"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." (1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV)
It is always a joy and blessing to work with our brothers and sisters in Christ from the states! And often when they come we get to experience how the Lord is busy working throughout the world in the body of Christ to bring brothers and sisters from different cultures, speaking different languages, together for one special moment. Throughout this entire week working alongside the Open Door team from southwest Missouri and our Ukrainian brothers and sisters, we have seen the Lord prepare hearts, plant seeds, and water the soil, and we give Him the praise for all He has done and is doing.
In 4 days of medical ministry (2 days at Gorizont and 4 days at Grace) the Open Door team saw almost 350 patients. Many were non-believers and experienced the love of Christ as team members prayed with them over their personal needs, and met physical needs as possible through distributing medications, vitamins, toothbrushes, and when desired, New Testaments and tracts. Some asked "How much do I need to pay for your prayer," since it is common to give an "offering" to priests who pray for you in the Orthodox church. Of course, the answer is, "Our prayer for you is a free gift, and a privilage, because of Christ!"
We'd like to share one particular life story that the Lord allowed us to witness during this time that reveals how the Lord worked through time to bring His people together for His glory!
Vitaly Sorokun is pastor of New Hope Church, a church Team Kharkov helped begin 6 years ago. Three years ago Artom who was a classmate of Vi's (Vitaly's) and an agnostic, went through a crisis in his life. His 4 year old son was diagnosed with cancer, and the hospital where he was treated in Kharkov had 1 room in the entire hospital with beds for children with cancer. Up to 15 children at a time would lay in this room without running water or showers. Artom took his son to Italy, where he was treated and his cancer defeated, but he could not forget what other children in Kharkov were going through to get treatment for their disease.
When Artom returned to Kharkov, he contacted Pastor Vi and shared his desire to do something for the children and parents in Kharkov who were experiencing the heartbreak of cancer. Pastor Vi prayed with him, asking the Lord to enable them to do something to not only begin a support group for parents, but to make the conditions for treatment better.
First Artom received permission to convert a whole wing of the hospital, unused and in disrepair, into a cancer wing for children. The government gave $35,000 toward the renovation, and that money along with other donations the Lord provided, made the renovations possible.
Fast forward to 2007 - and the people of New Hope church began praying for the Lord to lead them into a unique compassion ministry project - something no one else was doing. In the fall, they felt the Lord was leading them to walk alongside the parents and children going through cancer treatment, praying with them, and visiting in the hospital with Pastor Vi perhaps assuming a "role" as chaplain. They decided to do a pilot project to see if this was indeed from God. On the Sunday of "Zhatva" (Thanksgiving) the church took up an offering specifically for the children's cancer hospital and over $800 was given by the body of Christ - New Hope! This was a phenomenal sum for this small church, and they knew the Lord was indeed confirming His desire for them to minister to the parents and children in the hospital.
Again fast forward to last Tuesday (March 11th) - less than 48 hours before the Open Door medical team was leaving to fly to Kharkov. Pastor Vi learned that Irina, a 12 year old bone cancer patient, had undergone 4 chemo treatments with a drug no longer produced in Europe, and they could not find the drug anywhere to complete the round of chemotherapy. Vi prayed and was reminded of the medical team that was coming to work in his own church the very next week! An e-mail was sent that night to the team leader in the states. Was there any way the team could get this particular drug to bring to Irina?
One of the doctors coming with Open Door "just happened" to be on the pharmacy board of the hospital where he works. He met with the board and presented the opportunity they had for treating this girl. The hospital had 5 rounds of the drug available, and gave the doctor 4 of those to bring across the world to Kharkov, Ukraine to minister to a 12 year old girl named Irina. Now they had to get the medication through customs, and again the Lord made a way and every single suitcase filled with the gift of medicines for the people of Kharkov, and for Irina, made it out of customs and onto the van to be transported.
Monday evening, less than a week after the call for help went around the world, Dr. Ken from southwest Missouri, Pastor Vi, and Keith Wofford met with Irina and her mother Lena to give them the gift they pray will bring healing. This was the first "official" visit of Pastor Vi as the new chaplain for the newly remodeled children's cancer wing! That night they prayed with Irina and her mother, who is not yet a believer, and shared the love of Christ with them in a very real and tangible way! And one week from the time the call for help went across the world, Irina had her 5th round of chemotherapy (Tuesday, March 19th at 11:00 am)!
