Did you know that Ukraine is one of the most Christian nations in Europe? Did you know that Southern Baptists have been working and planting churches in Ukraine for more than 30 years? But do you also realize how many Christians are living, working, and PRAYING in Russia right now? Pastors of Moscow Bible Church, Russian Bible Church, and dozens of others are decrying the attacks, urging peace, and making bold stands on behalf of the Ukrainian people.
God's people in both countries are spending hours on their knees asking for Him to work in this critical situation, to protect their families, and to fulfill the promises in Scripture to which they are desperately clinging.
Imagine spending nights hovered with your loved ones in shelters, basements, and bunkers while bombs detonate and missiles hit their marks all around you. How would you pray? What words would you say? What would you want believers around the world to pray on your behalf, on behalf of your family and your country?
Here are a couple of articles I read this week that have made the pictures in my mind more vivid than any newscasts I've seen. One is in Christianity Today and describes both Ukrainians and Russians who are clinging to their faith.
The other is in ReligionNews.com. For those of you who aren't Southern Baptist, IMB stands for International Mission Board. That's the organization that sent Steve and me to Ecuador as missionaries and supported us while we were there. The story tells of the work being done by that agency right now.
I am inspired and amazed by the courage of Christians living in this part of the world. I am glad relief efforts are being given to those fleeing across the border leaving all of their material possessions behind. But, I fervently hope we will all see miracles during these days. Miracles that only God can do.
Will you pray with me for miracles?
Isaiah 41:10 -- "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."