Under the mango tree is where our church began. Then God provided a small covering with a metal roof and now we have this beautiful building. To you and I we might not see it as beautiful. As Americans we are used to multi-million dollar facilities with gymnasiums and dedicated children's centers. This "building" is a wooden shack on poles (because this area floods annually). THe stairs leading up to the one room are barely wide enough for the ball of your foot.
This small church is led by a gifted and passionate woman who has seen heart ache in their village community. Almost apologetically, she shared how the church is smaller today because so many of their friends and family have moved to Thailand to be day laborers because work is so hard to find. These Cambodians are the illegal day laborers of this region. If there were a Home Depot across the Thai border they would be standing outside hoping to get work so they can eat another day.
We spent time with this gracious congregation singing, praying, playing and making a craft with the numerous children. They shared theirs hearts and a dozen coconuts harvested that morning for our thirsty palates. We left only after laying hands on the core leaders of this village church. I was humbled and encouraged as we saw how God uses the simple places of this world to confound the sophisticated. Praise Jesus for his loving and extending church.
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1 comment:
If only we could plant a mango tree, but they don't grow in this area. I can't wait to go with you next time. I am always a little jealous of when you go. I have such great memories of the trips we have taken in the past. God is at work throughout the world, we just lose sight of that sometimes. Maybe we can let out cherry tree stand for the mango tree. Love you!
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