Story time..Mission field in Kratie Province
The Joy of Giving from the Heart
In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse isn't merely about financial generosity; it's about the posture of our hearts. Paul was encouraging the Corinthians to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem, emphasizing that giving should stem from a willing and joyful heart, not from obligation or pressure. This principle resonates deeply with our experiences in the mission field of Cambodia, where we've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of cheerful giving both in resources and in spirit.
A Calling Rooted in Obedience
After completing his theological studies in the Philippines, my husband, Vandy, felt a compelling call to return to his homeland, Cambodia, to plant a church in Kratie province. This region, about eight hours from Phnom Penh, was remote and largely unreached. He began by discipling a young couple who were public school teachers. Their home became the initial gathering place for worship and Bible study. Despite limited resources, Vandy's commitment never wavered. He trusted that God would provide, and indeed, He did.
Recognizing the need to engage the youth, Vandy started an English center in a rented traditional stilt house near Rokakkandal. Offering free English lessons, he attracted many young men and women eager to learn. Through these classes, relationships were built, and hearts were opened to the Gospel. Bible studies commenced, leading to the formation of a house church. Many of these young individuals accepted Christ and displayed a fervent desire to serve Him. Their families, witnessing the transformation, began opening their homes for regular Bible studies. Some women even felt called to ministry, a testament to the Holy Spirit's work.
The Power of Partnership
As the number of believers grew, so did the need for more hands to nurture and disciple them. Vandy reached out to World Hope International, the mission arm of the Wesleyan Church, seeking missionaries to assist with the English school. Despite months of waiting, no one came. However, God, in His perfect timing, provided support through Pastor Titus and young pastor trainees. Yet, the demand remained overwhelming.
Then, a young Filipino missionary named Tess responded to the call. She took charge of the Hope English School, allowing Vandy to focus on shepherding the flourishing church. Their partnership, rooted in shared vision and purpose, blossomed both in ministry and personally. After two years, Vandy was invited to teach and lead a Bible school in Phnom Penh. This transition coincided with their engagement, marking a new chapter in their journey together.
More Stories in the Mission Field where we met:
👉 Kratie
Embracing the Missionary Calling
The mission field is not without its challenges. There are moments of doubt, cultural barriers, and the weight of spiritual warfare. Yet, the calling remains clear. In our blog post, "Do You Have a Missionary Calling?" we reflect on the importance of obedience and trust in God's provision. It's not about having all the answers but about saying "yes" to God's prompting. Each step of faith, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's redemptive work.
Treasures That Last Forever
In the mission field, we've learned to value eternal treasures over earthly possessions. The joy of witnessing a soul come to Christ, the transformation of a community, and the ripple effect of discipleship are rewards that far surpass material wealth. Our blog post, "Treasures That Last Forever," delves into this perspective, emphasizing the importance of investing in God's Kingdom. As Matthew 6:20 reminds us, "But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal."
Seeking God's Kingdom and Righteousness
Our journey has taught us the significance of prioritizing God's Kingdom. In our blog post, "How Do We Seek God's Kingdom and Righteousness?" we discuss the daily commitment to align our lives with God's will. It's about making choices that reflect our faith, even when it's inconvenient or challenging. By doing so, we become vessels through which God's love and truth flow to others.
The Heart of Giving
Returning to 2 Corinthians 9:7, the essence of giving lies in the heart's intention. God delights in cheerful givers because their generosity mirrors His own nature. In the mission field, we've seen how acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have profound impacts. Whether it's sharing a meal, offering a listening ear, or providing resources, these gestures, when done with love, advance God's work.
A Unified Mission
Our individual testimonies, though unique, converge in a shared mission: to make Christ known. Vandy's dedication to church planting and discipleship, coupled with Tess's commitment to education and mentorship, create a holistic approach to ministry. Together, we aim to raise a generation of Khmer believers who will, in turn, disciple others. This multiplication is the heartbeat of our calling.
A Call to Action
The journey of faith is one of continuous surrender and trust. As we reflect on our experiences in Cambodia, we're reminded of the importance of obedience, generosity, and unity in advancing God's Kingdom. We invite you, our faith community, to join us in this mission. Whether through prayer, support, or stepping into your own calling, there's a role for everyone in God's redemptive story.
A Prayer for the Journey
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the privilege of serving in Your vineyard. We acknowledge that every good gift comes from You. Teach us to give not out of obligation, but from a heart overflowing with gratitude. Strengthen our resolve to obey Your call, even when the path is uncertain. Unite us in purpose, that together, we may advance Your Kingdom. May our lives be a testament to Your love and grace.
In Jesus' name, we pray.
Amen.
Serving in Cambodia,
The Hourngs
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