Over the past four months here in Europe, God has done so much. I have learned so much about myself, my Creator, community, and so much more. We have seen lives be transformed and God-seeds scattered all over the eastern part of this continent. It's hard to believe that it is already time to head to our third and final continent! As I reminisce over all that God has done during our time in Europe I am so grateful, and so excited for what lies ahead.
Month 6- Albania
Transitioning out of Asia and into Europe, our team headed to the small village of Gorre, Albania. We partnered with a local church to primarily reach out to the youth and the twenty-somethings of the community. We also had the opportunity to visit a nearby prison to assist with a church service and befriend the inmates. Month 6 marked the halfway point of the race- one of the most difficult seasons for me on this journey. I began to question who I am, how God has gifted me, what he has called me to. I had many questions for God, but He answered in big ways. God revealed to me many truths about who I am and who He is. I truly believe that this season was a pivotal one for me. It launched me into a new season of joy, growth, and confidence in the Lord's provision. I will never forget my dear friends and sweet host family in Gorre, or the many lessons God taught me there.
Month 7- Serbia
Serbia marked a fresh start. I felt the nearness of our loving God constantly, I saw him continuously provide for my team and I; we were beyond blessed in Sombor. We lived in a church near the center of the beautiful little city. Our days were flexible but often consisted of visits to the homes of church members, helping out around the church, spending time with the youth, and planning evening events. God even went above and beyond and provided us with inexpensive gym memberships for the month…which seemed necessary with all of the amazing Serbian food surrounding us! Spending the mornings at the gym also brought forth new friendships with other gym-goers, in which we were able to show the love of Christ. The word I typically use to describe my experience in Serbia is renewal. It was a good, good month.
Month 8- Romania
Romania involved community on a whole new level. We lived in a mission house in the small town of Draganesti-Olt with about 20 other racers. I absolutely loved it. Living in the mission house provided for opportunities to continue to get to know other squadmates and to seek out Christ with them. We began each morning with intercession and worship, praying for local, national, and international needs to be met. Ministry during the day varied from home visits to Roma communities to lead kids club, to assisting more on the business side of things with local missionaries and Hope Church. Romania was also home to our Parent Vision Trip. My dad flew from Illinois all the way out to Romania to spend the week ministering with me. It was an experience I will never forget (Thanks, Dad!).
Month 9- Ukraine
Ukraine was a month of blessings…literally! Our team and team Joyful Divas spent the month living in Bethel House with the Blessing family. Their vision is to bless Israel and to reach out to Jewish people on their way back to Israel. We primed and painted a whole house that will one day be a temporary home to many Jewish people. The home was daily covered in prayer and paint. Other facets of our ministry included preparing and planting the giant garden, making bi-weekly visits to a local orphanage, and leading youth meetings and Sunday school. I absolutely loved our time in Ukraine and how God worked through it. He revealed to me the authority I have in him, the oneness I have with the Spirit, and reminded me of true love's ability to cast out all fear. It was a beautiful month that left me leaving a piece of my heart behind.
Thank you Jesus for the past four months here in Europe! Thank you that you love this land and your people in it, and thank you for allowing me to be a part of your work here. Continue to send laborers, Lord and let your will be done in this place.
Love,
Kara
