Last week was my team’s first week at our new ministry. We’ll be spending a month away from our whole squad and focusing on ministry in a different city. I never thought in a million years I’d be able to say that I’m an English teacher in CAMBODIA. God has brought me so far and I look back in wonder and awe at the things that have led me to this very moment. I’m reminded of the story of Esther and being made for such a time as this. 

I get the honor and joy of being absolutely exhausted at teaching my K1 class (3/4 year olds that I’m sure have no clue what I’m saying). I have the opportunity to wake up to the Khmer music radio blasting from the rooftops of Kampong Thom even when I’m just trying to sleep for that extra 10 minutes. I get to walk into work and be greeted with smiling children who jump up at our arrival. I have a bunch of tiny friends, bonded by a love that they may think is only accidental but I know it’s only Jesus. No greater thing do I wish for than to be able to show His love to people who may have never received it before. There’s something special about my tiny baby class, because there is really no way for me to talk with them except for the few English words they know. Love is the one language that transcends language, and it’s beautiful to be able to show the love of the Father without even saying a word. 

Sometimes I am riddled with headaches, dehydration, and the really terrible gasoline smell of the paint we use for our murals, yet I come home every day and feel full and grateful for every part of my days. I would smell bottles of gasoline on end to get to greet my kids with hugs every day. 

Jesus has been changing my heart and restoring my soul since arriving in Cambodia. I love this ministry and these kids and I pray for many more opportunities like this. 

bye from Kampong Thom!!