Imitate me, just as I imitate Christ
“The church is a reading and writing community. It always has been. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth.” Soam Neidin is pastor of the Chhkekoun Baptist Church in Battambang.
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When Pol Pot was defeated in 1979, our village chief chose me to be the school teacher. The Khmer Rouge killed many people. I was the only person left in the village who knew how to read and write. I sat with my students on the ground under a tree. I was 17 years old.
I resumed my secondary schooling then trained to become a primary school teacher.
School staff were obliged to attend the Buddhist rituals and celebrations but I did not press my hands together in front of my chest to pray. My principal rebuked me. “When in Rome, do as the Romans do!” I replied, “My ancestors were Christians and I will follow their example.”
Missionaries brought the gospel to Battambang 100 years ago. My parents taught me to pray to our Father in Heaven. He is the one true God and the Creator of all things. At our church, a group of us completed a six-unit Theological Education by Extension (TEE) course. Then, in my spare time, I started a degree in theology.
Have the same attitude as Christ Jesus
When the principal was transferred to another school, I was appointed principal. I was the only Christian school principal in Battambang province. My fellow principals looked down on me and called me Jesus-Jesus. I said to them, “You can mock me but please do not mock my God.”
When the Buddhist monks came to bless the foundations of our new school buildings, all eyes were on me. I sat among the dignitaries but kept my hands by my side.
Everyone knew I was a Christian and they were suspicious and displeased. But when the parents saw how I respected and cared for their children, they told their children to become more like me. When I explained how Jesus saved us from our sins, some became Christians.
Be of one mind
When I retired, I started a masters degree in theology and became an assistant pastor. When the pastor of my church died, the church elders asked me to become the pastor. I knew that being a pastor was harder than being a school principal so I said, “No way!” When they asked a second time, I told them to find someone else and suggested some names. When they asked a third time, I remembered what happened to the prophet Jonah. I was resisting God’s call. I repented and agreed to pastor the church.
Be of one Spirit
When we obey Jesus, we do not act alone. The Holy Spirit teaches and guides us. He gives us the power and courage to become more like Jesus. He uses books to build our understanding and grow our faith. He is the source of our unity and joy.
Please pray that I will be gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.
Soam Neidin is pastor of the Chhkekoun Baptist Church in Battambang.