Whether you are new to my blog and my adventures in Russia, a long-time supporter, or someone who has traveled with me, the tender words that follow will (I hope) paint a picture of the spirit that continues to draw me back there, and the Spirit who infuses this ministry with His good fruit.
Dear friends,
We congratulate you on Christmas and the coming New Year. We would like you to know how important you are for us, and not only for us, but for many Russian people you have never met. These words are meant for all of you:
“Jeanette, here is a big “Hello” from Samara region, village Novaya Mihailovka. I thank Lord Jesus Christ for getting to know you. Everything is O.K. here, we are with God. Thank you very much for being with us. With great respect, Andrej. Come to visit us.”
One more letter:
“Hello, dear Jeanette! I am having rehabilitation, growing spiritually, trying to show people the true way and will be with God forever. He, the Father helps me and I believe that everything will be all right in the future. I wish you happiness in the life with God, to overcome all obstacles and never be downhearted. May Lord bless all your ways. Sergei.”
(Tanya continues)
These are the letters of former drug-addicts who are staying in the rehabilitation centre in an out-of-the-way village where Jeanette preached this summer. Sometimes it seems to us that our work is senseless and not needed by anybody. But time passes and the Lord shows the fruit of our ministry.
Every year, you, church members, friends, pray for us, gather financial support for such people as these rehabiltants and Jeanette comes as your messenger. Through you and her the Lord fulfills great spiritual work. Jeanette’s name and your names are known to many people here. The members of a newly built church in Pestravka, rehab centres in three villages, schoolchildren, teachers, CrossRoads instructors–all are waiting for her and you. We would like to express our gratefulness and thanks. May each of you be touched with God’s grace. May your church strengthen. A special thanks and God’s blessings to the pastor. We will be happy to see Jeanette and young ministers here in Samara. We are waiting for you in the new 2012.
Take care of our beloved Jeanette.
Peace, prosperity, God’s love and help in everything.
With love, Samara CrossRoads team
(now it’s me again…)
So, as 2011 comes to a close and the prospects of trip #12 to Samara begin to form, I invite you to consider joining me. The ministry opportunities there are many and varied. Tanya mentioned a few. Also, friends have new babies to cuddle and bless. Others are struggling with cancer and other health problems, with family crises, with marital strife. Orphans…students…grannies, they are all waiting for someone to show them the love of Christ. Just your presence will do that.
I want to take part, Jeanette.
God will surely work wonders in Samara through you.
What beautiful letters and words of life and hope. I’m excited for your trip this year, Jeanette!!!