Spiritual Darkness

This is the time of year when millions of Cambodians gather at the pagoda, bringing food offerings to the spirits of dead ancestors. Many believe that their ancestors return from the underworld to wander in search of food and offerings. Pchum Ben is probably the most important holiday to the average Cambodian. Ancestor worship is deeply ingrained into the mind and soul of the people. A very brave little girl, one of my wife's students, told my wife today that she stood up against the tide this past week. She was forced to attend the pagoda with her family. However, she refused to call on the spirits, pray, or make any offering. Her family was very angry with her. The parents planned a nice vacation at a five star hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia, but this sixth grader was forbidden to enjoy this because of her stand for Christ. Srey Nach, age 18, one of the new believers, also stood firm and refused to offer prayers or offerings to spirits. She was very happy that even though she was ridiculed and called names, that she stood for what she believes.