The Hourngs in Cambodia!

The month of July has been both eventful and challenging for our family, our ministry, and Cambodia as a whole. Yet through it all, we stand in awe of God’s unwavering presence.  He never fails to fight for us, and never once has He left our side. Responding with Faith and Compassion Have you ever felt caught in the middle of conflict? These past weeks, tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border escalated into something that felt almost unreal. Though we live far from the direct danger in Phnom Penh, the fear, confusion, and heartbreak were impossible to ignore. Stories of families being displaced and soldiers being deployed spread rapidly. The atmosphere was heavy. You could see it on people’s faces: uncertainty, worry, and a deep concern for what lay ahead. Main Prayer Focus for the Week@PPC But in the middle of this national anxiety, something beautiful began to rise: compassion. Khmers rallied to support one another. Food, supplies, and encouragement were shared. Volunteers mo...

This month has been a whirlwind of milestones, both in ministry and in family. But through it all, God remains our Anchor. Psalm 56:3–4 has once again become a favorite reminder for our family: "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" We memorized this as a family during the pandemic. Back then, it was a lifeline. Today, it’s still our anchor. Like David, who feared for his life when hunted by King Saul, we’re reminded that fear must drive us to prayer  not panic. Our prayers are not anchored in feelings but in the unchanging character of God , made known through His Word. So in storms,whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, we don’t drift. We cling to the Rock that is higher than we are. God is our Lighthouse. Our Fortress. Our Guide. When Satan tempts us to doubt the love of God, we fight back with truth. As Pastor Peter Tan Chi once said, “Satan’s ploy is to make us dou...

It’s rainy season now in Cambodia. And almost mid-year already! The skies may be gloomy at times, but I’m reminded of God’s mercies that fall fresh every morning like the rain. As I sit here reflecting, I can only praise God for His steady faithfulness in our lives. Truly, it is only by His grace that we breathe, move, and live each day. This past month of May has been fruitful physically, emotionally, and most importantly, spiritually. And our verse today, Matthew 25:34, is a strong and beautiful reminder that there is a reward waiting for all who live faithfully for Him. It’s a reminder not just to endure but to obey and walk with Him every single day. The verse speaks of our inheritance something we did not and cannot earn. It is prepared. It is promised. It is ours because of Jesus. Are We Living Our Purpose? The King will say, "Come... take your inheritance." What a powerful moment to anticipate! But before that moment arrives, we have this short life this one life to re...

Celebrating Khmer New Year with Family We spent Khmer New Year in Kampong Cham with Vandy’s family. It’s always a special time—lots of laughter, food, and catching up with relatives. David had a blast playing with his cousins, especially during the water fights right outside their house (which, by the way, is in the perfect spot—right by the Koh Penh bridge!). Vandy’s parents run small shops—his mom has a little store where neighbors stop by, and his dad has the only vulcanizing shop on their street. It’s amazing how these simple places become gathering spots for people. David even practiced his Khmer with customers and new friends! We also invited Vandy’s sisters and their families over for a spaghetti feast. Food has a way of bringing people together, and it’s one of the easiest ways we can show God’s love in small, tangible ways. Reflecting During Passion Week This month, we also took time to reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. I followed a prayer journal for Passion Week,...

👉 Get your  FREE Devotional ( 7-day prayer journal for the Passion week ) As the new week unfolds, our family eagerly anticipates two significant celebrations: Khmer New Year and the Passion Week . It’s a rare moment when these two events align, and this year, we are especially mindful of how we can embrace both. As followers of Christ, we hold the death and resurrection of Jesus at the center of our faith. Yet, as a family living in Cambodia, we also seek to honor and connect with our loved ones who celebrate Khmer New Year, a time deeply embedded in their cultural and religious traditions. This year, as we travel to my husband's hometown in Kampong Cham province, our hearts are drawn to Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” These words serve as a guiding light for us, especially as we step into an environment where Buddhist traditions run deep. How do we celebr...

Last Friday, something unexpected happened in Cambodia—a slight tremor shook Phnom Penh , sending people into panic. For a country known for its safe topography, free from natural disasters like earthquakes, this was a shocking and frightening experience.   As a lecturer, my first concern was my students. I saw the fear in their eyes as the building trembled. Some of them felt the movement, while others were just reacting to the commotion around them. Our classroom was on the 9th floor of a commercial building, and when the operations team instructed us to evacuate, I immediately guided my students to the stairs—no elevators, just calm but swift movement.   Coming from the Philippines, where earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions are common, I’ve been trained to expect emergencies. Even now, I keep flashlights and whistles in our bags, a habit ingrained in me since childhood. But for many Cambodians, this was a first—a sudden reminder that life is fragile, and...

A Safe Haven:  The BAC II Khmer National Exam is a significant milestone for every 12th grader in Cambodia. It is the gateway to higher education, determining whether a student can pursue a university degree. For many, passing this exam is just the beginning of an even greater challenge—finding the means to study in the city. The Challenges of Higher Education in Cambodia Higher education opportunities in Cambodia’s provinces are limited, pushing many students to migrate to Phnom Penh, the capital, where better universities and job prospects await. However, life in the city is tough, especially for students from rural areas. The cost of tuition, housing, food, and transportation can be overwhelming, even with scholarships. More than financial struggles, there are dangers as well. Many young students, especially girls, are vulnerable to human trafficking , prostitution, and other crimes. Because of these risks, many parents are hesitant to send their children to Phnom Penh. However...