So that last few days have been full of firsts for me. I can now say that I have been to Romania, stayed with a gypsy family in Transylvania, covered myself in “therapeutic” mud from head to toe, swam in a natural pool with such a high salt content that you actually can’t sink (think Dead Sea and put it in your backyard), moved a garage from one location to another, and been to a gypsy worship service and asked to speak. I think that about covers my first two days in Romania.
When we rolled into this village that we’re staying in at 5 o’clock in the morning after an all night bus ride, even through my grogginess I felt a drawing to this place. When I woke up later that day, I realized that it wasn’t actually the warm feelings of the half dreamlike state I was in, but it was a genuine love for this village and this ministry.
Along with the other three guys from my squad, I am staying at the house of local pastor, his wife, and 5 kids. One of my favorite parts so far has been the family meals at the table. Sure, we’ve been eating as a team at the same time for the past few months, but it’s different when you sit and eat with a mom and dad and children for every meal. This is one thing I definitely miss from home, so much so that I very rarely leave the table after I’m finished eating.
We have several ministry opportunities to dive right into out here and by the looks of it we will be doing a lot while here for three weeks. While I love the fact that we have so many opportunities to get involved with, my favorite is just talking with the people that we’re living with and the older boys around the neighborhood. John, who is our contact here, said it right the night we showed up when he told us he isn’t focused as much now on constantly reaching out as he is discipling those around him.
So I’m sure I will write more on this ministry throughout the month, but pray for our conversations here. The Greek Orthodox church is very heavy here so a lot of people feel the need to “clean up” before they come to church, and when they finally do, they are very focused on the rules and less on the love of Christ and the love for others, so many just don’t try (sounds familiar…). Our focus this month isn’t to “save” everyone in the surrounding villages, but to train people that are here year round how to do the very same thing we’re coming to do. It should be an exciting month…
Oh, and HAPPY ANNIVERSARY Mom and Dad! Your marriage is something many search for and dream of. Thanks for the example you’ve given.
