November 2001 Archives
| Sun | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat |
| 1 | 2 | 3 | ||||
| 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
| 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |
| 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
These verses from Daniel encouraged me this morning: "And many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace and everlasting contempt. And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." (Daniel 12:2,3)
One day there will be a resurrection of the dead. Those who did not put their faith in Christ here on earth will go to hell, those who put their faith in Christ will go to heaven and be rewarded. This is the hope of every christian.
I spent most of the day getting ready for a birthday party I was hosting at my apartment. All the guys from my former home group came and we celebrated Dima's birthday. First I asked the guys if they would move a piece of furniture that weighs about a ton, then we sat down to a dinner of hamburgers, rice, and creamed corn. We also had some worship, tea and dessert, and a gift opening. In between these activities the guys let out some energy by wrestling on my living room floor. We concluded the evening with a special prayer for Dima and thanking the Lord for a great night of celebration.
It was so good to be with the guys again. They will always be great friends and I'm so blessed to be a part of their life and watch them grow in faith and love.
I missed the boy's prison ministry today because of getting held up at the health clinic. The doctor was concerned about a boil that has been large and painful. He wanted to lance it, but I opted for hot compresses and antibiotics instead. If it's not better by Monday he wants me to come back and have it lanced.
A good thing that came out of not going to the boys prison was that I was able to make it to the hospital ministry in the evening. We spoke with a room of eight men and one guy prayed outloud to receive Christ right in front of all the other patients! The Lord had already prepared his heart before we came. Thank you, Lord! In the corridor another old man who appeared near death also prayed to receive Christ, though it was hard to know if he was sincere as he seemed a little out of it. His bed was in the hallway cuz there isn't space in the rooms. There was a puddle of some redish liquid beneath his bed that looked like it had leaked out of a container strapped to the bedframe. Conditions in this hospital are so distressing. We pray that God would do something to raise the standards.
When I got home at 8 pm there was a distress message on my answering machine from the pastor's wife who was down at the church leading the lady's weekly Bible study. Pastor and I rushed down to the church to find that a drug addict had come into the church emotionally distraught and threatening to commit suicide. We spent nearly three hours trying to counsel him and figure out what to do with him. He was from another city, had no ID, no place to go, no food, no nothing. We called the paramedics as he was going through withdrawls, shaking, and throwing up. They came, gave him a shot of something to stabalize him, and said that's all they could do. He began to feel better and we ended up taking him to the train station, bought him a meal, and gave him enough money for a train to Moscow. I pray the Lord would watch over him and also deliver him from such a horrible life.
I finally got home at midnight and am exhausted but full of joy. I just feel like I've had such a privaledge to see God's hand move all day today and it's such a boost to my faith. Until tomorrow, Ron
Tonight our church celebrated Thanksgiving. Of course, since this is traditionally an american holiday, we celebrate it here as more of a general time to gather together with church family and give thanks to the Lord for all His blessings throughout the previous year. In other words, it's just like thanksgiving in the states minus the pilgrims and indians. :)
It all began at about 4pm for me. That's when the worship band practice started. We rehearsed around fifteen songs as it was also communion night and we always have a longer time of worship for that. At six pm the actual service began. Pastor greeted everyone and gave a quick history on where Thanksgiving came from. (the american holiday) Then we sang some praise songs. After that Pastor had everyone stand up in turns according to the year you asked Jesus into your heart. It was neat to see who was saved when. Then we had a testimony, special song, and Bible study. One more special song, and then it was communion time. After communion we sang some more upbeat praise songs. Boy, everyone was just lovin it and praising the Lord with all their heart. What a blessing!
Tuesday mornings. Ugh. The trick is to get to bed earlier on Monday nights, something I haven't been able to quite master yet. But, praise the Lord, this morning I was on time to the prayer meeting. That's a good sign!
I had a long talk with our worship leader about worship and loving the Lord this afternoon. The timing was perfect as we also had a worship fellowship meeting at the church this evening. In our conversation we spoke about how much more important it is to have hearts that desire to love and worship Jesus than to simply have good music or vocals. There is a tendancy in the worship ministry to begin focusing on what you're doing instead of on the One you're doing it for. Then you realize you're not doing it for God at all, but for yourself. The playing and singing become self-centered, which leads to the feeling that what you're doing really isn't that important, or, you just become bored with it. God made us to worship Him and Him alone. When self gets in there it's like a bad yeast that soon spreads through the whole worship team. At that point, you might sound and look good, but it's just an empty shell of what God intended worship to be.
So, this evening at the fellowship gathering we had much to talk about and did some soul searching too. During the prayer time several prayed prayers of repentance for having left out love from their worship. It was a powerful night and one that I believe will have a strong effect on the future direction of our worship ministry. As I have been saying often lately of my own life, I'm so glad God doesn't leave us in our ruts.
