I have just finished up 5 days in Kiev, Ukraine. UKRAINE! Who would have ever thought I would spend time in Ukraine! The city is exactly how I would have pictured it: cold, gray, and grumpy. We lived at a camp out in the woods for 5 days while we helped the July ’08 squad prepare to return home.
11 months ago they set out on a journey that would change their lives and I don’t think any of them could have been prepared for what God wanted to do in their lives. They learned about community, sacrifice, and dying to self; all while serving God and each other. It was beautiful to be around for the culmination of their journey and share this time with them.
During some down time we wandered the streets of Kiev a little bit and enjoyed the little ladies selling flowers on every corner, coffee in a cute cafe and learning about the country’s history. We also managed to be completely lost most of the time and have some pickpockets borrow our wallets (not mine).
Ukrainians have made huge strides in recent years, but it is obvious the Russian influence they continue to live under and the fear that has gripped their lives for so long. Pray for this city. Pray that the people here would know the love of their Daddy, pray that the LIGHT that shines in darkness would be blinding!
Please also pray as the 32 members of the July 08 squad return home. I know firsthand that coming home is both amazing and terrifying! Pray that they would continue to chase their destiny in Jesus and that they would go home in boldness! AMEN!
JULY 2008 WORLD RACERS
