Living here in Phnom Penh, I often marvel at how this city and nation have endured so much and yet continue to rise again. Cambodia is a land of wide plains and mighty rivers — the Tonlé Sap and Mekong seem to carry the heartbeat of the people themselves. Though cities like mine are growing quickly, most Cambodians still live in small villages scattered across the countryside. Life remains deeply rooted in the rhythms of farming, fishing, and family.

Walking through Phnom Penh, I can still sense the echoes of the past. When the Khmer Rouge seized power in 1975, they emptied this very city, forcing millions into the countryside. Nearly all of Cambodia’s educated and professional class — many of whom lived here — were wiped out. The scars of that dark time still run deep, etched into the collective memory of this nation.

But after the fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979, Phnom Penh began to stir again. Slowly, painfully, the city came back to life. Markets reopened. Children began to laugh again. Families returned and rebuilt from the dust. I see this same spirit every day — resilience, grace, and a longing for something more lasting than all the pain of the past.

As a follower of Jesus here, I believe Cambodia now stands at a window of opportunity — a moment in history when hearts are soft and hope can take root. My prayer is that this city, my city, will be built not only with bricks and business but upon the Rock — Christ Himself — who alone can bring true restoration and peace to this beautiful land.

• Rukoile the light of Jesus to break through the darkness over Phnom Penh and draw every heart to Him. (Isaiah 60:1)

• Rukoile healing and comfort for the brokenhearted across this city through the love of Christ. (Psalmi 147:3)

• Rukoile Phnom Penh’s leaders to walk in wisdom, integrity, and justice guided by God’s truth. (1 Timothy 2:1–2)

• Rukoile the church in Phnom Penh to stand united and shine brightly as a witness of God’s love. (Matthew 5:14)

• Rukoile the young generation of Phnom Penh to be rooted in God’s Word and filled with His Spirit. (Isaiah 61:3)