I also visited with Baba (grandma) Klava today. She isn't doing so well. She's 85 and prays everyday that God would let her die. She recently was in the hospital with kidney stone problems but was sent home without hope. She's too old, they say, to do an operation. So, she's quite weak now and depressed. Though she hasn't lost her sense of humor and was still able to crack some jokes. She said, "God probably mixed me up with some younger person and took them by mistake instead of me."
Today was my day off.
This morning I went back to the health clinic. The doctor said all my tests came back good, which basically means I'm in good health. She did say one test was a little fuzzy and wants me to do that one again.
After the clinic I spent the afternoon running errands: grocery shopped, dropped off my electric heater for repairs, exchanged dollars into rubles at the bank, dropped off film for developing, took my electricity meter to my landlord for repairs, had lunch at the Korean Cafe, paid my internet bill, picked up the heater, and then stopped at the second hand store again on the way home. I needed a couple of sweaters and a belt. I ended up with three sweaters and three belts, all for only $3!! Thank you, Lord, for second hand!
In the evening I spent some time developing this web site a bit. Check out the archives link above. I reorganized the archives section to make it easier for you to find a specific date. Let me know what you think!
This morning in devotions the Lord showed me that He knows everything that's going to happen to me before it happens. A simple thought, but it really gave me a peace as I went about my day, realizing that God already knows the outcome and even directs my steps. I'm so thankful to have a relationship with the God of the universe. Imagine He created the heavens and earth and yet is intimately aware and interested in the details of my life. Awesome!
After church this morning one of the guys from my former home Bible study group invited me to be a witness at his purity covenant. A purity covenant is when a young man or woman makes a commitment before God and friends to keep themselves sexually pure until marriage. It began as something our pastor did with his children to help them as they entered the teen years and began to experience the sexual temptations common to that age. Here's how it went today:
Sahsa invited three of his friends and the pastor to take part. We met at a local cafe, had lunch together, and then our pastor began to explain to us what it means to make a purity covenant. He shared from 1 Thessalonians where Paul exhorts, "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God...For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness." (1 Thess. 4:3-5,7) Also from Proverbs 4:23 - "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." And finally, from 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 - "Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." He then asked each of us in turns to share what these verses meant to us in our own lives. Next we layed hands on Sasha and prayed that God would strengthen him to keep this covenant of purity. Finally, as a symbol of Sasha's commitment, pastor presented him with a ring. The intent is that he would wear the ring always and see it as a reminder of his covenant before the Lord. I was so encouraged by this time and renewed my own covenant with the Lord in this area.
This evening we had our weekly prayer meeting. It was such a blessing! I always come out of it so strengthened and encouraged. It's been a little disappointing that fewer people attend then when the meetings first began. Especially that many who were absent were the leaders and church staff. But I am also reminded that prayer is a battle and the enemy distracts and discourages us so that we wouldn't step to the front lines of prayer. He deceives us to make us believe God won't answer our prayers or that our time is better spent doing something else. I want to pray more for those who ought be there but for whatever reason can't make it. Prayer, someone once said, is the church breathing. Without it we suffocate!
Some days are a combination of dull and exciting. Most of today was spent in the dull - washing about four loads of clothes and ironing a zillion shirts. Well, not really a zillion, but to one like me who is slow with the iron, it seems like a zillion. (why is it that when you press one wrinkle out suddenly two more appear?) I'm happy to open my closet now and not be so frightened.
The excitement came in the evening at the helps ministry down at the church. It was exciting in that I was able to spend time listening and praying for Yuri again, the guy who lives at the train station. I also feel I got stretched tonight in the area of loving others. I need that so bad. I am so easily disgusted by people, their hangups and quirks, and get angry at myself for the critical thoughts that run through my mind while talking with someone. Even if I act loving on the outside, I know it's what's on the inside that counts to God. I am going to pray more for Him to increase my love toward others - especially those who are hard to love. I know a big part of my problem is that I have pride and think I'm better than others. I pray the Lord would break me of that.
The neighbors are partying again tonight. I hope it's not a long one. :)
This was my first lazy-put-around-and-do-nothing day in a while. It felt good! I had an extra long time of devotion in the morning. I was encouraged in today's scripture study that I must trust that God has determined the order and timing of world events as well as those of my own life. If I don't look on the world and my life with eyes of faith and believe God is over it all, then everything becomes overwhelming and I lose joy and peace. In these perilous times, that was a much needed reminder.
In the afternoon I went out to get a haircut and then stopped at the second hand store and bought two pairs of jeans and a Ralph Lauren shirt all for about $3! Thank you, Lord!
