A number of years ago, when I was serving as a student missionary in Albania, I was about to head home one evening when the power went out. Outages are common in Albania, but this was an especially big one, affecting the entire city. I decided to walk home anyway. Without street lights, it was hard even to see where I was putting my feet. But I knew the way and felt quite safe until . . .

In Albania dogs are often treated poorly, and most of them are afraid of people. However, on this night shrouded in blackness, I remembered my route passed through the territory of one of the few dogs who had decided to fight against his oppressors. I had successfully dealt with this dog’s aggression many times before by staring him down and acting like I was picking up a rock. Now, as I approached his territory, I became afraid that the darkness would embolden him and make me less able to defend myself. I prayed that the dog was busy, on a date, or had recently had a conversion experience. Soon I heard his barking and his nails clicking on the pavement as he charged toward me. “Ik!” I shouted. (“Go!”) He was close enough now that I could see his bared teeth. Suddenly, he turned and ran away.

As I remember God’s protection that night, I think of the challenges and uncertainties we face as we go to work for the Northern Khmer. It is easy to become afraid, but the Lord says, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine” (Isa. 43:1). What a comfort to know God is in control, and we need not fear darkness, nor wild dogs nor the enemy of souls.

Thanks for keeping us and the Northern Khmer in your prayers.

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