Before They’re Broken: Human Trafficking Prevention

Kristy Graham, host of On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse, sat down with Barry Jessen during a recent visit to international headquarters. God has worked in and through Barry in mighty ways over the years serving in ministry. First, Barry shares how he has seen the Lord answer prayers in Cambodia, now a vibrant place of ministry, where many are open to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

“I first went to Cambodia—it would be 17 years ago—and it was really unusual to hear of someone come to Christ. Now, thousands of people are just coming to Christ as a result of faithful service and prayer. And it's a great time. Like now's the time.”—Barry Jessen

The Jessen family was based in Australia for many years, serving in their local church. An opportunity arose for their family to relocate and serve in Thailand and then later, in Cambodia with Samaritan’s Purse. These decisions to move were always made as a family unit. Barry talked with Kristy about why Samaritan’s Purse established a country office in Cambodia.

Human trafficking is a major issue all around the world, including in Cambodia. Samaritan’s Purse staff on the ground in Cambodia prioritize prevention work by providing safe migration and trafficking awareness trainings. Staff spend time with people, get to know them, and earn the right to tell them about Jesus. Rather than rescuing people out of human trafficking, this programming is focused on stopping people from being broken in the first place.

“I think that is the heart of God. He loves us enough to stop us from being broken.”—Barry Jessen

Barry shared a story about a Cambodian man who crossed the border into Thailand to work. For nine years, his family did not hear from him—they thought he was dead. Nine years later, the man came back over into Cambodia, where he connected with Samaritan’s Purse staff, who were able to give him food, clothes, and try to connect him with his family. Upon arrival in his village, his family was nowhere to be found. They had relocated to a different community after years of believing he was dead. He felt hopeless. By God’s divine appointment, a Samaritan’s Purse staff member recognized him and was able to help him reunite with his family. Samaritan’s Purse staff’s consistency of caring is what helps people feel cared for and loved.

“There are two things I think that really speak to the people. One is unconditional love. And the other thing is: I'm going to love you today, tomorrow, next week, next year, and into next decade.”—Barry Jessen

Please pray for Barry Jessen, his family, and the important work taking place in Cambodia. Pray that God would continue to soften Cambodians’ hearts to the Gospel. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories from On the Ground, please visit SamaritansPurse.org