Sentinel Watch August 8, 2011 Issue

Cambodia rising

Abigail Warrick

Cambodia is a country rising steadily out of the Khmer Rouge’s rule, during which two million people were killed and the social fabric of the nation ravaged. Some of those responsible are presently facing trial for their crimes.

Along with international aid organizations, Cambodians are working to fight pervasive corruption and to provide safe housing and education for rural communities. This drive toward progress seems inextinguishable in the human spirit. Even in the face of huge obstacles, this resilient confidence in good resurfaces again and again.

When thinking about the challenges facing Cambodia, especially its children, I was particularly encouraged by the Bible’s account of how the child Ishmael was delivered by God’s help. This shows that even the cry of a child in a blazing desert (see Gen. 21:12–19), is not unknown, or unanswered by God. 