March 31
Prague, CZ
After four hours of sleep, I journeyed to the airport to pick up my friend Phil who flew in for the weekend. It was his first time to be in Prague and decided to spend his school break here.
We had a great day being together. Seeing the sites, talking about life, him being married, decisions we make and how to compromise for the betterment of relationships, etc. He is a great encourager and am thankful to God for bringing us together. It's like we have known each other for a long time and is a great example of the body of Christ spurring each other on.
In the evening, we went and saw a new movie, The Inside Guy. A great thriller! Afterwards, we went for an American hamburger, fries and soft drinks at a local jazz restaurant.
March 30
Prague, CZ
Well, the news has been sharing that the river is rising due to all the snow melting from the mountains. However, it has been drizzling a bit, with nice spring like weather. Today, I relaxed in Danos dorm as he worked on his paper and spent time with his roommates and brother.
In the afternoon, Dano and I went to the cemetery where my grandparents on my mom's side are buried. They are buried in an old famous cemetery in the city where famous Czech writers, authors, artist and other famous people are buried. How many more times can I say famous? It was a nice time to take care of the site for mom and to pray for the family.
I read more of The Present Future and must say that it is a great read with many thoughts I have had in my head related to the church on how it should behave and reach out to the community. I can see where it is challenging, but a breath of fresh air.
In the book, McNeal writes about shifting our thoughts from church growth to kingdom growth. How we need to stop acting like a country club and focus more of our energy in the community, rather then on how we can get people to come to the church. My favorite line in this chapter, was a quote from Pastor Cho in South Korea. He instructs his people of his church what to say when asked about the kindness they do for others. They are told to say, "I AM A DISCIPLE OF JESUS. I AM SERVING HIM BY SERVING YOU, BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT HE CAME TO DO." Wow!
In the evening, I visited with a former student who attended KECY two years ago, Miro. He and I went to see a great movie at midnight called Stay that was being featured at a film festival. Although we had a short time to visit, it was encouraging to be with him and share thoughts and ideas. Spent the night at his flat.
March 29
Prague, CZ
Spent the morning with my friend, Ricky, whom I have known since my first travels to Slovakia. He is studying architecture in Prague. We had a great time getting caught up from the last 11 months. It was great to be with him.
He is such a kind and generous guy.
In the afternoon, I spent time with Dano, who was an intern with me last summer. He is finishing his schoolwork by writing a final thesis on a project he has been working on for several years. It was great to be with him and his brother, Martin, who attended our camp last summer and accepted Christ.
In the evening, we went to see a 3-D movie on Sharks with two other friends of mine, Luke & Julie. I taught Luke, two years ago and he is now in medical school. He and Julie have a great relationship where they encourage & love each other very much. It was great to spend time with them both.
March 28
Cesky Tesin, CZ
Doing well as I enjoy the Spring-like temperatures arrive. The sun stayed out for a few hours before the clouds and light rain came to visit. Had a meeting with Mel, my fearless leader, as we drove to see our new offices that are currently under construction. It will be a great set up once completed in the fall.
This afternoon, I am on a train to Prague to visit with a few friends who are studying in various universities in the city. Then on Friday, a friend of mine from Switzerland will come in for a weekend visit.
Reading Mere Christianity and finished the chapter on Christian marriage. I like what C.S. Lewis had to say about love - "a deep unity, maintained by the will & deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God." What a true picture of Christ- marriage. He goes on to say that, "they can have this love for each other even at those moments when they do not like each other; as you love yourself even when you do not like yourself."
March 27
En route from Serbia to Slovakia.
Today, we attended the Baptist church in Novi Sad, where Danny preached on fear. He had lost his voice the day before from training together the two youth groups, but the Lord gave him a voice to share from his heart. Afterwards, we visited a village and had lunch with a family that Danny is a friend with. It was sweet to watch them be together and pick up where they left off even after a long period of time not seeing each other.
We drove home and arrived around mid-night. I had a great time being with Danny and praying, sharing, listening, & encouraging each other. On the journey home, I began reading a book, Present Future, by Reggie McNeal. It is an interesting book with six questions for the church. I find it challenging yet thought provoking.
The first chapter deals with the collapse of the church culture. McNeal shares, and I agree, that the church needs a mission fix. He ties in both the OT and NT on how we see God who is on a redemptive mission in the world; to reach His people. Too often, and I see this, the church exist for itself rather then on a mission for the His creation. He concluded the chapter by stating, the appropriate response to the emerging world is a rebooting of the mission, a radical obedience to an ancient command, a loss of self rather than self preoccupation, concern about service and sacrifice rather than concern about style.