I also am kinda blue today because of a sin I did. (I won't go into it, but it all started with pride) The worst part of sinning is the deep regret I feel down deep because I know that I've hurt my heavenly Father. I repented and asked the Lord to forgive me, and I know He does, but still the regret hangs on a bit. When I feel the knawing guilt and shame of sin, I stand on 1 John 1:9 which says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us of all unrighteousness." I'm so thankful that the blood of Jesus completely removes every little trace of every sin I've ever done, said, or thought. "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven." (Psalm 32:1)
Well, I'm gonna put on a Chuck Smith Bible teaching and wrap up my day with a dose of God's word. That always hits the spot! Ron
Last night we stayed up till 1 am at Pastor's house peeling potatoes with the family in preparation for the Thanksgiving celebration this afternoon. That wouldn't have been bad if I didn't have to get up at 7 to go back to the clinic to have blood tests done. I thought I'd just pop in there, do the tests and then get back home in time to take a little nap before heading to the celebration. Well, things don't always turn out as expected and sure enough it took me two hours at the clinic. So much for the nap!
The celebration was fantastic. We talked and laughed, had some worship and ate a huge and delicious meal. My favorite was the raisin stuffing. After lunch everyone took a turn sharing three things they were thankful to the Lord for. My three were: 1. Having such a wonderful family in Christ who truly love and care for eachother. 2. That God doesn't leave me in my ruts that I get into in life. He brings me into new seasons in my life that have a way of renewing my love for Him and joy in life - I'm just beginning one of those seasons now. 3. For my salvation and that one day soon I will be in heaven with Jesus. He has been putting this picture in my mind more and more lately - that the light afflictions of this present world are endured with joy when my eyes are set on eternity. There is so much to thank Him for if I will step back and notice them.
Later we sang some more fun "thank you, Lord" songs and then had a great dessert - pumpkin pie, apple cobbler, and chocolate chip cookies. After dessert we watch about 30 minutes of one of our favorite movies, The Sound Of Music, and then ended the evening in prayer. I'm so thankful for our team here. The love and friendship we share is immeasurable. Just think what it's gonna be like in heaven!
I'm on my way to spend the night at my friend's house for Thanksgiving, so this will be short.
This morning I spoke at a high school about Thanksgiving in America. It was an english class so I got to speak in english. What a treat! I told them how the real Thanksgiving began as a result of God answering the prayers of the pilgrims for rain in a time of drought. That led into sharing the Gospel and my testimony of how I received Christ. God is so good! I had prayed He'd give me the words to say and He did.
After that I went to the DMV and nearly froze to death standing in a line to finish my car registration. It's so good to finally have that all done.
In the afternoon I went to order a special bread at the bakery for our american missionary Thanksgiving tomorrow at pastor's house. I also made creamed corn for the first time. I think it turned out good, but we'll see the reaction tomorrow.
I hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving. I am thankful to God most of all for life!
xxxoooxxxxx Ron
I was late again to our 7 am prayer meeting. I am praying that God would give me more discipline to be on time to appointments. Our pastor was concerned because others have been regularly late too. Sometimes it's easy to talk the talk but not walk the walk.
In spite of our tardiness the meetings this morning went great. Instead of reading a Psalm together as usual, Pastor asked everyone to share their thoughts about the conference. It was unanimous that God is calling us to "fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith."
Later we had the planning meeting where we discussed plans for our upcoming Thanksgiving celebration as a church as well as plans for the month of December. We are planning a special youth outreach for the 10th of Dec. and a drama night on the 16th.
Board meetings test my patience and ability to be faithful in the little things. I'm not a whiz at looking at financial graphs but God is and He gives me wisdom when to speak and when to keep my mouth closed. We're working on developing a new budget for 2002. Again, not the most exciting part of my work, but nonetheless important and I want to do my best.
"He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much;" Luke 16:10
This morning I went to the health clinic for a physical. The DMV requires this to complete the process for car registration. Wow! What an experience! I had to go across town to the narcotics clinic and get their stamp, then take another bus to the psychiatric clinic for them stamp and back to the health clinic for final approval. Now that I have this health certificate I can go to the DMV tomorrow and finalize my registration.
While at the health clinic I asked them to do a thorough physical as I haven't had one in a few years and haven't felt %100 ever since having bronchitis a year and a half ago. The general practioner saw me first. She gave me a complete check from head to toe. She poked and prodded and then ordered three blood tests. From there I was sent to the throat specialist. She said I had inflamation in my throat. I had a sore throat a week ago and though it seemed better to me she insisted on giving me a "throat swabbing". This consisted of her taking a long metal instrument, wrapping the end with cotton swab, dipping it in some rust colored goo and then telling me to say, "Ah". Before I knew it she had that thing down my throat and proceded to "swab" me. I started to gag! My throat didn't hurt going in, but it sure did when I left. It's better now. :) After that I was sent to the bone and skin specialist, then to have a chest x-ray, and finally to the in-house pharmacy to pay for all these analysis, syringes and blades for the blood tests, and some prescribed antibiotics, skin cream, and stuff to gargle with. Whew! I go back on Thursday to give blood and then again Monday for diagnos.
