about 6 men. It was very encouraging. I felt very self-centered b/c so many of the older women’s husbands were killed during the killing fields, or in the wars that followed, and they still passionately serve God. It was interesting.