March 26
Novi Sad, Serbia Woke up to spring like weather! After breakfast, we headed to the church where Danny & I led a training conference for two youth teams who plan to do English Camps this summer. I got to see so many of the students from last summer's camp and get caught up with all of them.
We shared on the philosophy of discipleship, how to reach & invite non-believers, walk through some logistics for camp- roles and schedules, and then concluded with life after camp- follow-up.
Afterwards, I went back to the guys place to rest for awhile, before returning and sharing a short message on what God has been teaching me about expectations and reality and how we live in between that gap. Prior to this, Marko, introduced me to a girl who speaks great English and shared with her about our camp. I got to get a females perspective on life in Serbia. It was very interesting what she had to say about Serbian men, politics and life.
During the day, we heard a few jokes about the recent funeral of Miloskovic. Seems that as they were burying him, the country experienced an earthquake. They shared that it seemed that the earth did not want him either.
After I shared my talk, we had a very late but delicious dinner and then went to a local pub to hear some guys from the church who play in a band. Needless to say, we were out late and learned that the time would change.
March 25
En route to Serbia. Danny & I left for Serbia and had a great time getting caught up and sharing about what God has been doing in each of our lives. It was an interesting journey once we reached Budapest. I had never seen so much traffic, so we took some side roads and eventually made it to the highway we needed to arrive to the borders of Serbia and Hungary.
Upon our arrival, we had to pay a "disinfection fee." From what we can tell, we had to drive over foam and that was it. Not sure what that was all about, but was legit in the eyes of the government. Five minutes into Serbia, we got pulled over for speeding. The Serb police are notorious for this and I tried my best, but failed. Needless to say, we arrived safe and sound.
We learned that this day, 7 years ago, the bombing took place in Yugoslavia. After we met with Chaga & Mark, we went over to my host family. Two brothers whom I have befriended asked me to stay with their family. They are part Slovak so I could communicate with their family. After having a late dinner, we went into the city to a cafE and spent time seeing a few folks.
March 24
"Even while these people were worshipping the Lord, they were serving their idols." - 2 Kings 17:41a
Duplicity. How many times do we act like this? Worship the Lord with our words and deeds, yet, serve our selfish desires and needs. I confess, I have. As I have been reading through the OT, I see a faithful Lord, who loves people, who wants them to honor only Him. A simple request, yet, with sinful hearts, it becomes complicated. Or is it? Too often, I get tired of Christians, even myself, for behaving so shallow, not willing to be authentic and real to go deep. To speak truth, to speak how we really are and what we are really dealing with.
Oh Lord, may you change my heart, mind and soul to honor you. To speak truth and your name into temptation and to not worry what others will think. To find men and women of God who love unconditionally and can be trusted to share from the heart and not worry what others will think, but will live and act as Christ who reigns in us! Amen
Today, Danny, his son, Hudson & I are heading down to Serbia to lead a weekend English Camp training seminar to about 35 youth leaders. We are planning on two camps this summer and pray that the Lord will protect us during this weekend and open the hearts of those who participate to have a desire to reach their friends and live their lives with Christ in front of them.
Pray for the logistics, North American teams and preparations will fall into place and that we follow His leading and not try to solve it on our own. Thanks.
March 23
Zilina, SK
Got back "Swordfish" today. She is nice, clean and repaired. Spent time with various people, worked on a few things and after lunch, had a KECY-SK meeting that was very productive. During my visit, I found a new pizza place in ZA that we have in PO. I was so excited for the folks of Zilina. It is my favorite pizza place in Slovakia. Of course, a few of us went last night and had dinner there. Those with me agreed that it is the best pizza in SK! Sorry Pizza Hut.
March 22
On the train heading to Zilina for a few days of meetings and then heading down to Serbia for summer camp training.
Besides reading the bible, still in 2nd Kings- I tell you what, watching God1s patience is something, I have been reading Mere Christianity. C.S. Lewis said something that was very encouraging to me and something I believe we don1t do enough. And that is to thank God for giving us the power to try again, when we fail Him. How many times do we stumble and fall and get right back up and do it all over again. Yet, do we ever thank Him for the power of trying again?
Arrived in Zilina and would ask you to pray for all of us serving in Slovakia. After a team meeting with the American JV missionaries, we all realized that we have been and are under attack. As we shared stories, it became apparent that we are under spiritual warfare and would ask that you covet us with your prayers. Thanks!
March 21
Spring has definitely sprung! The weather is in the 40's and the snow seems to be disappearing around the city.
Today, I did errands around the city, had lunch and then spent the afternoon with two guys. One was the pastor's son of Kukova, Adam. He is 14 years old and studying at the Lutheran High School. He is learning English and has a heart for the Lord. We played darts, encouraged each other and just got to know each other more.
