Recently we met Mr and Mrs Lim* who had lived among a marginalised community in Cambodia and had built a good relationship with a local couple. Chhay* and Sophea* heard about Jesus from them and became Jesus followers. Every week, Mr and Mrs Lim, and a few other Jesus followers would gather at Chhay and Sophea’s home.

All these was kept a secret from their son, Chea*, who lived and worked in the capital, Phnom Penh. Becoming a Jesus follower was not widely accepted in their community, and they were worried about his reaction to their decision.

However, one day, while there was a gathering in Chhay and Sophea’s home, their son showed up at home unexpectedly. The couple quickly asked everyone to leave while wondering how they should explain the situation to Chea.

After their guests had all left, Chea asked them tentatively, “Have you become Christians?”

Chhay and Sophea were afraid that he would react negatively if they said yes, but they did so anyway.

To their great surprise, Chea replied with a big smile on his face, “Me too! I came back to tell you that while I was in Phnom Penh, I have become a Christian and that I hope you both will do the same!”

PRAY WITH US

Since hearing this and other stories from Mr and Mrs Lim, OM MTI has begun exploring possible ways in which we can help this community. As a religious and ethnic minority group, the people face numerous difficulties, for example, in getting jobs and providing their children with good education. Some families are even willing to send their children to nearby countries through illegal means to gain an education of good standard.

As we seek out the best ways to support this vulnerable group with our current and new partners, would you support us by praying with us? If possible, you can also contribute financially or your time and skills.

*names have been changed for security purposes
Photo by Paul Szewczyk on Unsplash

Please pray:

• As OM MTI explores and firms up our plans to serve this marginalised community in Cambodia with various partners.
• For our friends and neighbours to have an encounter with the true God.
• For Jesus followers everywhere, that we will seek to share the love of God to our neighbours.