By far the best moment of the trip happened on our 2nd Saturday in Cambodia. We had already had some amazing moments- taking 110 kids to Angkor Wat, having 35 of them throw up on or around us, eating crickets, and so many other great experiences. But this one topped them all…
Our 2nd Saturday found the 11 of us (10 Americans + Chan) sitting upstairs talking about our plan for Sunday. There was a debate among the group about whether or not to share the gospel with the kids at the Lighthouse Orphanage. A couple of the group members were concerned about sharing Christ and then disappearing with no one to follow up. While discussing the situation, someone thought it would be a great idea to ask the only Cambodian around at the time- Chan.
Chan said it was a good idea and then proceeded to tell us his story. He told us that about 5 years ago he was penniless. He had no money to feed his family and no money for medicine. He has foot problems that cause it very difficult for him to work or walk some days. He did not know what to do and was begging for help, when God sent Eric into Chan’s life. Eric hired Chan to be a tuk tuk driver for 16 days. Most tuk tuk drivers can go days, possibly even a week without a single customer. A tuk tuk driver can make $3 or $4 a day, so missing a few days in a row can seriously cripple a bank account. However, with consistent work for 16 days, a smart tuk tuk driver can catch up on most of his bills and even stash some away. Chan was broke and just when he couldn’t do anything more- Eric set him up with a great financial opportunity.
As time went on, Chan has had multiple other problems arise. Most were related to medical bills. The most recent was the birth of his little girl. During these times, God has allowed HFSV to help out either through material means or financial. In addition, as his relationship with Eric grew, Chan sensed a difference in him. The relationship continued and Chan found himself believing in a God all because of Eric’s actions.
As Chan told us his story, we all could feel the air changing around us. God was moving…
We all could feel what was going on, it was awesome. As Chan paused, Tammy asked him if he knew that Christ had come to die for his sins. He shook his head yes. Tammy asked him if he wanted to follow Christ. He shook his head yes. Chan then repeated the Sinner’s Prayer as Tammy walked him through it. Chan decided to follow Christ.
Josh had the opportunity to hang out with Chan one on one a couple of nights later. The conversation turned to the events of Saturday and one thing became clear. Chan did not fully understand what was going on, he just knew he had to follow this Christ that Eric and the group loved so much. Luckily, Chan was able to listen to the interpreter tell the Lighthouse Orphanage kids the story of Christ the next day. Chan learned what and why he believed. He got to call home and tell his wife. She was so excited- she has been a Christian for years and has been praying for Chan.
What an answer to prayer for us all. Josh & I have been praying for Chan since we met him back in December. We have prayed that God would stir his heart and a desire to know Him. It was amazing to see this answer to prayer. I’m not sure I have ever been so happy.
Chan has such a caring and giving heart and a true pleasure to be around.
He gives as much as he can. It will be awesome to see how God uses him!
He is such a huge part of our trips, they would not be the same without him!
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