In the evening we had the ministry at the local hospital. I was tired out from the clinic and asked the Lord to give me strength to minister. He did! The first man we spoke with had his leg cut off in a work accident. He was very open to hear about the Lord but another man in a bed across the room wasn't and yelled at us to be quiet. Next we spoke to a man in the hallway who believes that our lives are predestined by aliens from other galaxies who determine when we are born and die. Finally, we spoke to another man in the hallway who was very dejected. He softened when we read scriptures of comfort to him and even allowed us to pray for healing for him. I pray the Lord would reveal Himself to all these men that they might put their faith in Him for eternal salvation.
Well, tomorrow is an early morning, so I'll say goodnight. Ron
The conference was fantastic! This years theme, "Fighting the Good Fight", was an exhortation to us to not give up in following Christ and in laboring for His kingdom. In three and a half days the four guest teachers took the 250 attendees through a complete study of the book of 2 Timothy, which is Paul's letter of exhortation to Timothy to faithfully carry on Paul's ministry after his death. The thing that God spoke most clearly to me through the teachings is that my life here on earth is a battle. I am a soldier in God's army and there will tough days (months, or even years). But I shouldn't lose heart in difficult times. Instead, I should keep my eyes on the reward that waits for me in heaven after I leave this earth. I sense that God is calling me to make greater sacrifices in my life in order to reach out and touch others with the love of Christ, but I also realize that I can do this only by the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit working in me. It boils down to dying to myself and allowing Christ to live His life through me. It's the more difficult road, but also the better road.
The pastors have all returned to the states and my trips to Moscow are over for now. Thanks for your prayers. Everything concerning the conference, it's preparations, and implementation went extremely smooth. God is so good.
Tonight we had our weekly prayer meeting. I am realizing that something always wants to keep me from this meeting. It's either feeling ill, lazy, tired, apathetic, angry, etc. The devil doesn't want God's people to pray and pulls out all his tricks to keep us from doing it. But God had the victory again tonight! The biggest motivator to keep on is that we have been seeing God's hand moving in our lives and in the life of our city as we keep seeking Him in prayer. Last night another christian church hosted an evangelical event in our city and nearly 100 came forward to receive Christ into their hearts. He's answering our prayers!
I just heard about another plane crashing in New York. This is terrible of course and we must trust in the Lord even more. Jesus is our only refuge and strength.
This morning we had our pre-conference breakfast and meeting at the Pastor's flat. Afterwards, we went on a prayer walk in the city center. We broke up into pairs and prayed together for our city, for all the needy people, for the gospel to be preached, and for people to be set free from all the sin that binds them. It was good to give it all to Jesus.
We had lunch later at the "blini cafe", which is a pancake cafe, and then took our guests for some souvinier shopping. I began to develop a sore throat during the shopping time and was so fatigued by the end that I decided to skip the hospital ministry tonight. I was bummed cuz I really was looking forward to going again. Hopefully next week I'll be able to attend. So, the conference starts tomorrow and now this news about the airplane crashing. I'm sure folks will be talking and praying about it tomorrow. It's like another black cloud over our world. Let's not grow weary or discouraged and keep seeking our heavenly Father. He knows all and sees all and has all in His hand. These are the last days, Satan knows his days are numbered and is wreaking as much havoc as he can before the end. Lord, come quickly! Let's not waste our energy and time worrying and fretting, but rather use it for preaching the gospel, praying for the victim's loved ones, and looking after the needs of those who are worse off then ourselves.
Thank you for your prayers for the conference and for my health. Pray for our american guests as they of course are thinking of their loved ones back home. Much love to you in Christ, Ron
P.S. I don't know if I'll be able to update every day this week because I'll be staying out at the conference center and don't know how often I'll be able to get to a computer. However, please keep checking and know that I am praying for you. God bless!
This morning our van driver and I left after the morning service to pick up our guest pastors from the airport. We had some extra time before their plane landed so we decided to stop and do some shopping. Global U.S.A. is a huge american outlet store in Moscow. Mostly they sell clothes, linens, and food. It was so strange to see all the old familiar food products I had grown up with again. I bought a box of Celestial Seasonings herbal tea - peppermint, my favorite. It cost 90 rubles! - which is about $3.
Next stop was the Sheremetova International Airport. The three pastors arrived on schedule and after a joyous reunion we hit the rode for home. On the way we stopped at McDonald's for some dinner - yeah! I had a chicken sandwich, wedge fries, and a coke. I also bought a black current pie to take home.
