Consider it pure joy…
This is a quick story from my time in Romania. Thank you so much for making stories like this one possible. I am loving the time we have been in Africa and will work on getting another blog up soon.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
James 1:2
One of our last days in Romania a few of us got the chance to visit Niculina. On the drive to her home we asked our host, Dorothy, a few questions and got to hear some of Niculina’s story. Niculina has severe asthma and diabetes. Her health is extremly fragile, often landing her in the hospital. Daily tasks are difficult for her and she is often left winded after short sentences. She lives alone and has to work hard to keep her home clean, completely free of dust and dirt. She is essentially confined to her home to help ensure she is not exposed to any illnesses. Niculina came to know the Lord two years ago, but has been unable to attend church services because of the elevated risks that come with large groups of people.
I have been reading this passage from James for the past week and it was beautiful to see Niculina living it out. She has so much faith and trust in the Lord despite her difficult circumstances. She welcomed us into her home, sang for us (even though she has a difficult time speaking in general), and shared her food with us. She was thrilled to just have someone there to sit with her and keep her company. Her small home is filled with the joy of the Lord. She truly blessed me by allowing us to visit with her. I pray that the joy she holds continues to bless those who come into contact with her.
