BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS THROUGH IMMERSION
On Saturday 29 February over 45 people gathered for breakfast at Blackwood Hills Baptist Church for Global Interaction SA/NT State Office’s annual event, Global Inspire.
Rob and Deb Griffith, on home assignment until June, reported on their three years in Cambodia, living in a village on the outskirts of Siem Reap. The twofold focus included learning the Khmer language and culture with the aid of a language nurturer, and developing platforms in response to needs in the surrounding community of the village they live in. As a midwife Deb involved herself in the local medical clinic. Rob, an agriculturalist, assisted the local school in developing food gardens. They have persevered through the honor/shame issues around open and public vulnerability, safety in traffic, reading different language script and living outside the home rather than indoors as Khmer houses are for primarily for sleeping since they cook, eat, bathe and entertain outdoors. Much joy occurs through the relationships that arise when experiencing life together, the smiles that come from eating their food, and the shared value of the cultural practiced of blessing.
Rob and Deb have found inspiration from how God has used many ordinary people to bring blessing to others, including the reluctant prophet Jonah, as they consider returning in June to continue with these platforms and culture and language learning to deepen their relationships further.
Rob and Deb have been encouraged through reconnecting with family, friends and churches during home assignment. The privilege of being a part of God’s mission to the Khmer people in Cambodia in partnership with many of you who uphold them in prayer and give financial support is precious to them.
The State Office would like to thank all those
supporting Rob and Deb, those who participated in the Mobilise for Malawi
during March prayer campaign and planning for May Mission Month for which
resources are now appearing, especially the film ‘In Step’.
The
material for May Mission Month and how to get involved is located at http://www.globalinteraction.org.au/be-involved/may-mission-month. There are
videos, prayer notes, Bible studies and project information.
