For almost three years I have been planning a trip to serve in Bucharest, Romania, where my friend Debra Robbins is serving as a missionary. Finally in the fall of 2021, I was packed and ready to go to Bucharest but the trip had to be postponed last minute due to covid. I was disappointed but I also knew ultimately God had a plan and I had to hold loosely to my own plans. 

When the invasion of Ukraine started, Debra's church, along with Romanians and others in the country leapt into action. They are providing tangible support to the people displaced because of the ongoing war. The people from Debra’s church and others have given so much of their time and energies to building a network of volunteers, drivers, translators, accommodations and more. There are so many moving pieces for these volunteers as they are being the hands and feet of Jesus to the refugees. With all of this comes managing volunteers and resources. Due to the amount of work now added to their plates, they specifically needed someone to join their team as a relief/support person for the leaders running the network: giving them time to step away during the day to work their own jobs and care for their families. Being a behind the scenes support person is right up my alley and because of the work put in for the fall trip, when God opened a new door…the ability to say “Yes I’ll Go” was not only possible but also able to happen quickly. 

I will be flying out on April 5 to head to Bucharest for 6-8 weeks. As of now I am not sure the exact date I will be returning. I’ve bought a one-way ticket. As a planner letting go of my expectations is not easy but I know God is so good and He has ordained this path.  I want to write out all the ways God continues to show up in His faithfulness for this adventure but until I have the time, I’m holding each reminder close to my heart as sources of strength when I feel weary. 

Thank you to everyone who was part of my support team for the fall trip. The funds raised then have been the reason I could put together an extended trip to Europe in mere days: buying plane tickets, ironing out logistics at home, and more.  Thank you to the people, especially at LifeSource, who when I tell you this news respond "God is so good and what can I do to help?" It’s been such a beautiful, crazy few days trying to get everything together. 

Please pray for this trip and for the people both serving and being served. I am so appreciative of your encouragement, prayers, and support. 

Isaiah 40:28-31 NASB1995

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth Does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly, Yet those who wait for the Lord Will gain new strength;

They will mount up with wings like eagles,

They will run and not get tired,

They will walk and not become weary.