We arrived home about 9:00 pm and put our weary friends to bed at the local hotel. They'll sleep good tonight after not being in a bed for nearly 24 hours. I've heated up my McDonald's pie and made a cup of peppermint tea - so I'll say good-bye before they get cold. God is good all the time! Ron.
Things are heating up for the conference. This morning there was much to do in working out all the details of what are guests will be doing this weekend before the conference begins - coordinating meals, meetings, prep time for teachers, and transportation. The actual conference begins this Tuesday.
In the afternoon I did some cleaning around the apartment - hand washing the bathroom and water closet rugs and sweeping the stairs in our apartment corridor. I decided to use the time while I was sweeping to pray for my neighbors.
In the evening I took part in the help's ministry meeting. This week there were about 16, a few more than last week. The ministry leader asked me to share a few words at the end so I spoke about Daniel and the trials he went through. I encouraged them to be like Daniel and not let life's situations keep them from loving and serving God. After the meeting I got a chance to encourage and pray with a couple of the men (both named Yuri) who attended. Both of these men are homeless and live at the train station. The three of us stood in a small circle and prayed that God would provide a home for them. I can't tell you how horrible I feel to think that they are "going home" to sleeping on a bench at the train station while I go home to my warm flat and bed. I pray we can somehow help these men in their need.
Later this evening I watched a movie on a laptop one of the visiting pastors lent me for a few days. I'll have to admit the fantasy adventure was a welcome escape from the pressures of the day. Sometimes diversions are good. God bless, Ron
I woke up this morning grouchy and when I walked in the door at work someone said, "Oh, we were wondering when you'd get here." What was that? I wasn't late. When I'm in a bad mood it can seem everything people say is meant to mock me. I prayed that God would take away these thoughts and give me love instead. He did.
This afternoon I had lunch with a few of the americans who have arrived for the conference. It was good to catch up with them and hear the latest about what's going on in the states. I was kinda disturbed when he said that he didn't think the tragedies caused many to question what God might want to say to us through these events. He said that most Americans seemed to respond more with anger and pride. I pray this is not completely true and that we will also humbly consider what God's thoughts might be.
Tonight was the last time I will host a home study at my house for the guys in their teens. After much prayer and counsel I decided it was time to end the group. We'd been meeting every Friday for five or six years. I just felt that it was time for a change for all of us. It seems that this will help us all to grow in new ways. It's so easy to get used to hanging out with the same people all the time, but sometimes God wants us to move on, reach out, change things up. I'm still not %100 sure this is what God wants, but the decision has been made. I know we'll still stay friends and gather from time to time, and yet a part of me feels like I'm losing something dear.
In any case, the boys and I had a terrific last night. I made a special Mexican food dinner and afterwards we had a time of prayer thanking the Lord for our group and all He has blessed us with. We ended the evening by putting on some loud music and doing some crazy dancing around the living room. We'll see what God has in store next!
"Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9
Ministry to Missionaries is a new ministry we began to help meet the needs of our missionaries whom our church has sent out to the various parts of the region. Today I took my first trip to one of these cities where we have a team of six based. I led them in a study of Daniel chapter one. We noted that Daniel was much like a missionary (though he was sent to Babylon against his will). He found himself among people of a different culture, language, and beliefs. Still, he purposed in his heart to follow the Lord there and be a blessing to the people. Notice (read Daniel chapter one) that God is the one who brought Daniel to Babylon (vs. 2),God was the one who gave him favor in the eyes of his authorities (vs 9), and God was the one who gave him knowledge and skill (vs. 17) Have you ever questioned God as to why He has you in the situation you are now in? I'm sure Daniel did. Realizing that God is the one who has led you there, that He wants to use you to bless others there, and that He wants to give you the abilities you'll need to accomplish what He's called you to do will greatly help in finding joy in every life situation.
By the way, it was my first trip in the new car. No wrecks. Praise God!
:) Ron
Hi all. This morning I worked on more e-mailing for conference preparations. The first of our guests from the states arrive tomorrow, so it's coming down to the wire. Everything seems to be in order and we're getting excited for how God is going to speak to us next week.
Pastor came over today and we had lunch together. He's a great guy. I'm so thankful to have him for a friend, brother, and pastor. We spoke about some of the issues I shared with you yesterday and had a good time of fellowship.
Wednesdays are my night to sing in the worship group at church. I arrive for rehersal an hour and a half before the first service for rehersal. Rehersal lasts an hour and then we have 30 minutes to rest till the first service begins. Immediately after the first service ends we sing again for the second service. By the end of the evening tonight my throat was a little sore. Those high harmonies strain me!
