why we went to Cambodia

Fred, there are several reasons why we went to Cambodia. First, because whether or not Cambodia is buddhist it has many needs. There is a history of genocide that still deeply effects the Cambodian people psychologically and socially. There is rampant poverty and preventable diseases. There is deep corruption, forced prostitution, and child slavery. As Christians we believe God has loved us and forgiven us despite our sinfulness and screw-ups. We believe that since we have received such grace it’s very natural to sacrifice show love to those different from us.
Second, to learn. We spent a great deal of time with people learning their beliefs and culture. We want to understand what has shaped their lives, not change their culture but to understand it.
Third, we believe Christianity is not just for western nations, it’s for every race and culture on earth. Your comment that the people are easily swayed because they are poor is disrespectful towards them. They’re not simple nor easily swayed. They have a great deal of dignity and can make decisions for themselves. Many Cambodians are Christians, many are also Muslim, and Hindu. Your comment also assumes false things about us. We believe the gospel is attractive, not coercive and thus we share it with kindness and respect, not in a coercive culturally imperialistic way. We want them to know Christ and remain culturally Cambodian.