It’s been a while since I used our nice camera, busted it out for some photos this afternoon. This week we will find out if I receive my invitation letter for Rostov, Russia. I’m finishing off preparations for teaching 1st Corinthians and really hoping our visas will process in time. The Russian consulate has confirmed they will expedite them and assuming all our documents are in order, things should complete in time for the April 14th class.
I was encouraged the other day by the Apostle Paul’s words to the Corinthian church. He says at the close of the letter, “But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.”
It’s interesting that Paul saw a great opportunity for the Kingdom that was WITH opposition. For many of us western Christians, we’d see the presence of opposition or personal danger as a ‘sign’ of a closed door! Not Paul. The opposition was not a sign to hop on a boat and get out of there, but to dig in because God was at work.
I don’t consider a trip to Russia right now as a dangerous trip, although my Canadian family would most likely differ! It is however an opportunity for ministry that we’ve prayed about for quite a while, for me it’s a great open door to share and encourage future Kingdom leaders in Russia. If the Lord wills, we will go and appreciate your prayers that the time would indeed be fruitful.
Noah whittling a branch into a spear (weapon of choice for hunger games).
We took Clarke’s cast off his arm today – he’s cautiously excited as are we all.
Brent and Tucker have taken up skateboarding (and ripstick). I think we need to build a skate park as there is literally nothing smooth in this town.
Sending prayers of hope and safety to you and your family. To Deb too with the new baby coming. God bless you all.
yes your canadian family does not think its a good time to go to russia but we are not in your shoes and trust you into the Lords hands. BUT its not easy to say the least The pictures are great, love to see you all. My prayers are always with you…love …mom
Well….not all your family! I’ve always wanted to be in a church like the one in Philadelphia where Jesus said, “See I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut”. Praise God that you see His open door. I pray that you have the strength and courage to go through it. He will be with you as you help His Church grow.