The Hourngs in Cambodia!

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28 There is something about the quiet moments of life that God often uses to speak the loudest. L iving out our calling in Cambodia , being gently reminded that mission work is not about us. It is about Him. It is about showing up daily, even in the ordinary, and choosing to serve. A Season of Movement and Opportunity In Cambodia, this time of the year feels very different from what many of us grew up with. While other parts of the world prepare for Passion Week , Cambodia prepares for Khmer New Year. It is one of the biggest holidays in the country. Families travel back to their provinces. The city slowly empties. Phnom Penh becomes quiet. Almost like a pause. Get Free Passion Week Devotionals 👈here! Khmer New Year & the Passion Week 👍💗 Khmer New Year with Family 👪 Shops close. Streets are less crowded. Many people leave to reunite with loved ones. It is ...

Today is a holiday here in the beautiful country of Cambodia. We are celebrating International Women’s Day . Yes, you heard it right. Cambodia recognizes the value and contribution of women in the nation. Schools are closed, offices slow down, and many women are given time to rest. For me, I decided to spend the day quietly by myself since I felt a bit suffocated from yesterday's chaos at home. Sometimes that is a gift we rarely give ourselves. Most days are full. Between teaching at the university, caring for my family, serving in ministry with my husband, and guiding my son, life moves quickly. The rhythm of being a wife, mother, lecturer, and pastor’s wife often means that personal quiet moments are few. So today I did something simple.  I went out alone to reflect. It has been a long time since I simply walked outside without thinking about schedules, meals, school assignments, ministry plans, or errands for the family. I went somewhere quiet, looked around a bit, bought what I...

There is something about new life that humbles us. A tiny baby reminds us how small we are and how great God is. No matter how much we plan or prepare, life always reminds us that we are not in control. God is. Moments do not come with loud announcements or long explanations. They simply arrive and settle in our hearts. One of those moments came when I received a message from our dear sister Chhoryi. She sent me a short message, filled with excitement and wonder. She had given birth to a baby girl. A healthy, beautiful baby girl. Her name is Ratha Ling Ei, a name lovingly formed by combining the names of her parents, Ratha and Chhoryi. When I read that message, my heart felt full. I smiled without realizing it. I paused for a moment and whispered a quiet prayer of thanks.  Brother Ratha and pretty wife Chhoryi (young couple @PPC) Ratha and Chhoryi are one of our young couples at church. Ratha was part of the first group of young men who stayed in our dorm ministry. He lived th...

Tonight is countdown night. Classes are still going on as usual today, but the campus feels different. Many of our students have already gone home. Some rushed to bus stations early this morning. Others quietly said their goodbyes yesterday, eager to be with their families before the year ends. The hallways feel lighter, quieter, almost like they are holding their breath. This year, Cambodia will not welcome the new year with fireworks . Even though a ceasefire has been agreed on just days ago regarding the border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, the government has chosen to remain cautious. There will be no large celebrations, no fireworks along the river. Safety comes first. Wisdom comes first. And maybe also compassion. Because how can we truly celebrate when so many are not home yet? Almost half a million people remain displaced near the borders. Families are still uncertain. Parents are still worried. Children are still adjusting to temporary shelters and unfamiliar places....

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. Even though Cambodia does not officially celebrate Thanksgiving, Black Friday, or Christmas, it is still a joyful season. I find it beautiful that even in a country shaped deeply by Buddhist culture, people are very welcoming of celebrations that speak of joy, giving, and togetherness. Malls decorate their spaces. Restaurants offer special meals. Even food delivery apps join in. It is mainly for business and economic purposes, but still, it creates a sense of warmth. Meanwhile, universities and local schools across the country continue with normal schedules. No holiday or break. This includes the university where I teach, which is why I continue teaching while friends and family in other countries enjoy long weekends and feasts. Still, we give thanks. God does not need a national holiday for us to remember His goodness. Gratitude is not tied to a calendar. It is tied to the heart. Looking Forward to Christmas at PPC While the country keeps moving as us...

It’s a long holiday week here in Cambodia the Bon Om Touk or  Water Festival , one of the most celebrated national holidays. Usually, Phnom Penh becomes a lively place during this time. The streets fill with people from all over the country, and even visitors from other nations come to watch the boat races along the Tonle Sap River. Each province sends its own team to represent them, and everyone gathers in front of the Royal Palace to cheer for their favorites. At night, the sky usually lights up with fireworks that reflect beautifully over the river. The King and his royal family join the people in celebrating, watching from the Royal Palace balcony. It’s one of those moments that remind everyone of the unity, joy, and cultural pride that Cambodians share. However, this year feels different. The government announced that the festival would be cancelled for safety reasons. Cambodia is currently undergoing peace talks regarding border concerns with Thailand and is also managing a...