“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
The other day I was introduced to a young kurdish man. His name Mohammed I have heard nearly 100 times since I arrived in greece. By his dress and the way he carried himself, I went into the conversation disconnected. Too me Mohammed looked as if he really did not need our help. Looks though can be very deceiving.
As he began to share with us I soon realized the gravity of this situation. Mohammed, with his father mother little sister uncle and his uncle’s wife, fled syria 1 year ago. They made their way up through turkey across the sea and to the border of Macedonia only to find it closed. This unfortunately is the story heard most from the refugees. Where Mohammed’s story differed was in what happened next.
The atmosphere of this conversation suddenly shifted as he searched for the strength needed to continue. “my uncle died 2 weeks after we get here. My father died 1 month after that.” He said “It’s hard but what else can I do? I must take care of my family…” I was floored by this. Here sat a 20 year old taking care of his family of 5, unable to go any further and unable to go back. His choice is only to survive and provide yet he is not allowing the weight of this tragedy to dictate his ability to find joy in the lord.
1 Peter 3:15 “In your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
Reality is the world race is tough. It continually takes you to places of discomfort and even pain in the attempt at growth. In the past year I have felt to often the pain of death. Numbing the pain would be so much easier, but in doing so negates any opportunities too feel joy.
This year is not about taking the easy way. It’s stepping out into the hard things, into the uncomfortable situations, allowing His strength to carry me not my own. I can promise you this, He will never leave you! Whenever a day comes where it seems too much He always shows me too much does not apply to Him.
This day He gave me hope through Mohammed. Turning the conversation to the gospel I asked him how is it that he had so much hope despite all of this. He joyously exclaimed “Jesus Christ!” At this my heart leapt with Joy Hope and Courage. I was reminded of the never changing character of God. He has been, is, and will ever be faithful to his children.
If there is one thing I found at Idomeni it was Hope.
HOPE IN JESUS CHRIST!
There is still work to be done. 7 more months of kingdom building that I can’t do without you. I need $6,197 more to continue on the race. I am confident that this is exactly where God wants me to be and confident he will provide. You can make donations via the (Support Me!) Button at the top of the page.
I will have steady Internet during the month of May. If you would like to talk about the things I have seen the lord do on the field send me a message or email me. I’m excited to answer any questions you may have. Talk to you soon.
