Life has become more intense lately, likely due to activities around the Russian border. Consequently, there are more attacks during the night. Sometimes they’re short raids; other times they last all night. Either way, it’s a real sleep-ruiner. I’m living on borrowed REM, so if anyone has some to spare, please send them my way.
There have been two chaplain training sessions since my last letter. A highlight from my June training was having teammates from the States join me. We shared teaching responsibilities, enjoyed fellowship with the participants, and shared some laughs over coffee and a meal. The true highlight was when a friend who attended the training said to me, “I thank you for a wonderful three days of learning. The information was invaluable and practical. I appreciate you introducing me to some truly lovely people. I made some new friends this week. But most importantly, you reminded me that God is ever-present and wants to help me through my life. All I have to do is ask Him, and He will answer. I love the way you pray.”
God be praised for being able to encourage my Orthodox sister in this way.
The training in August was equally wonderful but had a distinct atmosphere. I conducted all the modules, and we concluded with my volunteer chaplain team debriefing their hospital visit of that day to the training participants. There was a lively discussion with many questions from the Chaplaincy participants. It was especially humbling to hear the volunteers talk about the principles we emphasized during the training and how they applied in practice, not just in theory. “Remember: we are here to listen, not advise, not preach or push our religious agenda. This truly works.”
God, I praise You for growing in Your precious people.
We had the opportunity to pray for and encourage Taras, a dedicated volunteer who has been called up for active duty. He requests prayers for his mom, who is understandably concerned about him. He also hopes that God will guide him to a place where he can be most effective for the Kingdom during this time. I am humbled by his servant’s heart.
Please pray for Taras’ safety, his effectiveness, and his mom, watching on from the sidelines.