The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the attacks on Israel, points towards the soon return of Jesus. In light of these times, our hearts are truly burning with a fervent desire to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to everyone we possibly can, no matter where they reside. Whether they are living deep in the forest or up on a mountain, far away from any town, our mission is to reach them with His message of hope and salvation.
A Journey of Faith and Outreach to the Kravet People
Our DPM-Cambodia team recently embarked on an extraordinary outreach to the Kravet ethnic group in Stueng Treng province, a journey made possible by the kind invitation of the Provincial Pastors’ Committee and the undeniable peace of our Lord, confirming we were to make this trip. This mission was a true test of faith and perseverance, and we are thrilled to share the incredible ways God moved.
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According to the Joshua Project, the Kravet are a sub-group of the Brao people, an ethnic group found in northeastern Cambodia and southern Laos. The Kravet, however, live exclusively in Cambodia. Practicing slash-and-burn agriculture, they are semi-nomadic, moving periodically within the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia. Their traditional beliefs include numerous taboos and spiritual rituals intended to appease both benevolent and malevolent spirits. They place a strong emphasis on seeking protection from the spirit world for their communities. The Kravet people are in need of placing their hope and trust in the One who is faithful and true—Jesus Christ—who answers all who call upon His name.
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The path to the Kravet village was anything but easy. Just one week before our departure, torrential rains unleashed heavy flooding, severing the already rough roads that led deep into the remote area. We immediately sent out a prayer request to our prayer partners, specifically for this challenging outreach. Our journey began with an eight-hour drive from Phnom Penh to Stueng Treng, where we stayed overnight. The next morning, we faced another two-and-a-half-hour drive into the village itself. Our dedicated local pastor partner in Stueng Treng was a lifeline, diligently checking and updating us daily on the road conditions, helping us decide on the best transport option.
That morning, the weather was cloudy with sporadic drops of rain, yet our resolve remained unshaken. We pressed on, carrying DPM teaching materials and gospel leaflets by hand as we navigated across rivers, endured bumpy and slippery paths, and bypassed broken sections of the road. Our determination was fueled by the anticipation of meeting the Kravet ethnic group.
The Kravet People Are Ready for Christ
Upon our arrival, the scene that awaited us was truly encouraging. The local pastor had already gathered the villagers together, and many were patiently waiting. It was a deeply moving sight to see numerous elderly people, some carrying small children and even smoking, all gathered, ready to hear what we had to say. Out of approximately 200 people in the village, about 130 came to hear the good news about Jesus Christ. This overwhelming turnout was a powerful affirmation to our team that the Kravet people were indeed ready for Christ.
The gathering began beautifully with the local church leading a few songs in the Kravet language, which immediately created a warm connection. I then had the privilege of sharing an evangelistic message, recounting the powerful biblical story of the woman with the issue of blood for 12 years and how Jesus healed and saved her. Following my message, Chhairith (one of our DPM translators) continued by reading The Divine Exchange proclamation, inviting the villagers to declare their faith in Christ. Many responded wholeheartedly, raising their hands and praying with us to accept Jesus. Only a few remained quiet, and we continue to pray for the Holy Spirit to work in their lives.
Even a brief period of light rain during our sharing couldn't dampen anyone’s spirits. God's goodness and immense love for the Kravet people was evident as He caused the rain to stop, allowing us to continue sharing about Jesus without interruption.
Experiencing the Lord’s Healing
As the evangelistic event drew to a close, many elderly people approached us, seeking prayer for physical pains they were experiencing in their bodies. Ps. Veansa, Chhairith, and I took the time to pray for each of them individually, declaring healing over their bodies. Praise the Lord, many experienced significant improvement, and we encouraged them to continue asking Jesus for healing by themselves at home.
This outreach was a profound experience, filled with challenges overcome and countless blessings. We are deeply grateful for the Lord's leading and for the open hearts of the Kravet people. Please join us in praying with the provincial pastor to have the Bible translated into the Kravet language and for a full-time pastor who is willing to serve in the village, since many have accepted Jesus.