Afterwards, I had dinner with my friend, Miro, whom I have not seen since last summer. He studies in Prague and went to the states last year for the first time. We have been trying to get together, and this was the first time we did. Again, it was a great time to get caught up and to hear how he is doing in school, life, family and his walk with the Lord.
March 20
Happy Birthday Melissa; my sister-in-law!
Today, I prepared several things for our upcoming trip to Serbia, worked on communication items for JV and spent time in the afternoon with a few students.
I also received a sad note from two dear sisters & friends of mine back in Chattanooga, TN. I'd ask that you please keep their family in prayer as their father past away, unexpectently, on Saturday. Martha and Sarah, my heart mourns for your lost and pray that the Lord brings you and your mom healing, comfort and peace.
March 19
Have been in a funk mode lately and really trying to live by James 4:7-10 to get out of this mode. Please pray for strength to submit to the Lord and how I should truly live by James 4:7-10 and not just say or pray it.
Today, I spent time cleaning my flat. It was time for a spring cleaning. Afterwards, I spent time with three different students at three different times. Had great conversations during each meeting. I really enjoy listening to, spending time with, and just being there for them. Really challenged one of my friends with a few things. You can pray for him as well to make the right decisions.
Will be in PO for a few days working and preparing for our training weekend in Serbia.
March 18
Reading 2nd Kings and really seeing Christ through Elisha. A true prophet; a man of God who lived Christ. He healed, helped, loved, gave, respected people, had compassion, etc.
Today, I am in PO getting things in order before the next few weeks of travel begins. I am heading to Serbia next weekend with Danny Jones to train a few youth groups for camp. Then will visit several of my friends/students in Prague. Before visiting a supporter/friend of mine who is coming to Prague for the weekend.
This evening, we had our KECY Special at my flat. The theme for this month is "Other's First." We had 11 visit with us tonight. We talked about how we look and act towards others who might be or are different then us. Afterwards, the two adult leaders and one student leader stayed over and played games and talked with some of the guys. I cooked dinner and all enjoyed eating chili and just being together talking about issues we are currently facing. It was a true blessing.
March 17
Today, I helped with KPM. They created two rooms for the participants. One room served as the prayer room. While the other room was set up as an apartment. When you walked through the various rooms- kitchen, bathroom, family room & bedroom, they had various thoughts & questions for the leaders to consider all related to temptations and struggles we face at home, after conferences and when we are all alone. As I read them, it encouraged me and made me think of what I go through when I am alone.
In the evening, I returned to PO with Marian.
March 16
Left in the morning for Zilina and helped the team there prepare for their conference. Had a great time spending time with the various team members.
March 15
Finished 1st Kings. Wow- there were some crazy things going on back then. But then again, there are crazy things that go on today.
Today, I spent all day working on communications for JV, and got to spend the evening with the guys at the flat. I really am thankful for them letting me crash at their place during this transition.
Heading to Zilina, SK to help set up the annual youth conference, KPM, where around 300 youth leaders (students and adults) will come for training & encouragement.
Oh side note, just watched the current episode of 24 oh my gosh!
March 14
Have been spending time in the OT, trying to read the entire bible as it is written and allowing God to show Himself to me and what He wants me to learn from the readings. At this point, I am in 1st Kings. As I read, I see a nation trying to obey the Lord and then rebel against Him, I see a God who promises and delivers. A God, as C.S. Lewis states, "who selected one particular people and spent several centuries hammering into their heads the sort of God He was that there was only one of Him and that He cared about right conduct."
And as I read, I see myself acting and behaving in some of the same manner as the Jews. Why don't we get it? Why do we behave this way and go against a perfect God? I believe it all boils down to one word, SELF! And everyday, I have to remind myself that it is not about me and what I want.
This morning, I received an email from a friend. He wrote to thank me for encouraging him. Yet, as I read his email, He was truly encouraging me with a story he shared about him not wanting to go to a benefit concert by himself. He shared that a friend encouraged him with the following words, "don't think of it as what you should gain, think of what you can give instead." Focusing on ourselves tends to blind us of what we can give or learn from God.
I am currently typing this on a train to Cesky Tesin. It was my plan to spend time in the Word and be with the Lord. That was what I wanted. However, God had something else in store for me. While sitting on the train, a steward came up to me and asked if I wanted coffee, I looked at him and thought to myself, I know this kid. Sure enough, he returned and discovered that he is a brother of a student I know in PO.
