October 29, 2006

I long to know and to be known, to understand and to be understood.  (I am reminded of this deep need as I struggle with getting past the language barrier here.)

I went to Rusca (a village down the road from Marga) with David for church this morning and I realize the road that is ahead and have only a glimpse of what it will take to integrate into this culture.  It will NOT be easy, but well worth it, as I am reminded.  It’s like the rolling hills outside that I remember in green when last I was here, that are now shades of red and orange and brown.  It’s all about change and the beauty of change.

I was asked to share this morning, five to ten minutes of my testimony.  I wondered what I would share but I overwhelmingly trust that the Spirit within me will lead me to share exactly what will encourage these people in the Lord.  I am reminded that there is beauty for ashes and oil of gladness for despair, as I reflect over the things in life that has brought brokenness and pain and the healing and wholeness God has brought as a result.
Today we traveled into Marga (we are staying in Otelu Rosu a bigger town 10 miles away where Phil and Adinela live) for lunch with Adinela’s family.  It was great to see familiar faces.  Mama Sanda and Bunicu were there, along with Johnny and Larisa and their son Fineas, and Sandu.  We ate so much, but I was glad to see the usual and my favorites - bread, mashed potatoes (I didn’t get the nickname “Spud” last time we were here for nothing) and soup.

I walked by myself around the village and it truly did feel like home.  There’s something about being here that evokes an overwhelming peace and certianty within my soul.  As the fog sat upon the hills around and a light mist fell, it felt like this has always been home.  The sure signs of fall are here as there are many more haystacks in the back yard, the remains of corn crops stand in the once empty field out front, and the entry way at the house are filled with bags of cabbage and mounds of apples.

At the church in Marga tonight I was able to share the story of what God has done in my life  once again (and sing the only song I know entirely in Romanian with David in the front of the church - that’s right, I sang, you didn’t misread…).  It’s amazing how God gives me the words I need and that people can see His hand in my life.  Earlier today as I was preparing to share in Rusca, I read 1 Peter 2:9 which might be one of my favorite verses ever.

But you are a chosen people, 

a royal priesthood, 

a holy nation, 

a people belonging to God,

that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.   

My return to Romania brings me much joy and peace, but I am reminded that it is not just for me.  My return is to declare the praises of Him, ALL THIS FOR A KING.

October 29th, 2006 © allthis