The recent war in Ukraine is heart-breaking. To see the Russian aggression into this democratic country reminds us of the evil that continues to exist in our world today. To see the entire rest of the world (barring China, North Korea, Iran, Syria, and Venezuela) respond with such unity and passion, shows how blatant this transgression is to such innocent people. As Christ-followers, we are called to peace, and Jesus is our Prince of Peace. Let’s be praying boldly for peace to come this way and for God to protect innocent lives. May our God use His Church, His followers, and non-profits to ministry to many in this season of war and in this time of need.
This is the time for the church to be the church. As a missionary in Ukraine recently posted:
My wife and I have decided to remain in our city near Kyiv. We want to serve the people here along with Irpin Bible Church where I joined the pastoral team in 2016. In anticipation of the coming disaster, we’ve bought a supply of food, medicine, and fuel so that, if necessary, we’ll be able to help those in need rather than burden them. Ours is a family of six. We’re raising four daughters.
How should the church respond when there is a growing threat of war? When there is a constant fear in society? I’m convinced that if the church is not relevant at a time of crisis, then it is not relevant in a time of peace.
If necessary, the church premises can be turned into a shelter. We have a good basement. We’re ready to deploy a heating station, as well as provide a place for a military hospital. To make this a reality, we’re creating response teams. If martial law is declared, they’re ready with a strategic supply of fuel, food, and material for dressing wounds. We’ve even gathered information on who in the church are doctors, mechanics, plumbers – even who has wells in case of a water shortage.
And while the church may not fight like the nation, we still believe we have a role to play in this struggle. We will shelter the weak, serve the suffering, and mend the broken. And as we do, we offer the unshakable hope of Christ and his gospel. While we may feel helpless in the face of such a crisis, we can pray like Esther. Ukraine is not God’s covenant people, but like Israel, our hope is that the Lord will remove the danger as he did for his ancient people. And as we stay, we pray the church in Ukraine will faithfully trust the Lord and serve our neighbors. – Vasyl Ostryi is pastor at Irpin Bible Church and professor of youth ministry at Kyiv Theological Seminary
This is the call for all of us as Christ-followers – to share God’s love in the good times and in the struggles. As a church, we are heavily invested in the country of Moldova. Moldova borders Ukraine and many refugees from Ukraine are already pouring into Moldova. Through Justice & Mercy International, the non-profit organization we started as a church about 15 years ago, we now have 40 full-time staff in Moldova. Our staff there works with a thousand-plus orphan and vulnerable children throughout the country. Now, our staff is focusing their efforts on ministering to the children along with the refugees from Ukraine.
Through the work of JMI, we are ministering to many refugees already. We are sending money to buy food, supplies, and making room in our Transitional Living Homes for people to stay. Please be praying for the country of Moldova. Pray protection over the country – many speculate that Putin will come into Moldova after Ukraine. Pray for peace in the area and for ministry to those already displaced. Pray for Christ-followers, churches, and non-profits to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this time.
Let’s continue to pray, give and support those on the front lines of ministry right now. James tells us, “The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective.” We can fight on our knees for the people of Ukraine and Moldova. We can also give through JMI to make a difference. We just sent $10,000 to buy food and supplies for refugees, and we will be sending more as our team requests. Let’s support the peace efforts in the world by sharing Jesus. He is the Prince of Peace, and He is who our world truly needs in these dark and evil days. May the Lord use us to share His grace and love with others – until the whole world knows.
Come, Lord Jesus, and use us as Your Church in this time. Be with the people of Ukraine and Moldova. Bring Your peace and protection. Strengthen the Christ-followers in both countries to be the hands and feet of Jesus. May many be healed and the love and hope of Jesus be shared. Only You, Jesus, can transform a heart and change this world. We need You and trust You are Sovereign overall. Our lives are in your hands. May You find us faithful.
This is my prayer for Ukraine (and Moldova).
Comentarios