I thought it might interest you to know how our service goes. People begin showing up and taking seats about a half hour before service starts. Our hall is not large, about 80 seats, so we have to have multiple services. The service usually begins by the worship leader (he's the guy with the guitar) welcoming everyone and sharing a brief encouraging word. Then the music starts. Depending on how many musicians show up, we have anywhere from a guitarist (our leader) and a couple of singers to a full band with drums, bass, and keyboards. The worship leader leads the congregation (also called "the body" - as in "body of Christ") in worship - usually playing about 5 songs. Worship time is not just song singing. It's a time when we close our eyes, lift our hands, sit or stand, and meditate on the Lord. We might sing about Him, we might sing to Him. We may sing of His attributes, or we may sing a song that expresses our hearts cry to know Him better. It may be a song that asks for healing or comfort. The main thing is that this is a time to exalt Jesus Christ and focus on Him. After the worship time is over pastor gets up and leads us through the evening's (or morning if it's Sunday) Bible study. Each week we continue where we left off the previous week. Everyone brings a Bible and follows along with pastor. Some take notes in a journal or notebook. This is the time when the Holy Spirit speaks to each one individually according to their needs and what He knows they need to hear. Of course, it's pastor speaking, but the Holy Spirit is speaking through him, inspiring him, giving him the words to say along with what he has prepared, and causing the words to penetrate the hearts of those listening. On the surface it might just look like a guy standing there reading and explaining the Bible and a bunch of people following along. But it's much more than that. There is always an unseen spiritual dimension going on. This is how we as Christians are built up in the faith. God does a supernatural work through the public teaching of His word. It's so important. Without it we become detached from the body of Christ and our faith suffers. After the study is over, there is usually one more song and then everyone is dismissed. Some leave right away, some stick around to talk or pray with friends.
Oops, I promised one of our readers that I would make these entries shorter. Oh, well, I'll start tomorrow. Ron
We had our regular string of Tuesday meetings this morning. I had feared I'd fall into grumpiness cuz I only got four hours of sleep last night, but God was good and gave me joy. For some reason I just couldn't fall asleep last night.
This afternoon we had our bi-monthly american missionary meeting. This is the time when our american missionary team gathers together for a time of fellowship, the word, and prayer. It's kinda the time when we touch base with eachother as missionaries as to what God is doing in our lives and to remind us that we are a team and in this mission together. At today's meeting we listened to a Bible study on cassette. It was on the topic of right and wrong motives. I have to tell you that I was quite convicted. I realized that my motives for the things I do are not always right. One example are these daily writings to you. As far as I can see, my original intent for doing this page was to encourage the believers and draw the non-believers into believing. I believe this still to be true. However, from today's Bible study I saw that there is a danger of slipping into the wrong motives for sharing the things I share. I have to confess that in some of my writings I have had the desire that you all would have a good opinion of me and think that I am doing a worthy work here in Russia. The bottom line is that if I'm writing what I write, or doing what I do for that matter, so as to receive the praise or pat on the back from man, then that will be my reward. I'll receive no reward for this in heaven, and I lose out on a great blessing. So, I'm making a commitment before God, and you, to do my best to always check my motives before I write anything here. Who knows, maybe God will even show me that this whole project should be scrapped. I hope not, but if He so directs I must be obedient. My desire is to be honest in these pages, not try and paint a picture that isn't true just to receive man's approval. I want to warn you, I make a lot of mistakes and will not try to hide that here. The Lord showed me a long time ago that a good christian example does not mean showing the world how perfect you can be. Rather, it is showing the world the love of God in spite of our imperfections. It's showing that christians make mistakes but have a love relationship with God that allows room for this and provides forgiveness for these errors. I am growing in my faith and always will be until I go home to be with Him. Please don't misunderstand. The things I've written here have all been true. It's my MOTIVES for writing them that I am questioning.
Later this evening we had our monthly "men's meeting" at the church. I ran out of steam about half way through, started getting moody and cranky inside. I prayed and asked God to help me gain victory over these feelings. He did. The message of the meeting was the need for accountability among men. That we would all have one or two guys in our life that know everything about us and with whom we meet regularly for prayer, the word, and sharing. Pastor challenged us to sign up to take part in such a group. Being in such a group will help me keep my motives in check. I think it will be good.
Well, thanks for listening and I hope this ministers to you in some way. Ron
I spent some time this morning reading the Bible. God spoke through the prophet Joel to those nations that mistreated the nation of Israel. He warned them that because of the evil things they did to Israel that He would judge them and destroy them. Does God seem harsh? Perhaps, but this also reveals how much He loves His children. He fights against those who are against us, not because he hates them, but because He loves us and also hopes that they will see that it is a futile thing to live in opposition to God. For those who repent and put their faith in Him He promises a restored and rejuvinated life - here on this earth and eternal life in heaven. He is a merciful, gracious, and just God.
With the conference coming up in just about a week there were some e-mails to write this morning to the visiting pastors. In addition to the four pastors who will be teaching there are also four other men coming to assist them. Everything will be taking place at a conference center here in our city. I hope I'll be able to keep updating during that time. But if not, I know you'll understand.