So for the next few hours, he sat down and we talked about so many topics. During our time together, I prayed to the Lord to give me some explanation about this scenario and to give me words that would encourage this young man named John. At this time, I cannot give an answer as to why this event took place, but I am thankful to God for allowing me to have time to listen to John and to be a friend to a guy who works on a train and deals with many sad and unhappy people.
I lift him up in prayer that our conversation encouraged Him and that He saw &/or heard Christ in me.
Thanks for your prayers on my health. I am feeling much better!
March 13
Well, I ended up staying home and resting. Fighting a cold/flu-like symptom. I stayed inside and watched the snow come down outside. It was a restful day.
March 12
One of our student leaders, Jany S., arrived in the early morning after being at a kickboxing tournament. For me, I was really encouraged to see him want to come when he could have gone home, even if it was for a night and day.
We had breakfast and then held our last session where Marcel wrapped the weekend up and we did a few things to help us share our thoughts and remember the weekend. We returned home, with me having a sore body and small head cold. I want to thank the leadership team for doing a great job putting it all together. For me, it was a time to relax, be with various students and student leaders and watch the teamwork together and serve them.
This evening, I pretty much rested, did laundry and prepared for the upcoming week where I will spend my time in Cesky Tesin. Oh, and going there by train. Opel is in the shop and waiting to hear how much and how long before I get her back.
March 11
Well, last night, all 20 of us (13 girls, 7 guys) got on a full train and stood most of the way to Poprad to catch our connecting train. We arrived and set up for the weekend. We did several "get-to-know-you" games and went to bed.
Today, was a fun day. After breakfast, we had a morning short talk and then went to the mountains. Half the group skied, the other half sleigh ride. I broke in my new ski boots and had fun on the short slope. While there, they were hosting a ski competition with one part having many people dressed in the 20's and skiing in vintage ski equipment. It was a cool site to see. After three hours, we headed down the mountain and visited a local café.
We took the train back to our place for lunch. Afterwards, some went in to the city, some went to a water park, while a few remained back at the conference center to do homework and relax. For the leadership team, this provides us time to be with the students and live life with each other. Talk about whatever is on their minds and hearts; to be there for them. To show them that we really care for them and love them.
In the evening, after dinner, we had a guest speaker, one of the Lutheran youth leaders from the village we were staying in talk about the importance of serving others. Afterwards, we had various things going on before going to bed.
I also enjoyed getting to know these students as several of them went to KECY last summer, but have not seen them until this weekend.
March 10
Ok, so I made it back to PO was a long journey with a train delay. Funny story- so after I get to PO, I get on the bus. Now mind you, I don't ride the bus often to experience what I did, but they have checks & balances, they call control, for when people ride the bus- to see if they have their tickets. So, anyways, I get on the bus, see this older man and a few others get on the bus, and after they closed the doors, the announcement comes on, "CONTROLA" and everyone immediately gets out their tickets, while these people like turn around and pull out their machines- like something you'd see on Alias or 24. Secret service- an under cover operation! Yes, I had my ticket and was fine!
Today, I got caught up with paperwork, expenses, etc. and prepared for our KECY Ski Trip with the youth. We will be gone this evening until Sunday afternoon. The theme is Other's First, and would ask you to pray for the weekend to be God-honoring and that we'd share our Love with each other and to them.
Speaking about love, I just finished reading Velvet Elvis and was challenged in several areas. One in particular was about church- the body of Christ, Christian community & love. I will quote some text Rob Bell shared that I pray will challenge you as it did me. He talks about what the churches goal is and is not, and that the church must be about giving "itself away in radical acts of service and compassion, expecting nothing in return."
In addition, the following really convicted me and want to confess that I have done this and desire no longer to live like this, especially living over here. "Often times the Christian Community has sent the message that we love people and build relationships in order to convert them to the Christian faith. So there is an agenda? And when there is an agenda, it isn1t really love, is it? It's something else. We have to rediscover love, period. Love that loves because it is what Jesus teaches us to do. We have to surrender our agendas. Because some people aren't going to become Christians like us no matter how hard we push. They just aren1t. And at some point we have to commit them to God."
Wow this really convicted me and encouraged me. Too often, serving over here, I have had an agenda. So, I want this part of me to end, and to love unconditionally as Christ did for me and for you! And when I have shared as much as I can with a student, and see that they are not interested, I need to rely on God to take care of them.
March 9
"So be strong, show yourself a man, and observe what the Lord your God requires. Walk in his ways, and keep his decrees and commands, his laws and requirements" 1Kings 2:2-3a
As I was reading the verses above, it really showed me a glimpse of a father speaking "masculinity" into his son. Teaching his son, showing him the way to live. And as I ponder that, I cannot help but think about our Heavenly Father who does the same. He created us, provides for us, takes things away from us, speaks into us as his sons and daughters and loves us. Thanks God for being our FATHER!
