And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, 

"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.  "Go therefore and make disciples of all  the nations, baptizing  them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,  teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Matthew 28:18-20

This last week at the Minefield Village we had a baptism service, the first of its kind in this little village.  We have been coming and sharing the gospel with these dear people for several years and this time we took the next step.  

Throughout the week we shared again the gospel message with the women and children.  So many were responding and really understanding who Jesus is and what He has done for us, that we were compelled to offer baptism.  As Sareth shared more deeply with the children and then the women it became evident that many had put their trust in Jesus and were ready to follow Him in baptism and make a public declaration of their faith!

I don't really have words to share what this was like.  After lunch we all walked the dirt road to the pond.  Many gathered while the children lined up to enter the water.  Two at a time the children waded in the murky water slipping and sliding.  Sareth spoke only in Khmer asking each child for their declaration of faith and trust in Jesus.  Their sweet little voices answering back their affirmation.  And then in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit they were baptized.  There was applause that I am sure was a small representation of the party going on in Heaven. 

The process was the same with the women.  One woman bringing her small son along with her into the water.  Two by two they came and affirmed their faith and trust in Jesus...and in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit they were baptized.

This is one of my favorite women.  She latched on to me my first time in the village.  Every time I come we  'connect' without words.  What a privilege to be a part of her baptism.

The women praying together after their baptism.  

The children praying, so many sweet little lives learning to trust and follow Jesus!

The whole group...almost...some are on the sides.  What a joyful event for all of us.  Amazing!

Now to fulfill the second part of Jesus command...teaching them to observe all that He has commanded.  Sareth will be doing follow up with these new followers of Christ, and I will be starting a Bible study with the women.  God is at work.  Please join me in prayer for the protection of these dear brothers and sisters in the Lord as they continue to step out in faith and trust.  The enemy will try and discourage them and harm them.  Please pray that their faith will be strengthened.  Please pray for Sareth and me as we open up the truths of Scripture, that the Lord will direct us as we prepare and teach.

I am overwhelmed as I think of what the Lord is doing.  He is drawing women and children unto himself...and I am amazed.  Words do fail me as I think of the work that the Lord Jesus is doing...and blessing me by allowing me to witness His work!