Some news from Ukraine...
I have been hesitant to distract from the blog's focus on the current mission trip, but there is so much going on that I feel like I need to share some of the stories that are happening right now, from both sides of the War! So I'm going to include a letter tonight from Dr. Lev in Ukraine as he and his team are ministering to people in very desperate situations...
Shalom, dear brother Jerry,
I thank the Lord and you for your prayer and support.
How are you? How is your mission in the feeding children program, and how is your trip?
I am now with a group of medical volunteers in Kharkiv. We are now driving beyond Kharkiv towards the front line to de-occupy villages. We are providing triage, medical check-ups, on-site assistance, and give medicines.
Today, we were in a village occupied by Russian soldiers for 1.5 months. Our mission is to provide not only physical assistance but also spiritual support. When we listen to people's sharing and help them convey these horrors, eyewitnesses of those events say that as soon as the Russians entered the villages, they did not destroy buildings but only took away food from the residents. But, when the Ukrainian army came to the rescue civilians, the Russians began to shoot and destroying houses and food storages before retreating. Residents said that during the retreating, the Russians went into the cellar and shot all the concerns with food or threw a grenade there, even if there were people. They could also leave grenades without a ring in residential buildings in a closet that, when people returned, they very often exploded on these grenades. We heard horror stories about rapes, how children and people went hungry without food, and how men were shot.
I am delighted that people found strength in themselves and believed the Lord that He would not leave them. And that the Lord leads us to these people.
But unfortunately, the shelling of Kharkiv does not stop. Every day we hear and feel explosions from rocket attacks and artillery.
My family and I are praying for you and your ministry. And I very hope that we will meet soon.
In God’s love,
Lev
4 Comments
Thank you for sharing this letter from Dr. Lev! I often wonder how I might feel if my country experienced a long term nightmare like Ukraine is (and Russia too). On one hand I realize that this earth is not my Home. But on the other hand it is my home for now, and I think I would be devastated to lose it. How would I contribute? Would I just wring my hands? I am encouraged to read and hear of the faithful servants in Ukraine like Dr. Lev. And pray. [Lord, please end the war by noon. Please change Mr. Putin’s heart. Please keep the saints on both sides safe. May Your will be done, quickly.]
Lord You tell us there is a time for war and a time for peace.
We pray fervently for Peace to come soon.
This hard to read knowing it is happening . Dr. Lev called by God it is so important to be there as such a time as this. I can't imagined what they are facing physically and emotionally. Hanging with all their faith. God grant them you love favor and strength. In your mercy bring a end to this suffering. Marilyn
The reports on the news are disturbing but it is even more disturbing when the reports are from people you know. I am praying for all of them. Support seems to be as strong as it was...my twitter feed has many Ukrainian supporters constantly giving updates and encouragement. Take care and I hope to hear you have gotten to Ethiopia safe and sound....much love, anita