Today was a rough day. I woke up around 5 AM and was sick. I have never gotten sick in Ukraine before so it was very frustrating not being able to be with the campers because tomorrow is the last day at camp. I was so sick that I had to stay in bed most of the day trying to get better while Oksana and the nurse took special care of me. They are such a blessing and God shines through them constantly. I went outside twice today and both times awesome things happened. First was morning session and I sat outside because it was very hot in the room. During this time Dasha and Marika played with my hair! It was absolutely precious.
Then we went to small group and the sisters Olya and Yulia said they wanted to accept Christ as their Savior. Our leader, Vova, asked them why they need to be saved and they did not know. They said they had never done anything wrong. It was heartbreaking to see them so close to the peace of Christ and yet not get it. Please be praying for them as they continue to learn that we are all sinners in need of a savior and an understanding of their own sin and separation from God.
After small group I went back to bed. Around 10 PM we usually have a team meeting. I woke up and no one was there, so I got dressed and went to find them. The Ukrainians and Americans were worshiping God together as they gathered around candles formed in the shape of a cross. I joined them and was overwhelmed by God's love and grace. Hearing different languages and seeing different races worship the same God is a most powerful experience. We are the body of Christ. Brothers and sisters through our Lord. I wish I could explain how incredibly amazing it is to worship like this!
God is powerful and mighty and worthy to be praised! After this experience there is no way that anyone can deny the love of Christ.
Love you all!
Ashley
P.S. Late afternoon, Kerry and the girls in my room prayed over me that I would get over my sickness and be strong tomorrow and on the trip home. I thank God for our incredible group!
1 comment:
Oh Ash, I am so sorry you are sick!! I am praying for you that you are strong tomorrow (which for you is almost today haha). But what a blessing to be prayed for like that. We cannot underestimate the power of prayer! And, I am so proud of you for seeing the blessings and wonderful experiences God gave you despite being sick. I will pray for Yulia and Olya, but praise God that they are even closer to Him! And oh, how vividly I remember the end of camp worship service. What an amazing time.. I remember hearing their voices raised with ours in song and thinking how amazing it was to be able to worship the same God in two very different languages! p.s. Give Marika a hug for me too! I miss her very much!!
I will be praying for you tomorrow as you say goodbye. I know how difficult it is to leave them; and how attached you must be to them all. You are so strong though and I am sure that you have made such an impact on them all! God bless you sweetie. You are amazing!! Love you with all my heart :)
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