As I write this, my heart is filled with wonder at our great God who orchestrated all of this throughout the past 3 years so that the body of Christ from throughout the world could work together to reveal His love not only to a 12 year old girl, her mother, and Artom, but to those who will hear the testimony of this love for years to come.
Your prayers each week put some of the "pieces of this puzzle" together as you have lifted up the people of Kharkov to the throne of our Father, the One Who knows them by name! What a beautiful picture He has painted, yet the picture is not complete! There are still more that He is making ready to experience His love, and your prayers are continuing to fill in the blanks.
As you experience Resurrection day this Sunday, and new life in Christ throughout the coming week, please continue to join us in our prayer emphasis for the month of March: Jesus said, "Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son" (John 14:13 NIV). And James wrote "You do not have, because you do not ask God" (James 4:2b NIV). Please ask our Father, in Jesus Name, to raise up leaders who will go into the harvest fields of Kharkov region to start churches.Please pray specifically for laborers to be sent out into the harvest field (Matthew 9:37-38). Ask the Lord to start churches (Matthew 16:18), that He might be lifted up and draw all men to Himself, for the Father's glory!
There are many other "stories" of how the Lord answered our prayers this past week for the people of Kharkov as the Open Door team poured out their lives in ministry. Rather than list requests for this coming week, would you join us in asking the Lord to continue working in the hearts of the people in the Gorizont and Saltavka regions, drawing them into a personal relationship with Him through the Resurrected Lord Jesus. Pray for us and our Ukrainian ministry partners as we plant seeds, water the seeds planted, and reap the harvest in His perfect will and time!
Blessings to each of you as you celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, not only today, but each day that follows!
Friday, March 21, 2008
Thursday, March 13, 2008
"Just a thought"
This morning as I waited for the elevator outside my door, I thought about a neighbor I had not seen for some time. Luda and her son live in another hall on my floor, but I occasionally see her at the elevator or on the street. I couldn't remember the last time I had seen her, and that was the thought that "floated" across my mind. Her son is in his late 20's and in a wheelchair - hard enough wherever you live, but almost impossible to have a "normal" life in a wheelchair in this culture. So, the thought brought with it a concern for her son's health and I spoke to the Father about them.
A couple of hours later I left my apartment again and who should be standing at the elevator but that same neighbor! Luda asked me about my broken arm (all the folks in my building talk about the American who fell...) which opened up the conversation for me. I asked her how her son was doing. She explained that he's the same as always....he's been in the chair for 8 years. He just sits at his computer and plays games.
I asked her if they had ever made a diagnosis as to why he can't walk, and she told me that no one has been able to find out the real cause, even after a trip to doctors in Germany. Her husband died 8 years ago, and immediately after that her son became an invalid. Doctors speculate that his paralysis is a result of stress affecting his immune system, but they don't know how or why.
I then asked her what her son's name is, and she replied "Pavel" (Paul). As we walked toward the street, I told her I would be praying for Pavel, and for her, as they continue to struggle with his paralysis.
After we parted, I thanked the Lord for bringing them to my mind and heart this morning. He knew I would be "running into her" only a couple of hours later, and he prepared my heart and mind for the opportunity to ask about Pavel and to hopefully encourage her by sharing that I would be praying for them. I have been reminded all day that whenever He brings someone across my mind, I need to lift them before His throne, and trust Him with the details! It's no longer "just a thought", but a prayer!
A couple of hours later I left my apartment again and who should be standing at the elevator but that same neighbor! Luda asked me about my broken arm (all the folks in my building talk about the American who fell...) which opened up the conversation for me. I asked her how her son was doing. She explained that he's the same as always....he's been in the chair for 8 years. He just sits at his computer and plays games.
I asked her if they had ever made a diagnosis as to why he can't walk, and she told me that no one has been able to find out the real cause, even after a trip to doctors in Germany. Her husband died 8 years ago, and immediately after that her son became an invalid. Doctors speculate that his paralysis is a result of stress affecting his immune system, but they don't know how or why.
I then asked her what her son's name is, and she replied "Pavel" (Paul). As we walked toward the street, I told her I would be praying for Pavel, and for her, as they continue to struggle with his paralysis.
