Shoes for orphans

Back in February Greg, Susie, Max and myself were over in Sambir Ukraine in preparation for our August mission. This was my 14th time there. We went down to Dobromyl to check on the church that CHBC had built. I had had a terrible morning and didn't feel, attitudinally up to being around too many people. We went by the orphanage. I had been there many times. The director and the kids are great but that day I was not to happy to be there. I wanted to go back to my place and kick back and rest. I was hesitant to even get out of the car but the director came out and wanted to see me so I got out. I was pleasant but probably my disposition was noticed. Our stay was short and we were on our way.

Later that night as Max and I were getting ready for bed we had a worship time and God showed up. He shows up in the least expected places at odd times. But wow! I don't think I have ever had as intensive encounter before. I could hardly breathe. And while it was too sacred to talk in detail about I did get a thumping about the orphanage. I realized in those hours of encounter that God had meant for me to be at that orphanage and they were His kids and that I had sinned against Him. I repented and asked God to let me have another opportunity to get done what He wanted at the orphanage.

I am so thankful that God is merciful, loving and forgiving and the Author of second opportunities.

The next day we were in Boroslav at lunch when Pastor Voldya's son and wife mentioned the orphans of Dobromyl. My ears perked up. They said the orphans there had a chance to play athletics in the village but in order to do so they needed athletic shoes. He went on to say that he and his wife wanted to buy some shoes but they couldn't buy all the children shoes.

I knew in a second what God wanted from me and CHBC. I said "How much American money to buy all the children shoes?" he said $1200. I told him consider it done.

When we got back to CHBC I shared the need. CHBC did what I knew they would they gave $1500. wow! What a great church. We sent the money and the kids got there shoes and boy were they happy. Thanks CHBC for your great love for people. enjoy a couple of the photos of this precious group of kids. I can't wait to see them in August.Pray for them!