I have been in Romania almost two weeks now and if I had to
use one word to describe my time so far, it would be overwhelmed.
Overwhelmed at the
Need
Here in this region of Romania there is so much need, both
physical and spiritual. As I shared from my first trip here, because this is a
post-communist country, many people are not religious and most do not know
Jesus. However, this trip, I am working alongside a young missionary, Mariana
who works on social projects for the area. Many people are unemployed and
cannot adequately provide for their families. Poor children are not encouraged
to become educated by their families. In my short time here I have seen a young
teenage girl who does not know how to read. I have seen a young orphaned woman
trying to raise her own child with no one to encourage her or guide her. The
need is great and the workers are few.
Overwhelmed at the
Reality of this Life
This life is hard. Because the need is great, the work never
ends. It is exhausting. I no longer have the comfort and company of my World
Race family. Sometimes it seems lonely and there are not many options for the
times when I want to relax. It is hard not knowing the language and being
unable to have conversations with those I am wanting to serve. But I am glad I am seeing this reality now.
Overwhelmed with
Peace
While yes, this life is hard and exhausting and
overwhelming, I still have a peace knowing I am right where God wants me. This life requires dependency and rest in God.
Peace comes in the little moments too. A morning prayer with Mariana. The joy
of a young boy who just got a math problem correct. The laughter of a little
girl. The smile of a Romanian woman as I share a newly learned Romanian
phrase. Ann after-hours kitchen dance
party with the missionaries. Listening to the chatter of the elder sisters of
the church as they make sandwiches. It is these moments and more where I know I
am where I want to be.
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I have been welcomed into the Hope Church Romania family
with open arms and I am excited to see what else God has for me during my time
here.