After we parted, I thanked the Lord for bringing them to my mind and heart this morning. He knew I would be "running into her" only a couple of hours later, and he prepared my heart and mind for the opportunity to ask about Pavel and to hopefully encourage her by sharing that I would be praying for them. I have been reminded all day that whenever He brings someone across my mind, I need to lift them before His throne, and trust Him with the details! It's no longer "just a thought", but a prayer!
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Last "Prazdnik"
For Americans, the Christmas holidays in Ukraine seem to last forever, but they are finally over after fireworks at midnight marked the celebration of the "Old" New Year (don't know where that comes from, but I'll check). So we're ready to hit the ground running to build relationships and plant seeds in preparation for the spring "thaw!"
I spent the last 2 weeks of December in St. Louis with my family, along with a short hop to Little Rock to catch up with friends there. I arrived back in Kharkov on the night of the 3rd of January, tired, but thankful the Lord worked out travel without any "hitches". Now, 10 days later, I'm about back to my regular sleep cycle and expecting the Lord to give me, and Team Kharkov, the best year ever!
We are seeing Him do incredible things - things that only He could do, such as bringing almost a thousand children and parents to a Christmas party/play on December 24th, opening doors in schools for character / Christian ethic groups, and giving Amanda and I the opportunity to work in cooperation with the Women's Ministry Coordinator for the Baptist churches of the Kharkov oblast. So we are excited, yet aware of our need to seek His face more than ever.
Now all we need is SNOW!!!!!!!!
I spent the last 2 weeks of December in St. Louis with my family, along with a short hop to Little Rock to catch up with friends there. I arrived back in Kharkov on the night of the 3rd of January, tired, but thankful the Lord worked out travel without any "hitches". Now, 10 days later, I'm about back to my regular sleep cycle and expecting the Lord to give me, and Team Kharkov, the best year ever!
We are seeing Him do incredible things - things that only He could do, such as bringing almost a thousand children and parents to a Christmas party/play on December 24th, opening doors in schools for character / Christian ethic groups, and giving Amanda and I the opportunity to work in cooperation with the Women's Ministry Coordinator for the Baptist churches of the Kharkov oblast. So we are excited, yet aware of our need to seek His face more than ever.
Now all we need is SNOW!!!!!!!!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
First Snow (YEAH!!!!) & Thanksgiving
We had our first snowfall this week - several inches. Shadow loved it (until the pads of her feet got full), and so did I. We had an extra walk during the day just to enjoy it.
I'm amazed at the peacefulness of snow each time it falls! The world is "quieter", "softer", and, of course, "brighter"! It really overcomes the darkness, for the nights are lighter as a result of a layer of snow. Every time it falls, I thank the Lord for allowing me to experience snow with the heart of a child. (Now, if only the body would be able to do that!!!!)
On Tuesday, Team Kharkov celebrated Thanksgiving (I know, it's next Thursday, but we're ahead over here)! This time next week (Thursday), our team will be traveling west for a mini-retreat. We're excited about the opportunity to see a part of the country none of us have visited previously, and having time to relax, play, and pray together. So, we decided to prepare our meal this week so it would not be quite as hectic.
I hope to add some pictures soon. I'm just afraid once I get started, I may never stop (I have literally thousands of digital pics from the past couple of years).
Have an awesome day!
I'm amazed at the peacefulness of snow each time it falls! The world is "quieter", "softer", and, of course, "brighter"! It really overcomes the darkness, for the nights are lighter as a result of a layer of snow. Every time it falls, I thank the Lord for allowing me to experience snow with the heart of a child. (Now, if only the body would be able to do that!!!!)
On Tuesday, Team Kharkov celebrated Thanksgiving (I know, it's next Thursday, but we're ahead over here)! This time next week (Thursday), our team will be traveling west for a mini-retreat. We're excited about the opportunity to see a part of the country none of us have visited previously, and having time to relax, play, and pray together. So, we decided to prepare our meal this week so it would not be quite as hectic.
I hope to add some pictures soon. I'm just afraid once I get started, I may never stop (I have literally thousands of digital pics from the past couple of years).
Have an awesome day!
Friday, November 9, 2007
His Gifts are Awesome!
The Lord really provided me with a wonderful birthday yesterday, but then how could it be otherwise when so many brothers and sisters in Christ lift your name before the throne? Add to that the messages and e-cards I received via e-mail and "skype" and it was truly a blessed day!
