Lives Made New

For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Romans 6:4

Pastor Pheaktra translates as testimonies are shared

In our first post for the new year, we want to share a glimpse into a very special event that happened this past weekend. In His Steps celebrated our largest baptism yet, with 55 new believers testifying to God's redemptive work in their lives. Early on Saturday morning, our Saang staff brought vans full of children from Father's House, Sunday School students, husbands and wives, and elderly grandmothers to a rented hotel pool in the city.

As hotel staff and passersby looked on, we had a time of worship, testimonies, and then of course the main event! After a rush to change clothes and prepare, the pool was lined with eager faces, and an atmosphere of happiness and excitement filled the air.

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Four days after receiving salvation, this man was baptized alongside his wife

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One of three Sak Saum women who were baptized that day

Our oldest church member, newly baptized

Afterwards, we shared a meal and had some free time for swimming

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Others eagerly awaiting their turn

The very first people to be baptized were a blind woman and a grandmother who faces persecution from her family. They braved the cold water with joy on their faces, and many of us watching couldn't contain our tears. It was just the first of many such moments, as husbands and wives, orphans and widows, women from Sak Saum and others took this important step. 

We look forward to many more baptisms as we bring God's light to Cambodia. It is such a privilege to witness firsthand the fruits of our labors in Saang, and to be used as vessels to minister God's love as he draws people to himself. Join us in praying for each person baptized, that they would be bright and shining lamps in their community as they walk in His steps!

We look forward to the great things God has for 2011!

A Day of Rejoicing

Today is a very special day; one that has been life-changing for some! Every week, In His Steps gathers for our Tuesday staff meeting, a time of worship, teaching, prayer, and fellowship. Since all of us are very busy and involved in many different parts of IHSI programs, we feel that it's important to regularly be with each other as a group. 

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God often uses the times that we are together corporately to highlight something that's on His heart, both for our ministry and for individuals. This morning after worship, Eric shared about growing in God and walking in His love. As his message came to a close, Eric felt that he should ask if there was anyone who had not yet received salvation and would like to make that decision today. 

Why would there be non-Christians at our Christian ministry's staff meeting? Because in addition to our regular staff and leadership team, we include all of the women in our Sak Saum program every time we gather as a group. Whether it's a general meeting, community event, or even a staff member's birthday party, we do our best to include those who we are working to reach. What better way to model God's love and Kingdom-oriented living?

After Eric's invitation to start a new life with God, Ginny briefly shared her testimony. Several young women (including some orphaned children who are living at Sak Saum temporarily until our safehouse building is complete) raised their hands to accept Jesus. Others also responded by expressing their desire to go deeper in God and experience more of his love. Pheaktra (pastor of our church and Foundation Center director) explained how to receive salvation and we gathered around them to pray. There was both peace and excitement in the air as each girl invited Jesus into her heart! 

On this day, in a little country called Cambodia, four people made a decision that will transform their lives forever. As we at In His Steps rejoice on their behalf, we know that all the angels in heaven are rejoicing (Luke 15:10) with us! Please join us in praying for these young women as they begin their new journey with God.

- In His Steps