This evening I went with the group from the church that visits one of our local hospitals. Health services are so hurting for finances. The building itself was so run down. It hurts to think that people must come here to try and get well! We broke up into pairs and went from room to room sharing about Jesus to whomever was willing to listen. I mostly listened at first to see how my partner would do it as he heads up this ministry and has been doing it for a while. The Lord gave him such boldness to just say hello, tell them we're from the church, and does anyone want to hear about God. Pretty straightforward and simple. I like that. The first room had about four beds but all were vacant except one. Eduardo has prostate cancer. His wife, Tamara, was there to help him eat, etc. They were SO open to hear about the Lord. Eduardo worries about his son who blames him for everything bad in his life and never wants to talk. "Is there anything I can do to change him?!", he pleaded. "You must first allow God into your own heart through His Son Jesus Christ.", we answered. "If you want to help your son you must first allow God to cleanse you of your own sin and open your spiritual eyes so that you can pray for him and know what to say to him." Tamara agreed and so did Eduardo but he wasn't quite ready to take that step. He allowed us to pray for him and thanked us for coming. The next room had eight beds. Almost all of them had patients. These were men ages 40-70. Some seemed well, some looked like they were near death. Again we just began to speak to them of the Lord. One gentleman was more vocal than the rest and had a lot of questions, though he seemed to be somewhat making fun of God. By the end of our time in that room they had heard a clear presentation of the gospel and knew what they needed to do. They also allowed us to pray for them. I felt exilerated as I left the hospital. Coming in I had been so nervous - the place so foreboding. But as we walked to our car we all agreed God had set up divine appointments for us here. Tamara had told us on the way out that she had just prayed before we came that God would send someone to help them. Even Eduardo had agreed that God had heard her prayer.
I walked part of the way home, wanting to have some time in the fresh air to think, pray, and thank God for what He'd done. The recent rain mixed with a layer of dirt caused the sidewalk to look like melting chocolate under my feet. Yes, there is much here that is dirty and run down, but under all that dirt and destruction are hearts that ache to know the peace and love that only Jesus can give.
I forgot to mention something that happened yesterday and didn't want to let it go untold. On the way home from visiting my friend's parents I noticed one of the grandma's from my apartment building standing outside the entrance. I asked her what she was doing outside so late and she replied that she had a headache and needed some fresh air. I offered to pray for her, which in turn provided me an opportunity to share the gospel with her. Not only did I get to pray for her health, but I also had the privaledge to lead her in a prayer to receive Christ into her heart. Thank you, Lord! I have been praying so long for my neighbors and often am frustrated at not seeing any change in their attitude toward God. This was a big boost to my faith to see "Baba Valya" desiring salvation and eternal security. Please pray for her if you can. That she would grow in her faith and not forget the decision she made.
I was up too late last night working on this web site and paid the price today in feeling "out of it" all day. But the internet connection is best on Saturdays so I wanted to take advantage of that to make some changes. You'll notice that only today's entry is on this page now. Hopefully the page will load super fast now. Past entries are still available for reading by clicking "Archives" from the menu at the top of the page. Also, there is a link to return to this page as well as a link to e-mail me. I would love to hear from you and what you think of my page so far. In the future I want to also include a link to my personal testimony page and a link for photos. Thank you for praying for God's guidance with the development of this page. I really want it to be used to encourage believers in the faith and to stir up a desire to know Christ for those who have still not believed.
This morning we had a guest teacher at the morning service as our pastor was out of town. Volodya did a great job, though honestly, I got a little confused a few times do to the fact that it was hard for me to follow his fast-paced style of teaching. I still struggle sometimes to get the full drift of things in russian. I need discipline to keep at studying this beautiful language.
After church my friend Valera came over for some lunch and fellowship and then the two of us headed back to the church for the evening prayer meeting. Since today was the international day of prayer for the persecuted church, we spent some time praying for the christians in those countries where persecution is greatest. Later, during the time of prayer for our city, I felt led to pray for the alcohol problem in our city. It has such a hold on so many and has destroyed thousands of lives and families. I'd say it's the number one ill of russian society. It's hard to know how to pray. We realize that shutting down all the bars, stilleries, and liquor stores would only hit at the surface of the problem. The real stronghold is in the hearts of the people. Where they choose to find solace and comfort. If they choose Jesus, He will set them free from the chains of alcohol. We keep praying...
