You might think I’m going to write about myself — having just braved yet another 30-hour door-to-door trek to Samara, Russia. But no, that requires only determination.
This post is dedicated to my hostess, Alla. Just 4 weeks post surgery for cancer, she welcomed me with open arms to a spotless house at 4:00 a.m. She had hot soup on the stove (not from a can, folks…) and other tasty offerings in case I was hungry.
Before retiring last night, she shared about her recent two-week hospitalization (short, she said. Her first cancer surgery 11 years ago required a 2 month stay due to complications.) Opening her Bible, she pointed to Psalm 30 and told me that she read and prayed this psalm each day. Many of us have favorite verses from this psalm, such as: “weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning,” and “you have turned my mourning into dancing.” For Alla, however, the key to the psalm was in the “introduction” where it says: a song at the dedication of the house. She envisioned this house being her body–the temple of the Holy Spirit. She continually and faithfully dedicated her house to God with the words from this psalm, trusting him for the outcome.
Many of you are suffering difficulties right now, whether in body, soul, or spirit. I encourage you to embrace the promises in Psalm 30 and be “lifted up” along with Alla.
I have been.
Thank you Alla……..across the world you are encouraging me. :0)
The Truth knows no boundaries…and it’s so humbling for me to live with someone who lives in such a faith-place.
I have been unhappy in our latest home for more than 2 years. Thank you Alla for giving me a new way to look at this house. I do believe I can turn it into a home now with your wisdom and God’s help.
yes, you can!
Thank you to both of you, Jeanette and Alla. I’m encouraged!
Praise the Lord.
Admiring Alla for dedicating her house, now in the literal sense, to the Holy Spirit and someone who conducts it in person.
thanks for your insightful thoughts…
Happy Birthday, my friend, hope your day is everything you wanted it to be. I also know to be by your side today makes the day for quite a few people over there and means a world to some. All the happiness to you today and ever, Love!
Deepest thanks, Galina. Thanks for sharing my day with me through a simple tea bag.
i admire Alla’s courage and hospitality to you Jeanette, may she be rewarded greatly for her courage and faith in Christ. also, happy birthday 🙂
Agree, Tim. For Alla, each day of life is already a reward.
I have enjoyed reading all your posts Jeanette. Give Alla a hug for me. I miss Tanya too and everybody I met while I was there. I have been in prayer for Sasha and Katya too. God’s grace and peace be with you as you continue to minister. All my love…Kasey
And everyone misses you too, Kasey! They are delighted to see you and Lily in the pictures I am sharing. Glad you are following my adventures this year, and please continue to keep Sasha in your prayers…