We had a sweet departure from Kharkiv- not easy to leave them behind when you are unsure what lies ahead, but we trust God!
We stopped in Poltava (about two hours from Kharkiv) on our way to Kiev. Lev introduced us to three doctors there and we shared lunch together. One is a neurosurgeon who is also the Surgeon General for the entire region (Misha), Andre' another neurosurgeon and Pasha who is a surgeon that works primarily with stroke patients. They were fascinating and have been doing many wonderful things with the gifts God has given them! They had the very best information to date on the War because of their relationships and common work with other doctors in both Russia and Ukraine and direct involvement with the soldiers themselves! They are very courageous...
We are doing well here- tomorrow we are hoping to visit Bucha and Irpin where so many people were slaughtered and their towns were destroyed, even the Baptist Seminary in Irpin! There is a reason for this visit... It has been arranged, unless something changes by tomorrow, by special permission. Because of the mines that were left behind, it is not open for the public to return until later this month. Poltava has not suffered either bombing or invasion at this point, so the streets were full of people and cars. All the businesses were open- it was really strange after Kharkiv! Lev was saying that Kiev still has more bombing and it has become even more like Kharkiv than when we were there last!
Jerry and Rolphe - here's a news article that just popped up on my feed. I don't know if you are getting news and how recent it might be but I thought I would provide the link to it. Encouraging. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/sensing-a-stalled-russia-west-adds-support-and-arms-for-ukraine/ar-AAWTv5I?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=a5d6b55c7c7c4ad09401be6e0c143694
Jerry and Rolfe,
I was thinking it would difficult to depart from Kharvi. You left an example and love from the heavenly father. PLEASED YOU GOT GAS FOR TRIP to Keiv. So touch to hear about talented Doctors to help people. GOD'S GRACE AND MERCY BE WITH YOU BOTH. JERRY THANKS FOR ALL POSTS AND PICTURES. SUE'S HELP TOO.
Happy Star Wars Day Obi Wan Kenobi!!!! I pray you and your entourage made it without incident. I am pretty sure there was a celebration when you drove into town...like a rock star band. What a gift for them to see Jesus truly at work in the world especially when they've seen the devastation that Satan can bring. Have a great day defeating Darth Vadar and the Death Star. PS: The news link I put in my prior post can be read if you highlight it and click it to "copy". One of the choices after that is "go to" whatever link is there. MAY THE FORCE (OR FOURTH) BE WITH YOU!!!!
Thanks to God for your safety so far. Praying for continued safety and encouraging the saints.
Jerry and Sue,
Very thankful for the reports and updates. May God's blessings abound as you continue to encourage and strengthen the saints. May you have provision and protection each step of the way. Continuing to pray for His will to be done!
May God continue to illuminate your path and make Kingdom connections along the way!!
So grateful for all you have accomplished , what a contrast from other humanitarian trips. Continued prayers for needs to be met. The greatest thing is how many years yourself Sue , and others have been going through the years. The love and help, shown. Look forward to you coming. My favorite thing though. Was the couple retreat. For the Pastors and wives. Bless all of you. Take care and God Bless
The Holy Spirit seems to have a hook in my heart labeled Ukraine. I can be doing something totally unrelated and suddenly and insistently you and the country come to sharp focus. I sense a continual spirit of intercession along with an open door to God‘s throne room. These things are beyond our understanding in this life but someday we will understand, just as we are understood by our glorious God. And may He continually fill you with His Spirit, His strength and His peace. May His word be powerful in your mouth as you minister to all these wounded people. A balm in Gilead. In his love, Betty
So grateful for a safe trip to Kiev. Have you seen those heavenly angels encamped around you yet.