어린이날특집 C채널 스페셜 "소망으로 아이들을 세우다"┃기석창, 이지영 선교사 2부┃C채널

In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a land brimming with history, culture, and the resounding melodies of hope. Welcome to Cambodia, where the enchanting rhythm of life harmonizes with an unyielding spirit of resilience. This is a place where ancient traditions and modern dreams collide, creating a mosaic of vibrant experiences.

The Rich Tapestry of Siem Reap: Where East Meets West

In the enchanting city of Siem Reap, Cambodia unveils one of the grandest treasures of the East – the majestic Angkor Wat, a testament to human ingenuity and architectural marvel. Siem Reap is a city where the past and present entwine seamlessly, with French colonial architecture standing as a testament to its rich history.

Amongst the bustling streets of Siem Reap, one remarkable figure shines brightly. Meet Jiyoung Lee, a missionary from Hope Elementary School, affectionately known as "The Lime Lady" for her extraordinary home remedy to combat coughs in the Cambodian children. She brews a concoction from limes, known as "laime" in the local tongue, because it's abundant in Vitamin C and a natural shield against the common cold. When winter arrives, Jiyoung Lee's healing elixir becomes a lifesaver for the local kids.

Her husband, Kiseok Chang, joins her in their mission to spread love and hope. Together, they tirelessly prepare meals to feed over a hundred students and teachers every week. They have made it their life's work to be teachers when they teach, workers when they work, and givers when it's time to give.

Nurturing Dreams and Filling Plates: The Heart of Siem Reap

These remarkable missionaries, on a budget of a mere $100, consistently provide nourishment to more than a hundred individuals, united by their unwavering love for Cambodia. Every trip to the market is an exercise in compassion as they strive to provide the best for the children, despite their limited budget. They genuinely wish to fulfill every child's request, but the financial constraints often leave them with a heavy heart.

Their work is driven by their faith and the understanding that they are not just missionaries but caretakers of the future. They aim to be a channel of grace by providing food for the little ones and a message of salvation for their souls. It's about planting the seeds of goodwill in the Cambodian soil and hoping they grow into a beautiful garden of love and compassion.

Building a Brighter Tomorrow: Small Steps in a Big World

The Hope Elementary School, situated 74 kilometers from the Thai-Cambodian border, is a place where the children are always on the move, eagerly seeking to assist the adults. One such instance is when they gathered to replace the motor of an underground pump. In Cambodia, water is a source of both life and struggle. The significance of water in this country is immeasurable, and any problem with the water supply can disrupt lives. This simple act of changing a motor was a collective endeavor, a moment where everyone came together as one.

The tireless efforts extend to creating fishponds, where both students and parents join forces to catch fish for their meals. They understand the value of each drop of water and learn to cherish and conserve it. These children are growing not only in knowledge but also in their understanding of life's true essence.

An Unwavering Journey: The Unyielding Mission of Hope

Fifteen years in Cambodia have shaped the lives of these dedicated missionaries. Looking back, they see nothing but gratitude for the journey. In the past, life was challenging, but with hard work and determination, they found their path. It began with working in the jewelry industry on Jeju Island and eventually shifted to fruit vending. Their business faced bankruptcy multiple times, but their calling to serve Cambodia was unwavering.

Despite the hardships and the International Monetary Fund declaring bankruptcy after only four months of business, they persevered. From street vending to selling sweet potatoes, apples, grapes, and a variety of fruits, they ventured into every nook and cranny of the marketplace. It was a challenging journey, and sometimes, they would end up disappointed when they couldn't help every child in need. The desire to support every child was profound, but they could not afford to fulfill every request.

Their mission in Cambodia revolved around the idea of being the hands that feed the hungry, not just with food but with education. It's about making a difference in these young lives and creating a pathway for the gospel to reach those they serve.

The Blossoming Future: Where Education Meets Aspiration

With its roots firmly planted in the heart of Cambodia, the Hope Elementary School aspires to teach not only the Korean language but also arts, music, English, and more. The challenges are numerous – resources are scarce, and there's a shortage of teachers. However, the determination to provide the best education for these children is unwavering. They even dream of a day when they can take the children to South Korea to perform and showcase their talents, spreading love and hope in the process.

A Heartfelt Farewell: Love Beyond Borders

As Jiyoung Lee and Kiseok Chang bid farewell to the Hope Elementary School, tears fill the eyes of both the missionaries and the children. The precious love shared between them is a reminder that love transcends borders and age. The final embrace, the last few words of wisdom, and the whispered prayers embody the depth of their connection.

This is the essence of missionary work, where meetings and farewells are a constant part of the journey. It's about crossing borders, transcending differences, and bringing hope and love to the corners of the world where it's needed most.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Love

Cambodia, with its resounding symphony of hope and love, reminds us of the transformative power of selfless dedication. The Lime Lady and her husband have woven a tapestry of love, education, and compassion into the lives of the Cambodian children. They have shown us that even small steps can lead to significant change. It's about nurturing dreams, filling plates, and creating a brighter tomorrow for those in need. Cambodia's heart beats with the rhythm of love and hope, a beautiful melody that resonates across borders and generations. As we bid farewell to these missionaries, we are reminded that love knows no boundaries, and hope can shine in even the darkest corners of the world.