Apr 12, 2007
I was recently blessed by the testimony of one of our church planters in Russia. He shares the gospel with Russian soldiers with wide open doors because he served with honors as a Russian officer in the army in Afghanistan for 8 years! He shared with Vladislav, who was in prison for committing larceny. Vladislav was very depressed and wouldn't talk to anyone; he never laughed or smiled. Those watching over him were concerned and asked Pavel to speak with him. Pavel shared how God saved his life and blessed him in spite of life's incredible challenges which continued even after he committed himself to Christ. Pavel's testimony encouraged Vladislav and he began to open up. He told Pavel that before he was drafted he had come to believe in God but because the military was so hard, he abandoned his faith. He thought after he committed a crime God would never love or forgive him. Pavel told Vladislav that God loves him and and waits for his remorse. Pavel took a photo with Vladislav, prayed, thanking the Lord for the opportunity to meet together, and left his address. After two weeks, Pavel got a letter from Vladislav which was full of joy and asked to meet again with Pavel for encouragement and prayer. He reported in his letter that other soldiers in prison now wanted to hear the word of God and are praying together with him! Pavel will meet again with Vladislav. Pray for their meeting.
Would you also pray for our friends in India? Vinod and Andrew who are currently searching for soil that is ready to receive their vision. They have been searching for a location to establish a church and just ruled out their originally targeted city. They are now looking in another city, Mbad (abbreviated). Scripture tells us that when Jesus sent the disciples out, he told them to share the gospel. Where they are welcomed, they should stay. Where their message is rejected, they should shake the dust off their feet and move on.
Andrew and Vinod are looking for a place of reception where God's Spirit has already been working, where they could establish a powerful church and training center.
Thanks for your partnership and always for your prayers!
Ellen
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
