Even though the mission trip has come to an end, the Lord continues to speak to me, primarily concerning two things that I experienced in Romania while sharing the Hope Found Only in Jesus Christ.
During the first week of ministry, the team had the privilege of ministering in the village of Tinca. I remember visiting in a very poor home where three brothers lived together. Two of them were there this particular day. Their parents had both passed away, and the home was left to the boys. I remember there being a hole in the ceiling, and the house was in need of many repairs. I invited the boys to the evening church service just down the road from their small home. I shared with them the Gospel, and I prayed for them. As our small team made its way to another home, Pastor Cosmin stayed back for a few moments, as one of the boys wanted to speak with him. The young man told Pastor Cosmin that a dark cloud of sin was over him and his brothers. He was concerned about this. Pastor Cosmin was able to once again share with him the Hope Found Only in Jesus Christ.
During the second week of ministry, the team had the privilege of visiting Viorel Pasca, and many of the abandoned people that he and his wife, family, and staff care for. When arriving in Dumbrava, we delivered medicine and medical supplies, and we gave a financial gift to Viorel from Foundation For Hope. Viorel was so grateful. Before breaking up into small teams and visiting the abandoned in Tinca, as well as in Incesti, Viorel greeted the team, and we had prayer together. I will never forget the words of Viorel before the team boarded the bus for Tinca. Viorel encouraged the team to remember that our songs and prayers with the abandoned could be the last things that some of the residents would ever hear in this life. Three had just passed away. It was a sobering thought for me, and one that I will never forget. As we made visits, through words, songs, and prayers, the Gospel was presented in each room, and in the small chapel in Incesti. Viorel and the wonderful folks that work with him are currently caring for over four hundred abandoned people. What a memorable day it was as we shared with these beautiful people the Hope Found Only in Jesus Christ.
With my wife being in the University of Virginia Hospital once again, I’ve been thinking and praying quite a bit recently. I know in my heart that if she, facing the physical challenges that are before her, was among the many that are being loved and cared for in Dumbrava, Tinca, and Incesti, the days of her life here on earth would be limited. I’m grateful to the Lord for the care that Viorel and his loving team are giving to the many abandoned of Romania, and I’m grateful to the Lord for the wonderful care that Mary has received, and is receiving now in Charlottesville, Virginia. We will continue to trust in the Hope Found Only in Jesus Christ.
