Sunday church with Krung

Last night was a real blast. We spent the night visiting with all the missionary families working here. They all gather at a home and have a special time together. It is always a highlight of the trip and a great chance to meet those serving here. The house was full of kids, laughter, and great food. We spent most of the day with the Kellers, swimming, eating, and visiting. What a great couple!

This morning the Swearingen clan went to a home church with the Kane family. Carol went to visit another church and isn't back yet. I'm dieing to find out how it went. The Kane family is working in a small village called Toey (2-ee). They meet in a families home, the only family who are believers. There is another woman in the village who says she would become a follower if her husband would let her. Apparently if she goes to church, or becomes a believer, her husband will kick her out of the home. This is pretty serious, and the Kanes are continuing to spend time with her and the husband. He is apprehensive of the foreigners and doesn't yet trust. This is a dedicated family and a patient God we are talking about.

Church lasted a couple of hours, and i didn't understand much of anything. We listened to some songs, turned to Mathew in our bibles and listened quietly. Crying babies, pigs, dogs, and chickens could be heard in the background. I mostly watched the man preaching and his wife. He spoke with conviction and love. She listened intently and gently rubbed her pregnant belly. Their son had just fallen the day before and was laying next to us with a large bandage on his forehead. He was give several stitches and some medication for infection. He layed with his head near my leg and occasionally, in his drowsy state, would reach over and rub the fabric of my skirt between his fingers. He would realize what he was doing and look at me from the corner of his eye, until he finally dozed off. I didn't mind a single minute of it.

At the moment, I'm having a rest period. The Kane's are taking care of the kids and we are all going out to see some of the local sites at 4. These families have been so giving to us. We came to encourage them and let them know we are thinking of them and are deeply interested in the work they are doing. We've been richly blessed this week.

Our taxi arrives early in the morning and will take us on a 12 hour trip to Seim Reap. While there we are meeting a family friend/daughter to Carol and touring Ankor Wot. All the missionaries have expressed how important it is to the trip. It will give us a better understanding of the history of the country and the make up of the people. I'm looking forward to it, just not the drive. Thanks for following-