PERM (RUSSIA) - We know that our life on earth is a journey. We know that we came from the Garden of Eden and are headed for the City of God. And we don’t always see the glory of the future clearly enough to keep us encouraged. Sometimes we grow faint, and sometimes we just want to give up. The reality of God’s promises seems very distant. We struggle to keep going.
Apostle Paul reminds Timothy and us there is grace in Christ Jesus to keep going (1 Tim. 2:1). Paul doesn’t tell us that grace will make our life easy, but it gives strength and endurance. And it’s more than enough.
Whatever your difficulties are, resist the urge to give up. The life God has called you to requires extraordinary endurance and only grace can give it. Being strengthened by the grace in Christ Jesus we continue our journey, overcoming all hardships in life.
I urge all of you – prayer warriors, givers, team members and team leaders – do not cease praying, giving, preaching the Good News! Your labor is not in vain. You help people to hear the Gospel, accept Jesus as the Lord and Savior and spend eternity with God.
Please pray for success of outreaches and for hearts open to God’s Word, for God’s protection of our outreach teams, for their physical and spriritual health. Please pray for new converts as they grow in Christian faith. And never forget that in your weakness, grace will make you strong, so that you could continiue to be the salt, the light and the messenger of Christ. Thank you for your labor, your faith and dedication!
With love and prayers,
Edward Grabovenko
Head Bishop