Many people have reached out and asked how we are doing and asked for an update. During this challenging time around the globe some have asked if we considered leaving for the US. As you can tell we've stayed in Cambodia and continue to work through this crazy season.
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| Scarecrow for scaring away spirits |
Cambodia has reported a very low number of cases of COVID 19. It is unclear why Cambodia has so few reported cases, but I'm not qualified to understand or discuss why. The country has banned meetings of more than 10 people and closed schools, theaters, religious meetings, bars, gyms, and KTV's. They have closed the borders to foreigners entering without meeting very specific requirements. Officials have encouraged those who don't have to leave home to stay at home as much as possible.
It has been a confusing time for everyone around the globe. Different people have made different decisions based on the information and experience they have. In Cambodia we've seen a big increase in the number of "Scarecrows" going up in front of homes to ward off the evil spirits. In many peoples worldview here this is how they process the fear of COVID and respond.
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| US Embassy Email Notice |
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| Reece graduates in June and has decided to attend Hardin Simmons University |
We have seen a number of friends and foreigners leave Cambodia. It has especially been difficult on the boys because some of their friends have had to leave during the social distancing without the chance to say goodbye. For Reece that has been even harder because this is his senior year and he'll be leaving for university this summer and won't see some of these long-term friends again. Right now, we are just praying that flights hold up, so we can get him back this summer to start in the fall. We also are ready to see Micah! It's been difficult for him and us, being separated during a season like this.
With all of the challenges we are doing well. I won't lie and say that it hasn't been a confusing and emotional experience at times. However, we are confident in the calling God has placed on our family's life. We are honored to work with our Cambodian brothers/sisters and serve our partner local churches, Samaritan's Purse and New Life as they all follow God through these strange times.
We know God sent us here 9 years ago and while we aren't in "exile" the passage below from Jeremiah has spoken to me during this time. We are sent to Cambodia and this is our home. We are living with our brothers and sisters seeking the welfare of the country and praying to the Lord on Cambodia's behalf. This is where we'll find our own welfare in God's purpose.
"But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare." Jeremiah 29:7
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| Handwashing and Face Mask station at our local store |
The boys have been doing online schooling at home. We've all enjoyed more family time at home together. Tricia has been busy providing education resources and advising with Patient Care at New Life during this time and I have been working with Church Planters to respond to a significant economic crisis that is still unfolding. I wanted to give a family update for now, but will share more about what we are working on in the ministry realm in another post. Please continue to pray for our family and for Cambodia!
Your gift makes the work of the Hester family in Cambodia possible, and we work hard to maximize each dollar entrusted to us. We are grateful for the generous support of many individuals and organizations that share our commitment to informed, responsible and effective service in Cambodia. To partner with us Click Here.
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| COVID 19 Health Information |
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| Church planters providing COVID 19 information in rural villages |
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