The last two weeks have been blur, and in that blur we have experienced a wide range of emotions. Saying our goodbyes were not any easier than the first time we left, but I thank God for the time that we had with our family and with dear friends. Then, just a few days after returning, we said goodbye to the Shull family, the missionaries who started the church that I am now pastoring. Their last two church services with us were undoubtedly two of the most precious services I have ever been a part of. Bro. Ray called up each church member individually and gave them his last pastoral exhortation and blessing, and the tears flowed. The Shulls have been true servants to the people that God gave them, and they have been conduits of His love.
Last Friday, the whole church, with the exception of two people who had to work, accompanied the Shulls to the Phnom Penh International Airport to bid them their final farewells, and what a precious time that was. Again, the tears flowed. I have not been able to stop thinking about the impact that a family who is filled with the Spirit and committed to following Christ can have on the lives of others. The people of Freedom Baptist Church in Ta Khmau, Cambodia, have seen and experienced the amazing love of God through the Shull family.
*Second set of pictures was taking by Tim and Alison Stephens, our fellow missionaries here in Cambodia, dear friends of the Shulls.
Last Sunday was our first service meeting at our house. Actually, I don't know if the church meets at our house or if we live in the church building. Either way, it went very smoothly, praise the Lord. Every member of the church made it either to the morning or the evening service; and although everyone was still heartbroken to see the Shulls leave, God's grace was abundant, and hope for the future was evidently present in our midst. Please pray for us during this transition. I am so thankful for each member of the church. I am also thankful for the opportunity to work alongside two godly men- Pastor Tho and Pastor Proh. There is much work to be done, and I am keenly aware that this work will not be done by our might nor by our power, but by His Spirit.
