As I become older, the less I like to change such things as my pattern of working, way of thinking, style of cooking, or the kinds of games I play. However, life is full of changes, especially as we go through different stages of life. Recently, I have been happy to see some changes in the lives of our church members too.

The First University graduates of our young people

On January 30, I was privileged to attend the graduation ceremony of several of our young people from the church, including Brothers Isaac, Jonathan, Ka Wai and Sokea. Isaac and Jonathan are the 'fruits' of our sponsored students. The bright smiles on their faces expressed their excitement and satisfaction. Their parents, our coworkers and some young people were present on that big day. During these four years' time, they have passed through various kinds of experiences in life such as frequent assignments and examinations, sickness, busy schedules in study and church ministry, etc…and now all their anxieties, tiredness or frustrations have reached the final page. They now turn a new leaf of life experience in the working society. Some are still looking for jobs, and some are investigating their abilities in their work. The changes are huge and exciting. The youth are like an impetuous fire to explore the reality of working.

The First born baby to our church planters

On the first day of the Chinese New Year, our church planters, brother Lim and his wife Pauline welcomed the first new member into their family. They gave this baby boy the name, 'Christian,' because they want to witness to God through the name of their son. It is not a common thing in Cambodia as a Buddhist country, but they did this because they experienced God's faithfulness and grace throughout the pregnancy. Formation of life is a mystery but it shows the beauty of God in creation. The changes are big and joyful. The new life blissfully refreshes the spirits.

The First Office Assistant of our mission office

On February 1, a newly employed Office Assistant reported for duty at our mission office. His name is Meas, and he has believed in Christ for 2 years. He has a wife and a one and a half year old daughter. Meas is a quiet man with a mature personality. He is excited to share his faith in God. Even though he is not a Free Methodist church member, his goal is the same as ours - to serve God. Working as a team is challenging, but it enriches our unity in Christ. The changes are constructive and wonderful. The collaboration is like the pieces of a puzzle that come together to make the full picture.

Prayer points

• That Sokea and Ka Wai can soon find jobs
• That Lim and Pauline's son, Christian, will grow healthily
• For Brother Meas' adjustment to the new working environment
• For the election of new committee members at the Mission District meeting Feb. 18
• For the moving of the mission office and the University Student dormitory for the girls in late March