Cambodia blog

I wish I had a picture to upload on this one.  There is no way to capture what we saw today.  The size and immensity of the temples of Angkor Wat is amazing.  Built in the 11th and 12th century, these formerly Hindu, now Buddhist temples are an awe inspiring sight.  They easily rival the monuments of the greatest civilizations, Egypt, Rome, Greece, Babylon, Maya, Inca and all the rest. 

Though I have never seen it, the Cambodians are very proud that Tomb Raider was made here.  If you’ve seen it, you have perhaps some idea of what we saw today.  It was hot (very hot) and that made for a lot of water consumption.  The children were everywhere with all kinds of goods to sell and share.  One little girl came up to me and said, “You are from the US?  Obama is your president.  Washington, D.C. is your captial city.  Where do you live?”  When I replied, “Ohio,” she said, Columbus is your state capital.”  Amazing the things they pick up.  Of courser it was all to get me to buy from her rather than the next child, but it was endearing nevertheless.  I ended up buying a book about the history of Ankgor Wat from her, and some bracelets from other children.

Quilters, we went to the silk farm today and Michelle caught video of the silk making, staining, and weaving process.  This is a government run facility, but the Methodist church is trying to replicate it in another province to provide jobs and economic empowerment for women.

We also heard about the CHAP program (I’ve forgotten the acronym, but will look it up), which is a Heifer Project style program run by the Methodist church here where one can give a cow or a pig in a family and they pass the blessing to another in the village.  So much good work going on here.  The church is really growing, thanks be to God!

Michelle got a wonderful video of Pastor Lun Sokhom telling part of his life’s story and how he came to Christ.  We are supporting a gifted leader with a real heart for the gospel.  I can’t wait to share more when we return.

Tonight we are going to the royal ballet.  Then tomorrow morning, we’re off on the two-day journey home.

I am praying for you all as you rise this morning and prepare for worship.  I miss you all and look forward to sharing with you all that God is doing through your faithfulness, and the faithfulness of so many others.