Creating Hope 4 Cambodia

I have a dear friend, Marti, whom I believe is a walking, talking, earth-bound angel. Marti has made several mission trips to Cambodia and has seen in person the poverty and the desperate need for help. In 2009, she began a fundraiser called Creating Hope 4 Cambodia whose mission is to support ministries in Cambodia, helping those affected by the sex trade. This support provides both scholarships and hope for the future by keeping children in school and out of brothels. Keeping kids in school saves their lives. Period. And guess what? I want in! I want to help save lives…I want to use my gifts to be God’s hands and feet in order to help.

Here’s how it works

Each year in November, Creating Hope 4 Cambodia hosts a handmade boutique for 4 hours on a Saturday at our church, Christ Community in Rochester, MN. Local artisans and crafters donate handmade items and the purchase of their products goes directly to the mission. Since 2009, over 90 teens have received scholarships, protecting their innocence and keeping them in school.

In 2013, I donated a few art pieces for the sale and in 2014, I helped put together jars of coconut oil scented with essential oils to sell… but this voice inside my head kept urging: “There’s more you can do.” It felt more like a calling than just a desire to help. In 2015, I committed to both Marti and the Lord to design an art piece specifically for the fundraiser using Creating Hope 4 Cambodia’s theme verse: Seek Justice. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly. Micah 6:8. I just knew with His love and support I could create something really special.

Designing this piece was an amazing journey which strengthened my relationship with the Lord. I prayed for the talent and the confidence to pursue my commitment. I didn’t get it right with the first two pieces that I designed. He urged me to keep going. When I prayed that I didn’t want to let Him down…I heard His voice in my head “My child, you could never let me down.” His love and support was and is undeniable.

Just as the old saying goes, the third time was a charm and I couldn’t wait to show Marti my newest design! This time I was sure I had it right. I was sure she would agree. Oh, and she did! The tears in her eyes and the goose bumps on her skin told me so. It’s clear He provided me with the motivation and confidence I prayed for.