After years of separation from loved ones, the initial moments of our reunion told a story of deep love and affection. The first hugs we shared affirmed this truth. Upon our arrival we were once again greeted by Pastor Sihok and his team at the airport; a beautiful reunion moment. Pastor Sihok does not show signs of the pandemic; the Spirit of God continues to radiate through him. The heart of this servant leader is one that is modeled after Christ.
Travel was easy with many empty seats around us. My heart ached as I followed our flight map and thought about the people of Ukraine and the difficulty of their travel. I wondered how many orphaned children and separated families are being added to the makeup of Ukraine, and I became grateful for the promise of Ephesians 1:6.
Following a good night's sleep, our first stop was a visit to Grace House. These girls are beautiful, and we trust God is writing each one’s story. Please keep them in your prayers. We were able to celebrate the birthday of one special girl after a time of fellowship in song and prayer.
Saturday night we gathered with our precious Next Steps students for a celebration banquet. They are an encouragement to us all. The Castro’s, Ki family, and Parent Partners have loved these precious ones well. It is evident to me that God is answering our prayers for them. My heart is overflowing with joy after watching Dr. Baskin and Pastor Craig spend time with them and speak into their lives.
Sunday came and our team acted like 30 year-olds, including our young Emily who is only 23. We set out in a few directions to cover a lot of territory. We began with an early breakfast together, followed by a Dumpsite ministry visit with Pastor Sihok, a trip to the Killing Fields, a visit to the mall, and Pastor Craig preaching at the church of missionary Pastor Paul Tabanao. After lunch we all gathered for worship at Liberty Baptist Church where the church family of Pastor Sihok graciously hosted us. The service went for 2.5 hours and touched my heart as the three men of our team gave beautiful words of encouragement, not only to the Cambodians but also myself.
We left the city rush behind Monday morning as we traveled to visit Bileg. To return with Jay, Craig and Dr. Baskin to the very place where God’s vision for SSM was laid was an emotional blessing that I cannot yet find the words to describe. The evening was spent relaxing and giggling with dinner at the spicy noodle spot, where your meal is ordered by spice level. Mine, a “zero,” was underwhelming, while Sreynear topped us all with a flaming hot “six”.
I long for each of you to be here on this mountain top and I truly believe we are the blessed ones. Please pray for us to be a blessing with every encounter as we strive to love well and see all God is doing.
Love from Cambodia.
-Tracy Arntzen
