Expectations. Although I tried not to have them, expectations for life and ministry on the World Race still existed in my mind.
Lebane, Serbia. Small town. Stray dogs everywhere. Warm weather during the day, cool in the evening. Abandoned buildings and graffiti. People walking around the city or sitting in coffee shops because there are no jobs.
I came wanting to make a difference. Action. Tangible ministry and fruit from the labor. To serve and be a blessing.
What actually happens: our ministry host (the pastor of the only Evangelical church in Lebane) serves us. We are treated as honored guest. Even though the pastor has little money, he insists on making tea and coffee for us every morning and several times throughout the day. He’s been working diligently daily to prepare a room for the two guys on our team. He made sure we all have beds, water, a toilet, and a kitchen to prepare meals. He refuses to allow us to help in any way despite many attempts.
The difficulty for the church here is the youth. Students attend the University but are unable to find jobs in Serbia. They must move to Germany to obtain a job. Once in Germany, the students either cannot find an evangelical church to attend or stop walking with God.
There’s this issue with jobs. Language and cultural barriers. I asked, “what can we do to help?” Their answer: prayer.
Our ministry this month will be focused on prayer, building relationships with people in the community, and encouraging the saints who are here (as best that we can through broken English and google translator. Thank God for google translator! The Serbs and Romas appreciate us attempting to learn Serbian and are happy to have us here with them).
Was it what I was expecting? No. Is it any less important? No. We need to see the need to know how to pray. We may not see the results of our ministry here in Lebane, but we are making an impact, and we are being impacted.
What will I be taking back with me from Serbia? Hospitality. I want to treat guests in my home as kings and queens. I want to give to them even if it is a sacrifice. I want to see myself as honored to have them instead of seeing them as a financial burden and actively invite people into my home.
Join with us in prayer this month for Serbia. Pray for jobs for the people. Pray for revival in the church. Pray for wisdom and how to reach this community for Christ. Pray for divine opportunities for us to share Christ’s love with people and give them hope in Jesus.
