Got back from Ukraine last week. It was awesome to see another culture, one of stark contrasts, where people seem to live from the heart.
One of the most amazing things to me is that I had two exposures to people who had active swine flu the week before I left, and none of us on the trip suffered from so much as a sore throat! I had a bunch of folks praying for me, and thank GOD, as having a flu while dealing with some of those travel situations would have been unlivable!
OK, so biggest impression of Ukraine: The people are free, but have no idea how to use their freedom! The general public walks around with their heads down, no one makes eye contact or says hello, unless you know them, and there is a really oppressive air about the place. Apparently, corruption is huge in the government and police force, police are regularly paid off (like if you are challenged for papers), and your success on importing anything of value or starting a business depends on who you know and how much you have. There is no economic stability, the value of the USDollar can change several times per day.
The people are awesome though. I met big burley russian men who hugged me like a brother and quickly became close friends, and women who were just real, and connected with an honesty of heart that I found astounding. The Holy Spirit seemed much more accessable (as is often the case outside the U.S.); this was noticable during times of ministering prayer, with prophesy, words of knowledge and even some healing taking place almost routinely, as we were faithful to pray with anyone and everyone the Lord led us to.
Our main mission was to encourage believers to BE THE CHURCH. To minister to one-another, to earn each other’s trust and not to give away spiritual authority to others who have not earned it. The two guys I was with formed a “cord of three strands” that was very strong. We all have different spirtual giftings and strengths, and complemented each other in ministry. I think it was important for many to see that, and see real brotherly love.
The language barrier was rough, and I regret not mastering some common phrases before I got there. Oh, if you travel over-seas, have an I-Phone. The currency conversion app, the translation apps, and Skype (airplaine mode on, wireless on) was a life-saver.
What’s next? Back to work as usual. No appointments on the calendar for this week, but I’m not worried. God has generously met all my needs. Freedom (deliverance) ministry resumes Friday, and I think I’m going to be getting into prison ministry Sunday nights.
Winter is coming, and the temptation to go to bed early and sleep in late has me a bit un-disciplined. When we have time to feel bad for ourselves, it’s a sure sign that we need to be out serving someone!
