The room, just four walls, a simple bedroom that doubles as a workroom. Three old Singer sewing machines occupy most of the space not already taken by the bed and the wood burning stove. Hand made hats are stacked on the shelves waiting to be sold. And sunshine floods in through the huge window, bathing the room’s occupants with its warm light.
The room, just four walls, a simple bedroom that doubles as a place of fellowship. Plates of donuts or cookies are often found waiting to be enjoyed. Half finished glasses of sweet (sometimes too sweet) soda are scattered through out the room. Topics of conversation range from flowers to friendship. The sweet sounds of laughter flow throughout the house, lifting the spirits of all who hear it.
The room, just four walls, a simple bedroom that doubles as a sanctuary of worship. Talking stops and the beautiful sound of voices lifted in praise begins, first in Romanian then English. Not always in tune, and the harmonies could use a little work, but O the heartfelt sincerity of it is incredible. Brothers and sisters worshiping The Lord with pure awe and reverence, how our Father must be smiling. The Spirit streams in filling each heart with power and love.
This room has quickly become one of my favorite places in Romania. My team and I have been there several times, each time, with the intent to stay for a few minutes then go do ministry elsewhere. But God always seems to bring the ministry to us. People just show up and we get to share the Gospel, pray and share our stories with them.
Each time I think, “This must be how the early church was. This is how it is supposed to be. A place where people feel comfortable to come, just as they are, and hear the good news.”
Fellowship, worship, laughter, joy all found in one simple room.
“Where two or more are gathered in my name there am I among them.” Matthew 18:20
O the power that comes from that simple truth. It doesn’t matter if we don’t speak the same language, we love the same God. We will have conversations in heaven that won’t need a translator, and we will worship our Father together forever.
There are so many stories about how the Lord moved in this room because of the faith of the people inside. Stories of how the Lord speaks and of a faith that listens and responds.
The room, just four walls, a simple bedroom filled with the mighty faith of those who believe.
The walls don’t matter, but the faith does.
Lord, increase my faith.
