We arrived a week ago, are settling in to a new apartment, same complex, and we didn't move on up we are actually on the second floor instead of the fourth floor, but we did move to the east side instead of the west side...enough of the Jefferson's, to those old enough to understand my pun!We came with colds so took a bit of time to relax, rest and refresh! Attended part of a Cambodian wedding ceremony, but weren't able to attend all but were thankful to share parts of Bunry and Sally wedding celebration! So beautiful!! The bride, the ceremonies,
all have meaning! We attended the fruit walk where the groom and guests bring food gifts to the bride and her family! And we finished that part with a wonderful meal!
When we left last year we sold our car, at arrival this year after hiring Tuktuk's for a week and riding bicycle's in this crazy traffic, we bought a car again! When we started coming to Battambang, traffic consisted of a lot of bicycles, Tuktuk's, some motors and a few cars, some trucks, and some buses. Now there are hundreds of moto's, cars, trucks, many vans and buses, many Tuktuks, some bicycles on the exact same small streets and roads! Unsafe for us who do not turn our heads as easily as we used to, and I could go on; but the fact is we feel safer in a vehicle, even a little one a KIA Visto!Enough of that!
It is extremely good to see our friends again in Cambodia, we have sooo many we have not seen yet! But are starting to catch up with some, anxious to catch up with all!
While we are here the YWAM Base is experiencing some lasts and firsts!! They have mostly moved to a new base on the northwest corner of Battambang, it is an exciting time! I believe it is 3 or 4 years ago Ed helped when the dirt was added to a rice field to build the base on. So this is something we are invested in as well; blood, sweat and not tears just possibly more sweat!! But this past Wednesday we had our last Community Worship at the Old Base we are literally busting at the seams there; but Rady spoke on Zacheus - how Jesus has a heart for individuals that he is literally seeking them out! Jesus wants to spend time with you and me! Just like he wanted to spend time with Zacheus!
Next week Community Night will be at the New Base!
Tomorrow will be the last Sunday worship service at the old base, it is a bit sad but we will have so much more room at the new base! Pray for those who live close to the old base that they will not feel we are leaving them, but that they will be able to join in the celebration of the new!
We were able to help at the YWAM YDC testing for the next English Session, on Friday! Love meeting new faces and seeing the eager expectation of learning in their eyes. The new Session will not start until February.
This week at the YWAM Base here in Battambang will be the DNA Conference so many people are traveling and will join in. The staff has been extremely busy preparing for the Conference and preparing the new base for many more people!! The staff is doing a fantastic job of preparation! We are excited to join in the Conference and enjoy fellowship, learn from speakers around the world! A two week leadership conference, equipping all into the future God's way!! Which is truly our desire to do all to honor and glorify God!
The week after the conference one of the young couples from Battambang will be leaving to serve in China! Another couple and another woman are planning to leave for Laos, in the next year! Some of our staff have moved to another province in Cambodia, they are setting up in a big home there serving the people in Pailin! It is exciting to see this base branching out to other provinces and countries to share the love of Jesus! What an honor it is to take some time to walk alongside these amazing people! We receive so much more than we ever give!
God bless you and keep you and make His face shine on you and give you peace!
Ed and Mary
