Nonviolence as spiritual engagement

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect... " Romans 12:2

Since my involvement with the Dey Krahom community back in 2007 I have reflected on my role and identity as foreigner and outsider, as well as my attempts to reflect the Way of Jesus in a country that is predominantly Buddhist.

Nonviolence as a Sign of the Reign of God Here On Earth

Nonviolence as social change

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Romans 12:21

Community Strategies Workshop in Phnom Penh, Dec 2010

Fifteen people were packed into a two-bed hotel room. Each person from Pursat province, north-west of Phnom Penh. And each one telling the same story, "The company is clearing our land. If we oppose them they come and hit us, take us to court, put us in jail, make us afraid."

Brother "Long" invited me this evening to discuss ways I might be able to support their community. I was already in Phnom Penh to co-lead a workshop and we happened to be in the capital city the same week. I sat and tried to listen and ask questions, to understand their situation and what they see are the available solutions.

"Two weeks ago we were so fed up with the company and our local authorities that we blocked the main road to Battambang to make it clear we have a complaint. Look, here are the nine demands we gave them."

I was impressed with the energy and initiatiive of this group of rural Cambodian farmers. Most of them have primary-level education and here they are taking on a well-connected and well-financed Cambodian corporation. What courage!