So we have been in Bulgaria for a few weeks now, and I am adjusting to the culture nicely. This month we are getting to spend time with a Pastor (Pastor Venko) and his church family. Sharing stories and testimonies. Discussing economics, cultural differences and how God has His hand on this country and its people. We have had the opportunity to speak at church on Sundays, as well as teach at a sister church in a small gypsy community.
This small church is where I have seen the Spirit move the most this month. The first time I went there was this past Sunday. Nathan, Jason, and I had the chance to go visit them. I gave a short message on the redemptive power of Christ through the life of the Apostle Paul. Jason gave part of his testimony to speak relatable life truths into my words, and Nathan gave a word on Matthew 6:34.
After we finished speaking, we asked if we could pray for anyone, of if they had any questions for us. We prayed for a few people. Two young men however, impacted me the most. The first, was a young man who struggles with depression and anger issues. We prayed for him, and spoke truths over his life, that he must find his joy and peace in Christ and reminded him of the verse Nathan read out of Matthew. The Second man shared with us that he had tried to commit suicide multiple times but failed, I could tell that God had His hand on this man’s life. He asked us if we thought he would ever find happiness again. “Of course” we replied. We again prayed over this man and when we finished he was smiling and thankful.
The very next day we returned with a Pastor who was visiting from Nigeria. He was there to speak to the people and the mayor of the village about buying the building and starting renovations on the church. He began speaking to the people about the love of Christ and did an alter call at the end of the message. Over 10 people gave their lives to Christ that day, and the two faces that stood out the most?………..that’s right. The two young men we prayed for the day before. Both were standing in the crowd, tears on their faces ready to give their lives to Jesus and begin again anew.
It was a wonderful site to see and made my heart happy. It reminded me of why I came on this trip, to share the Good News, and to Love people in their lowest places. I may never see either of these men again in this life, but I am excited to welcome two more brothers into the Body Christ and blessed to say to both of them “I will see you again”.