By far the most delightful part of the day was our visit to a women's shelter in the Aleksayivka region of Kharkov. We were told by the director that there are 3 or 4 shelters in all of Ukraine (not certain if this is correct or not) as she walked us through the 4 large rooms of this "Detski Sod" (kindergarten) they were given for this purpose. The shelter has been operating for 7 years and is "home" to 15 or 16 women at this time. As Amanda and I walked through the center, we both looked at each other with anticipation and excitement....the possibilities for ministry to women and others through small groups are awesome.
The most significant part of this is how the Lord is walking before us, and we are seeking to follow His path. Aleksayivka is a region of the city we prayerwalked for the first time 2 weeks ago. At that point, none of us had ever seen the region "up close and personal," so we "randomly" selected a block of apartments to begin our prayerwalk emphasis. Imagine our surprise (and delight) when we drove to the middle of that block of apartments yesterday to look at the shelter. We had no idea 2 weeks ago that it was located in this old school, yet the Lord knew as we walked past the building and prayed that we would go through the door of that same building very soon!
We do not yet know how we will be involved, or what the Lord has planned for us in this region, but there is no doubt He is working! For the first time in the 4 years I have lived here, pastors and Baptist leaders from different churches in different regions of the city have a desire to see work begun in Aleksayivka. We can hardly wait to see what He is going to do in and through His people in the weeks and months ahead.
Thanks to all who sent birthday greetings. Just so you know, my team made me a wonderful lunch complete with chicken and dumplings, mashed potatoes, and a heavenly apple/berry pie. I was also the recipient of some great John Piper books and new winter "Crocs", along with handmade birthday cards. Couldn't ask for more, and yet our Father always gives "more than we can ask or imagine." I even asked Him for a little snow for my birthday, and while we didn't have a blizzard, every flake that I saw was a reminder of His faithfulness to give us the desires of our heart. I've decided this next year is going to be the best year of my life so far, and I look forward to sharing with others how the Father causes it to be just that!
By far the most delightful part of the day was our visit to a women's shelter in the Aleksayivka region of Kharkov. We were told by the director that there are 3 or 4 shelters in all of Ukraine (not certain if this is correct or not) as she walked us through the 4 large rooms of this "Detski Sod" (kindergarten) they were given for this purpose. The shelter has been operating for 7 years and is "home" to 15 or 16 women at this time. As Amanda and I walked through the center, we both looked at each other with anticipation and excitement....the possibilities for ministry to women and others through small groups are awesome.
The most significant part of this is how the Lord is walking before us, and we are seeking to follow His path. Aleksayivka is a region of the city we prayerwalked for the first time 2 weeks ago. At that point, none of us had ever seen the region "up close and personal," so we "randomly" selected a block of apartments to begin our prayerwalk emphasis. Imagine our surprise (and delight) when we drove to the middle of that block of apartments yesterday to look at the shelter. We had no idea 2 weeks ago that it was located in this old school, yet the Lord knew as we walked past the building and prayed that we would go through the door of that same building very soon!
We do not yet know how we will be involved, or what the Lord has planned for us in this region, but there is no doubt He is working! For the first time in the 4 years I have lived here, pastors and Baptist leaders from different churches in different regions of the city have a desire to see work begun in Aleksayivka. We can hardly wait to see what He is going to do in and through His people in the weeks and months ahead.
Thanks to all who sent birthday greetings. Just so you know, my team made me a wonderful lunch complete with chicken and dumplings, mashed potatoes, and a heavenly apple/berry pie. I was also the recipient of some great John Piper books and new winter "Crocs", along with handmade birthday cards. Couldn't ask for more, and yet our Father always gives "more than we can ask or imagine." I even asked Him for a little snow for my birthday, and while we didn't have a blizzard, every flake that I saw was a reminder of His faithfulness to give us the desires of our heart. I've decided this next year is going to be the best year of my life so far, and I look forward to sharing with others how the Father causes it to be just that!
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Here We Go
I've been "meaning to" start a blog for months, but never followed through. So here goes my best attempt to keep family, friends, prayer partners, and anyone else who is interested up to date about daily happenings in my adopted city - Kharkov (HAR-kov), Ukraine. Be patient. It will take some time to get into the habit of writing, but there are so many things the Lord does each day that I don't share on our prayer letters, and I really want you to know more about how He is moving in this place I call "home".
Thanks for joining me on this adventure!
Thanks for joining me on this adventure!
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