Day 14 in Kosovo has been filled with a lot of joy. We started out today by working in the warehouse sorting through various clothing items for the church’s second hand shops. I love sifting through the numerous boxes and laughing with my team about some crazy items or finding something cute to keep us warm in the cold Kosovo weather. What a blessing it is to have fun with a group of people in something that could be so mundane!
In the afternoon, my teammate Kristi and squad leader Lindsey and I had the privilege to join in on the teen meeting in the Roma community. Kristi and I were there last week and were eager to spend more time with the teens. They meet every Wednesday at 3pm and two members from the church lead them in games and a discussion about Jesus. This week we learned a little more about the community where these teens come from. The teen meeting is full of students who have dropped out of school for various reasons, their home lives are difficult, many families have financial struggles, and they all come from Muslim families. What a beautiful opportunity to love and bring light!
All three of us were asked to share our testimonies, which I was not prepared for. But as Lindsey said, it is our story, what preparation do we need? As I was sitting there listening to the beautiful testimonies of Kristi and Lindsey, I was chatting with Jesus about what we should talk about with this group. For some reason, all I could think about was chocolate, no joke! For those of you who know me, you probably know I have a slight obsession with chocolate, especially dark Dove chocolate…YUM. Therefore, when my turn came to share I stood up and said, “I am so excited to share with you all about my two favorite things: Chocolate, and my relationship with Jesus! Whenever I hear, or see someone with chocolate, I want it. When I do not have chocolate I long for it. And when I have it, I cannot get enough of it.” This is like my newer relationship with Jesus. I LOVE HIM. I am literally tearing up as I write this blog. He is so good to me. He is my comforter, provider, and friend. When I see others embracing their relationship with Jesus, I am reminded that I have access to Him always. When I get distracted and do not have my alone time with Him, I long for it. And when I am alone and deep in His presence, I cannot get enough of Him.
My prayer is that these students could see how much I love Jesus, and how much He has changed my life. I no longer have to try hard to be someone who is accepted. I no longer have to do a list of good deeds to be noticed. Jesus accepts me in my brokenness and sees me everyday. I pray that the teens start to ask questions and desire an intimate relationship with their creator.
One of my favorite parts about being in Kosovo has been meeting my brothers and sisters in Christ at the church, Fellowship of God’s People. They love the Lord and are tirelessly serving in a variety of ministries. They are doing an amazing job. I asked a few of the teens who came early today about what they love about the teen meetings. He said, I love the games, but I also love feeling respected. How cool! My new friends are bringing the love of Jesus to the lost, blind and broken people of Kosovo. God is moving, but it is hard work. Please pray with me that our brothers and sisters would experience rejuvenation in the work they are doing. I am praying for a newness to come upon them. Where the children, teens and adults would gain a curiosity, ask questions, and find their answers in Jesus.
John 15:16-17 “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go out and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other.”
Our friends in Kosovo are doing just than, the rain is coming and the new fruit will be abundant because of their obedience.
Talking about loving each other, the leaders of the teen meeting, Rita and Buyon (Spell check?) loved me so well after the teen meeting…They bought me the biggest chocolate bar ever!
With much love,
Megan