Well, I did not make it to PO. I took Opel into the service shop yesterday afternoon and found out that I busted the radiator and praising God for getting me to Zilina safe and sound. I took the train back to PO and spent the day working on the insurance side of things and had a few conference calls/meetings.
March 8
Heading to ZA for a few meetings and plan to return to PO in the evening. Thanks for your prayers!
March 7
Ok don't laugh, and all is ok, but I created a border patrol headache. I ventured over into Poland and had a meeting over lunch. It was a very productive and encouraging time. I got into my car & headed to another meeting with the guys I will live with while I am in CT.
Got to the border, showed my passport and began to return to Czech. I saw a semi truck pull out and stopped, thus causing me to put on my brakes and hydroplaned into the back of his truck. (Road was wet and slippery) Luckily for me, I have been in this type of situation and was praying for little damage or none at all. When the road is wet and the car is hydroplaning, there is not much you can do.
I am fine. Opel is drivable, but will need some right front repairs. The semi truck sustained damage to its left rear taillight. (My claims reporting days coming out.) The bright side, I got to communicate in my Slo-English with Polish speaking people and was really impressed with being able to understand lots of the conversation- especially when I the police officer asked if I had Polish money to pay for a ticket for causing the wreck. In addition, I got to sit in a semi truck waiting for the police, who took less then 30 mins, and got to sit in a Polish police car; which was entertaining.
Traffic was slow getting around the mess. Returned to CT, which was less then 5 minutes from the border and had a relaxing evening. I do look forward to crossing back into SK and getting the car repaired. I plan to create a handbook for future JV missionaries on surviving auto crashes in Eastern Europe.
March 6
Drove to Cesky Tesin and spent the day working on Communications for JV.
March 5
Finished the Pause series and really enjoyed it. I spent time with one of my students at a local bakery/coffee shop. We got caught up and shared various thoughts and ideas. Afterwards, I headed to Zilina and spent the evening with the American team who serves there.
March 4
Today, I worked on more of the communications for JV. Trying to wrap my mind around a few thoughts, ideas and plans. The weather was nice and wet, but around 6pm, the weather turned and massive snow fell from the sky.
I am doing good, really seeking God these last few days. Have been really thinking about the question Andy posses in the Pause Series, "What area of my life am I most tempted for a legitimate need?" And I have come to the reality, something I thought I have overcome, and that is loneliness. Sure I have over come it, but when I am alone, bored, where do I turn too to fix that craving or felt-need? And most of the time, it is not God.
These next forty days, as we celebrate lent, it is my desire to stay away from those things that tempt me. And as I do, it gets harder, yet I am learning to trust in God more and focus on Him.
I continue to read Velvet Elvis, and ran into an interesting thought about Jesus & his disciples. The most frustrating part for Jesus, was the fact that his men, lost faith in themselves. He believed in them & had faith in them, because He had chosen them. How many times have I seen that exact same thing in other places in the bible and in my own life? This is a new perspective that I am spending time with the Lord on as well.
This evening, I spent some time with two guys- Jany F. & Peter. Jany and I had an encouraging talk. And I spent time playing darts with Peter and talking about various things.
March 3
Began reading 2nd Samuel.
Today I spent most of my time working on some communication items for JV and did a few errands around town. Rested in the evening.
March 2
Had a great quiet time with the Lord! Have been watching the Pause series from NPCC and reviewed my notes. So much of what Andy has been sharing has been speaking to me.
Had an early morning KECY-PO meeting to discuss this summer's new plans, etc. The meeting went well and got several things accomplished. Afterwards, I spent several hours with my small group. We went out for pizza and then went bowling at a new bowling alley in PO. For most of the guys, it was their first time. I had several key conversations with them, individually, and was so encourage by how the Lord is working on their hearts and minds.
In the afternoon, I participated in our B-team meeting and did some work on the computer for JV. After dinner, I got caught up with some of American Reality, watched The Amazing Race. Not sure who I want to win, maybe the nerdy couple. They crack me up as do the two guys from Cali.
March 1
Woke up early this morning with the retreat ending at 11am. I was so encouraged to see a room filled with 25 guys with the heart of Christ. This group is such a blessing not only to its village, but to all of Slovakia and beyond Europe.
Afterwards, I returned back to my flat where I spent most of the day working on Serbia English Camp. Please be in prayer for this summer's camp related to Serbia. There are many changes taking place with no firm commitments. Thus, I am trusting in the Lord to provide and handle.
Finished reading 1 Samuel and preparing to read the second book.