Well, I hope you are being encouraged by this page. Please don't give up on doing good and serving Jesus. Ron
I'm so excited to tell you about this day. I spent most of the morning writing our monthly church newsletter and my personal newsletter. By the way, if you'd like to get on my mailing list to receive my newsletter, just jot me a line at my e-mail address:
From there I went to the helps meeting at the church. Helps is our ministry that provides food and clothing to those in need - both in the church and in the community. Every Saturday evening there is a meeting at which time the needy can come to have a time of worship, hear a Bible study, share prayer requests, and receive some food. It was my first time tonight. Right away I knew it was going to be hard. No sooner had I walked in the door that this little sweet grandma started talking my ear off. I was following maybe half of what she was saying (she spoke in russian but with a ukrainain accent!) and she kept hitting me on the arm every five words or so, as though she might otherwise lose my attention. Oh boy, she answered all her own questions before I could get a word in. I realized she just needed someone to talk to and be interested in her. Then the meeting started. There were about 14 present (plus the helpers). Two of them were men around my age. I had decided after the meeting to aproach one of the men I knew to be Igor. He's 43. His father died, and a few months later his wife died. They had no children so now he only has his mother, who can't walk and lives in a convelescent home. After his wife died Igor fell into drinking and lost two houses and now lives on the street. His physical health doesn't look to good and he walks with a cane. My heart went out to help this man - he is so without hope. I listened, asked some questions, shared the gospel, and then prayed for him. He seemed to be encouraged as he gathered his food and went...home? I wonder where that is... Afterwards I was speaking to one of the other ministry helpers and we came to the conclusion that these kind of people have special needs. Of course, we know they need the Lord, but for them to meet Him they need to see Him in us first. We need to invest time, energy, and love in each one individually. It's a ministry where the fruit grows very slowly - so slowly you might not even notice it. I'm praying about becoming a regular part of this ministry.
After the meeting I went to visit the parents of one of my friends from the church who is currently studying in the states. The mom is a believer, but the father is not. We chatted about this and that, I shared some testimonies of lives the Lord has changed, and we had some dinner. I have been to their home on several occasions in the past and have openly challenged them to give the Lord control of their lives. The father just isn't ready. It seemed that on this visit the Lord just wanted me to love and encourage them. I did invite the father to church again. I pray the Lord used this time to minister to them somehow.
"For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, And He ponders all his paths." Proverbs 5:21 blessings, Ron
Today I went to pay my internet bill. On the way back I stopped and had lunch at the Korean restaurant in town. My friend Dennis just got a job there and suggested I stop in sometime. It was delicious! They have authentic Korean food perpared by a Korean couple. I had a rice pilaf, fresh vegetable salad, and green tea. Yummy!!
After lunch I stopped and got a haircut. It's OK. The girl seemed so lifeless and dejected. I was too shy to tell her about the Lord, but did give her a tract of Bible verses when I left. She didn't know what to say. She sheepishly smiled and said, "Thank you."
Tonight we had our weekly home Bible study. Several of the guys weren't there tonight for various reasons. So, there were just three of us - Sasha, Dima, and myself. We sang a song, and then continued our Bible study on the gifts that God gives christians to strengthen the church and fight against the enemy. We covered 21 of them! It's hard to know what gifts God has given me. Sometimes it's confusing. But, we're praying that He would make it clear to us so that we would be most effective for the kingdom of God. Then we shared prayer requests with eachother, prayed, and had some desert. Yellow cake with jam on top...yah! Now Sasha and Dima are standing behind me watching me type this. They want to say something to you. Sasha: "Jesus loves you! He wants you to be saved. Receive Him. uh...uh...anyway, He loves you very much. John 3:16 That's it." Dima: "I can't think of anything." Well, we're gonna work on Sasha's web site for a bit. Sasha says if you want to write him his address is [email protected] Welcome! God bless, Ron
Thank you for your prayers! The prison visit went really well today. There were even more men this week, over 100, and they were very attentive. It was a rocky start - no one would sing along with us during the opening song. Peer pressure is SO intense among these young men. One of our pastors then shared "the prodigal son" story with them, encouraging them to fall into Jesus's loving and waiting arms. Then it was my turn. I told them about the vision God gave Ezekiel of a temple in Israel. The unique thing about this temple is that a river flowed out from it through all the land. Everything it touched was healed and made whole! This is a true story from the book of Ezekiel chapter 47 and speaks of a future time when God will heal all men of their illnesses. There are also trees on the banks of this river that give fruit year round and will be used to feed the nations. No more famine! We see God's mercy here. There will come a day when the world will no longer struggle with famine and pestilence because God will come into our world and provide. I closed by encouraging the boys to cast all there hurt and sickness on Jesus and trust Him with their lives. To stop asking God why their life turned out as it did and simply submit and surrender to Him. This is a hard step for anyone! But at the end of the meeting four young men took the brave step to stand before their peers and confess faith in Jesus Christ. Please pray for them. They will have a rough road ahead trying to follow Christ. We found out that there are 30 full Bibles in the prison library but no one checks them out or reads them! Pray God would ingnite a desire in all the boys to seek God in His word.
Love to you all! Ron
November 2, 2001
November 1, 2001